24 Hours in Brussels: Top Tips and Must-See Sights
Thinking of stopping by Brussels for a quick visit? No worries - you'll be able to pack in tons of fun and unforgettable experiences!
Brussels is where history and modern flair collide in the most exciting ways. Imagine grand, golden squares, quirky statues with loads of personality, and mouthwatering chocolates at every corner. Whether you're here for a quick pitstop or a whirlwind 24-hour adventure, this city offers a perfect blend of iconic landmarks, vibrant streets, and hidden gems.
Get ready for a day full of surprises, delicious bites, and unforgettable sights - Brussels is waiting to be explored!
Start at Grand Place – Brussels’ Most Iconic Square
Why Go?
Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and widely regarded as one of the most beautiful squares in the world. Framed by ornate guildhalls and the impressive Town Hall, it’s the perfect place to begin your Brussels adventure.
Fun Fact: Every two years, the square transforms during the famous Flower Carpet event, when vibrant begonias blanket the plaza in a breathtaking display you won’t want to miss.
Meet Manneken Pis – Brussels’ Quirky Icon
Why Go?
You can’t visit Brussels without saying hello to Manneken Pis! This cheeky little statue of a boy peeing into a fountain is one of the city’s most famous (and funniest) landmarks, proving that Brussels doesn’t take itself too seriously 😄
Fun Fact: Manneken Pis has over 1,000 costumes, which are regularly changed—and many of them are even displayed at a dedicated museum nearby!
Don’t Miss the Female Version – Jeanneke Pis
Why Go?
While you’re in the area, don’t miss Jeanneke Pis—the lesser-known female counterpart to Manneken Pis. Tucked away in a small alley, this quirky statue adds another playful twist to Brussels’ sense of humor and is a fun little find for curious explorers 😂
Stroll Through Mont des Arts for Scenic Views
Why Go?
For stunning city views, Mont des Arts is a must-visit. From here, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of Brussels and spot the statue of King Albert I at the foot of the hill, gazing out over the city with regal presence.
End your day here for an unforgettable sunset. As evening falls, Brussels is bathed in golden light, making this one of the best places to take in the city’s beauty.
Pro Tip: Mont des Arts is a cultural hub, surrounded by museums and beautifully kept gardens—perfect for exploring before sunset.
Pay Tribute to Jacques Brel – Belgium’s Musical Legend
Why Go?
Just a short walk from Mont des Arts, you’ll stumble upon the Jacques Brel statue, a tribute to Belgium’s iconic singer-songwriter. Music lovers can’t help but pause here, imagining Brel’s legendary songs floating through the streets of Brussels—making it a charming stop for fans and curious wanderers alike.
Admire the Magnificent St. Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral
Why Go?
Prepare to be awestruck by the Gothic splendor of St. Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral! Its stunning stained-glass windows flood the space with vibrant color, creating a magical atmosphere that’s nothing short of breathtaking. One of my favorite details? How the light transforms the interior into something almost sacred—truly a feast for the eyes 😍
Wander Around Place Royale – A Stunning Square
Why Go?
Even if you can’t step inside, don’t skip Place Royale! After 7 pm, the square is calm and quiet, but the stunning classical architecture and grand vibe still make it a showstopper. It’s a perfect quick stop to soak in a bit of Brussels’ history and elegance.
Explore the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
Why Go?
Take a leisurely stroll through the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, one of Europe’s oldest shopping arcades. With its stunning glass-covered ceiling, elegant boutiques, and irresistible chocolate shops, it’s the perfect spot to relax, indulge, and soak in the charming atmosphere of Brussels.
Marvel at the Brussels Stock Exchange Building (Bourse)
Why Go?
Step inside the Stock Exchange (Bourse) to experience some of Brussels’ coolest architecture. The neoclassical building is a beauty, and its interior is just as impressive! As night falls, the Brussels Stock Exchange takes on a dramatic character, with golden light glowing from within and shining through its windows and doors.
Fun Fact: The Bourse used to be one of the busiest financial markets in Europe, but in 1993, the Brussels Stock Exchange merged with other exchanges to form Euronext. Now, the building hosts cultural events and exhibitions - so even if you're not trading stocks, there’s still plenty of action inside!
Bonus Spots You Can't Miss
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Street Art Murals
Wander the streets of Brussels and discover its vibrant murals, where bold colors and larger-than-life designs bring the city to life. From quirky characters to thought-provoking pieces, every corner is a chance to stumble upon a hidden masterpiece.Fun Fact: Brussels is home to over 50 official street art murals, making it one of Europe’s most colorful cities for urban art!
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La Chapelle de la Madeleine
Tucked away in Brussels, this little chapel is a real hidden gem—a quiet spot to catch your breath away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Its elegant Baroque details make it feel like a mini time-travel escape!Fun Fact: Built in the 18th century, La Chapelle de la Madeleine is often overlooked by visitors—so you can enjoy its beauty almost all to yourself.
A Few More Highlights You’ll See Along the Way
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Classic Buildings Everywhere
As you wander through Brussels, you’ll be surrounded by stunning historic buildings at every turn. Their elegant façades and timeless charm give the city its unique character—and make every street feel like a postcard! -
Belgian Chocolate
No trip to Brussels is complete without indulging in some of the world’s finest chocolate! Stop by Mary Chocolatier, famous for its royal seal of approval and melt-in-your-mouth pralines. And don’t worry—you’ll find plenty of other chocolate shops nearby, each offering their own delicious specialties, so there’s no shortage of sweet treats to explore!
Getting Around in Brussels
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Walking: Brussels’ city center is compact and perfect for exploring on foot, making it ideal for a leisurely day of sightseeing. Personally, I love walking between spots—it’s the best way to stumble upon hidden gems, charming streets, and little surprises you might miss otherwise.
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Public Transport: Brussels’ metro, buses, and trams are fast, reliable, and make it easy to cover longer distances across the city. They’re perfect if you want to save time and still see all the main sights without breaking a sweat.