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Brussels my beautiful, today I had to write an article about this city that I have always loved. I used to go there every weekend (or almost). I have always been a fan of this city that many consider boring or ugly compared to other European capitals.

I have put together a little 3-day itinerary for Brussels without boring you, with recommendations for somewhat unusual restaurants and bars, and some fun activities.

Brussels is also an affordable and easily accessible capital city. Whether you are in the Netherlands, France, Luxembourg or even London, it is easy to get there by train or bus. (By the way, I even have a little promo code for those who want to go there by bus).

If you are from the North like me, it makes for a great little city trip that is not too far away and not too expensive. In winter as well as in summer, let yourself be carried away by the charm of this city and by the Belgians, who are very welcoming.

Day 1

Grand-Place and the Surrounding Area

One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, it is the heart of the city: those typical Belgian buildings, its cobblestones and its little shops nearby. It is always nice to get lost in the streets, but try to wander towards the Saint-Hubert Galleries, the first covered shopping galleries in Europe. Have a coffee at Mokafé, an institution since 1932, whose décor is incredible (and the waffles too). 

Obviously, the famous Manneken Pis, a Brussels classic, "pees" water or beer depending on the occasion, and is sometimes dressed up as well. There is a lesser-known female version just a few steps away, Jeanneke Pis.  Jeanneke Pis is located right next to one of Brussels' iconic bars, Delirium café where you can taste more than 2,000 different beers from around the world. BUT THAT'S NOT ALL, there is also his dog, Zinneke  Zinneke Pis. 

Where to eat : Chez Béri where ribs are amazing

Where to drink : le cercueil a slightly alternative bar where you can even drink from skulls; it is somewhat the emblematic bar of Brussels.

Royal district

The Royal Quarter is quieter than the Grand-Place area. Among the must-sees, we have Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral. Built in the Gothic style, it is as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside, and entry is free. The Royal Palace of Brussels has incredible architecture. Right opposite, you also have Brussels Park, large and simple, perfect for a little walk or even a picnic. And for a great photo stop at sunset: Mont des Arts. The view overlooks the garden, the statue of King Albert I, beautiful architecture, and the top of the Town Hall!

Where to eat : Spread The Moon

A little museum ? 

Aux alentours de la Grand-Place et des Marolles, il existe plusieurs musées sympas à faire :

- Brussels City Museum : local history, 10€ 

- Choco-Story Brussels : chocolate history, 16€ 

- Magritte Museum : exposition of René Magritte 13€

- Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique : 13€ more than 20,000 items

- Belgian Beer World Experience : interactive museum 21.50€

Take your tickets via Tiqets 

Day 2

Marolles

Head down towards the Marolles district. Every morning, Place du Jeu de Balle hosts one of the coolest flea markets in Belgium. For second-hand enthusiasts like me, it is the perfect spot.

Where to get Breakfast : Omelette

Ixelles

Head towards the European Parliament district because yes, Brussels is the capital of Europe (for those who still didn't know). Oh, and by the way, rent a bike to explore the different areas of the capital. If you are there between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., you can stroll through the market at Place du Châtelain.

For those like me who enjoy visiting cemeteries (don't tell me I'm the only one?), Ixelles Cemetery is home to artistic, scientific, political, and military figures who are buried there. It is also a perfect place to grab a drink, as there are many bars and restaurants nearby.

Where to eat : Makisu to get some sushis 

A little museum ?

- Royal Belgian institute of Natural Sciences 15€

Saint-Gilles

One of the liveliest districts in Brussels, it is the place to enjoy drinks on a terrace. There are plenty of restaurants and cosmopolitan shops, so it is also THE place to eat. But before filling your stomach, what should you visit in Saint-Gilles?

Well, first of all, Saint-Gilles Prison (yes, yes, a prison), a building in the neo-medieval style. But if you want to learn more, you can read its history here. Staying on the topic of architecture, not far away you can also stop by the Town Hall.

As for hidden gems, it is also recommended to visit Maison Pelgrims, a house dedicated to art that is open to the public. Because yes, the Saint-Gilles district is known for being something of an artists' neighborhood, so keep your eyes wide open.

Where to eat : La Braise

Nice terrace: Café Flora, L'Ermitage Saint-Gilles

Day 3

Laeken 

To finish off this lovely weekend, it is nice to end with Laeken. You can start the day at Mini-Europe, the miniature Europe theme park (€21.50). Right opposite, you have the famous Atomium, and yes, you can go inside (€17).

After your visit, get some fresh air in Laeken Park, and there the show begins: you have the Japanese Tower, Belvédère Castle, and the Castle of Laeken.

Meal idea: have a picnic.

Cinquantenaire Park and Art & History Museum

If you have an extra half day, or if you have a bike, you can stop by Cinquantenaire Park, which is quite nice to visit. Inside, you will find the Royal Museum of Art & History (€10).

Snack time : To Meli Delicatessen

Here are a few ideas for your next city trip to Brussels. Many people are not convinced by this city, but personally, it won my heart the very first time I visited it. It is a human-sized city, and the Belgians are genuinely great. In winter as well as in summer, the terraces stay open, and the city is just as beautiful under the sunshine as it is under the snow.

See you next time,

Ana from New Escapade