Itinerary

Brussels is a charming city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and engaging 4-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful city!

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of Brussels

Morning:

• Grand Place: Start your day at the iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the stunning guildhalls and the Town Hall. Don’t forget to snap some photos!
• Breakfast: Grab a traditional Belgian breakfast at a nearby café. Try a croissant or a pain au chocolat with a strong coffee.

Midday:

• Manneken Pis: Just a short walk away, visit the famous Manneken Pis statue. It’s quirky and a must-see!
• Lunch: Head to a local eatery for some moules-frites (mussels and fries) – a Belgian classic!

Afternoon:

• Royal Palace: Stroll over to the Royal Palace of Brussels. While the palace itself is only open to the public during the summer, the surrounding park is lovely for a leisurely walk.
• Magritte Museum: If you’re into art, the Magritte Museum is nearby and showcases the works of the surrealist artist René Magritte.

Evening:

• Dinner: Treat yourself to some Belgian waffles for dessert at a local waffle shop. For dinner, try a cozy restaurant in the Sablon area for some hearty Belgian cuisine.
• Night Stroll: Take a leisurely evening stroll around the Grand Place, which is beautifully illuminated at night.

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## Day 2: Culture and History

Morning:

• Atomium: Start your day with a visit to the Atomium, an iconic building and museum. The views from the top are fantastic!
• Mini-Europe: Right next to the Atomium, explore Mini-Europe, a park featuring miniature replicas of famous European landmarks.

Midday:

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a café in the Heysel area. Try some Belgian beer with your meal!

Afternoon:

• Royal Museums of Fine Arts: Head back to the city center and visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. You can explore several museums here, including the Old Masters Museum and the Modern Museum.
• Palais des Beaux-Arts: If you have time, check out the Palais des Beaux-Arts, which often hosts interesting exhibitions.

Evening:

• Dinner: For dinner, indulge in some traditional Belgian stew (carbonnade flamande) at a local brasserie.
• Local Beer Tasting: End your day with a visit to a local brewery or beer bar to sample some of Belgium’s famous brews.

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## Day 3: Day Trip to Bruges

Morning:

• Train to Bruges: Take an early train to Bruges (about an hour). The train ride is scenic and sets the mood for a lovely day.
• Canal Tour: Once in Bruges, start with a canal tour to see the city from the water. It’s a beautiful way to take in the medieval architecture.

Midday:

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a café in the Markt square. Try some Flemish stew or a delicious Bruges-style waffle!

Afternoon:

• Belfry of Bruges: Climb the Belfry for stunning views of the city. It’s a bit of a workout, but totally worth it!
• Explore the Streets: Spend the afternoon wandering the charming cobblestone streets, visiting shops, and maybe stopping by the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

Evening:

• Dinner: Have dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some fresh seafood or another Belgian specialty.
• Return to Brussels: Head back to Brussels in the evening and relax after a day of exploration.

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## Day 4: Modern Brussels and Relaxation

Morning:

• European Parliament: Start your day with a visit to the European Parliament. You can take a guided tour to learn about the EU’s workings.
• Parc du Cinquantenaire: Afterward, take a stroll through the beautiful Parc du Cinquantenaire, where you can see the impressive arches and museums.

Midday:

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a nearby café or picnic in the park if the weather is nice.

Afternoon:

• Comic Strip Museum: Dive into Belgium’s comic culture at the Belgian Comic Strip Center. It’s fun and colorful!
• Shopping: Spend some time shopping in the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a beautiful shopping arcade filled with boutiques and chocolate shops.

Evening:

• Dinner: For your last dinner in Brussels, treat yourself to a fine dining experience or a cozy bistro. Don’t forget to try some Belgian chocolate for dessert!
• Farewell Stroll: Take a final evening stroll through the city, soaking in the atmosphere and reflecting on your wonderful trip.

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And there you have it! A delightful 4-day itinerary that balances history, culture, and delicious food. Enjoy your time in Brussels, and don’t forget to indulge in some chocolate and beer along the way! Safe travels! 🍻🍫