Wondering what to do in Brussels in one day? Here’s how to eat all the good stuff while discovering the best tourist places in Brussels.

Belgium. Why not? It seemed to be a fun stop between Paris and Amsterdam.

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I surprised myself by thinking, “What to do do in Brussels.” Guilty here. I had no idea. I knew what I would eat, but I wasn’t sure about the doing part.

Does it have to do with chocolate, waffles, and Belgian fries? Of course.

Life as I knew it before changed. You can’t beat this, my friend. This is the Belgian Heaven (because it deserves capital letters).

The best time to visit Brussels is during the summertime. Although, I would also recommend visiting during the winter as it’s fun to see Brussels around Christmas.

Is Brussels worth visiting and fun? YES! Especially if you enjoy Belgian food! Wondering how many days in Brussels you’ll need? We recommend a minimum of 2 days.

Here’s how to make the most of Brussels in one day! Let’s talk about the best places to visit in Brussels and the best things to eat in Brussels.

belgian waffel truck brussels

Eat Waffles

Please, notice here that waffles have an “S” which means you should at least eat two of them. Who knows? You might never return to Brussels, so you better create decent memories.

Where to eat the cheapest (and the best) waffles in Brussels: In this street (look at the map below), all waffles are only 1 euro.

It doesn’t include any toppings for this price, but you should know that you don’t even need one.

Toppings are for tourists. Locals eat their waffles plain. It’s going to be sweet enough. Don’t worry.

Here’s the thing.It would be best to have a plain street waffle at least once. And you should try another one with toppings in a restaurant (this time with Belgian hot chocolate). #JustSaying

Waffles Brussels

Eat Belgian Fries

I hear you; “is there anything else to do other than eat in Brussels?” Of course, there is! Keep reading, my friend.

I’m just making sure you won’t miss the best part about Brussels, especially if you’re only here for a day.

Where to eat the best Belgian fries in Brussels: Fritland

fritland brussels

Eat Chocolate

Oh Hello. You can’t miss this either. Grab your chocolate stash in one of those shops where you can also try the chocolate previously: La Belgique Gourmande. Take plenty. Eat plenty.

This was pure happiness.

You could also visit this chocolate museum or learn how to make chocolate.

Grand-Place

This big square is quite impressive as massive buildings surround it.

There are many Cafés, restaurants, and temptations everywhere. It’s also the meeting point for free walking tours around Brussels.

La Bourse

La Bourse is a pretty big building. It’s one of the meeting points around Brussels, and it’s also where people showed their love, respect, and solidarity after the bombing attacks of March 2016.

Fun things to do in Brussels

Manneken Pis

This is probably the most significant Brussels landmark. The little man peeing statue has a trending wardrobe which means that you could see him in different outfits every day of the week if you wanted to.

This statue has been stolen many times and has a female equivalent, Jeanneke Pis. This one is located in the Party area.

Fun things to do in Brussels

Cool Tours That Are Below EUR 30:
Belgian Beer Tasting Experience – Check the price!
Local Pub Crawl – Check the price!
Belgian Chocolate Tasting Tour – Check the price!

Have Some Belgian Fun

Did I just say “Party area”?  There are a few bars you should check out if you’re a party animal. (I’m an angel now, so I can’t say a lot about it, but I’m guessing you’re also planning to taste the Belgian goodies that rhyme with beers?!)

I heard about two fantastic places to go out. I’m thinking of Delirium Café and Floris Bar.

Both places are found on Impasse de la Fidélité street (which is quite funny if you speak French). Floris Bar is also known for its exclusive Absynthe.

The best of Brussels during the Winter – Christmas Season

I went to my first Christmas market when I was in Brussels.  The market is located around La Bourse and the Place Sainte-Catherine. There’s also a giant Christmas tree right in the middle of the Grand-Place.

You should also check out the light show at the Grand Place, and I’d strongly recommend you watch the one at Sainte-Catherine.

Fun things to do in Brussels

Where to stay in Brussels, Belgium

I stayed at Jacques Brel Youth Hostel while I was in Brussels.  It’s not exactly in the city centre, but it isn’t too far either.

I could walk to the Grand-Place easily while exploring the less touristy parts of Brussels around the hostel.

The place was pretty clean, modern and well-equipped.

There’s a kitchen available on site and you also have a complimentary breakfast (which is fantastic, by the way). The closest metro is Botanique.

Staying In Brussels?

Make sure to book a stay in one of the best hotels in Brussels.
Best hostel: 2GO4 Quality Hostel Brussels City Center
Best mid-range hotel: B&B Home & the City
Best luxury hotel: Juliana Hotel Brussels

What to Pack for Brussels

Here are a few Brussels essentials you should pack for your upcoming trip!

Your packing essentials could change depending on whether you’re heading there during the summer or the winter! (Yes – it’s cold during the winter!)

Do you have your travel insurance ready? Don’t leave without it!

Best Day Trips From Brussels

Are you planning on going on day trips from Brussels?  Here are a few suggestions to consider:

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About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015 and has been living abroad since 2014. Originally from Canada, she has embraced a digital nomad lifestyle, working online from various destinations worldwide. Melissa is passionate about travel, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit. Her extensive travels have taken her across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. Currently, she resides in Thailand.


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