Brussels in Two Days: Useful hints about what to see

Let's discover what some useful information for an unforgettable two days in Brussels

Brussels, unlike Barcelona or Florence, is not instantly famous as a destination and people mistakenly think that, apart from the famous Atomium, there isn't much to do or see in the city. This isn't true.

And even better, thanks to several low-cost airlines, Brussels has great travel connections making it a destination with lots to offer for short trips.

We've come up with several things to see and do, rich in culture and fun, during two days in Brussels.

DAY 1

GRAND PLACE, BRUSSELS

Grand Place definitely falls into Brussel's top ten, with many visitors considering it one of the world's most beautiful squares! Around it you'll find the Town Hall, a Gothic masterpiece, and a former covered bread market, the Maison du Roi.

THE BRUSSELS ATOMIUM

This has become symbolic of Belgium. Admire it from the outside, then head inside as well and using stairs and escalators explore its tubes and five spheres. Be warned, as they are slowly revealed to you, you'll always find there's still further to go!

THE CARTOON MUSEUM

Even if you're not a big fan of comics you'll discover childhood heroes here. With 25,000 editions, there'll be one that makes your heart beat faster and triggers childhood memories.

THE MANNEKEN PIS

Another iconic symbol of Belgium, this bronze statuette symbolises the free spirit of Brussel's inhabitants. The witty nature of this highlight makes you smile and has to be photographed.

DAY 2

THE MAGRITTE MUSEUM

This museum holds the largest collection of René Magritte's works. To avoid long queues book online.

THE DU SABLON DISTRICT

If you like antiques, you'll discover plenty in this district, but it also has other claims to fame.

Du Sablon is also known for its Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral and for the Petit Sablon Gardens. Jump right in and explore!

RUE DE BOUCHERS

This once housed Brussel's meat market, today it's a paradise of cafes and restaurants, with its own curiosity - Jeanneke Pis, the female version of Manneken Pis.

Oh, and don't forget to sample the chocolate!

Near here you'll find Parliament and the European Commission, but also take time to explore the Leopold and Cinquantenaire Parks.

WHERE TO STAY IN BRUSSELS

We have a couple of hostel suggestions for your short visit to Brussels.

The first is the Brussels Hello Hostel, the cheapest in the city and just three minutes from the centre. It has everything you need, including Wi-Fi.

The second is the Auberge de Jeunesse Generation Europe, an old-established hostel and part of the Les Auberges de Jeunesse HI Belgium chain. It is just fifteen minutes walk from Grand Place.

SOMETHING DIFFERENT FOR EVENINGS IN BRUSSELS

If you like beer, you've come to the right place, so dive into a pub and soak up the Belgian atmosphere. Head for Saint-Géry, famous for its Brussel's night life - in fact Brussels at night can be a bit too lively!

IDEAS FOR TRIPS OUT OF TOWN

Brussels has good rail connections to the nearby cities of Bruges and Leuven.

Bruges is famous for its canals and medieval architecture, while Leuven is a notable university town in central Flanders.

Find out here where to stay in Leuven.

If you are looking for a hostel in Bruges, instead, see here all our properties.