Brussels for one day: what to see in the capital of Belgium

The capital of Belgium is not spoiled by the attention of tourists. And in vain - more than a thousand years of history has materialized into elegant architecture and unique objects, seasoned with innovative ideas of urbanists.

What to see in Brussels from all the variety of interesting locations? Read in our guide.

Brussels at a glance

The city has two nicknames, historical and modern. In ancient times it was called the “city in the swamp”. Actually, “Brussels” is translated that way. Well, now the new name is in force, “the capital of Europe”. It is justified by the large number of administrative facilities of the European Union and NATO. For example, the headquarters of NATO and the European Union are located here. You can include them in your walk plan and get involved in “big politics”.

Brussels is already 1300 years old. True, as the capital of Belgium it has been carrying its burden only recently, since 1830.

The city is quite compact. But several objects are located at a distance from the center, so we advise you to buy a MOBIB transport card (5 euros) and load several single tickets there (2.4 euros).

What to see. Pissing boy

Start your journey with Belgium's most famous statue (measuring just 60 centimeters), the Manneken Pis. The boy is, however, still an old man, he is 400 years old. The capital's landmark is hidden at the intersection of Dubovoy and Bannaya streets near the Grand Place.

According to legend, the statue reminds townspeople of the heroic deed of one boy, who extinguished shells set on fire by the enemy with a stream of urine. But the reasons for the creation of replica statues, the Pissing Girl and the Pissing Dog, are shrouded in darkness.

Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate

What do you associate Belgium with? The most common answer is chocolate. Therefore, you can’t miss the chance to visit the cocoa and chocolate museum.

A tour there will engage all your senses. Look at the history of the appearance of cocoa in Europe, listen to old recipes, feel the difference between types of chocolate and taste works of art that the master will prepare in front of you.

Grand Place, Town Hall and Royal House

Brussels' key attractions are located on its main square. The Grand Place is not just the heart of the capital, it is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. She is curvaceous and slender, graceful and soaring into the sky with her spiers.

Each of the 39 houses in the square is distinguished not only by its architectural style (Brabantian Gothic, Baroque, Neo-Gothic), but also by its own name. Look among them for "Cart", "She-Wolf" and "Fox".

But you won't miss two buildings for sure: the Town Hall and the Royal House. The 96-meter Town Hall is the oldest building in the square, which has preserved its original medieval appearance. But the Royal House changed often. Initially, it was even called “Bread”, being a place for selling bread. But since the 15th century it was rebuilt for the Duke of Brabant.

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Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert

Do you already like Brussels and are you wondering where to find souvenirs about it? The right decision would be to go to the Royal Galleries of St. Hubert. In addition to a large number of shops (not only souvenir shops, but also boutiques), tourists will be delighted by a huge glass gallery and elegant sculptures. Shopping in such surroundings will be unforgettable.

Brussels Cathedral

Brussels Cathedral or the Cathedral of Saints Michael and Gudula is one of the oldest buildings in the city. Some architectural elements in it go back to the 13th century. But it’s not even the gray stone that is of particular interest. And the huge stained glass windows inside are 500 years old.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace (not to be confused with the Royal House) is the official residence of the Royal Family of Belgium. Monarchs are rarely there, only during official receptions. Therefore, tourists are free to stroll around the royal estate. And enjoy the pretentious interiors of the halls.

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Church of Our Lady of Victories

The Church of Our Lady of Victories is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful in the Belgian capital. And it is also surrounded by unusual legends. The main one says: each part of the church was built by members of one of the military guilds. Well, the main work lay on the shoulders of the crossbowmen, who thereby thanked the Virgin Mary for winning one of the competitions.

Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Sacre Coeur)

This capital temple also collected several very-most consoles. It is the largest Art Deco building in the world and one of the largest Catholic cathedrals. And certainly the most loyal. After all, under its roof there is a radio station, a theater, museums, a restaurant and a climbing club!

Mini Europe Park

The Mini-Europe park contains 350 attractions from 80 cities around the world. With a slight adjustment, they are built on a scale of 1:25. However, this is a great opportunity to see up close Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, the Berlin Wall and even visit the eruption of Vesuvius.

20 euros for entry is a ridiculous price to see with your own eyes the best man-made objects of humanity. We recommend adding 12 euros and combining a visit here with the Atomium nearby.

Atomium

The most unusual thing you can see in Brussels is a 102-meter-tall molecule. This is not how we imagined her in chemistry lessons!

Six of the nine huge atoms of its components can be walked on foot or in an elevator. And at the very top you can even dine in a restaurant.

Planning a trip to Brussels? Discover the amazing sights of the capital of Belgium! And remember, if you require a visa, you can always contact the Madera Travel Visa Center for assistance . Have a nice trip!