One of my favorite things about living in London, is having Europe at my doorstep. After returning from Australia for a two week holiday, my feet were still itching and I couldn’t seem to shake the urge to get away again and discover more of Europe. With prior commitments and very limited funds, I knew I couldn’t go away for long. I wanted to go somewhere I had never been and I wanted to do it cheaply. I jumped onto my favorite budget bus website, www.megabus.com and did a quick search for overnight buses. Belgium, Brussels was the top of the list and leaving that evening for a very reasonable price. A day in Brussels? Sounds perfect to me.
Although I had very little time in Brussels itself, I managed to experience a lot of Belgium’s culture. Planning on spending a day in Brussels? Check out my 5 recommendations for spending your day well in Brussels.
Places to Visit in Brussels: Marvel at the beauty of ‘Grand Place’.
The Grand Place is the town’s center of Brussels. Walk down the narrow European allies to discover The Grand Square, home to Town Hall, Guild Halls, restaurants and of course, chocolate shops. There is no denying why tourists flock to this square for photographs and to explore. The buildings are beautiful and the atmosphere of the square is lively and gives you a great taste of Belgium.
Places to Visit in Brussels: Indulge in a tradition Belgium Waffle
It is essential, if you are spending a day in Brussels, that you find a waffle house and enjoy all the toppings. Even if Waffles are not on your agenda, it will be impossible to avoid temptation. With every turn, you will discover another store that is selling waffles and becomes overwhelmed by the delicious smells drawing you in. Note: You will be tempted to opt for the 1euro waffle, sold at every corner. However, i highly suggest you pay the little extra and get yourself a fresh waffle at a waffle house
Places to Visit in Brussels: Spot Tin Tin
Yes, Brussels is not only known for its delicious food but the home of the lovable cartoon character, Tin Tin. Depending on how much of a fan you are, Brussels provides you with multiple options. For those ‘Tin Tin’ fans, learn about the comic book reporter, at the Musée Hergé or simply keep your eyes peeled as you walk around the city for Tin Tin murals. We saw a fantastic mural just by The Grand Place and Manneken Pis Statue.
Note: If you’re interested in comic culture, Brussels is the place for you. I ran out of time but would have loved to visit the Belgian comic strip center.
Places to Visit in Brussels: Visit a chocolate store and leave with your hands full
We all know Belgium is famous for Chocolate. Make sure you visit a few chocolate stores along the way while roaming the streets of Brussels. I took the time to visit several chocolate stores along the way, my favorite was located in The Grand Place. I loved watching through the window as the chef carefully coated strawberries in fresh Belgian chocolate; if that’s not enough to make your mouth water, I don’t know what is.
Places to Visit in Brussels: Get lost as you wander through the allies of Brussels
I spent the majority of my time, simply wandering and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I saw so much of the city by taking a few wrong turns and ending up in places I wasn’t intending. Fear not, it is easy enough to find your way back to where you need to be, so let go and get lost for a while. Catch sight of the Cathedral of St Micheal and Gaulda, Manneken pis (you’ll see this everywhere and trust me, it will catch your attention), The Atrium, BELvue, Music Instrument museum and much, much more.
