Must-See in Brussels in One Day: A Friendly Guide to the Best Sights and Attractions

If you’re planning a trip to Brussels and only have one day to explore, you might be wondering what you should see in Brussels to make the most of your time. Luckily, there are plenty of must-see attractions that can be covered in a single day. From historic landmarks to delicious food, this guide will help you plan the perfect itinerary for your one-day visit.

One of the top attractions to see in Brussels is the iconic Atomium, a unique building originally constructed for the 1958 World Expo. The Atomium consists of nine interconnected spheres, each containing exhibits and displays related to science, technology, and culture. You can take an elevator to the top sphere for stunning views of the city.

Another must-see in Brussels is the Grand Place, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings and considered one of the most stunning squares in Europe. The square is home to the Town Hall, the Breadhouse, and the King’s House, among other notable buildings. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking in the city’s atmosphere, these landmarks are essential places to see in Brussels during your visit.

Grand Place

If you only have one day in Brussels, the Grand Place is a must-see destination. This beautiful square is surrounded by stunning architecture and is one of the most recognizable sights in Brussels.

Town Hall

The Town Hall, or Hôtel de Ville, is the centerpiece of the Grand Place. The building was constructed in the 15th century and features a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Make sure to take a closer look at the intricate details and sculptures on the facade. You can also go inside and visit the various rooms, including the Gothic Hall and the Mayor’s office.

Museum of the City of Brussels

Located in the Maison du Roi, the Museum of the City of Brussels is a great place to learn about the history of Brussels. The museum features exhibits that showcase the city’s art, culture, and history. Don’t miss the famous Manneken Pis statue, which is housed in the museum.

Overall, the Grand Place is a must-see destination in Brussels. With its stunning architecture and rich history, it’s a great place to spend a few hours and soak up the city’s atmosphere.

Manneken Pis

No visit to Brussels is complete without seeing the famous Manneken Pis statue, one of the must-see in Brussels attractions. This small bronze statue of a little boy peeing has become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You can find it at the junction of Rue de l’Étuve and Rue du Chêne, just a few minutes’ walk from the Grand Place.

Legend has it that the statue was erected in the 15th century to commemorate a young boy who saved the city by peeing on a burning fuse. Over the years, Manneken Pis has become a symbol of Brussels’ irreverent spirit and sense of humor. Today, it is dressed up in a variety of costumes throughout the year, with over 1,000 outfits in its wardrobe, making it a fascinating sight to see in Brussels.

If you want to see in Brussels some of the different costumes that Manneken Pis wears, head to the Brussels City Museum’s GardeRobe Manneken Pis exhibit. Here, you can view a selection of the statue’s outfits, including traditional costumes from different regions of Belgium, as well as more contemporary outfits.

While you’re in the area, be sure to see in Brussels some of the other quirky statues nearby. These include the Jeanneke Pis statue of a little girl peeing and the Zinneke Pis statue of a dog peeing. These humorous sculptures are part of a series of “peeing statues” scattered throughout the city, each with its own unique story and legend.

Overall, Manneken Pis is a must-see in Brussels and a great way to experience the city’s playful and irreverent side.

Royal Palace of Brussels

If you want to visit a grand building with sumptuous rooms and ornate furniture, then the Royal Palace of Brussels is a must-see. This grand building was built between the 18th and 20th centuries and is the official home to the Monarchy of Brussels. If you happen to be visiting Brussels during the summer, then you can pay to visit the Royal Palace of Brussels for free.

Brussels Park

The Royal Palace of Brussels is a must-see in Brussels, situated in the heart of Brussels Park, a beautiful and peaceful green space perfect for a relaxing stroll. The park is home to a variety of trees and flowers, as well as several statues and fountains, making it a scenic stop as you explore the city.

If you’re lucky, you might even see in Brussels the changing of the guard ceremony that takes place in front of the Royal Palace every day at 2:30 pm. This ceremony is a great opportunity to watch the Belgian Army in action and capture some memorable photos.

Overall, the Royal Palace of Brussels and Brussels Park are two must-see in Brussels attractions that you won’t want to miss during your visit.

Atomium

If you’re interested in seeing one of the most iconic structures in Brussels, you must visit Atomium. This unique structure is shaped like a giant atom, and it was built for the 1958 World Expo. The Atomium is located in the north of Brussels and is easily accessible by public transportation.

Once you arrive, you can take a tour of the Atomium to learn about its history and design. You’ll also have the opportunity to take an elevator to the top of the Atomium, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the chance to visit Mini-Europe, which is located next to the Atomium. This miniature park features replicas of famous European landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

When planning your visit, keep in mind that the Atomium can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season. It’s a good idea to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Overall, the Atomium is a must-see attraction in Brussels, and it’s a great way to spend a few hours exploring the city’s unique architecture and history.