3 Days in Belgium: The Perfect Itinerary for Ghent, Bruges, & Brussels

Belgium may be small (in fact, it’s not much bigger than Massachusetts for our US readers), but it packs an incredible amount of variety into such a compact country. In just a few days, you can experience medieval cities, storybook canals, quirky attractions, and world-class food spread across three bucket-list-worthy cities. In this 3-Day Belgium itinerary, we combine Ghent, Bruges, and Brussels into one action-packed trip, perfect for first-time visitors. Each city offers something different, and together they create a well-rounded introduction to this charming and unique country. Rather than trying to see everything, this itinerary focuses on experiencing each city in a way that makes sense for time-crunched travelers like ourselves. You’ll get a mix of iconic sights, local food, walkable neighborhoods, and moments to simply take it all in.

⬇️ Want to see this itinerary in action? ⬇️

Watch our “3 Days in Belgium” video

 on YouTube for a closer look at our full experience!

⬇️ Don't Have 3 Days in Belgium? ⬇️

If your time in Belgium is limited, you can still have an incredible experience by focusing on just one or two cities. We’ve put together detailed One Day guides that are designed to help you see the highlights, eat well, and move through each city efficiently without feeling overwhelmed.

One Day in Ghent – A vibrant university city filled with medieval architecture, canals, and incredible food

One Day in Bruges – Storybook streets, canals, waffles, chocolate, and beautifully lit historic squares. Ideal if you want to experience Bruges’ highlights in a single day.

One Day in Brussels – Belgium’s capital, offering a mix of culture, history, street art, and world-famous food

Each guide follows the same approach: clear structure, intentional routing, and a balance of major sights and local experiences that make the most of your time. Whether you’re exploring Belgium over multiple days or just passing through, these guides are built to help you travel smarter and enjoy the experience.

⬇️ Looking for more ways to explore? ⬇️

Check out GetYourGuide for the best experiences in Belgium! From cooking classes and food tours to canal cruises and bike tours — all bookable in advance with flexible options!

⬇️ Where to Stay in Belgium ⬇️

For our trip, we chose to home base in Ghent for all three days, and it worked extremely well. Ghent sits right between Bruges and Brussels, with direct train connections to both cities in about 30 minutes. That made it easy to explore all three destinations without changing hotels. That said, you can absolutely base yourself in Bruges or Brussels and still explore all three cities just as easily. Belgium’s rail network is fast, affordable, and well-connected, so no matter which city you choose as your home base, day trips to the others are straightforward and efficient.

Here are some of our recommendations in each city, depending on your budget:

🏨 Ghent

Luxury: 1898 The Post – A beautiful historic hotel overlooking the Graslei and Korenlei.

Mid-Range: Getaway Studios (Where we stayed) – Modern studio-style rooms with kitchenettes in a quiet, central location.

Budget: Cour St. Georges – A clean, comfortable option at a more affordable price point.

🏨 Bruges

Luxury: Dukes’ Palace – An elegant, centrally located historic hotel near Markt Square.

Mid-Range: Hotel Aragon – A reliable balance of comfort, location, and value.

Budget: Hotel Marcel – A simple, practical option for travelers prioritizing location and affordability.

🏨 Brussels

Luxury: Hotel Amigo – A high-end stay just steps from Grand Place.

Mid-Range: Moxy – Modern, comfortable, and well-connected by public transit.

Budget: easyHotel – Clean, safe, and centrally located for short stays.

Ghent worked perfectly for us as a central base, but staying in Bruges or Brussels still allows you to visit all three cities without issue. Choose the city that best fits your accommodation preferences, and let Belgium’s excellent train system do the rest.

⬇️ Quick Tips for Visiting Belgium ⬇️

If it’s your first time visiting Belgium, here are a few helpful tips to make your trip smoother, especially if you’re hopping between multiple cities.

Language:

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (Flemish) in the north, French in the south, and German in a small eastern region. In cities like Ghent, Bruges, and Brussels, English is widely spoken, especially in restaurants, hotels, and tourist areas. We never had any issues communicating.

Currency:

Belgium uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere (especially Visa and Mastercard), including cafés and public transportation. That said, it’s still smart to carry a small amount of cash for markets, public restrooms, or smaller purchases.

Tipping Culture:

Tipping isn’t expected in Belgium. Service is typically included in the bill, but if you receive great service, rounding up or leaving 5 to 10 percent is always appreciated. There’s no pressure to tip heavily.

Getting Around:

Belgium is incredibly easy to get around, especially by train. The national rail network is efficient, affordable, and connects major cities like Ghent, Bruges, and Brussels in about 30 minutes. For booking train tickets, Omio is our go-to platform. It’s user-friendly and makes it easy to compare routes, prices, and schedules all in one place. Plus, we love having our tickets stored digitally instead of juggling paper confirmations. Within cities, walking is often the best way to explore, but trams, buses, and metros are widely available and easy to use. A car isn’t necessary for this itinerary.

Staying Connected:

If you’re traveling internationally and want data as soon as you land, an eSIM is the easiest option. You install it before your trip, turn it on upon arrival, and you’re instantly connected for maps, train schedules, restaurant searches, and more. Holafly is the option we use most often, and also what we used on this particular trip.

Toilets & Public Restrooms:

Public restrooms are available throughout Belgium, but many require a small fee. Cafés and restaurants usually reserve restrooms for customers, so it’s helpful to plan bathroom breaks around coffee or meal stops.

Best Time to Visit:

Late spring and early fall are our favorite times to visit Belgium. The weather is comfortable for walking, crowds are more manageable, and rain is generally lighter. That said, Belgium is a great year-round destination, with each season offering something a little different.

⬇️ 3 Days in Belgium Itinerary ⬇️

Day 1: Ghent

9:00 AM – Coffee & Pastry at Mokabon

📍 Donkersteeg 35, 9000 Gent, Belgium

There’s no better place to start your day in Ghent than Mokabon. This cozy, old-school coffee bar has been a local favorite since 1937, and it still feels like the kind of spot where regulars linger over their morning cappuccino and newspaper. The vibe is warm, welcoming, and wonderfully nostalgic… the kind of café that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a little piece of Ghent’s everyday life. We grabbed some lattes (chai for Natalie, of course) along with a fresh butter cake and a Brussels Waffle topped with the fresh, house-made cream, and it was the perfect slow start before a full day of exploring. Mokabon stays busy, especially in the mornings, and the atmosphere is lively yet relaxed in the best possible way. Once you’re fueled up, it’s just a short five-minute walk to your first major stop of the day.

10:15 AM – Explore Gravensteen Castle

📍 Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent, Belgium

From Mokabon, it’s a quick five-minute walk to one of the most impressive landmarks in the entire city: Gravensteen Castle (AKA Castle of the Counts). This 12th-century fortress looks like something straight out of a Medieval storybook, complete with stone walls, narrow staircases, and dramatic towers rising above the city. It was built in 1180 by Count Philip of Alsace and has served many roles over the centuries — a fortress, a courthouse, a prison, and even a textile factory. Today, it’s one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe, and exploring the inside is just as fascinating as admiring it from the outside. The €12 admission includes an audio guide that is surprisingly witty and genuinely entertaining, making the history feel fun and approachable. Give yourself about an hour to wander through the rooms, learn about Ghent’s medieval past, and take in the sweeping rooftop views over the old town.

11:45 AM – Stroll Through Patershol + Confiserie Temmerman

📍 Kraanlei 79, 9000 Gent, Belgium

After exploring the castle, wander a few minutes into Patershol, one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in Ghent. This pocket of the city dates back to the Middle Ages and was originally home to monks and craftsmen. Over the centuries, it transformed from a religious district into a working-class neighborhood, and today it’s a beautifully preserved maze of cobblestone lanes, historic homes, and tiny restaurants tucked behind centuries-old façades. While you’re here, stop by Confiserie Temmerman, a beloved family-run sweet shop known for its traditional Belgian candies. Their most famous treat is the cuberdon…  a cone-shaped, jelly-filled candy also called neuzekes or “little noses.” They’re uniquely Ghent, and trying one is a fun way to get a literal taste of the city’s heritage. Plus, they are quite delicious!

1:00 PM – Lunch at Otomat

📍 Kleine Vismarkt 3, 9000 Gent, Belgium

At this point, you’ve probably worked up an appetite, and Otomat is the perfect spot to satisfy your hunger! This Belgian pizza restaurant puts a fun twist on a classic favorite by using Duvel beer yeast in their dough, giving the crust a light, airy texture and a subtle flavor you won’t find anywhere else. The toppings range from familiar to creative, blending Italian technique with Belgian ingredients in a way that’s both playful and delicious.

For a local flavor, we ordered one of their seasonal pizzas, the Asperges à la Flamande — a pizza topped with white asparagus, boiled egg, fresh parsley, a pinch of nutmeg, aged Gouda, and a drizzle of sour cream. And we know what you’re thinking… asparagus AND egg on pizza?? Blasphemy! But honestly, it was surprisingly tasty and such a unique flavor combo to try while in Belgium!

2:20 PM – Medieval Center Boat Tour

📍 Kraanlei 2, 9000 Gent, Belgium

After lunch, make your way across the street to the canal for a relaxing 50-minute guided boat tour through Ghent’s medieval center. Boats leave every 20 minutes, so it’s super easy to fit into your day without needing to plan too far in advance. Once you’re on board, you’ll drift past centuries-old guild houses, charming bridges, waterfront cafés, and some of the most picturesque corners of the city.

The River Leie was a huge part of Ghent’s history and played a major role in the city’s rise as a medieval textile powerhouse, and you’ll hear plenty of stories about that along the way. The guides do a great job of balancing history with humor, making the ride both relaxing and genuinely interesting. Although you should be aware that the narration is done in three languages (English, Dutch, and French), so if you’re like us and only speak one of these, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the sights without feeling the need to pay attention to the narration. 👉🏻 CLICK HERE to book your tickets!

3:30 PM – Climb the Belfry of Ghent

📍 Sint-Baafsplein 2A, 9000 Gent, Belgium

From the canal cruise, it’s a short 6-minute walk to the Belfry of Ghent, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began in 1313 and wrapped up in 1380, and at 299 feet tall (91 meters), it still stands as the tallest belfry in Belgium. Throughout history, the tower served several important roles… a watchtower, a bell tower, and even a secure place to store the city’s most valuable documents and charters.

Tickets are €11 per person, and inside you’ll find displays that explain the belfry’s medieval significance, along with a close-up look at the 53-bell carillon, including the historic “Roland” bell. Getting to the top can vary depending on the day. When we visited, the only option was to climb the first 66 steps and then take the elevator the rest of the way up. We’ve heard that sometimes visitors may be allowed to climb all 366 steps, but that wasn’t available during our visit. As for coming back down, we took the stairs, but this may differ depending on staffing, accessibility needs, or the day’s operations, so just follow the posted instructions when you visit. Once you reach the top, the views are absolutely worth it. Ghent’s rooftops, church spires, and canals stretch out in every direction, offering one of the best panoramas in the city. Plan to spend about 30 to 45 minutes here before heading to your next stop

4:30 PM – Chocolate at Van Hoorebeke or Frites at Frituur Bij Filip

📍 Sint-Baafsplein 15, 9000 Gent, Belgium

By this point in the afternoon, you’ve earned a little treat, and Ghent has two great options depending on whether you’re craving something sweet or something savory.

If you’re in the mood for chocolate, head to Chocolaterie Van Hoorebeke, a family-run shop known for its elegant pralines and incredibly rich hot chocolate made with real melted chocolate. It’s smooth, velvety, and exactly the kind of indulgence Belgium is famous for. The shop is cozy and beautifully presented, making it a lovely, quick stop. We personally loved their hazelnut pralines… SO GOOD!

If savory is more your style, walk just a couple of minutes to Frituur Bij Filip for a classic cone of Belgian frites. These fries are double-fried in beef tallow, giving them that signature crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Belgians traditionally serve them with mayonnaise or curry ketchup, but you’ll find plenty of sauces to choose from. And yes, despite their American name, “French fries” actually originated in Belgium, not France!

Whichever option you choose, consider taking your treat to go and enjoying it along the canal. It’s a simple, scenic way to enjoy the flavors and take in the views. It was one of our favorite memories from the afternoon!

5:15 PM – Scenic Stroll Along the Graslei & Korenlei

📍 Korenlei 24, 9000 Gent, Belgium

After enjoying your chocolate or frites, take a little time to wander the Graslei and Korenlei, two of the most beautiful waterfront promenades in Belgium. This stretch of the River Leie was once the center of Ghent’s medieval port, and the historic guild houses lining the water still reflect that legacy with their ornate façades and steep, stepped gables. In the late afternoon, this area really comes alive. Boats drift by, locals gather along the stone ledges to chat, and the sunlight hits the buildings in the most magical way. It’s the perfect place to slow down after a busy day of exploring and take in the beauty of the city.

6:00 PM – Drinks at Dulle Griet (or Go Vintage Shopping)

📍 Vrijdagmarkt 50, 9000 Gent, Belgium

As the early evening sets in, make your way toward Dulle Griet, one of Ghent’s most iconic and quirky beer bars. The atmosphere here is lively and distinctly Belgian, with more than 500 beers on the menu and a cozy, wood-paneled interior that feels straight out of a local legend (think medieval meets Cracker Barrel, lol)! If you’re feeling adventurous (like we were), try their famous “Max” beer… a massive, 1.2-liter glass that comes with an equally massive tradition. To keep you from walking off with the €90 glass, the bar takes one of your shoes as a deposit and hoists it up into a basket hanging from the ceiling. It’s bizarre, hilarious, and a very fun story to take home.

And if beer isn’t your thing (or you’re traveling with someone who doesn’t drink), this is a great time to explore Ghent’s thriving vintage shopping scene instead. The city has a handful of wonderful secondhand shops within walking distance, including Ateliers Gaston, Vintage Factory Gent, Think Twice, and World Fashion Vintage. Each one has its own personality, and browsing through their curated racks is a fun and easygoing way to spend part of your evening.

Whether you’re sipping a Belgian brew or treasure hunting through vintage finds, this part of the day gives you a chance to experience a different side of Ghent’s local culture before dinner.

7:20 PM – Dinner at Chapeluur Gent

📍 Kortemunt 3, 9000 Gent, Belgium

By early evening, head over to Chapeluur Gent for dinner. This cozy, modern spot is known for one thing above all else: artisanal Belgian croquettes. And trust us… they take croquettes to a whole new level. The menu focuses on high-quality, scratch-made varieties with creative fillings, from the classics to more inventive combinations you won’t find just anywhere. We personally loved their “Keep Calm & Curry On” and “Pasta el Tartufu” croquettes, but you really can’t go wrong with any of them!

8:45 PM – Sunset Along the Graslei & Korenlei Promenade

📍 Korenlei 24, 9000 Gent, Belgium

End your day with sunset at the Graslei & Korenlei Viewpoint Promenade, one of the most beautiful places in Ghent, and an absolutely magical spot at sunset. As the sky starts to shift into warm oranges and pinks, the historic guild houses glow, the reflections on the River Leie become even more dramatic, and the whole area takes on this peaceful, cinematic feel. Locals often gather along the stone ledges to wind down after work, couples stroll along the water, and photographers set up for that perfect “golden hour” shot. Find a comfortable spot along the canal, watch the city wind down around you, and just enjoy the moment. It’s one of those simple experiences that makes you fall in love with Ghent, and the ideal way to wrap up your one-day itinerary.

⬇️ 3 Days in Belgium Itinerary ⬇️

Day 2: Bruges

9:00 AM – Take in Rosary Quay Views

📍Rozenhoedkaai 3, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

Start your day at Rosary Quay (Rozenhoedkaai), one of the most iconic and photographed viewpoints in all of Bruges. In the early morning, before the city fully wakes up, this corner of the canals feels especially peaceful. The water is calm, the light is soft, and the medieval buildings lining the canal reflect beautifully, creating that postcard-perfect Bruges scene. Rosary Quay sits at the intersection of two canals and offers views of several historic façades at once, which is why it’s often considered the most scenic spot in the city. Arriving early not only helps you beat the crowds but also lets you experience Bruges at its quietest and most atmospheric. Take your time here, snap a few photos, and just soak it in. It’s the perfect way to ease into the day before heading for coffee.

9:30 AM – Coffee & Pastries at The Novel

📍Eekhoutstraat 1, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

After soaking in the canal views, make the short walk to The Novel, a specialty coffee shop that offers a refreshing contrast to Bruges’ medieval streets. With its clean, minimalist interiors and thoughtfully crafted drinks, it represents a newer wave of café culture in the city… modern, creative, and quality-driven. This is a great place to slow down, enjoy a well-made coffee, tasty pastry, and ease into the day before the crowds really build.

10:30 AM – Explore Market Square (Grote Markt)

📍Markt 4, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

From The Novel, make your way to Markt Square, the historic heart of Bruges. This expansive square has been the city’s main gathering place since medieval times and is surrounded by colorful guild houses, the Provinciaal Hof, and the iconic Belfry towering overhead (we’ll get to that later). Historically, Markt was the site of weekly markets, major public events, and even executions, playing a central role in Bruges’ political and economic life. Today, it’s one of the liveliest areas in the city, often filled with visitors, street performers, and the occasional horse-drawn carriage passing through. Take some time to wander the square, admire the architecture, maybe do a little souvenir shopping, and get your bearings before continuing on to your next stop.

11:15 AM – Chocolate Sampling at The Old Chocolate House

📍Mariastraat 1c, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

Next, make your way to The Old Chocolate House, one of Bruges’ most popular spots for an indulgent chocolate break. This cozy, multi-level chocolate café is especially known for its rich hot chocolate, and let me tell you… It lives up to the hype! Belgium produces more than 220,000 tons of chocolate each year, and chocolate-making has been deeply woven into the country’s identity for generations. Belgian pralines were first invented in 1912, and today, chocolate remains a point of national pride. This stop is the perfect way to experience that tradition firsthand before continuing on with your day!

12:15 PM – Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood

📍Burg 13, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

From your chocolate stop, walk a few minutes to De Burg Square and step inside the Basilica of the Holy Blood, one of Bruges’ most important religious and historic sites. This small chapel is best known for housing a revered relic believed to contain a crystal vial containing a small cloth with the blood of Jesus Christ on it, which was brought back to Bruges during the Crusades in the 12th century.

The basilica itself is split into two levels, with a simple Romanesque lower chapel and a more ornate upper chapel decorated with stained glass and gilded details. Whether or not you’re religious, it’s a fascinating stop that adds depth and context to Bruges’ medieval past and its long-standing spiritual traditions. Plan for a short visit here before heading to your next experience.

Pro Tip: If you’re tight on time, get in line for the upper chapel and Holy Blood viewing before walking through the lower chapel. If you have to miss one, the lower chapel is it.

1:30 PM – Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting

📍Hoogstraat 10, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

One of the highlights of our day in Bruges was this Belgian waffle-making workshop with beer tasting at Waffles 'n Beer. This 1.5-hour experience is equal parts fun, hands-on, and delicious — and a great way to take a break from walking while still doing something uniquely Belgian.

During the workshop, you’ll learn how to make traditional Belgian waffles from scratch, cooking them yourself and enjoying them fresh off the iron. Along the way, you’ll sample a selection of Belgian beers and learn a bit about the country’s famous beer culture, which is just as important to Belgium’s identity as waffles and chocolate.

It’s interactive without feeling gimmicky, social without being overwhelming, and is a great way to combine a meal with a unique experience. By the time you’re done, you’re well-fed and ready to head back out and explore more of the city. Book your spot HERE!

3:30 PM – Canal Boat Tour from Rosary Quay

📍Rozenhoedkaai 3, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

After the waffle workshop, make your way back toward Rosary Quay for a relaxing 30-minute canal boat tour. Bruges is often called the “Venice of the North,” and seeing the city from the water offers a completely different perspective. From the canals, you’ll glide past arched bridges, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old buildings that you can’t always appreciate from street level.

Canal cruises depart roughly every 30 minutes, making this an easy stop to fit into your afternoon without feeling rushed. It’s a peaceful way to rest your feet while learning more about Bruges’ medieval layout and its history as a major trading city. By the time you step back on land, you’ll be refreshed and ready to keep exploring.

Pro Tip: Arrive 5-10 mins before departure so you can board first and have first pick at seats!

4:30 PM – Climb the Belfry of Bruges

📍Markt 7, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

From Rosary Quay, make your way back to Market Square to climb the Belfry of Bruges, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the 13th century, this historic bell tower once served as a lookout point and treasury, keeping watch over the city and safeguarding important documents. The climb to the top involves 366 narrow, winding steps, and while it’s definitely a workout, the views are absolutely worth it. From the top, you’ll get sweeping views over Bruges’ red rooftops, church spires, and canals, offering a true sense of just how compact and well-preserved the city is. Plan to spend about 45 to 60 minutes here, depending on crowds and how often you stop to catch your breath, and be sure to purchase your tickets in advance. Otherwise, you might end up like us and show up and be told that time slots are sold out until late afternoon, hence the 4:30 PM Belfry climb!

Pro Tip: Plan to spend enough time at the top to see the impressive 47-bell carillon in action!

5:45 PM – Golden Hour Stroll Through Bruges

📍Markt 7, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

After climbing the Belfry, take about an hour to simply wander through Bruges at golden hour. This is when the city really starts to soften — the light turns warm, the canals glow, and the busiest crowds begin to thin out. Stroll through the historic center, follow the canals, and duck down quieter side streets without a strict plan. This is one of the best times of day for photos, slow exploration, and just soaking in the atmosphere. Bruges feels especially romantic in the early evening, and this unstructured time gives you space to enjoy it without rushing from one attraction to the next. Let the city guide you here. You’ll naturally find beautiful corners, peaceful canal views, and little moments that end up being some of the most memorable parts of the day.

7:00 PM – Dinner at Restaurant Diligence

📍Hoogstraat 5, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

After a full day of exploring, settle in for dinner at Restaurant Diligence (Hoogstraat 5), a classic Belgian restaurant just a short walk from the historic center. The atmosphere here is warm and traditional, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a comforting meal.

This is a great place to try hearty regional dishes like stoofvlees (Belgian beef stew), waterzooi, or the ever-popular moules-frites (mussels and fries). Belgian cuisine often blends French technique with Flemish comfort, and dinner here feels like a satisfying, sit-down moment after a busy day on your feet. With a reservation in place, you can relax and enjoy the evening without feeling rushed.

⬇️ 3 Days in Belgium Itinerary ⬇️

Day 3: Brussels

8:30 AM – Coffee at Unusual Coffee

📍 Rue Montagne aux Herbes Potagères 49, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Start your day in the Sainte-Catherine area with coffee at Unusual Coffee, a modern specialty café known for its minimalist interiors and consistently good espresso. It’s a great first stop before the day gets busy, offering a calm, uncluttered space to fuel up and ease into Brussels. Grab a coffee, get oriented, and mentally prepare for a full day of exploring. From here, you’ll head south toward your next stop and dive into a very different side of the city.

In full transparency, we ended up taking a later train from Ghent to Brussels this morning and didn't make it to coffee/breakfast, but if we had stuck to our original plan, this is where we were planning to have coffee/breakfast.

9:15 AM – Explore the Marolles Flea Market

📍 Pl. du Jeu de Balle 79, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

From Sainte-Catherine, head south to the Marolles neighborhood to explore the Marolles Flea Market, one of the most unique and authentic experiences in the city. Located in Place du Jeu de Balle, this open-air flea market runs every single day of the year and has become a fixture of daily life in Brussels. Arriving first thing in the morning allows you to roam the stalls as the market comes alive and before the crowds arrive. You’ll find everything from antiques and vintage finds to quirky odds and ends, with a mix of locals, collectors, and curious visitors browsing the aisles. There’s no food or drink sold here. It’s purely about the hunt, the atmosphere, and soaking up the local energy. What makes this market special isn’t just what’s for sale, but the feeling of the place. It’s messy, lively, and unapologetically real, offering a side of Brussels that feels very different from the city’s grand squares and polished landmarks. Take your time wandering and maybe even find a unique souvenir before heading to your next stop.

11:00 AM – Take a Classic Belgian Food Tour

📍 Rue Auguste Orts 1A, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Next, you’ll head out on a guided food tour through the heart of Brussels with Secret Food Tours, which is a great way to experience the city in a short amount of time. Rather than bouncing between restaurants on your own, this experience blends sightseeing, local insight, and tastings into a single, well-paced walk through the historic center. Over the course of a few hours, you’ll explore cobbled streets, hidden corners, and some of Brussels’ most recognizable areas while gaining a better sense of how the city’s history, culture, and everyday life come together. The pace allows you to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed, and it naturally helps you get oriented as you move through different parts of the city. And having a local guide along the way adds helpful context to what you’re seeing, making the experience feel more connected than exploring on your own. By the time the tour wraps up, you’ll be well-fed, more familiar with the layout of Brussels, and ready to explore the city on your own for the rest of the afternoon. 👉🏻 Book your tour HERE

2:15 PM – Self-Guided Brussels Highlights Walk

After the food tour, spend the early afternoon exploring Brussels on foot with a self-guided highlights walk that connects some of the city’s most iconic (and slightly quirky) sights. Since the food tour likely already covered major landmarks like Grand Place and the Royal Galleries, this walk focuses on the details and cultural touchpoints that give Brussels its personality.

Belgium has one of the strongest comic book traditions in the world, and Brussels proudly showcases that heritage through large-scale murals scattered throughout the city. As you wander, keep an eye out for some of the most recognizable ones, including Tintin, Gaston Lagaffe, and The Smurfs. These murals are woven into everyday streets, turning simple walks between sights into something more playful and visually interesting. Here’s a more detailed guide 👉 Brussels Comic Strip Trail

Two of Brussels’ most famous (and unconventional) landmarks also fit naturally into this stretch:

Just off Rue de l’Étuve, you’ll find Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue dating back to the early 1600s. While its origins are debated, it has become a symbol of Brussels’ irreverent sense of humor. The statue is frequently dressed in themed costumes throughout the year, adding to its local charm.

A short walk away is Jeanneke Pis, the lesser-known female counterpart added in the 1980s. Tucked behind a gate in a narrow alley, she’s easy to miss but worth seeking out as part of Brussels’ tradition of playful public art.

And of course, if you somehow find yourself hungry (or just wanting a snack) after the food tour, make a stop at Fritland for a true taste of golden fried Belgian frites... Or fries for us Americans!

This walk is intentionally flexible. You don’t need to see every mural or follow a strict route. The goal is to keep moving, take in the atmosphere, and experience the city before heading out to your next stop.

4:15 PM - Visit the Atomium

📍 Pl. de l'Atomium 1, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium

In the mid-afternoon, make your way to one of Brussels’ most recognizable landmarks: the Atomium. Built for the 1958 World’s Fair (Expo 58), the Atomium was designed by engineer André Waterkeyn and architects André and Jean Polak as a futuristic symbol of scientific progress. The structure represents an iron crystal magnified billions of times and stands more than 330 feet tall, making it visible from all over the city. Although it was originally intended to be temporary, the Atomium became so popular that it was preserved and eventually transformed into one of Brussels’ most iconic symbols. Today, several of its nine spheres are open to visitors, housing exhibitions related to science, design, and the World’s Fair era. The top sphere also features a panoramic viewing deck with sweeping views over Brussels.

Tickets are required to enter the Atomium, and prices vary depending on whether you visit just the Atomium or combine it with nearby attractions like Mini-Europe. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the entrance, though booking ahead is recommended during busy periods. Purchase your tickets HERE!

On our visit, we chose not to go inside the Atomium itself. Instead, we spent time exploring the surrounding park and walking trails, which offered plenty of space to stretch our legs, take photos, and see the structure from different angles. The open areas around the Atomium made for a relaxed break from the city center, and we really enjoyed experiencing it from the outside. That said, we’ve since heard from others that going inside the Atomium is a unique and worthwhile experience, especially for those interested in architecture and design. Since we don’t have firsthand experience with the interior, we’ll let you decide whether it’s worth adding to your day based on your interests and timing.

6:30 PM – Belgian Beer Spot

After returning to the city center, settle in for a classic Belgian experience with a pre-dinner beer. Brussels has no shortage of great beer bars, and this is a perfect moment to slow the pace, rest your feet, and enjoy the country’s world-famous brewing tradition.

Fun fact: every beer in Belgium is served in a unique glass, with each glass being created to highlight a beer's aroma, carbonation, and taste

Depending on your mood, here are a few solid options:

Delirium Café – Known for its massive beer list (they actually hold the Guinness World Record for the most varieties of beer commercially available, with over 3,000!) and lively atmosphere, Delirium is energetic and a bit chaotic in the best way. It’s a fun stop if you want variety and a buzz of activity before dinner. And for an easy-to-pack souvenir, there's a photobooth in the back of Delirium... We did it back in 2019 on our first visit, so of course, we had to recreate it in 2025!

Toone Royal Puppet Theatre – Tucked behind the Royal Puppet Theatre, Toone feels cozy, quirky, and distinctly local. It’s a great option if you want something a little more atmospheric and unique. We've tried to visit Toone on both of our visits to Brussels, but it's been closed each time, so if you go, please let us know how it is!

A La Bécasse – A hidden gem known for its traditional lambic beers served in a candlelit, old-world setting. This is the spot if you’re looking for something quieter and more traditional.

Or, if the weather is nice, consider grabbing a drink at Brasserie Le Cerf, located right on Grand Place. We normally avoid recommending food or drinks directly on major tourist squares, but this was one exception we genuinely enjoyed. The sunset views over Grand Place are hard to beat, the service was excellent, and while prices are slightly higher, the experience made it worth it for us. Whether you opt for a lively beer hall, a tucked-away tavern, or a drink with a view, experiencing Belgian beer culture is a must when visiting Brussels.

8:00 PM – Belgian Dinner

Wrap up your day in Brussels with a hearty Belgian dinner. After a full day of walking, sightseeing, and tasting your way through the city, this is the time to slow down and enjoy classic comfort dishes that Belgium does best.

Here are a few excellent options, depending on the vibe you’re after:

Fin de Siècle – A favorite for local flavors and a laid-back atmosphere. The menu focuses on traditional Belgian dishes like carbonnade flamande, sausages, and stoemp. Just note that it’s cash only, so plan accordingly.

’T Kelderke – Located right on Grand Place, this restaurant offers a classic setting and a menu full of Belgian staples. It’s a solid choice if you want to end the night somewhere atmospheric and unmistakably Brussels.

La Villette – A quieter, more intimate option with a traditional feel. Great if you’re looking for a relaxed sit-down meal to close out the evening.

If you’re unsure what to order, here are a few classic Belgian dishes to look for:

Moules-frites (Mussels & Fries) – Steamed mussels served in a flavorful broth (often white wine, garlic, or herbs) alongside a generous portion of fries. This is one of Belgium’s most iconic dishes and a staple on menus year-round.

Carbonnade flamande – A rich, slow-cooked beef stew braised in dark Belgian beer, resulting in a slightly sweet, deeply savory flavor. Typically served with fries or bread.

Waterzooi – A creamy Flemish stew traditionally made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and herbs. Comforting, mild, and perfect if you’re looking for something lighter than beef stew.

Stoemp – Mashed potatoes blended with vegetables like carrots, leeks, or spinach, often served alongside sausage or another meat. Simple, filling, and very traditional.

Vol-au-vent – A flaky puff pastry filled with creamy chicken, mushrooms, and sauce, usually served with fries or potatoes. Old-school Belgian comfort food that’s still widely loved.

Again... In full transparency, we didn't actually have dinner in Brussels on this trip. A rainstorm came through the city while we were enjoying beer and charcuterie, so we decided to just hunker down there and enjoy the time with new friends!

And that’s how to spend one perfect day in Bruges!

Belgium may be small in size, but it offers an incredible range of experiences in a short amount of time. From canal-lined medieval cities to vibrant capital energy, it’s the kind of place that rewards travelers who are curious, flexible, and willing to pack a lot into a few days.

We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable time in Belgium! If it did, be sure to follow us on Instagram for more travel inspiration and behind-the-scenes moments, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for in-depth travel guides and vlogs from around the world.

Happy travels, and we’ll see you on the next adventure!

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