Brussels 4-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival & Hotel Check-in

Arrive in Brussels and check into your accommodation.

Settle in and prepare for your adventure.

From Brussels Airport (BRU), you can take a train directly to Brussels Central Station. From there, public transport (tram/metro) or a walk will get you to your hotel. Purchase a multiple-day STIB ticket for economical travel.

Explore Grand Place

Wander through the stunning Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its opulent guildhalls, the City Hall, and the King's House. Take in the breathtaking architecture and atmosphere.

This is the heart of Brussels and a must-see. Enjoy people-watching and the intricate details of the buildings. Free to explore.

Belgian Waffles & Frites

Indulge in authentic Belgian street food.

Grab some freshly made waffles and delicious frites (fries) with your choice of sauce from a local vendor.

Look for local friteries (fry shops) and waffle stands. This is a classic and budget-friendly Belgian experience. Expect to pay around EUR 5-10 per person for both.

European Quarter Comedy Tour

Join an EU insider and comedian for a unique walking tour behind the scenes of the European District, blending history and humor.

This tour offers a fun and insightful look into the European Union. Booking in advance is recommended. The stated price is USD 4.

Budget Dinner

Enjoy a casual and affordable dinner at a local brasserie or a highly-rated, budget-friendly restaurant serving Belgian classics.

Look for 'plat du jour' (dish of the day) specials for good value. Many places offer generous portions of traditional dishes like stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or mussels.

Mont des Arts & Panoramic Views

Stroll through Mont des Arts, a beautifully landscaped garden complex offering one of the best panoramic views of Brussels. Perfect for photos and a fresh start to the day.

Free to visit and offers great photo opportunities, especially of the cityscape.

Choco-Story Brussels Museum

Immerse yourselves in the world of Belgian chocolate at Choco-Story.

Learn about its history, production, and, of course, enjoy some tastings!

A delightful experience for chocolate lovers. This museum is generally open on Mondays, unlike many other museums in Brussels.

Lunch at a Local Café

Enjoy a light and affordable lunch at one of the many charming cafés in the city center.

Look for sandwich shops or small bistros offering daily specials.

Architecture Tour of Brussels

Explore Brussels' diverse architectural styles, history, and art with a local architect as your guide.

Discover over 500 years of design.

This tour is perfect for those interested in the artistic and historical layers of Brussels' buildings. Booking is essential. The stated price is USD 30 per person.

Explore Local Districts

Spend some free time exploring areas like the Marolles district, known for its antique shops, flea market, and authentic Brussels vibe.

This is a great area to find unique souvenirs or simply soak in the local atmosphere. The famous 'Vlooienmarkt' (flea market) is active on Sundays and some weekdays.

Affordable Belgian Dinner

Savor another evening meal at a local eatery, perhaps trying waterzooi or carbonnade flamande.

Many restaurants outside the immediate tourist hotspots offer better value.

St. Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral

Visit the impressive Gothic St.

Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral, a national sanctuary with beautiful stained glass windows and rich history.

Entry to the cathedral is generally free, though there may be a small charge for certain areas or exhibitions. A quiet and contemplative start to the day.

Explore with Economic Historian

Embark on a walking tour with a local economic historian, exploring the city's rich history, main architectural landmarks, and urbanism from a unique perspective.

Gain deep insights into Brussels' past and present. Booking in advance is recommended. The stated price is USD 30 per person.

Quick Lunch Break

Grab a quick and affordable lunch to recharge before your afternoon activities.

Consider a panzerotti or a quick sandwich from a local deli.

Tipsy Waffle Workshop with Beer

Learn to make traditional Brussels waffles and enjoy a Belgian beer tasting.

A fun, interactive experience blending two iconic Belgian treats.

This is a fantastic hands-on experience, perfect for friends! Booking is essential. The stated price is USD 45 per person.

Souvenir Shopping

Browse for souvenirs, chocolates, or other Belgian specialties to take home.

The galleries offer beautiful surroundings for window shopping and finding unique gifts.

Farewell Budget Dinner

Enjoy a final budget-friendly dinner in Brussels, perhaps trying a different local dish or returning to a favorite spot.

Explore the diverse range of international and local budget eateries available.

Budget Breakfast

Enjoy a simple and affordable breakfast at a local bakery or cafe, perhaps a fresh pastry and coffee, before starting your final day of exploration.

Look for local bakeries for fresh, cheap pastries and coffee. 'Pain Quotidien' is a good chain for quick, fresh options.

European Quarter Comedy Tour

Join Brussels' first European Union-themed walking tour led by an EU insider and comedian.

This unique tour combines history and politics with humor, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the European District. A fun, lighthearted way to learn about the city's political heart.

This tour is incredibly budget-friendly and offers a different perspective on Brussels. Book in advance to secure your spot.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Take some time for any last-minute souvenir shopping around the Grand Place area.

You can find everything from chocolates and lace to quirky Manneken Pis merchandise.

Many shops offer affordable Belgian chocolates and trinkets. Don't forget to grab some speculoos cookies!

Farewell Frites or Sandwich

Enjoy a final, authentic Belgian experience with a quick and affordable lunch.

Grab some famous Belgian frites with a choice of sauces, or a classic sandwich from a local 'friterie' or deli.

Fritkots are everywhere and offer a delicious, budget-friendly meal. Try different sauces!

Check-out & Travel to Airport

Complete your hotel check-out process and make your way to Brussels Airport (BRU) for your departure.

Allow ample time for public transport or a taxi, and airport procedures.

Brussels Central Station offers direct train connections to Brussels Airport, typically taking around 15-20 minutes. A single train ticket is around EUR 9-10 per person.