brussels tour map

Brochures and maps

Google Maps doesn't know Brussels as well as we do! To guide you as you explore the region and its many treasures, we've put together a selection of maps and brochures that will help you discover some of our capital's best kept secrets.

These brochures and maps, which we produce ourselves, are available at our reception offices on the Grand-Place and Place Royale. Not sure which one to choose? Don't hesitate to ask our welcome desk teams, they will guide you through the offer according to your interests and wants. 

The Official Guide

Brussels' assets and the ten unmissable districts to visit during your stay! Languages: EN, FR, NL, DE, ES & IT. Price: €5 (map included).

Brussels in your pocket

A summary of Brussels' must-see locations on a single map. Languages: EN, FR, NL, DE, ES & IT. Price: €1.

Brussels, the comic strip capital

Brussels' 80 comic murals and places dedicated to the ninth art. Languages: EN, FR, NL, DE, ES, IT. Price: €7

The Promenade Verte

A magnificent, continuous, landscaped route that links natural and leisure spaces with places of heritage, cultural and historical interest. Languages: EN, FR, NL. Price: €5.

Brussels by Bike

8 rides along Brussels' node network for bicycle tourists. Languages: EN, FR, NL. Price: €2.

Brussels by designers

An original guide for design, style and aesthetics aficionados. Language: EN. Price: €8.50.

NECA booklet

Bi-monthly leaflet containing the programmes of more than 60 Brussels galleries and contemporary art centres. Language: EN. Price: free.

Are you interested in receiving brochures to display at your points of sale? Don't hesitate to contact us!

Map of Brussels’ public transport network

If you want to get around by public transport, you'll be using the STIB/MIVB network. On their website, you can find a dynamic map of all the tram, bus and metro lines, as well as all the schedules in real time. For even more convenience, download their mobile app.

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Tourism information desks.

At visit.brussels we have all the information you could ever need about Brussels and we'd be delighted to welcome you at one of our tourist information desks.

Low Emission Zone

Did you know that the entire Brussels-Capital Region is a low emission zone? This means that the most polluting vehicles are not allowed to drive here.

Activities to do when it rains

You’ve planned all sorts of outdoor activities and suddenly the heavens open? Don’t panic, we know exactly how you can still make the most of your day while keeping the rain at bay!

A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Brussels

We recently spent a short time in Brussels with our primary goal to see as much of the city as we could by walking. While we are not experts in this area, we put together our own self-guided walking tour of Brussels, thanks to advice from fellow bloggers and our AirBnB hosts’ recommendations.

As you’ll see, it was a rainy morning but we had a great time!

What you’ll find in this post:

– Two Brussels self-guided walking tour maps and itineraries (free interactive access via email form) – Photos and descriptions of each stop on the map – Recommendations for where to stay in Brussels

Table of Contents

Brussels Walking Route Map

* Get access to our Brussels walking map here *

Save time and money with the 24|48|72 hours brussels card.

– Enjoy free access to 30 museums in Brussels – Benefit from discounts in restaurants and tourist attractions – Get free use of the public transport system during the validity of your card Click here to see all that’s included with the Brussels Card

Brussels Walking Itinerary Highlights

These are the attractions you’ll discover on our self guided walking tour of Brussels.

1) Parc de Bruxelles

2) Royal Palace

3 + 4) Place Royale, View, and Meeting Center Clock

This historic square is just around the corner from the palace. Continue walking Northwest from here and you’ll get a charming view, then pass through the Meeting Center and Mont des Arts with its gigantic clock (or carillon) and bells.

The clock is surrounded by twelve historical figures from Belgian history and perched above it is a bourgeois figure, the Jacquemart, who rings a large bell.

5) Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

Note: Technically if you want to make the walking tour into a nice loop, you can visit the Cathedral at the end and skip ahead to #6.

6) Grand Place

7) Mannequin Pis

Apparently, there is a non-profit that manages the Manneken ’s weekly costume changes. When we were there, he was dressed in Mexican garb and sombrero. (Jedd was thoroughly confused by the tiny pissing boy attracting all this attention.)

8) Place de la Bourse

9) Restaurants on Rue de Bouchers

10) Les Galeries Royales de St. Hubert

Other Brussels Tours

Bonus route: brussels ‘parks and politics’ walking tour.

We took another afternoon, following our big sight-seeing day, to explore more of the sights that were out East of the city center. Whether you’re walking to sight-see or you’re a jogger needing exercise, this is another route we recommend.

* Access our free Brussels walking maps here *

1) Square Marie-Louise and Ambiorix

2) Parc de la Cinquentenaire

3) Parc du Leopold and Parliament

4) Berlaymont Building

Where to Stay in Brussels

We chose our rental apartment in a neighborhood within easy walking distance of the metro line that could get us to and from the train station. This was also convenient if we found ourselves across town and didn’t want to walk back.

B&B Be In Brussels $$$ Boutique B&B just five minutes from Grand Place. Breakfast included, shared lounge area. Click here to check prices and availability

Aparthotel Midi Residence $$ Budget studio or King studio with self-catered breakfast and kitchenette, right next to Midi Station. Click here to check prices and availability

Jacques Brel Youth Hostel $ Well-liked youth hostel with dorm beds as well as private rooms and shared kitchen. Click here to check prices and availability

Our Top Tips for Intentional Travel in Brussels

Try to make a local connection , whether it’s meeting a friend-of-a-friend you find through social media, staying with locals, or hiring a local guide.

Shop at locally owned, independent businesses rather than familiar global chains like Starbucks.

For more guidance, see:  how to have authentic, meaningful travel experiences in touristy areas and our simple rules for intentional travel series .

Take this article with you as your guide! Upload this post for free to your phone with the GPSmyCity app . You can also upgrade to get an offline GPS map that guides you to each location we mention. Or subscribe to access all articles and maps around the world for a full year.

Want to see more of Belgium quickly? Take a full-day tour to beautiful Bruges and Ghent. This top-rated tour includes guide and transportation – bring your walking shoes! Click here to check day tour prices >

Traveling onward by train? We like to pre-book train tickets through Rail Europe . Or get your multi-country rail passes from Eurail .

You might also like: Top 5 Things To Do in Bruges

Have you been to Brussels? What did we miss that we should see next time? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Get our 2 Brussels walking maps

Access both of our free self-guided walking routes to see the top monuments and sights in Brussels on an interactive map. (Available on MapMyRun and GoogleMyMaps.)

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Brussels is an underrated city to visit. Will have to see it someday, Thanks for sharing!

How long did the Brussels walking tour take to complete? Thanks for sharing!

Alie, It really depends on how long you spend at each stop. If you simply walked the route without stopping, each walking route can be done in less than an hour.

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BELGIUM , DESTINATIONS , EUROPE

A perfect day in brussels: itinerary & self-guided walking tour.

Belgium’s capital is not just about beer, waffles and chocolate. But that’s not a bad start.

By spending just one day in Brussels you will be able to soak up its UNESCO-listed architecture and the vitality for which this cosmopolitan city is famous. Make every minute count with this 1-day Brussels itinerary which includes the very best things to do in the so-called capital of Europe.

To help you along your way, I’ve included a map with directions which you can use as a Brussels self-guided walking tour. Brussels is known as Brussel in Flemish; the city is known as Bruxelles in French.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

Is One Day in Brussels Enough?

One day in Brussels is enough time to hit its highlights. These are scattered across a relatively small area and are clearly signposted. This is a walkable city.

However, if you are interested in visiting the city’s museums or the Atomium, or want to explore its famous Art Nouveau architecture, I recommend spending two or three days here.

Brussels is one of the best bases from which to explore Belgium by train.

1-Day Brussels Itinerary (Map + Self-Guided Walking Tour)

Whether you are visiting Brussels on a day trip or staying overnight, this itinerary will give you the jump start that you need. Simply tweak it according to your interests and available time.

To help you on your way, I have custom-made a map of the route that this Brussels itinerary follows. It covers a distance of three miles and includes stops for you to sample the food and drink for which this city is known.

Think of this as a free Brussels self-guided walking tour . For an interactive map with walking directions, or to send to your phone, click here or on the image.

BREAKFAST AT CHARLI

Start your day in Brussels with a tasty breakfast at Charli . This excellent bakery has a few seats to linger over your brioche and coffee and is inexpensive.

Address : Rue Sainte-Catherine 34

MANNEKIN PIS

Begin your Brussels sightseeing tour with the city’s mascot but manage your expectations.

Protected by a wrought-iron fence, this is a teeny weeny statue of a pissing urchin in a sort of shrine. Many origin tales and myths swirl around this little fella, but the most popular one posits that he was cast in the 17 th Century to embody the irreverent spirit of the city.

Address: Rue de l’Etuve 31

THE GRAND PLACE

This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Europe’s most magnificent squares. The Grand Place was the hub of commercial life in the emerging city from the 12 th Century and became Brussels’ civil and political centre from the 15 th Century.

But what are those magnificent buildings lining the Grand Place?

With its 96m spire rising above the Grand Place like an exclamation mark, the Hôtel de Ville dominates the square. Much of the north side of the Grand Place is occupied by the 19 th Century Maison de Roi.

The west side of the plaza is home to the city’s gable-roofed guildhouses . On the eastern side of the Grand Place, the existing guildhouses have been subsumed into one façade.

BELGIAN WAFFLES AT AUX GAUFRES DE BRUXELLES

Are you ready for the best waffle of your life? Then grab a pavement table at Aux Gaufres De Bruxelles.

I recommend the Belgian waffle with strawberries, whipped cream and chocolate.

Address: Rue Marché aux Herbes 113

What about the Bourse?

La Bourse (Brussels Stock Exchange) frequently pops up on lists of things to see in Brussels. However, it has been undergoing renovation since 2020 and was shrouded in scaffolding when I visited in 2023. There are plans for it to reopen as a museum of Belgian beer.

MONT DES ARTS

Mont des Arts links the Lower Town and Upper Town of Brussels.

Literally meaning Hill of the Arts after a planned art museum that was never built, an imposing equestrian statue of King Albert I graces its lower end. From here, a landscaped garden and stone staircase lead to a terrace in the Upper Town.

Linger here for a few minutes to take in the views.

CATHEDRAL OF ST. MICHAEL AND ST. GUDULA

Known simply as St. Gudula by locals, this magnificent Gothic cathedral is dedicated jointly to St. Michael the Archangel and St. Gudula. Begun in 1215, this place of worship was 300 years in the making.

It’s safe to say that it is more striking on the outside than on the inside. However, it is worth venturing inside to take a peek at the wonderful stained glass windows and its elaborate carved oak pulpit. This depicts the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden as the Virgin Mary and some cherubs helpfully stamp on the head of a serpent dragon.

Entrance is free.

ROYAL PALACE OF BRUSSELS

The large but uninspiring Royal Palace is the official residence of the Belgian royal family. At its core, the Palais Royal is a clumsy conversion of 18 th Century townhouses.

If you are visiting Brussels between July and September, you will be able to see inside the palace (entry is free). If you are not in town during these months, by all accounts you are not missing much.

COUNDENBERG PALACE

Concealed beneath the 18 th Century Hôtel Bellevue are the remains of the Coudenberg Palace .

Staring life as a fortified castle in the Middle Ages, it kept a careful watch over Brussels from Coudenberg Hill. Over 600 years it was transformed into one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe. 

After a devastating fire in 173, it lay forgotten underground. The charred ruins of the palace were pulled down and the ground levelled for the construction of the new royal district.

Today, the remains of the Palais du Coudenberg have been extensively excavated and can be reached from the Musée BELvue.

PLACE DU PETIT SABLON

The small but perfectly formed Place du Petit Sablon is a delightful refuge from the busy city. Formerly a horse market, it was laid out as a public garden in 1890.

Take a closer look at the wrought-iron balustrade surrounding the garden. This is embellished with 48 bronze statuettes that represent the medieval guilds.

At the rear of the park, there are ten statues, illustrating life in 16th Century Belgium through its scholars and humanists (most of these will not be familiar to most people).

CHURCH OF THE BLESSED LADY OF SABLON

Also known as the Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon or Notre Dame du Sablon, this 15 th Century church began life as a chapel for the guild of archers in 1304. However, its fortunes changed for the better in 1348 when a statue of Mary, said to possess healing powers, was brought from Antwerp. This humble chapel became a pilgrimage centre and was transformed into a proper church to accommodate its visitors.

And that statue of Mary? The Protestants chopped it up for firewood in 1565 but two carvings of a boat with passengers and its sacred cargo tell its story.

ROYAL GALLERY OF SAINT HUBERT (GALERIES ROYALES SAINT-HUBERT)

I’m not a big shopaholic but not even I would skip the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert.

Featuring magnificent glass-vaulted galleries – du Rio, de la Reine and des Princes – this has to be one of Europe’s finest indoor shopping arcades. Dating from 1847, it is certainly one of the first.

It’s a lovely place to stop for a coffee or a Belgian beer.

DINNER ON RUE DES BOUCHERS

But perhaps it’s time for something a little more substantial. If that’s the case, then you are in luck.

Rues de Bouchers, which slices the Hubert Galleries in two, is Brussels’ best-known restaurant ghetto. The touristy restaurants are a little hit-and-miss but I had a very good meal at Aux Armes de Bruxelles , which had been recommended by my hotel.

When is the Best Time to Visit Brussels?

The best time to visit Brussels is between March and May, and in September and October. Accommodation will be cheaper and there is less chance of rain.   Visit Brussels in summer and you can look forward to warmer days and nights and more festivals. But you can also expect a lot more visitors.   Although winter in Belgium can be grey and dreary, the twinkling lights and mulled wine of Brussels’ Christmas markets will lift your spirits. 

How to Get to Brussels

Brussels not only has an international airport, but it is also a terminus for Eurostar trains from London. This means that Brussels is an excellent day trip from London .

Thanks to its excellent train connections, Brussels is hard to beat as a base for a Belgium vacation.

Getting to Brussels by train

If it is your first time in Brussels, its train stations can be confusing.

Brussels Midi / Brussels Sud /  Zuidstation

This gloomy station in a gloomy part of town is the main international hub, including that for Eurostar trains. To be avoided whenever possible.

Brussels Centrale / Gare Central / Brussel Centraal

As its name suggests, this is the most central of the city’s stations. This is not a place where you would like to linger but it is convenient.

Brussels Nord / Gare du Nord / Noordstation

Although many trains will pass through here, it’s unlikely that you will use this station as a departure point.

Getting to Brussels by air

Most flights to Belgium’s capital land at Brussels International Airport, 14 km northeast of the city centre. From here, regular trains run to the city’s three main railway stations.

Budget airlines may land at Brussels-Charleroi airport, located 50 km south of the city centre. From here, there is a shuttle bus service to the city centre.

How to Get Around Brussels

If you stick with this Brussels itinerary, you shouldn’t need to use public transport. Many of its main attractions are scattered over a relatively compact area and are reachable on foot.

However, the user-friendly network of trams, buses and metro lines might be useful if you are staying out of the city centre or if you are visiting attractions further afield.

There is also the inevitable hop-on-hop-off (HOHO) bus service.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR HOHO BUS TICKET

Where to Stay in Brussels

Although you can visit Brussels on a day trip, I recommend booking a hotel for at least one night. This will allow you to make the most of your day and enjoy the city’s bars and restaurants in the evening when the day-trippers have departed.

Here are my recommendations:

Splurge : Hotel Le Dixseptième

I stayed at this elegant boutique hotel in the heart of the city centre. It was a remarkably peaceful refuge, considering its location, with stellar service.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A ROOM 

Mid-range : B&B Villa 36

This small 3-star guesthouse close to Brussels City Hall has attracted fabulous reviews. Breakfast is included in the room rates.

If You Have More Than One Day in Brussels

Here are a few suggestions if you are in Brussels for two days or more.

CHOCO-STORY

Belgium is a chocoholic’s dream destination and Brussels is the birthplace of this long tradition. Visit Choco-Story to learn more about the cultivation, production and marketing of chocolate.

I visited Choco-Story as part of a mission to discover the best chocolate in Bruges and loved the interactive experience, not to mention the free samples.

Address : Rue de l’Etuve 41

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKET

Or perhaps you fancy being a little more hands-on? If so, why not join a chocolate-making workshop . Find out more here .

FONDATION BREL

This small museum close to the Grand Place celebrates the life and times of the famous gravelly-voiced Belgian singer Jacques Brel.

On the recommendation of travellers I met when visiting Ghent , I rented the museum’s excellent Jacques Brel walking tour.

Address: Place de la Vieille Halle aux Blés 11

VICTOR HORTA MUSEUM

Brussels is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture. This museum is housed in the former residence and studio of Victor Horta, one of the movement’s leading lights. Reservations are required.

Address: Rue Américaine 27

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS MUSEUM

Belgium’s Musical Instruments Museum is partly housed in another of Brussels’ landmark Art Nouveau buildings. Over a thousand historical and modern musical instruments are displayed in four galleries, making it one of the largest collections of its kind in the world.

Address: Rue Montagne de la Cour 2

COMICS ART MUSEUM BRUSSELS (BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER)

The Belgians love their comics and some of the finest examples of this art form are on display in the Comics Art Museum , housed in another Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta.

Address: Rue des Sables 20

COMIC STRIP WALK

Brussels has street art with a theme. Since the early 90s, characters and authors of the Franco-Belgian comics have decorated walls in the city centre and Laeken district.

Download your comic strip walk map here .

OLD MASTERS MUSEUM

If your artistic tastes veer more towards the traditional, spend a few hours exploring the works of Flemish artists at the Old Masters Museum .

Address: Rue de la Régence 3

MAGRITTE MUSEUM

This was one of the places that I wanted to visit in Brussels but I ran out of time. It is located in Magritte’s former home and is reportedly a Surrealist extravaganza.

Address : Pl. Royale 1

THE ATOMIUM

This famous Brussels landmark, located in the northern part of the city, represents a molecule blown up 165 million times. The Atomium was built for the World Fair in 1958 and although it never became the symbol of the city as intended, it is reportedly an enjoyable excursion.

Address: Pl. de l’Atomium 1

MINI-EUROPE

Located at the foot of the Atomium, Mini-Europe displays reproductions of monuments from around 80 European cities.

Address: Av. du Football 1

Is Brussels Safe for Solo Travellers?

The priority for female solo travellers is  staying safe when travelling alone . Brussels is a relatively small city and its tourist area felt relaxed with locals and visitors enjoying its attractions, bars and restaurants.

There is a but though. As in many cities, petty crime, including pickpocketing, is not unusual and I found Brussels Centrale station to be unpleasant after dark.

In recent years, there has also been the threat of terrorist attacks.

As ever, a little bit of common sense goes a long way. Although Brussels has a low crime rate, remain vigilant. Keep your belongings close to you and use your hotel safe to store valuables.

Ready to spend a day in Brussels?

Well, that’s a wrap! I hope that you have a wonderful day in Bruxelles.

If you have found this itinerary helpful and are planning further travel in Belgium, take a peek at my other guides (I suggest starting with this 1-week Belgium itinerary ).

Gorgeous Ghent is another terrific base for exploring the country by train. Belgium is synonymous with chocolate and Bruges is a honeypot for chocoholics .

Consider some of its lesser-touristed gems, such as Mechelen . I love Leuven , which is home to the oldest botanical garden in Belgium . Spend a day in Hasselt to sip gin at the Jenniver Museum or chase cherry blossom in Japanse Tuin Hasselt .

Happy travels!

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

Roses and Postcards

Discovering the world one postcard at a time

Brussels , Travel , Travel Guides & Tips · January 25, 2021

Brussels in One Day: The Only Walking Itinerary You’ll Need

So you’re planning to spend 1 day in Brussels and have no idea where to start? Then this walking itinerary is what you’re looking for! From the city’s best spots to the top things to do in 24 hours , you will find everything you need to make the most of your trip.

But every good trip requires a bit of organization, right? Especially when there’s so much to see in so little time! No time to waste! Discover the best things to see and do if you’re planning to visit Brussels, Belgium for the first time in one day or less . Let’s go!

Brussels: a self-guided walking tour

1st stop: the iconic grand place (and its many chocolate shops).

Even if you traveled all the way to Brussels only to spend 5 minutes at the Grand Place, it’d be 100% worth it. This architectural gem alone is a good reason to visit Brussels and should definitely be your top priority if you only have one day to spend here!

In the mood for chocolate? 

There are quite a few chocolate shops around Brussels. And the best part is that you’ll get a free degustation in most of them (but shhh, I didn’t tell you)! Since you don’t have a lot of time, here’s a list of the main chocolate boutiques you’ll find around the Grand Place as well as their price range. • €€€ : Neuhaus (the original creator of the traditional Belgian praline) • €€€ : Mary • €€ : Elisabeth Chocolatier • €€ : La Belgique Gourmande • € : Galler (their white chocolate/coconut bar is AMAZING)

Chocolate lovers: sign up for a workshop and create your own Belgian pralines!

Fun fact : Mary Chocolatier has been a Belgian Royal Warrant Holder since 1942. Who knows which praline is the Belgian King’s favorite?

2 nd stop: Manneken Pis

Also known as “Petit Julien” in French, I think it’s safe to say that the Manneken Pis is the one and only world-famous…peeing boy! Can you think of any other country with such an odd national symbol ? If that’s not an accurate representation of Belgium’s taste for surrealism and irreverence, I don’t know what that is! 😉

5 fun facts about the Manneken pis so you know what to expect

• The statue is only 55cm tall.
• The Manneken pis probably owns a bigger wardrobe than you and I combined with around 1000 costumes . Pee in public, but make is fashion!
• After several thefts over the centuries, the original statue is now kept in the Museum of the City of Brussels . The statue that is photographed millions of times each year is in fact a copy.
• Jeanneke Pis – his female counterpart – lives a few streets away on Impasse de la Fidélité, next to the famous Delirium Café.
• Oh and there’s also a peeing dog – Het Zinneke – located on Rue des Chartreux, 35.

If you still have room for a sweet treat, make sure to grab a Belgian waffle at Dandoy (Rue au beurre, 31) or at the Waffle factory (Rue du Lombard 30). If you’re curious, take a minute to learn the difference between Liège and Brussels waffles here!

What’s the best way to eat waffles, you’re asking? With chocolate or Strawberries? Or both at the same time? If you ask me, plain Brussels waffles with a bit of powdered sugar are simply the best!

3rd stop: Galeries royales Saint-Hubert

It’s already time for your 3 rd stop of the day! What if I told you that you’re about to visit Europe’s oldest shopping arcade ?

What can you expect from the Galeries royales Saint-Hubert? In a nutshell: more chocolate and waffles, luxury boutiques (mainly jewelry and designer bags) a couple of cafés, a cinema, and a stunning bookshop called Tropismes (definitely go inside and have a look from the 1st floor, you won’t be disappointed).

The Best Activities to Make The Most of Your Day in Brussels Brussels: Guided Walking Tour Brussels: Private Tour w/ Locals – Highlights & Hidden Gems Brussels Atomium Entry Ticket with Free Design Museum Ticket Brussels: City Highlights Walking Tour and Food Tasting

4th stop: Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

A stone’s throw away from the Galeries Royales, you will find the stunning Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula . If you’re into photography and/or architecture, this beauty will not fail to amaze you!

I wouldn’t say that this is one of Brussel’s main tourist attractions, but since it’s on the way, I definitely recommend stopping by. It’s also usually pretty quiet, especially in the morning (a photographer’s heaven).

5th stop: Mont des Arts and Place Royale

If there’s one spot you simply can’t miss along with the Grand Place, it is definitely the famous Mont des Arts ! Get ready for a stunning view, especially at sunrise and sunset (weather permitting… let’s not forget that this is Belgium after all).

If you’re planning to visit the Museum of Musical Instruments (left picture below), make sure to check the view from the top of the building as well!

6th stop: Place du Grand Sablon & Petit Sablon

Are you ready for more Belgian chocolate and pralines? Hum, I’m not even kidding.

I can also recommend Coco donuts. As a local, I’ve never eaten better donuts in Brussels. Make sure to try the Lavender or Rice Krispies ones and tell me about it! Just so you know, their donuts are made of brioche dough. This is not your regular industrial donut… this is much better (in my opinion)!

And here’s one of my top hidden gems in Brussels (left picture), located right next to Grand Sablon : Petit Sablon square.

7 th stop : Royal Palace of Brussels

Welcome to the Queen and King of Belgium’s house! Well, technically this is not 100% true as the royal family actually lives farther away from the city center, in the Castle of Laeken.

The Royal Palace on the other hand is the King’s administrative residence as well as his main workplace. Most meetings with official representatives (whether Belgian or foreign) usually take place at the Royal Palace.

Good to know : every year during the summer, the Royal Palace opens its door to the public! The dates may slightly vary each year.

8 th stop: The European Parliament ⁣⁣

If you’d like to add a visit to the European Quarters to your Brussels bucket list, good news! You’ll be able to visit:

• The Parlementarium • The European parliament hemicycle • AND the House of European History

Make sure to book your visit online in advance. Better safe than sorry!

Once you’re done visiting the European parliament, you could spend some time relaxing in the neighboring Leopold Park (one of my favorite parks in Brussels). And in case you’re getting late afternoon munchies, Maison Antoine – which is located on Place Jourdan next to Park Leopold – makes some of the best French fries in Brussels !

9 th spot: the Atomium (if you have some time left)

At this point, you will have walked most of the day around Brussels’ city centre If you’ve made it this far and have some time left, definitely take the metro and go check the Atomium. But keep in mind that it is pretty far away from the city center (around 35-40 minutes). In case you’re curious, it is possible to visit the inside of the Atomium and visit the current exhibition(s) .

Metro stops • Go from Trone/Troon (pretty close to the Royal Palace) to Heysel/Heizel • Metro line: 6 (Roi Baudouin)

Follow the sign to get out of the metro station and you will quickly see it, peeking!

It looks like we’ve reached the end of your itinerary! You now know all the best spots to visit Brussels in one day as well as how to make the most of your trip to the Belgian (and European) capital!

I hope you found this post useful. If so, make sure to check my other posts about Brussels :

• Best Instagram Spots in Brussels for First-Timers • 5 Popular Belgian Foods to Eat in Brussels • Belgium: 25 photos that will inspire you to visit Brussels

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March 14, 2022 at 7:33 am

Thanks for sharing your amazing content. I’ve been to Brussels – but its years ago! Will love to get there soon. Your photos are amazing!

Best regards,

September 1, 2022 at 1:01 pm

I’m visiting Brussels next week! Your posts are my entire travel guides. Thank you so much for the addresses and maps (and of course breath-taking photos) provided.

September 10, 2022 at 4:14 pm

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this comment, I really appreciate it 🙂 Enjoy your trip to Brussels!

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Brussels Tourist Attractions Map PDF

Printable Map of Brussels Attractions, Walking Tours Map

Home / Brussels Tours / Attractions Map

Brussels Tourist Attractions Maps | City Tours Map

Belgium’s capital city is a compact one full of history and ancient architectural attractions. The city is a melting pot of different atmosphere, which showcases the entirety of Europe in one setting. Brussels is very proud owner of its flower covered Grand Palace, its world famous chocolate and waffles and the city’s own mascot, the Mannekin Pis.

The good news is getting around this wonderful city is made easy due to a number of available transportation options such as the public bus or the metro service. You can also opt to rent a bike or share a car. Just make sure to have a copy of the Brussels Metro Map andthe Brussels Transport Map. Both maps are useful for making your trip memorable as it shows in detail where best to go if you are looking for a specific event, restaurant or location to explore.

If you want to explore Brussels famous attractions, get a copy of the BrusselsTourist Sightseeing Map. This map will be your guide into the city’s major tourist destination like the Atomium, Belgian Comic Strip Center, Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Grand Palace, Mannekin Pis, Royal Palace, Saint-Michel Cathedral, Mont des Arts and so many more!

Many of the tourist spots in Brussels are located in close proximity with each other and within walking distance so going on foot is not a problem. To help you locate which amazing sights are within the area, make use of the Brussels Walking Tour Maps. There’s a walking map that will surely suit your need that you can follow or you can make your own!

The Brussels Hop on Hop off Bus Tour is also available for those who just want to enjoy the view and observe comfortably. Plan your tour ahead by checking the bus schedules and getting the free printable copy of the Brussels Hop on Hop off Bus map.

• Interactive Brussels Attractions Map
• Top Rated Brussels Attractions

Brussels Tourist Map

Brussels transport map, brussels metro map, brussels hop-on hop-off bus tour map, brussels walking tour map.

Top Brussels Attractions Skip-the-line Tickets & Tours

Multi-pass card to over 49 Museums in Brussels

Mini-Europe - Miniature Model Park

Mini-Europe and Atomium Combo Ticket

Brussels Train World Museum Entrance Ticket

Brussels Autoworld Museum Entrance Ticket

Brussels Comics Figurines Museum (private collection)

Train World Tickets & Access to Self-Guided Tours in Brussels

Brussels Atomium Admission Ticket with a Self-Guided City Tour

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How To Spend 48 Hours In Brussels 2024 Itinerary (with map!)

• June 23, 2023

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Table of Contents

The historic city of Brussels has become a true melting pot of cultures and architecture. At first glance, it can seem like a bit of a tourist trap, but if you explore a bit more, you find the cool, quirky and multicultural heart. Our 48 hours in Brussels itinerary covers the top tourist attractions such as the Grand Place (which is still worth a visit) but also takes you to other neighborhoods to explore. You’ll see art nouveau mansions, visit delicious restaurants and bars, shop at unique flea markets and see some amazing street art.

Tips for planning your 48 hours in Brussels

Brussels is a small and walkable city, but there’s a lot to see and do. If you come prepared, you’ll have the best chance to experience the real Brussels – cool bars, beautiful historic buildings, and amazing food!

Quick facts about Brussels

• It’s the center of the European Union
• It’s the most densely populated and wealthiest city in Belgium, with 2.1 million living in the city
• Both French and Dutch are the official languages. German and English are widely known

The Brussels Card – is it worth it?

You can get an all-inclusive Brussels Card that gives you free access to most of the museums in the city, as well as discounted restaurants, shops, and walking tours.  But is it worth it?

If you’re only in Brussels for 48 hours, we don’t think so. You probably won’t have time to visit enough places for it to be worth the money, but if you do want to add in a lot of museums to your trip, it could be worth it for you.

You can get your Brussels Card here.

How to get to Brussels city center from the airport

After coming out from arrivals, look for signs that lead you to the train. You can get a direct train from Brussels airport to the city center, and it runs regularly throughout the day. If you want to be organised, you can even book your tickets in advance online here.

48 hours in Brussels map

Day One – The Historical Center

Drop your suitcases off at your hotel and head out to explore!

The Grand Place

First stop:  The Grand Place . You won’t be able to miss it in the central square of Brussels. Although it’s the most touristy spot, it’s a must-see. Also known as the most beautiful square in the world, there’s actually a lot to see, so if you want to do more than snap a pic for Instagram then arrange to spend a few hours here.

The square has been classified as a UNESCO world heritage site since 1998, with architecture from the 18th century when the city’s guilds rebuilt the square.

Here you’ve got Brussels Town Hall which is one of the prettiest in the country, as well as the Brussels City Museum here. There are several restaurants and cafes which have outdoor seating if you want to grab a latte and take in the sights of the Grand Place.

Manneken Pis

Also around this area is the famous Manneken Pis – a small statue that attracts huge crowds of tourists. It’s only a five minute walk away from the Grand Place. There are a lot of rumours about the origins of the little man and he has become a bit of a mascot for Brussels. If you’re lucky, you might even catch him in one of his signature outfits which change throughout the year.

Delirium Cafe

Opposite the statue is the famous Delirium Cafe, which serves the widest range of beers in the world with over 2000 to choose from – and has the Guinness World Record to prove it! It’s a bit of a tourist hotspot but worth a visit.

If you don’t like beer, try one of their many fruity options such as Framboise or Kriek.

The Royal Galleries

Head to the Royal Galleries – a series of elegant covered arcades with a glass roof that contains shops, restaurants, and even a cinema. Treat yourself to some chocolate at one of the numerous  traditional Belgian  chocolate shops.

How you spend the rest of your afternoon is up to you. We would recommend either:

• If you enjoy art, you might want to visit the  Magritte museum . It has the largest collection of art by renowned Belgian surrealism painter, René Magritte.
• Head to the Fontainas neighbourhood for cute little shops and quirky bars. This is the perfect place to  stop for a Belgian beer , or grab a Belgian waffle at Maison Dandoy.
• If the weather is nice, take a stroll to Brussels park. You’ll get a view of the amazing Palais de Bruxelles, and there’s also places to stop for a snack or beer.

Mont des Arts

When it gets close to Sunset, head to the Mon des Arts – a small hill that gives you an amazing view of the city, gardens and town hall. Watch the magic as the Grand Palace lights up at night! This famous square also contains the national archives and Royal Library of Belgium. There’s a great vibe here, with people relaxing and buskers performing.

Grab a Belgian Beer

After dinner, grab a Belgian beer at a traditional ‘brown cafe.’ It will have cramped seating, dark wood panels and a long beer list, and it’s an experience that can’t be missed. There are hundreds all over the city but top picks in the center are Nüetnigenough near the Grand Place and Moeder Lambic in Ixelles.

Bars and Clubs

If you want to party the night away, head to Place St Gery for bars and clubs. This area is full of young people and students and is more affordable than other areas, but there’s something here to suit everyone. Zebra is a great bar for live music and  cocktails , or for something a bit more different, go to La Machine, a steampunk-themed bar for beers and tapas.

Do I need to book a tour for 48 hours in Brussels?

Honestly, it depends on what you want out of your trip. The city is really easy to get around, and there’s plenty of information online (such as this guide) for what to do. If you do want to delve a bit deeper into the city’s history or food scene, a tour can make a great addition to your 48 hours in Brussels. Getting to explore the city with a local with give you a different point of view, and you’ll get some great tips for your next visit.

Top Food Tours In Brussels

• Brussels: Chocolate Workshop and Guided Walking Tour
• Brussels: Beer Tasting Tour with 8 Beers and Snacks
• Brussels: City Highlights Walking Tour and Food Tasting

Top Guided Tours In Brussels

• Brussels: Guided Walking Tour
• Brussels Guided Bike Tour: Highlights and Hidden Gems
• Brussels: Private Tour with a Local

Day 2 – Local Life in Brussels

Morning Walk – The Comic Book Route

Pay a visit to Cafe Capitale for a pastry and coffee to go in the morning, and start to walk towards the Marolles district as you embark on the  comic book route . The streets of the Marolles district are covered in murals and graffiti, in particular, with subjects from comic books. Brussels is actually the self proclaimed comic book capital of the world, so walking along the streets you’ll be able to see TinTin, Asterix, The Smurfs and more.

The Marolles District

Walk towards the historic Marolles district which is full of trendy cafes, the city’s oldest bars, antique shops, and amazing brasseries.

As you explore, hop into the area’s independent shops. The best shopping streets are Rue Haute and Rue Blaes, which have wonderful stores selling antiques and vintage clothes.

Jeu de Balle

You also have the Marolle’s flea market at place due Jeu de Balle, which is open every day of the year from dawn until 2pm during the week, or until 3pm at weekends. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere asy ou browse for vintage and antique goods. It’s best to come here on a Sunday when it’s the liveliest, filled with both locals and tourists.

There are a lot of trendy restaurants around the market so take your pick – we recommend Le Paon D’or or Le Renard Bleu for some traditional Belgian food.

When you’re done browsing for treasures at the Flea market, head to Ixelles. There are several amazing Art Nouveau buildings here that are UNESCO classified: Hotel Solvay, Hotel Tassel, Hotel van Eetvelde and the Victor Horta Museum. Spend time exploring the streets and admiring the stunning architecture.

Where to stay in Brussels

If you have only 48 hours in Brussels, you’ll want to be as close to the center as possible. Pick a hotel that’s close to the Grand Palace which is the best place to begin exploring the city. Here are our top, centrally located choices. For more options, read our blog on the best hotels in Brussels.

Budget: B&B Villa 36

Based close to the Mannekin Pis and Mont des Arts, this 19th century building offers a comfortable stay with a free breakfast included.

Mid-range: Pillows City Hotel Brussels Centre

The four star Pillows City  Hotel is based right in the center of Brussels , next to Central Station and the St Michael & St Gudule Cathedral. The rooms have comfortable extra long beds and luxurious bathrooms.

Luxury: Cocoon Brussels

Next to the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert and Mont des Arts in the center of the city is the wonderful Cocoon Brussels offering an urban glamping experience. Choose between their cosy bubble room or tiny house, both have a view of the Grand Place.

If you have more than 48 hours in Brussels

If you want to extend your visit to Brussels, or don’t like the ideas we’ve suggested, there’s no shortage of activities to do!

• Visit Abbaye de la Cambre Garden, a 12th century abbey surrounded by a lovely park. After, walk towards Bois de la Cambre, a magical forest with a lake, picnic spots and snack vans.
• Go to the Atomium – a landmark building constructed for the 1958 Brussel World’s Fair. It’s over 100 metres tall and has a restaurant near the top.
• Visit the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum to learn about the history of chocolate in Belgium. You get an audio guide and lots of sample chocolates to try!
• Enjoy Parc de Bruxelles – the largest public park in the city full of walking trails, scupltures and outdoor cafes. This is also right next to the Royal Palace, which is closed to visitors but a great spot to see.
• Book a tour of the European Union headquarters. You can visit the Hemicycle where members gather, or visit the Parlamentarium, a museum that takes you through the history.
• Visit the Museum of Natural Science which holds the largest dinosaur collection in Europe.
• Go to the Palais de Justice, the biggest courthouse in Europe. It’s a stunning building that gives some great views of the city.
• Take the metro to the suburb of Laeken and visit Mini Europe. View famous landmarks in Europe as miniature statues, with over 300 to explore.

Day trips if you have more than 48 hours in Brussels

If you have extra time, the city is a short journey away from some wonderful places that make for a great day trip, Bruges is probably the most popular, but Ghent, Antwerp or even Amsterdam are all possible.

Read our blog on the best day trips to take from Brussels!

How to get around Brussels

For a short trip, you’ll be fine walking around the city. But, if you want to use public transport, the easiest way is to get a  BRUPASS – a combined ticket that can be used on buses, trams, the metro and commuter trains. The pass is loaded onto a plastic card which you scan getting on and off transportation. The card itself costs 5 euro and is sold at kiosks and ticket offices in major train and metro stations.

Public transport in Brussels in run in multiple languages which can be confusing, so the BRUPASS is the easiest way of getting on whatever transport you want to use without any hassle.

The trams in Brussels are powered by renewable energy and offer great views of the city. They’re the best way to get a sense of where everything is. Top tip – they don’t automatically stop at each tram stop, so remember to press the button when approaching where you want to get off.

Metro is the fastest way to get around and also runs on renewable energy. Use a ticket, MOBIB card, or contactless payment on your phone or card.

There are several bus companies that run different routes and tickets aren’t interchangeable, so check before you get on!

The city is filled with bicycles and bike lanes make it easy to get around this way. A lot of hotels offer tourists complimentary bikes, or you can rent a bike using Billy Bike, Villo! or Blue Bike.

If you’re staying in city center, you probably won’t need to use trains. They’re best used to travel to and from the airport. Head to one of the three main stations: Gare du Nord (north), Bruxelles Centrale (central), and Bruxelles Midi (south); most intercity trains through Brussels stop at all three.

Renting a car probably won’t be necessary if you’re only in Brussels for 48 hours. Cars can be rented by the hour on apps like Poppy and Cambio, or use Uber (which was actually banned in 2021 in Brussels but is still popular) or Heetch to catch a ride.

Where to eat during your 48 hours in Brussels

Brussels is full of amazing restaurants and bars , you could spend all your time here eating. There are some dishes you must try – the Belgian frites, waffles, chocolate beer. Here are some of the best places to choose if you’re limited on time.

• Frites:  Maison Antoine, Flagey Frietkot, Fritland, Friterie Tabora, Frit Flagey
• Waffles:  Maison Dandoy, The Waffle Factory, Mokafe
• Beer:  Moeder Lambic, Zebra, Delirium Café
• Mussels and Fries:  Le Chou de Bruxelles, Aux Armes de Bruxelles, La Quincaillerie
• Traditional Belgian food:  Fin de Siecle, Porte De Hal, Le Marmiton
• Belgian chocolate:  Maison Pierre Marcolini,  Wittamer, Côte d’Or, Godiva, Pistolet Original

Read our guide to the best mussels in Brussels   or the  best waffles in Brussels!

How do I get to Brussels?

Flying to brussels.

There’s only one airport in Brussels which is the Brussels Internation Airport. However, there is another airport 46km away which is called Brussels South Charleroi. It can be cheaper to fly here as it’s a hub for low-cost airlines, but it’s actually in another city called Charleroi.

How to get from Brussels International Aiport to the city center

The easiest way to get to the city center is to take the train. When you leave the arrivals area, just follow the signs to the train. There are three main stops – Brussels North, Brussels Central and Brussels Midi. The closest to the Grand Place is Brussels Central.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the arrival gate. Please only get a taxi from the official stand, and make sure they have the meter on. It will cost about €45. A private airport transfer normally works out a little bit cheaper, so ask your hotel for a price to arrange this.

How to get from Brussels South Charleroi Aiport to the city center

Getting to Brussels from the Charleroi airport will require you to take a bus that drops you off at Brussels Midi train station. This will cost €15.

A private transfer from this airport will cost upwards of €100 euro, so it’s probably best to stick to the bus.

Getting the train to Brussels

A lot of major European cities are connected to Brussels by high speed trains. These will arrive at Brussels Midi Station, so you’ll need to catch a connecting train to Brussels Central which is the stop closest to the historical center. You can catch trains from London, Paris, and Amsterdam and be in Brussels within a couple of hours.

When’s the best time to visit Brussels?

Brussels is a city that changes with the seasons and can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Summer is the busiest, with 10 pm sunsets and festivals happening every week. The Winter transforms the city into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights and some of the world’s best Christmas markets. Or, come in Spring to see flowers bloom across Brussels’ neighbourhoods or in Autumn to enjoy locally foraged mushrooms and freshly caught mussels during the quietest times in the city.

Final advice for spending 48 hours in Brussels

Spending two days in Brussels is a good amount of time to get a sense for what the city has to offer, from beautiful architecture and amazing food to packed flea markets.

We would definitely recommend spending a day in the Historical Center and getting all the main tourist activities out of the way, but venture out a bit on day two to explore the true heart of the city.

There is so much to see and do in Brussels, you could easily spend weeks here and fill your time well. Ultimately, what you decide to do will depend on your interests. If you can’t fit it all in, hey, you can always come back

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The Perfect Walking Guide to Brussels

Brussels gets a boring Eurocrat rep, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find an urban playground of medieval architecture, surreal public art and lovely green spots. Explore the best of Belgium’s capital with this perfectly planned walking guide.

Start your walking tour of brussels at place du jeu de balle.

You can begin your walk in a quintessential Brussels neighbourhood to immediately lose yourself in its biggest draw. Every day from 6am onwards, the Place du Jeu de Balle flea market in the heart of the Marolles livens up the old, poorer district with vendor shouts and haggling bouts. Hit the cobblestones early to uncover the occasional treasure amid the tower-high bric-a-brac piles, or settle on one of the many terraces around to watch the locals in action.

Continue south towards Petit Sablon Square

Next, head in the direction of the museum district

From the Petit Sablon, it’s a straight shot to the Place Royale, the spacious plaza standing atop the ruins of the Coudenberg Palace, an ancient seat of power in the region. Among the cream-coloured neoclassical buildings are some of the country’s most beloved museums (the Magritte Museum , the Royal Museums of Fine Arts), and a bit farther, you’ll find the stunning Art Nouveau Musical Instruments Museum and Art Deco precursor Bozar.

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From there, amble over to the Royal Palace

In summer, be sure to continue to the Royal Palace for a free glimpse at the monarch’s beetle ceiling. At the request of Queen Mother Paola, acclaimed conceptual artist Jan Fabre plastered the ceiling and chandelier of the palace’s sumptuous Hall of Mirrors with 1.6 million scarab shields. The intriguing mosaic is titled Heaven of Delight , though Fabre claims to have hidden skull figures in the work as a reference to Belgium’s not too gentle colonial past in the Congo.

Your next stop is Mont des Arts Garden

From shiny jewel beetles to the most photographed view in Brussels. The stairs looking down on the Mont des Arts garden provide a panoramic sight of René Pechère’s geometric gardens and the medieval city core below. If you’re feeling peckish, grab a sandwich made with love by the one and only Tonton of Tonton Garby’s acclaimed cheese shop.

Don’t miss the city’s most famous statue, Manneken Pis

Typical of Belgian humour, Brussels’s pride and joy is a small statue of a rebellious boy peeing into a water fountain. Spotting Manneken Pis – who’ll hopefully be sporting one of his hundreds of entertaining outfits – means you’ve entered the Îlot Sacré or ‘Holy Island’, the neighbourhood with the most historic and touristy streets of Brussels.

Stop for a refreshment at Moeder Lambic

Walk three minutes from Manneken Pis to a noontime drink at Moeder Lambic . The revered Brussels establishment distinguishes itself through its knowledgeable staff and eye for craft. Despite its connoisseur status, the mother of all beer bars is always welcoming to international beer novices in need of an introduction to the wonderful, dizzyingly expansive world of Belgian brews. Opt for lambic and gueuze if you want to go hyper local and don’t mind a tart taste.

Wander towards Grand-Place

In the Îlot Sacré, all cobbled alleys eventually lead to the Grand-Place . Widely considered a magnificent display of medieval architecture and urban grandeur, the city’s main market has managed to preserve a remarkably homogeneous look that prompted Victor Hugo to describe it as “a miracle”. Especially eye-catching upon entering the closed-off square for the first time are the 15th-century town hall and the King’s House, home to the City Museum.

Just a short walk away, visit the Galeries Royales de Saint-Hubert

From the Grand-Place, it’s a hop, skip and a jump to another beloved Hugo hangout: the Galeries Royales de Saint-Hubert and its Taverne du Passage (known as the Café des Arts when Hugo drank and conversed here). The fanciful glazed shopping arcade conjures up visions of 19th-century flaneurs, artists, intellectuals, and Brussels’s most stylish, who flocked to the remarkable construction in masses upon its opening in 1847. The galeries was one of the first of its kind in Europe, inspired by young architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar’s fondness for the Italian Renaissance. Exiting on the Rue de l’Ecuyer, a slightly surreal statue of a colourful biking cat in cycling shorts (rumoured to have cost the city a whopping €100,000) will greet you.

End your tour of Brussels in La Bourse

Images of La Bourse went around the world after the terrorist attacks of 22 March 2016. The square around the imposing building – a former stock exchange slated to become the ultimate Belgian beer museum in 2018 – was where locals and visitors flocked to show unity and solidarity. By the afternoon, the plaza had filled up with people holding hands, chalking messages of peace on the ground, and leaving candles, flags and flowers to remember the victims. The neoclassical embellishments on the building’s façade are partly from the hand of French sculptor Auguste Rodin.

Chances are you’ve already spotted many of them on your walk, but when you settle on La Bourse’s steps with your packet of crispy golden sticks from Fritland , you’ll be glad you’ve held out for the right friterie (fast-food restaurant). Fries are a huge source of pride and comfort to Belgians, and Fritland, with its plethora of national flags, has been a staple of Brussels food culture for almost four decades. The usual line out the door moves fast and contains quite a lot of locals, so you know they’re doing something right. When in the mood for a madcap speciality, try the mitraillette , a sandwich jam-packed with fries, meat, veggies and a sauce of your choosing.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Your Self-Guided Brussels Art Nouveau Walking Tour

Let’s talk about the amazing Brussels Art Nouveau movement. Go to this city and you’re in for a real treat!

Art Nouveau in Brussels flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the city is home to some of the most stunning examples of this architectural style in the world.

If you’re a fan of Art Nouveau like I am, Brussels is a must-visit destination.

In this article, I’ll take you on your very own walking tour through the city’s most amazing Art Nouveau Brussels buildings, from the iconic Hôtel Tassel to the lesser-known but equally enchanting Maison Saint-Cyr.

Table of Contents

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What is Art Nouveau Architecture?

I really like Art Nouveau. It’s an architectural style that started in Europe in the late 1800s and became super popular in the early 1900s. What makes it special is the use of nature-inspired stuff like flowers and vines, and the curvy lines that make things look like they’re moving.

Art Nouveau buildings are known for being all fancy with lots of details. They use cool materials like iron, glass, and ceramics, and they’re into curves and lopsided shapes.

One cool thing about Art Nouveau is the “whiplash curve.” It’s like a wavy line that shows movement, and you can see it in decorations like balconies and window frames.

This style got its inspiration from the Arts and Crafts movement, which cared a lot about traditional craftsmanship. They didn’t like mass-produced stuff from machines, so Art Nouveau focused on handmade things like tiles, stained glass, and metalwork.

You can spot awesome Art Nouveau buildings in places like Brussels, Paris, and Barcelona . It left a mark on modern architecture, and you can still see its influence in today’s designs.

About the Art Nouveau in Brussels Movement

I loved spending time in Brussels, especially for its Art Nouveau architecture – some say it’s where it all started. Victor Horta, often called the father of Art Nouveau, played a big role. He designed cool buildings like his own house turned museum.

Other awesome architects in Brussels, like Paul Hankar, Henry Van de Velde, and Gustave Strauven, made an impact on the Belgium Art Nouveau scene. They made a unique style with lots of skill and attention to detail.

The peak of Art Nouveau in Brussels was around the early 1900s, but it kind of faded after World War I. There used to be over 1,000 Art Nouveau buildings, but only about half of them are still standing today.

Brussels Art Nouveau Walking Tour Map

Now it’s time for the Art Nouveau Belgium tour. There are two options for you.

• Walking tour of Art Nouveau in Brussels with this article as your guide. Simply put the addresses into your phone and let the map app lead you to each beautiful house. It’s a free and simple self-guided walking tour.
• Join a 3-hour guided group tour that takes you to the Bailli district to see several of the most important Art Nouveau houses and finishes at the Victor Horta Museum.

If you chose option 1, keep reading and let’s go!

Art Nouveau Tour Brussels: Loop #1

Plug into your phone the following addresses:

• 224 Louise Avenue
• 6 Rue Paul Emilie Janson
• 83 Rue de Livourne
• 48 Rue Defacqz
• 71 Rue Faider
• 83 Rue Faider
• 92 Rue Africaine
• 25 Rue Americaine

Now, let’s start the Brussels architecture tour!

1. Hotel Solvay (224 Louise Ave)

The Hotel Solvay is considered one of the most iconic examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Brussels.

Designed by the famous Belgian architect Victor Horta, the house is known for its intricate ironwork, sinuous lines, and decorative details inspired by nature.

It was completed in 1893 for Armand Solvay, a wealthy industrialist, and is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Belgium .

2. Hotel Tassel (6 Rue Paul Emilie Janson)

The Hotel Tassel is another iconic example of Art Nouveau architecture in Brussels and is considered one of the earliest examples of the movement.

It was designed by Victor Horta for Emile Tassel, a professor of geometry at the Université Libre de Bruxelles, and was completed in 1893.

The house is known for its distinctive use of iron, glass, and natural materials, as well as its flowing lines and intricate decorative details. It is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Octave Van Rysselberghe House (83 Rue de Livourne)

The Octave Van Rysselberghe House is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture in Brussels.

Designed by Octave Van Rysselberghe, a prominent Belgian architect, the house was completed in 1912 and features elegant decorative details such as stained glass windows, ironwork, and intricate tilework.

It’s now a museum dedicated to the life and work of Van Rysselberghe and offers a fascinating glimpse into the Art Nouveau movement in Brussels.

4 Ciamberlani House (48 Rue Defacqz)

The Ciamberlani House is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture in Brussels.

It was designed by Paul Hankar for Albert Ciamberlani and was completed in 1897. The house is known for its intricate ironwork, decorative tiles, and use of natural motifs such as flowers and leaves.

It has been designated as a protected monument by the Brussels-Capital Region and is considered one of the city’s most beautiful examples of Art Nouveau architecture.

5. Hanker House (71 Rue Faider)

The Hankar House is a remarkable example of Art Nouveau architecture. It was designed by architect Paul Hankar in 1893 and is known for its distinctive use of curved lines, natural motifs, and intricate decorative details.

The house was designed as both a home and an artist’s studio and features a variety of innovative design elements, such as a double-height studio space with a skylight.

Today, the Hankar House is recognized as a protected monument by the Brussels-Capital Region and is open to the public for tours.

6. Unnamed House (83 Rue Faider)

The unnamed townhouse was designed in 1900 by Albert Roosenboom.

7. Unnamed House (92 Rue Africaine)

The unnamed townhouse was designed in 1905 by Benjamin de Lester-De.

8. Horta House (25 Rue Americaine)

The Horta House is one of the most famous examples of Art Nouveau architecture in the world. It was designed by the Belgian architect Victor Horta in 1898 as his personal residence and studio and is considered a masterpiece of the Art Nouveau movement.

The house features a stunning array of Art Nouveau details, including intricate ironwork, stained glass, and decorative tiles.

Today, the Horta House is open to the public as a museum and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone interested in Art Nouveau architecture and design.

Art Nouveau Brussels Map – Loop #1 – Louise to Ixelles to St. Gilles

Art Nouveau Brussels Tour: Loop #2

• 5 rue des Francs
• 11 Ambiorix Square
• 24 Palmerston Avenue
• 4 Palmerston Avenue
• Gutenberg Square and Marie Louise Square

Now let’s go discover the art nouveau houses in walk tour Loop #2!

1. Cauchie House (5 Rue des Francs)

The Cauchie House is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture and design. It was designed by Paul Cauchie, a Belgian architect, in 1905 as both a home and a studio.

The house features a stunning facade adorned with intricate Art Nouveau details, including a beautiful mural made of enamelled plates that depict the four seasons. Look closely for the personal inscription meant for his wife ‘Par nous, pour nous’ or ‘By us, for us.’

The interior of the house is equally impressive, with intricate woodwork, decorative tiles, and stained glass windows. Today, the Cauchie House is open to the public and offers a unique glimpse into the Art Nouveau movement in Brussels.

2. Saint-Cyr House (11 Ambiorix Square)

The Saint-Cyr House is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture. It was designed by Gustave Strauven, a Belgian architect who was a student of Victor Horta and was completed in 1903.

The house is known for its intricate ironwork, beautiful stained glass windows, and flowing organic lines. One of the most unique features of the Saint-Cyr House is its striking asymmetry, which was a departure from the more traditional, symmetrical designs of the time.

Today, the house is recognized as a protected monument by the Brussels-Capital Region and is considered one of the city’s most beautiful examples of Art Nouveau architecture.

3. Villa Germaine House (24 Palmerston Avenue)

The Villa Germaine House was designed by the Belgian architect Louis Hamaide in 1902 and is known for its distinctive use of curved lines, decorative tiles, and wrought ironwork.

The house is named after Germaine Van den Bossche, the wife of its original owner, and features a beautiful facade adorned with intricate Art Nouveau details.

Today, the Villa Germaine House is recognized as a protected monument by the Brussels-Capital Region and is a popular destination for architecture enthusiasts visiting Brussels.

4. Hotel Van Eetvelde (4 Palmerston Avenue)

The Hotel Van Eetvelde was designed by Victor Horta and was completed in 1898. The house is known for its intricate ironwork, decorative tiles, and flowing organic lines.

One of the most unique features of the Hotel Van Eetvelde is its use of innovative design elements, such as a central light well that floods the interior with natural light.

Today, the house is recognized as a protected monument by the Brussels-Capital Region and is open to the public for tours. It is considered one of the most important examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Brussels, and a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

5. Gutenberg Square and Marie Louise Square

Gutenberg and Marie Louise Squares in Brussels are two public spaces that feature several beautiful examples of Art Nouveau architecture, although the specific buildings are not always named.

The area is known for its decorative ironwork, organic motifs, and use of natural materials such as stone and wood. Some notable examples include the buildings at 6 and 8 Rue Lebeau, which feature intricate ironwork and decorative stonework, as well as the buildings at 13-15 Rue Ducale, which showcase beautiful stained glass windows and carved wooden details.

The squares themselves are also worth a visit, as they are surrounded by a variety of beautiful trees and plants that create a serene atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Art Nouveau Brussels Map – Loop #2 – Cinquantenaire Park to the Squares Neighbourhood

Art Nouveau in Brussels Tour: Loop #3

• Louis Bertrand Avenue
• 266 Chaussée de Haecht

This last walking tour is a bit unique, as many unnamed houses along Louise Bertrand Avenue have Art Nouveau architectural details you can admire. So slowly stroll this Avenue and watch out for houses at numbers 34, 36 and 43.

Let’s start the last Loop #3!

1. Avenue Louis Bertrand (43 Louis Bertrand Avenue)

Many unnamed houses on the beautiful Avenue Louis Bertrand represent striking examples of Art Nouveau architecture in the city.

A stroll down this avenue is a must for anyone interested in experiencing the beauty and creativity of Art Nouveau.

2. Autrique House (266 Chaussée de Haecht)

The Autrique House is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture that has been restored to its former glory. Designed by Victor Horta, one of the most prominent figures of the Art Nouveau movement, this was the first townhouse he built in 1893.

Visitors to the Autrique House can marvel at the building’s elegant facade, explore its interior, and learn about the fascinating history of Art Nouveau in Brussels.

Art Nouveau Brussels Map – Loop #3 – Avenue Louis Bertrand (Schaerbeek) Neighbourhood

FAQ: Art Nouveau Belgium

What was art nouveau called in belgium.

Art Nouveau in Belgium was known as “Jugendstil”, which means “youth style” in German.

How Art Nouveau was invented in Brussels?

Art Nouveau was born in Brussels when artists and architects sought to break from traditional forms, drawing inspiration from nature’s organic shapes and motifs to create a new movement.

What are the characteristics of Belgian Art Nouveau?

Belgian Art Nouveau characteristics include asymmetrical facades, curved windows in organic shapes, nature-inspired motifs, ornate ironwork, stained glass, and mosaics.

When is the best time to visit Brussels?

The best time to visit Brussels is for the Brussels Art Nouveau and Art Deco (BANAD) festival where for three consecutive weekends in March select buildings are open to the public for tours.

What was the best Art Nouveau town in Europe?

The best Art Nouveau town in Europe is widely considered to be Brussels, Belgium with its numerous well-preserved buildings and influential architects.

As a Holidaymaker

Walking through the Art Nouveau architecture is an amazing experience that gives me a peek into Belgium’s cultural history. From the fancy Autrique House facades to the detailed Victor Horta Museum, I can soak in the beauty and creativity of this iconic style.

I too hope you enjoy doing this as a unique thing to do in Brussels.

Next, why don’t you consider taking a day trip from Brussels to these 5 amazing cities?

Creator, Founder of Dream Plan Experience

She specializes exclusively in European travel and crafting unforgettable day trips within her home province of Ontario, Canada.

She has been travelling to Europe for over 35 years and has lived abroad in Germany twice. Revisiting countries and exploring them extensively to create in depth travel itineraries, destination guides and helping travellers plan their trips to Europe through her customized services.

She also is a co-partner in a woman-led company that offers luxury retreats in Europe offering immersive cultural experiences.

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Map of Brussels - Interactive Brussels Map

Information about the map.

Check out the main monuments, museums, squares, churches and attractions in our map of Brussels. Click on each icon to see what it is.

To help you find your way once you get to your destination, the map you print out will have numbers on the various icons that correspond to a list with the most interesting tourist attractions. This way, you’ll be able to see where each attraction is.

Icons on the Brussels interactive map

The map is very easy to use:

• Check out information about the destination: click on the color indicators.
• Move across the map: shift your mouse across the map.
• Zoom in: double click on the left-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel upwards.
• Zoom out: double click on the right-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel downwards.

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Two Day Itinerary

If you are short on time and want to see all the unmissable sights in the Belgian capital, take a look at our itinerary planned to visit Brussels in a weekend.

General Information

If you're going to travel to Brussels, it's likely you have some questions you want to be answered when planning your trip. Here you'll find general information about Brussels in order to clear up any doubts you may have when planning your trip.

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One Day in Brussels Itinerary: Plan Your Best Trip

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Brussels, Belgium is often pegged as an underwhelming city to visit, but we believe it’s an underrated destination. Stunning architecture, gorgeous gardens and tempting treats are just a few things that tip the scale in favor of Brussels.

The city is fairly compact and very walkable, which scores Brussels even more points. The top sights can all be seen on foot… in a single day .  

After transiting through on numerous occasions, we finally planned a Brussels day trip during our long stay in nearby Ghent.  For our trip, we created an ambitious 1-Day Itinerary that features top sights, quirky attractions and hidden gems. Travelers with just one day in Brussels can use our guide to easily plan an exciting and fun-filled sightseeing excursion!

Planning a 1 Day Brussels Itinerary

As the capital of Belgium – and the European Union – Brussels spoils visitors with an incredible number of interesting and diverse attractions. Those planning a day trip to Brussels will likely need to choose which sights to include in their itinerary.

The historic center is comprised of two distinct districts: the Lower Town and Upper Town. The convenient Central Train Station is smack in the middle of the two districts – and the best things to see in Brussels in a day are just steps from the tracks.

In our detailed itinerary, we share the best things to do in Brussels for a day. From the grand history to places that highlight the city’s humorous side, too. In addition to outlining what to see in Brussels in one day, we also feature top eats and prime places to sample Belgian beer.

Summary of Brussels Itinerary for One Day

Before we get to what to see and do in Brussels for a day, we are summarizing the sightseeing adventures.

Morning in the Lower Town

Make the most of your day and set off by mid-morning. Begin in the Lower Town to see the gorgeous Grand Place and the offbeat Manneken Pis statue, along with other popular sights. While grazing on Brussels’ famous culinary treasures, stroll down cobblestone lanes, seek out cartoon street art and step inside a few of the city’s historic spaces.

Afternoon in the Upper Town

By mid-afternoon, ease into the polished Upper Town via the posh Sablon District. Visit a flower-laden green space and set eyes on the city’s most extravagant church. Then take in the regal architecture of Place Royal and the Royal Palace.

Next explore some of the magnificent sights to the east. Such as the renowned Parc du Cinquantenaire and the emblematic European District.

Circle back to the Lower Town via winding cobblestone lanes. Go to the famous Brussels Cathedral and waltz through a grandiose shopping arcade.

Evening of Eating and Imbibing

As the sun starts to set, walk the length of Rue des Bouchers. The famous restaurant-lined street is where platters of Moules-Frites (Mussels and Fries) area served up to tourists. Duck down an alleyway to see a lesser-known urinating statue, then relax your weary feet with a beer.

For dinner, enjoy varied fare at a boisterous food hall. Then before heading back to the train station, pop into Grand Place once again to see how it shines after dark.

Is 1 Day in Brussels Enough?

Many travelers struggle to determine how many days to spend in Brussels. Is a few hours in Brussels enough or does it deserve a couple of days?

In our opinion, one full day is enough to tick off the top sights in the city center. Ambitious travelers will likely be able to squeeze in some time outside the Old Town or visit one of the intriguing museums.  

Those interested in spending ample time beyond the center, visiting multiple museums or more thoroughly delving into the unique districts should consider spending 24 hours in Brussels – or more!

Travelers exploring Belgium and the surrounding region could consider using Brussels as a base. It is extremely well-connected to numerous nearby destinations by train. A few of the top places to see in Belgium are the fabulous city of Ghent, beautiful Bruges and thriving Antwerp. Trains from Brussels can also quickly whisk you away to Amsterdam, Frankfurt and Paris.

Those planning longer itineraries for Brussels can use the ‘More Things To Do’ section later in the article. Visitors will also find practical advice – like the best places to stay in Brussels – in our Travel Tips section.

Organizing Your Belgium Trip

With limited time and so much to see, it’s essential to stay organized! We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the details of your vacation.

How To Spend One Day in Brussels

Our plan features the best things to do in Brussels in one day. It’s organized in chronological order and can be used as a self-guided Brussels walking tour. To get from one sight to the next, we include a useful map at the end of the article.

The entire looping route can be completed in as little as 3-4 hours, but we recommend a more leisurely pace. It’s best to plan about 6-8 hours in Brussels with this itinerary.

#1 Waffles at Aux Gaufres de Bruxelles

Start your 1 Day Itinerary in Brussels just like a local Bruxellois, with a waffle for breakfast! Waffle stands and cafes are found everywhere, but Aux Gaufres de Bruxelles is a classic eatery. Established in 1970, Tea Room Gaufres de Bruxelles is known for Belgian specialties – and particularly their waffles (which are called Gaufres in French).

There are two kinds of waffles in Belgium – Brussels Waffles and Liege Waffles. Nearly all of the waffle shops in the city serve both kinds. A Brussels Waffle is square or rectangular, soft and fluffy on the inside and a bit crispy on the outside. A Liege Waffle, which has undefined corners, is sweeter and much denser. While we prefer the Liege style waffle – get one of each and decide for yourself!

Waffles have long been a popular street food in Brussels – and locals typically eat them on the go. Therefore, it is not traditional to add toppings. However, loading up Belgium Waffles with Nutella, fruit and whipped cream has become an utterly delicious trend!

Top Travel Tip: Order from the take-away window at Aux Gaufres de Bruxelles. Not only are the waffles cheaper (they charge a dine-in fee), but you can nibble as you walk to the next sight.

#2 Grand Place

One of the most famous and beautiful squares in the world, the landmark Grand Place is encircled by exquisite Baroque architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see during your 1 Day Tour in Brussels.

The square dates to the 11th century when it was used as the city’s marketplace. Thus, it’s also called Grote Markt – which translates to Big Market. Stand in the center of the square and take in its grandeur, starting with the unmissable Town Hall.

Brussels Town Hall

The most significant building on the square is Town Hall, which is recognizable by the tall, spindly spire that soars to a height of 315 feet. Atop the Gothic tower is a weathervane depicting St. Michael, the Patron Saint of the City of Brussels.

Built in the first half of the 15th century, the Medieval building features intricate carvings and numerous replica statues. The originals are housed inside the Brussels City Museum, which sits just across the square in King’s House. Tours of the interior of Town Hall are only offered on certain days, for a fee.

The King’s House

The striking gray stone building directly across from Town Hall is King’s House, or Maison du Roi. Built in the early 16th century as the market’s bread hall (or Broodhuis), the elaborate exterior has seen numerous enhancements throughout the centuries.

Today, King’s House hosts the City Museum. Here visitors can see some of the most precious artifacts, masterpiece paintings, original sculptures (including Manneken Pis) and tapestries. Tickets are required to enter the museum. 

Guildhalls in Brussels

The other buildings that ring Grand Place Square are the sensational Guildhalls. Featuring ornate and glittering facades, the historic Guildhalls represent the city’s most important trade associations. Each trade was responsible for designing their own guild house.

When the guilds became obsolete and disbanded in the late 1700s, the square fell to disuse. By the mid-1800s, however, the city rallied to save the architecture. Several guild houses have been renovated into shops and restaurants.

Brussels Travel Tip: Since the 1990s, the space has been pedestrianized and hosts numerous festivals. In the wintertime, the atmospheric Brussels Christmas Market is held on the square. It’s also the location of the colorful biennial Flower Carpet event, which takes place every other August.

#3 Belgian Chocolate

Sampling fine chocolates is a highlight of a Brussels One Day Trip. Regarded as the Chocolate Capital of the World, Belgium has long had an affection for the confection.

Chocolates were used medicinally as early as the 17th century. However, when the Congo was colonized by Belgium in the early 1900s, the production of chocolates surged. Today it is one of the country’s most popular products. Inviting and aromatic chocolate shops are a Brussels specialty. The top chocolatiers boast locations on Grand Place and down the nearby lanes.

Neuhaus is one of the most prominent chocolatiers. The family opened their first shop in 1857 at Galerie de la Reine and we will visit it later in the day. However, it was in 1912 that Neuhaus invented the famous Belgian Praline. The acclaimed candy features a soft creamy center encased in a chocolate shell (much like a truffle).

Godiva Chocolate – which was established in Brussels in 1926 as a family business – is known worldwide. Named the official chocolatier of the Royal Court of Belgium in 1968, the company expanded in the 1970s to locations around the globe. Visitors can taste their premium chocolates at their shop on Grand Place. The Chocolate Covered Strawberries are a big hit!

Top Tip: Leave Grand Place via the quaint Rue au Beurre cobblestone lane. The pedestrian street is lined with shops and boutique chocolatiers. Leonidas and Elisabeth are not to be missed, but we also recommend stopping by La Belgique Gourmande and Gourmet Chocolatier Belge.

#4 St. Nicholas Church

Ranking as one of the oldest churches in Brussels, Saint Nicholas dates to the 12th century. Dedicated to the Patron Saint of Merchants, it was a popular place of worship for vendors who sold goods at the market in Grand Place.

While the façade is rather plain, the interior is quite impressive. Most notable are the historic choir, wooden carved pulpit and paintings.

Interesting Fact: The church features odd angles, as the building was designed around flowing water.

#5 Brussels Stock Exchange and Place de la Bourse

Built in the mid-1800s, the Bourse de Bruxells served as the country’s stock exchange until 2015. The stunning neo-Renaissance building has recently been renovated into a public space. The gorgeous Main Hall is complete with exhibitions, artwork (note the Rodin statues and mosaic floor), a café and a beer museum.

Walk through to Place de la Bourse, which was created in the late 1800s when the Senne River was covered. Place de la Bourse is the site of celebrations and protests – but the long staircase from the square up to the Bourse is mostly used at lunchtime for eating take-away fries. Take time to walk around the building to marvel at the architecture from all sides.

Itinerary Tip : On the south side of Bourse, consider making a quick stop for a coffee at Falstaff Café, which features old world charm.

#6 Belgian Beer World Museum

The Belgian Beer World Museum is an interactive exhibition inside the Bourse. It traces the history of beer dating back to the first breweries that were set up in monasteries. The fourth floor features the rooftop Sky Bar, where visitors can sample Belgian brews. Note: after 6pm, visitors can go to the roof bar without a museum ticket.

The combo Beer World ticket also grants access to Bruxella 1238, an archaeological dig next to the stock exchange that revealed an ancient Franciscan Monastery. The site is said to host the tomb of John the 1st of Brabant, who is known in folklore as the King of Beer.

Day Trip Tip: Those just spending a day in Brussels may not want to derail their sightseeing with a visit to the Beer Museum quite yet. Consider circling back to the museum later or buying a Skip the Line Ticket .

#7 Belgian Fries for Lunch

Eating fries in Belgium is a must! More fries are consumed per capita in Belgium than any other country in the world. While the humble fry has long been attributed to the French, according to Belgians, it is firmly a Belgium creation that dates to the 1600s.

What makes Belgium fries unique is that they are double fried. Once to cook them, then a second time to make sure they are perfectly crisped and piping hot. The street food is cheap and tasty; a large fry with sauce costs about 5 euros and is very filling.

Traditionally, Belgian fries are dipped into mayonnaise. Today the fries are served with an array of dipping sauces – from ketchup to curry to barbecue. That said, Andalouse Sauce is a popular Belgian choice; it’s a mixture of mayo, mustard, tomato, onion and paprika.

Fry shops – or frietkot – dot the cityscape. Two of the most beloved spots are located just about a 1-minute walk apart: Fritland and Friterie Tabora. For lunch on our day trip, we opted for a small cone of fries from Fritland – and they didn’t disappoint!

Planning Tip: At these popular shops, there will likely be a queue. We recommend eating at whichever has the shortest line. Alternatively, we share a few more spectacular eateries along the route.

#8 Church of St. Catherine

A designated Historic Monument since 1981, Saint Catherine’s Church features a mashup of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. The current structure was built in the 14th century – on the site of a previous 12th century church. Still, it was nearly torn down in the 1950s to make room for a parking lot, but residents saved it from demolition.

The interior, which is free to visit, features numerous artworks. Most notable are the Black Madonna and a wooden statue of St. Catherine.

Trip Planning Tip: If you are running short on time, visiting St. Catherine Church is not necessarily a must-do in Brussels. We do recommend at least walking through the district, as it’s one of the most charming places to visit in Brussels.

#9 Old Fish Market and Old Grain Market

St. Catherine’s Church is flanked by two fetching squares, which were home to the Old Fish Market and Old Grain Market.

On the north side of the church, find the Old Fish Market – Vismarkt – where parts of the now-covered Senne River are exposed. Seafood and fish restaurants are a specialty on the square.

To the south, pleasant and appealing Old Grain Market Square is lined with boutique shops selling local products and cafes that spill onto the sidewalk. Consider stopping at Cremerie de Linkebeek Cheese Shop, where they specialize in Belgian cheeses and sell cheap sandwiches to-go during lunchtime.

Top Foodie Tip: In both squares, seafood restaurants abound and they tend to get much better reviews than those on Rue des Bouchers (which we cover later). ABC Fish Shack is a good spot for a quick seafood snack.

#10 Het Zinneke (Peeing Dog Statue)

Travelers on a 1-day trip to Brussels may not be able to fully appreciate the Bruxellois sense of humor. Visiting the Het Zinneke Peeing Dog Statue will help clarify that they are a funny bunch.

The statue of the dog lifting its leg was created in 1998 and completes the trio of ‘pis’ statues in Brussels. Don’t worry, we get to the other two later in the day!

Interesting Fact : Zinneke translates to Mutt – and is said to represent the city’s multiculturalism.

#11 Halles Saint-Gery

A 19th century market hall, Halles-Saint Gery stands on what was once an island in the middle of the now buried Senne River. The red-brick building features an open hall inside with a classic iron frame. Renovated to house a cultural space and café, it’s worth popping inside for a look around.

Saint-Gery Island was long a historic place in the city. A chapel was built here in the year 580 to hold relics of St. Gudula; later it was used for defensive purposes and then as a public square.

Hidden Gem : From the southwest corner of the market hall (next to O Lion d’Or), go through the gate at #22 to find a hidden garden.

#12 Brussels Street Art

One of the unique attractions to include on your Brussels in One Day Itinerary is street art. Colorful street art in Brussels is not limited to one district or neighborhood. Even more interesting is that many of the large murals are dedicated to the city’s favorite comics, like The Smurfs and Tintin.

The Broussaille Mural is a rendition of the work of Brussels illustrator, Frank Pe. Duck into the lane behind the art mural to find more artwork by German comic book creator, Ralf Konig.

Just down the street and around the corner (a 3-minute walk away) is the giant Tintin Comic Mural. The Adventures of Tintin is a comic series created by Belgian cartoonist, Georges Remi (aka Herge), in the 1920s.

Those interested in seeking out more public artwork on the now dubbed ‘Comic Strip Route’ can find more info here – and use this map . 

Top Tip: Near the central train station, you can find the mural devoted to The Smurfs. The favorite cartoon characters were created by Brussels’ artist, Pierre Culliford. 

#13 Manneken Pis Fountain

Your One Day Trip in Brussels would not be complete without getting a glimpse of the Manneken Pis statue and fountain. An iconic – if not quirky – symbol of Brussels, the “Little Pissing Man” is legendary. The 22-inch-tall bronze statue is underwhelming for many visitors, but it has a long and intriguing history.

Embodying Belgian folk humor, the popularity of the statue of the boy peeing is buoyed by fables. Although several versions exists, there are two basic storylines. The first is that a little boy saved the town – either from invaders or fire – by urinating on the explosives or flames. The second story is that of a family visiting Brussels who lost their little boy and asked locals to help find him. The child was found peeing in a garden and the family gifted the townspeople a statue for their efforts.

The first Manneken Pis Statue – made of stone – was known to exist around the mid-1400s. The first bronze statue was cast in 1619, but a replica now stands in its place (the original resides in the City Museum). 

Nearby Nourishment: Although the street connecting Manneken Pis to the Grand Place main square is a gauntlet of tourist kitsch, there are a few worthwhile spots in the area. Around the corner, Nuetnigenough is a highly rated restaurant, where patrons can order a divine Flemish stew. Across the street is Poechenellekelder Beer Hall, known for their long list of Belgian beers. Right next door to the Little Peeing Boy is (yet another) chocolate shop that usually offers free samples.

#14 Garde Robe Manneken Pis

To add an element of quirkiness to the city’s most distinguished statue, Manneken Pis has its own wardrobe. Its collection of clothing consists of more than 1000 ensembles.

Dressing the statue in costumes dates to the early 1600s. Visiting dignitaries often bring gifts of clothing for Manneken Pis. Today, the Garde Robe Manneken Pis Costume Museum displays the different outfits.

Tickets are required to enter the museum. However, visitors who just want a glimpse can see a few of the featured outfits in the museum’s window display.

Offbeat Tip: Don’t miss the alley next to the museum, which features the large street art mural, called Manneken Peace. It’s dedicated to the Belgian hip hop scene and is a fun take on the city symbol.

#15 Tour d’Angle (Corner Tower)

Part of the fortifications that once enclosed Brussels, Tour d’Angle – or Anneessens Tower – is a little slice of ancient history among modern developments.

The tower was built in the early 13th century as part of the first city walls. The 2.5-mile-long walls, which were used for both protection and administration, surrounded the city for about 100 years before they had to be expanded. Tour d’Angle is one of the few sections of the original wall that still stands.

Route Tip: To get to the next sight, walk along the picturesque Rue de Rollebeek. The pedestrian street features ornate facades that date to the 19th century (although, the street itself has likely existed since the 14th century).

#16 Place du Grand Sablon

Elegant and posh, Place du Grand Sablon is a gorgeous neighborhood square. The triangular space marks the heart of the district and is lined with opulent architecture dating from the 16th to 19th centuries. At the center is the Minerva fountain.

Housed in the historic buildings are chic eateries, antique stores, boutique shops and luxury chocolatiers – like the innovative Pierre Marcolini Chocolate Shop. We know, we’ve already featured chocolate shops in our 1 Day in Brussels Itinerary. However, when in Belgium for a day, it’s essential to eat as much chocolate as possible!

On weekends, the square hosts a festive Antique Market. Disappointingly, during the week, the space is used as a parking lot.

Before wandering through Place du Grand Sablon, take a peek down Rue Joseph Stevens, just one street south. The downward sloping street offers a grand view of the Notre-Dame de la Chapelle Church and its black clock tower. It ranks as the city’s oldest church, dating to 1134.

Top Food Tip: Hungry for another Belgian specialty? Pistolet Original on Rue Joseph Stevens is dedicated to creating classic Belgian sandwiches. The crusty roll with a soft inside can be filled with an array of locally sourced products and traditional flavor combinations.

#17 Palace of Justice and Place Poelaert Viewpoint

Ranking as one of the world’s largest courthouses, the landmark Palace of Justice houses the country’s highest courts. The building was designed in the mid-1800s and was completed in 1883.

After suffering major damage during World War II, it has undergone perpetual renovations. It has been shrouded in scaffolding since the 1980s, although there are rumors that the exterior will be finished by 2030.

The inside, which is open during normal business hours and is free to visit, is said to be absolutely sumptuous. Our trip to Brussels coincided with a public holiday and the building was closed.

Perched next to the Palace of Justice is the spacious Place Poelaert Square. The space hosts two war monuments and the Grande Roue Place Poelaert Ferris Wheel.

However, most visitors make the trek up for the elevated vista. Considered to be the best view in the entire city, the scene stretches over the rooftops to the green-domed National Basilica of the Sacred Heart on Koekelberg Hill.

To the north (right) of the basilica, you can spot the shiny, bulbous Atomium. This top attraction in Brussels that was created for the 1958 World Fair and can be visited if you have more than a day.

Route Tip: The Palace of Justice and Place Poelaert Viewpoint is about a third of a mile (6-minute walk) from Grand Sablon. Either take the slightly inclined Rue Ernest Allard or follow the flat Rue des Minimes to the Ascenseur des Marolles elevator (which is free to use).

#18 Eglise Notre Dame des Victories au Sablon Church

Eglise Notre Dame des Victories au Sablon – or Church of Our Lady of Victories – is one of the best places to visit in Brussels in one day. The site is listed on the Belgium Heritage Registers as a Historic Monument and is free to visit.

The 15th century Gothic church is the centerpiece of the Sablon district. With an incredibly lavish Baroque interior, it was long the preferred house of prayer for Brussel’s wealthiest and most prominent citizens.

Top features are the colorful stained-glass windows, the enchanting Baroque chapels, the wooden pulpit and the statue of Mary wearing white.

Interesting Tale: The Virgin Mary statue is not just beautiful, but it also comes with a fascinating story. According to legend, a woman stole the wooden statue from the Antwerp Cathedral in 1348. She was able to escape by boat – as Mary allegedly kept the woman from being caught. Upon arrival, an exuberant procession, called the Ommegang, celebrated the safe arrival of the miraculous icon. The parade still takes place annually in July.

#19 Petit Sablon Garden

Before leaving the area, step inside the pristinely landscaped Petit Sablon Garden. The neo-Renaissance green space was designed in 1890 and is decorated with bright flowers, large statues and a beautiful fountain.

The fence surrounding the garden features 48 different statues. Each figure represents one of the Brussels’ ancient guilds.

Hidden Gem : On the way to the next sight (Place Royal), step into the easy-to-miss Sculpture Garden. The small green space sits inconspicuously next to the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium – and is open to the public for free.

#20 Place Royal Brussels

Created in the late 1700s, Place Royal – or the Royal Square – is a fine example of a symmetrical, neoclassical space. The eye-catching Church of St. James on Coudenberg is the square’s focal point. The equestrian statue of Godfrey of Bouillon stands at the center, paying tribute to the First Crusade hero.

The eight pavilions that surround the square complete the harmonious neoclassical design. The buildings are now occupied by some of the city’s best museums, such as the Musee Magritte, Royal Museums of Fine Art and Musee BELvue (all of which charge admission fees).

Itinerary Planning Tip: The city is home to a slew of interesting museums. In our opinion, visiting museums is not one of the top things to do in Brussels in one day. Unless you are an art aficionado or musical instrument connoisseur, we think it’s best to keep moving on – there is still so much more to see!

#21 Jardin du Mont des Arts

Strolling through the Jardin du Mont des Arts – or Garden of the Kunstberg – is a highlight of a Brussels day tour. The elegant public space sits at the center of the city’s art and cultural district. The garden is bounded by the library and archives on the south and the convention center (and shopping mall) to the north.

The views over the magnificent Kunstberg Garden encompass the fine buildings of Brussels – including the Town Hall tower. In addition to the landscaped garden, be sure to check out the star-shaped Mont des Arts Carillon that rings out throughout the day.

Sightseeing Tip: On the route to the garden, you will pass by the renowned Musical Instruments Museum, which is housed in the architecturally beautiful Old England building. An entry fee is required to see the exhibits ( Skip the Line Tickets are available), but visitors can go to the 10th floor café for views without paying the admission fee.

#22 Palace de Brussels and Parc

Brussels sightseeing in one day should most certainly include seeing the famous royal palace.

The majestic Brussels Palais Royal – or the Palais de Bruxelles – serves as the official residence of the King and Queen of the Belgians. However, the members of the Belgium monarchy do not live at the Royal Palace of Brussels. Instead, they reside at the nearby Palace of Laeken. The King does use the palace as his office and as a place to welcome foreign dignitaries.

The Brussels Royal Palace was built in the early 19th century and was continually updated and expanded throughout the 20th century. It was constructed on the grounds of the former Palace of Coudenberg, a 12th century structure that was ravaged by fire in the 1700s and was left in ruins.

The grandiose interior is said to be absolutely splendid. Featured highlights are the Grand Staircase, the Hall of Mirrors, the Grand Gallery and the Throne Room. However, the palace is only open to the public from late July to the end of August. It’s free to enter, but reservations are required.

Brussels Park – once the hunting grounds for the Palace of Coudenberg – opened to the public in the late 1700s. It was the city’s first park and remains one of the finest to this day. The Park of Brussels is sandwiched between the Palace and the Brussels Parliament (which is not the same as the European Parliament). Fun fact: tunnels connect the two buildings along with an underground bunker.

The garden hosts numerous statues and monuments – as well as the Royal Park Theatre, the Vauxhall concert venue and a number of green-leafed trees, fountains and flowerbeds. Rotating art exhibits are also held at the park.

Route Tip: While possible to walk to the next sight, Parc du Cinquantenaire, it’s faster by subway. Ride the Metro from Parc Station to Merode Station. Use Line #1 in the direction of Stockel or Line #5 toward Herrmann-Debroux. 

#23 Parc du Cinquantenaire

If the weather is nice during your Brussels one day visit, then you won’t want to miss Parc du Cinquantenaire! The expansive green space, which is located within the European Quarter, is the most renowned park in Brussels. Many visitors go to the area for the on-site museums. These include the Royal Military Museum, Autoworld, the Art and History Museum and nearby Nat Geo Institute.

The lush and spacious park was created in 1880 to celebrate 50 years of Belgian independence (thus the name, Park of the Fiftieth Anniversary).

The top feature is the triple Memorial arch, called the Cinquantenaire Arcade. Visitors can go to the top for spectacular views via the Army Museum. Other highlights of the park are the Temple of Human Passions (a Greek-style temple built in 1896), the Monument to the Belgian Pioneers in the Congo and the Great Mosque.

Route Tip: To get to the next attraction on our list (the Cathedral), ride the Metro back to Parc Station – or walk the 1.25 miles.

#24 Brussels Cathedral

Next up on your 1 Day Itinerary for Brussels is the astounding Cathedral. Officially called the St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral of Brussels – and sometimes just called St. Guldula – the Cathedral serves as the National Church of Belgium. The building dates to the 11th century, but it obtained its intricate Gothic detailing during the 16th century.

The structure stands at the historic center of the city, where two major trade routes once crossed. A chapel had stood on the site as early as the 9th century.

The façade features soaring, 210-feet-tall twin towers, flying buttresses and gargoyles. Inside, visitors will find high vaulted ceilings, Baroque altars and stained-glass windows (some of which date to the 16th century). The pipe organ – which was only installed in 2000 – is also a highlight. It’s free to visit the Cathedral – but there is a small fee to see the crypt.

Fun Fact: Belgian royal weddings (and funerals) take place at the Cathedral. Photos of the most recent events hang near the entrance.

#25 Royal Gallery of St Hubert

The dazzling Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries shopping arcade, which features a glass roof to allow natural light to filter in, dates to the 1840s. The complex (a Belgium Historic Monument) is actually three distinct arcades; the King’s Gallery, the Queen’s Gallery and the Princes’ Gallery.

Walking the fashionable shopping lanes that house high-end shops, cafes and apartments is one of the top activities in Brussels. Not to be missed is the Tropismes bookstore (on Princes’ Gallery) and the original Neuhaus Chocolate Shop (where they invented the Belgian Praline).

Maison Dandoy is a famous old fashioned biscuit shop that is known for their exceptional waffles and Speculoos – a traditional spiced Belgium cookie.

Dining Tip: For a sit-down meal, consider dining at La Taverne du Passage, a longtime favorite haunt of artists and authors in the late 19th century. The brasserie serves traditional Brussels cuisine in an old-world atmosphere.

#26 Rue des Bouchers

Quaint and picturesque, Rue des Bouchers is a narrow alley that is chock-a-block full of seafood restaurants. Dubbed Restaurant Row and The Stomach of Brussels, the street dates to Medieval times when it was lined with butcher shops (Bouchers).

Many tourists rush to Rue des Bouchers for a platter of Mussels from Brussels. Moules Frites – or Mussels and Fries – is the national dish of Belgium. Le Marmiton and Chez Leon (which opened in 1893) are two of the most popular restaurants on Rue des Bouchers.

When planning what to do in Brussels in a day, certainly walk along Rue des Bouchers, but don’t feel you need to eat here. The area is now known as a ‘tourist trap’ and some restaurants have reviews to match.

Fun Fact: While Mussels from Brussels are a top dish to eat, many people relate the phrase to actor Jean Claude Van Damme, who was born and raised in a suburb of the city.

#27 Jeanneke Pis (Girl Peeing Statue)

While not a must see in Brussels in one day, the Jeanneke Pis statue is a odd attraction before enjoying a well-deserved Belgian beer.

The feminine counterpart to Manneken Pis, Jeanneke Pis is a small statue of a pig-tailed girl squatting to pee. The fountain, which is located on the inconspicuous Impasse de la Fidelite, was revealed in 1987. It was meant to promote the restaurants in the area – and became an instant sensation.

Attraction Tip: Although tucked safely behind a gate, passersby can toss coins into the fountain, which are donated to charity. The mischievous girl is said to protect those who make a donation.

#28 Delirium Café and Village

Just across the alley from Jeanneke Pis is one of the most famed beer bars in Brussels: Delirum Café. The bar serves an astounding (and Guinness World Record holding) 2000 different beers.

Delirium Village is actually a complex of 8 different bars that aim to please every palate – from craft beer aficionados to fans of fine spirits. For example, the upstairs Delirium Hoppy Loft Bar features 20 rotating taps dedicated to micro-brews from around the globe.

Beer Tip : Delirium is our top pick for a pint of Belgian brew, but there are plenty of places to sample the local suds. Other top-rated bars are Beer Capital Brussels and Moeder Lambic Fontainas. You can even find a Brewdog Taproom (which hails from Scotland ) next to Central Train Station.

#29 Wolf Sharing Food Market

A hip and modern food hall, Wolf Food Market has 17 on-site vendors that serve a variety of global street food. Additionally, the space hosts an on-site microbrewery and pours their artisanal brews from the center bar – just 100 feet from the tanks.

It’s one of the fun places to visit in Brussels in 1 day where you can get a taste of the multicultural cuisine. We think it’s particularly great for groups of travelers, as many of the vendors sell platters for sharing.

Belgian Food Tip: Visitors can find local eats at Wolf Food Hall, too! At Butcher, they serve different Belgian dishes. We ordered a classic, Vol au Vent, which is a creamy chicken stew served atop a puff pastry…and it was absolutely delicious!

#30 Grand Place at Night

Grand Place is so nice that we recommend visiting it twice! End your 1-day trip in Brussels in the square to note how the shifting light has changed its appearance. After dark, the square is particularly delightful, with the signature architecture aglow.

Don’t Miss: Before leaving Brussels, seek out the giant Smurf sculpture in front of the Horta Gallery!

More Brussels Things To Do

If you haven’t yet determined how many days to spend visiting Brussels, there are a few good reasons to stay longer. We have rounded up a list of more fun things to do for those planning a 2 Days Brussels Itinerary – or longer.

Comics Art Museum

Many comics have origins in Belgium – and the stories are detailed in the quite serious Comics Museum. Housed in a superb Art Nouveau building dating to 1903 (once a department store), a ticket is required to see the displays. You can go into the lobby to see the building (and gift shop) for free.

Rue Neuve Shopping Street

Shopping is a top Brussels activity and Rue Neuve is the premier shopping area in the city. The pedestrian route is lined with name brand retailers and boutique shops. The street changes names (a couple of times) as it leads south to the Bourse, but the entire length is a shoppers delight!

Botanical Garden

The Jardin Botanique de Bruxelles is a quiet refuge on the northern edge of the Old Town. The garden was established in 1826 and features vibrant blooming flowers and a greenhouse. Plus, it’s free! 

Congress Column Monument and Viewpoint

The Congress Column celebrates the signing of the Belgian Constitution of 1831. The 154-foot-tall monument is topped by a statue of King Leopold I, the country’s first monarch.

The statues at the base of the pillar represent the guaranteed freedoms of the Constitution. The Freedom of Education, Association, Worship and the Press. A World War I memorial – The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame – are also at the base.

Across from the column is the Panorama Bruxelles Congress, a vast platform where you can take in the city views.

European Parliament and Museums

For those interested in the history and achievements of the European Union may want to make time to visit the European Parliament and the on-site museums.

Parliament tours, the Parlamentarium Museum and the House of European History are all free attractions within the modern complex. Parc Leopold, featuring mature trees and a pond, is also worth visiting.  

Matonge Neighborhood

Long the center of African culture, Matonge is situated between Sablon and the European Parliament in the Ixelles District. The main thoroughfare, Chaussee de Wavre, is home to the Cinema Vendome theater, an African market and other ethnic shops. Explore the lanes that connect to the main street to find engaging architecture, African restaurants and quaint squares.

Marolles District

Situated to the southwest of Sablon, beneath the imposing Palace of Justice, Marolles is a historic neighborhood that is fun to wander. Considered to be ‘authentic’ and Bohemian, residents of the district speak a unique dialect. Highlights of Marolles are the Marche aux Puces Flea Market (Sunday is best day), vintage shops, street art and hip cafes.

Atomium and Mini Europe

The giant, stainless steel Atomium is a landmark sight that sits north of the city center. Designed for the 1958 Brussels World Fair, the futuristic building has been renovated into a science museum. There is a rather steep fee to enter and it can get crowded, so it’s best to go early.

The Mini Europe exhibition is next door to Atomium, which features a scaled (yet incredibly detailed) version of Europe’s top cities and monuments.

As both sights are popular with families with kids, buy tickets in advance. Tickets to Atomium also include the nearby Design Museum. The Mini Europe Tickets include a guidebook to the exhibits.

Historic Cantillon Brewery Museum

The Musee Bruxellois de la Gueuze at Brasserie Cantillon to the west of the city center is a fun spot for beer lovers. Detailing the traditional process of brewing Lambic beer, the museum offers self-guided tours and beer tastings. Find more prices and hours on the official website .

Map of Brussels 1 Day Itinerary Attractions

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Brussels Tour Map below.

Travel Tips for Brussels Day Trips

Those planning day trips in Brussels may need to consider the logistical details of their visit. Such as how to get there and what to bring. We are covering all the need-to-know info!

How Expensive is a Day in Brussels

There is no doubt that Belgium is pricey – but that should not deter budget travelers from visiting!

In our outline of what to do in Brussels for a day, we feature an abundance of attractions that are free to visit – and a few inexpensive places to eat, too. With our outline of what to do in Brussels in one day, visitors can easily plan a cheap day trip to Belgium.

Getting Around

Our itinerary of things to do in Brussels in a day is designed for travelers to move through the city on foot (except to and from Parc du Cinquantenaire with the Metro).

That said, visitors who want to explore some of the sights beyond the city center can use Uber, the Hop On Hop Off Tourist Bus or public transportation.

Public transit consists of buses, trams and an underground metro. Single ride tickets cost less than 3 euros and can be purchased at easy-to-use machines on the platforms or at the stations.

How To Get There

Brussels can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. The Brussels Airport (BRU) sits to the northeast of the city and is well-connected with direct train service. To find low-priced plane tickets, use our Tips for Cheap Airfare .

Brussels has three train stations: Brussel-Nord (north), Brussel-Centraal (center) and Brussel-Zuid/Midi (south). For day trippers, the best train station is Central. However, Eurostar trains serving London , Amsterdam and Paris utilize Brussels South.

There are two bus stations in Brussels – so travelers arriving by coach should double-check the terminus.

Where To Stay in Brussels for One Night

Travelers spending 24 hours in Brussels – or longer – will need to find a place to stay! The city boasts a wide range of hotels, although most are on the pricey side. Use our tips for Booking Cheap Accommodations for money-saving tips.

We think the best place to stay for one night in Brussels is in the heart of the city near Central Station.

The 9Hotel Central is a top pick. The property is situated in a renovated historic dwelling and is just a stone’s throw from the station and the best attractions. Check availability for your trip ! 

Motel One Brussels is another fantastic option for a hip place to stay. While it is a little further from the station, it is still incredibly centrally located. Plus, rooms tend to be more affordable than other options in the area. Check current rates!

Get Ready for Your One Day Trip to Brussels

When touring Brussels in one day, you will want to make sure you are prepared for the trip. We have a bit more advice that will help make sure you are ready!

Comfortable Shoes

Our outline of what to do in one day in Brussels covers some ground! Make sure you wear durable shoes for your visit. Read our reviews for the Best Travel Shoes to help pick out your pair!

Travel Camera

When traveling to Brussels for the day be certain to bring a great travel camera . The city (especially Grand Place) is gorgeous! We use a DSLR Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens . We provide reviews and other options in our article, Best Cameras for Budget Travelers .

Versatile Day Bag

On your 1-day trip to Brussels, Belgium, you will want to carry a good day pack. It needs to be big enough to stow everything you will need for the day – from an umbrella and refillable water bottle to sunscreen and guide book . We share top advice in our article, Great Day Bags for Travelers .

European Trip Insurance

Travel doesn’t always go as planned. If things go awry during your Brussels one day tour, insurance might help. Check rates and coverage at World Nomads if you haven’t already obtained insurance for your trip.

Start planning your trip to Belgium ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

More Belgium Travel Guides

Using the city as a base, you can embark on day trips from Brussels to nearby destinations. If you found our above One Day Brussels Itinerary useful, you will likely find our travel guides for nearby destinations equally helpful.  COMING SOON!

• The Best of Ghent 
• What To See in Bruges 
• Things To Do in Antwerp  
• Complete Belgium Itinerary 

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Brussels Street Art & Comic Strip Walking Tours (+ Printable Maps)

Many of the world’s most famous comics originated in Belgium . Maybe some of these will ring a bell: ‘The Adventures of Tintin’, ‘The Smurfs’ and ‘The Adventures of Astérix’. Yep, all of these were created by Belgian artists and writers!

Belgium’s capital city, Brussels, celebrates this infamy by showcasing over 50 giant comic strip murals along Brussels’ Comic Book Route / Comic Strip Route . And this is j ust one of the many top reasons to visit Brussels!

So, fancy heading out on a self-guided walking tour of Brussels? We’ve created two different routes you can follow (depending on how much you want to see).

During the shorter walk, you’ll discover at least 10 comic strip murals and street art pieces . W hile the longer walk features even more murals and interesting landmarks.

We’ve even created handy maps and a PDF you can access online o r print out before your trip.

FYI: You can skip ahead to the different sections of this blog post via the links below:

Brussels Street Art Walking Tour Maps & 2024 Update

• Short 1.25 Mile Walking Tour
• Longer 5 Mile Walking Tour

Other Street Art We Found in Brussels

How we designed our self-guided walking tours.

As I mentioned, we’ve created two different street art walking tour s for Brussels. The first one (our original walking tour) lasts for approximately 1 hour and covers 1.25 miles. Our newly upgraded version is around 5 miles long and takes 3-4 hours to complete (with rest stops).

We used to recommend starting our original walking tour from the Bruxelles-Midi train station – where the Eurostar terminal is. This made it easy if you wanted to s tart your self-guided walking tour of Brussels as soon as your city break start ed .

Why We’ve Updated Our Walking Tours

We’ve recently come back from another trip to Belgium and we found the area surrounding the Bruxelles-Midi train station has substantially gone downhill since our last visit . I actually didn’t feel safe there at all, so we’ve decided to completely remove this area from our walking tours .

The first walk now starts from the Bruxelles-Central train station and ends in Anneessens where the famous Astérix & Obélix comic strip mural can be found. Both tours now also focus on the centre of Brussels (surrounding Grand-Place), so they should be more enjoyable for you.

For reference, here’s how the original walking tour used to look:

And here’s how our newly upgraded walking tours look now:

Read on to find out more about these walking tours or you can grab both versions right now via our handy maps and printable PDF .

We’ve also highlighted various landmarks and points of interest in Brussels that you’ll see along the way, so you know what else to look out for during your walk.

Plus, if you’re interested in designing your own Brussels street art walking tour, we’ve also explained how we created ours at the end of this blog post.

Short Brussels Street Art Walking Tour: 1.25 Miles – 1 Hour

If you only have an hour or two to look for Brussels’ Comic Strip murals, this is the tour for you! We’ve scouted out the very best murals for you and we’ve designed it to start from the Bruxelles-Central train station. Here’s the map for this tour . Listed below is what you can look forward to seeing during it.

The Smurfs is probably one of Belgium’s most famous comic series. It follows the village of some small blue people as they build their village, encounter magic from the native wizard and fall in love.

It was first first penned in 1958. Since then, the comics have been translated into 25 languages and have been adapted for both film and television.

The comic strip mural in Brussels i s o n the ceiling of the Putterie passageway just across from the Bruxelles-Central train station. It’s huge, covering 206m2 and took over 60 litres of paint to create!

We struggled to find it as we didn’t expect it to be on the ceiling . H opefully , you won’t have the same issue now that you’ve read our blog.

If you look for the Putterie passage, walk inside it and look up, you’ll instantly be hit with a dazzling array of bright blue, yellow, white and red – and the most charming Smurfs village scene.

We easily spent about 15 minutes standing inside this passage, admiring it from every possible angle.

Brussels Street Art Address Book: Putterie – 1000 Bruxelles

Top Tip: The stunning Galeries Royales Saint Hubert shopping arcade isn’t far from the Smurfs mural… well worth a look! You’ll also find a fun Smurfs statue outside Galerie Horta, which might also be worth the slight detour.

2. Manneken Peace

Although not based on a comic strip mural, on the side of the Manneken Pis GardeRobe Museum , is a large street art mural of a modern-day Manneken Pis . It’s wittingly labelled as Manneken Peace.

It’s fun and well worth seeing if you love everything about the iconic (and weird) symbol of Brussels!

Brussels Street Art Address Book: Rue de Chȇne 19 – 1000 Bruxelles

3. Olivier Rameau

Olivier Rameau is a comic strip that dates back as far as 1931. It tells the story of a young legal clerk called Olivier Rameau and the beautiful Colombe Tiredaile as they battle to save the fictional kingdom of Rêverose from various threats.

This mural was one of the ones I was most desperate to see after seeing how colourful it looked on another blog. It did not disappoint!

It’s based on the 1960s versions of the comics and depicts the two main title characters standing on a field of flowers, trying to clasp hands as fireworks set off all around them.

Brussels Street Art Address Book: Rue de Chȇne 9 – 1000 Bruxelles

The Adventures of Tintin is another of Belgium’s most famous comic strips. Dating back to 1929, the comics have since been published in more than 70 languages and adapted for radio, film and TV.

The comic follows the heroic adventures of Tintin, a young Belgian reporter and his loyal dog, Snowy, as they try to solve crimes and mysteries in the 1920s.

The accompanying mural is based on a strip found in its most famous comic book called ‘The Calculus Affair’, which was published in 1956.

The mural is along one of Brussels’ most touristy roads where you’re never too far from shops selling Belgian waffles, chocolates and souvenirs , as well as horse-drawn carriages rambling past.

It covers the full length of a wall on the side of a shop and is still super bright in appearance.

Brussels Street Art Address Book: Rue de l’Étuve 37 – 1000 Bruxelles

Top Tip: Look out for the iconic Manneken Pis statue just around the corner from the Tintin mural!

The LGBT mural in Brussels is based on a comic strip like all the others . But a much more recent one compared with many of the other murals found on this walk.

The mural was painted as part of the Pride Festival, by Ralf König & Fotini Tikkou in collaboration with Rainbow House, the City of Brussels and Ancienne Belgique.

It depicts several stereotypes and homophobic reactions associated with the LGBT community.

Although it’s a bright and fun piece, it needs a second look to see the sad deeper meaning. When we visited, we noticed that additional graffiti had been added to it. (We assume this isn’t part of the original piece!)

Around the corner from this mural, you’ll also find another LGBT series, which triggers even deeper meanings and feelings.

Brussels Street Art Address Book: Rue de la Chaufferette 25 – 1000 Bruxelles

Top Tip: Look out for Choco-Story , Brussels’ informative cocoa museum and home of chocolate-making demonstrations just up the road from the LGBT mural!

6. Broussaille

Broussaille is a Belgian comic, which was created as a spin-off series from the artist’s original stories.

The comic follows the title character’s discoveries and learnings about nature, wildlife and animals.

The accompanying mural was the first Brussels comic strip mural to be painted (in 1991) by the original comic strip artist himself, Frank Pé.

It depicts a young couple arm in arm, walking through the streets of Brussels.

Despite it being located in Brussels’ main gay nightlife hub (as suggested by the rainbow-coloured zebra crossings found near here), the mural is actually of a man and a woman. Although it’s very difficult to see this at first glance!

It’s a huge mural covering the full length of a wall on the side of a café and it’s handily just across the road from the next mural on this mini w alking tour.

Brussels Street Art Address Book: Rue du Marché au Charbon 37 – 1000 Bruxelles

7. Victor Sackville

Victor Sackville was a French-Belgian cartoon series that witnessed the missions of an English spy of George V around the world , but especially in Brussels and other European cities.

The cartoon began in 1985 in collaboration with the newspaper, ‘Pourquoi pas?’ . It’s since been published in the ‘Journal of Tintin’ since 1988 and in ‘Hello Bédé’ since 1989.

The comic strip mural of this classy agent and an unknown woman fills the entire length of a wall beside shops and cafés. Given its size, it’s hard to miss!

Brussels Street Art Address Book: Rue du Marché au Charbon 60 – 1000 Bruxelles

8. Astérix & Obélix

Astérix or The Adventures of Astérix is a series of French comics, which first appeared in the Franco-Belgian magazine ‘Pilote’ in 1959.

Possibly one of Belgium’s most famous comic strips, it’s been translated into 111 languages around the world. We even read them as children ourselves!

The series follows the adventures of a village of Gauls people as they resist Roman occupation in 50 BC.

This is also depicted in the accompanying street art mural, which sees a heap of characters from the series charging at the Romans.

The mural itself is on a wall facing a basketball court. However, the gates to it aren’t always open.

They were locked when we visited on a Friday in November so we had to push our cameras through the railings to take a photo of the whole thing.

Brussels Street Art Address Book: Rue de la Buanderie 25 – 1000 Bruxelles

Long Brussels Street Art Walking Tour – 5 Miles – 4 Hours

If you want to see lots more Comic Strip murals in Brussels, you might enjoy our newly upgraded walking tour!

This is a circular route starting and ending at the Bruxelles-Central train station. It lasts for around 3-4 hours (with rest stops).

You’ll also see lots of Brussels’ best bits on the way. Check out our newest walking here tour , or by filling in the quick form below:

Throughout our Brussels city break , we kept stumbling across other street art pieces as well.

We saw an old green chair being carried by a workman and pigeons around the corner from Astérix & Obélix, some colourful shop artwork near the LGBT mural, several musicians and a forest display near the Olivier Rameau mural and even Mickey Mouse opposite Marché aux Poissons.

It goes to show how much other interesting street art you’ll find in Brussels alongside the more famous comic strip murals. So… keep your eyes peeled throughout your visit to this fun city!

Le Chat was a daily comic strip created by Philippe Geluck . It was published in the newspaper ‘Le Soir’ from 1983 to 2013.

It was an exceedingly popular comic series and the cat eventually became known as the mascot of its publishing newspaper.

The accompanying comic strip mural was created in 1993 and depicts the title character seemingly building himself out of bricks.

Visit Brussels claims this is a “typical insult of the Marolles population since Poelaert built the imposing Palais de Justice, which overlooks this working-class district of Brussels.”

The mural is high up on the side of a building. You’ll likely see it as soon as you walk through the pedestrian passageway beneath the R20 road.

As per our 2024 update at the start of this blog post, we sadly no longer recommend walking around this area because we didn’t feel safe during our most recent visit.

Brussels Street Art Address Book: Boulevard du Midi 87 – 1000 Bruxelles

If you’re interested in creating your own Brussels comic strip walking tour, then here’s how we created ours .

Step 1: Make a list of must-see murals

First, we made a note of the addresses of all the comic strip murals we simply HAD to see during our trip to Brussels.

For both of us, these were Astérix & Obélix, Tintin and the Smurfs because we’d read and heard about these comics as young children. I was also desperate to see the Olivier Rameau mural.

We used this website to get the addresses we needed.

Step 2: Use a map!

Then, using a good old-fashioned map that came with our Brussels guidebook, we set about plotting these murals on the map. I suppose you can just use Google Maps now, though, eh?

This helped us establish how far apart they were and how close they were to landmarks we already knew about.

Step 3: Find out which mural to see first

Once we had our map circled, we needed to find out which mural was closest to our hotel . I n our case, it was just around the corner from the Bruxelles-Midi train station. T his meant Astérix & Obélix was the first main mural we wanted to see.

Step 4: Find out which murals to see next

From there, we established which order the next few murals should come in, leading us to see Tintin, Olivier Rameau and the Smurfs next.

Step 5: Find more murals en route

Given that we knew there were well over 50 comic strip murals dotted around Brussels, we checked whether there were any other murals near the ones we knew we wanted to see.

A quick check of addresses against this trusty website showed us that some murals, such as Tintin, were just minutes apart from lots of other interesting street art pieces.

Step 6: Fill in the gaps on your map

So, we filled the gaps between each of the main murals with others we would try to find along the way, leaving us with about 6 or 7 murals to see in total.

Step 7: Look for more street art as you wander

During the walk itself, we made sure to look around corners and keep our eyes peeled on every building we passed. By doing this, we discovered a handful of other murals and street art we loved!

Step 8: Share your knowledge with others

Then, we came back home and wrote this blog post to give you some inspiration ahead of your own walking tour. We hope it’s proved useful!

Read More About Brussels, Belgium

We’ve visited Belgium many times over the years, so we have lots of blogs for you to read. You can find them all here. Alternatively, you might like to start with one of these:

• 17 Reasons Why Brussels Is Worth Visiting
• 2 Days in Brussels: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary
• Brussels In A Day: Action-Packed One Day In Brussels Itinerary
• Hidden Gems in Brussels: 10 Oft-Forgotten Brussels Secrets
• The Peeing Statues in Brussels: Secrets You Didn’t Know
• 3 Days in Belgium Itinerary (3 Cities in 3 Days!)
• 11 Authentic Souvenirs From Belgium (+ Where To Buy Them)

Also, if you like our Brussels street art walking tours, you might also enjoy our:

• Self-Guided Chocolate Walking Tour For Brussels
• Banksy in Bristol Self-Guided Walking Tours

We hope our Brussels comic strip murals walking tours come in handy when you next visit Brussels! Which mural are you most excited to see first? We’d love to know what you think so feel free to jot a few notes down in the comments below…

Do you like our self-guided walking tours? Why not share them around now?

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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13 comments

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks Alistair, I’m glad you enjoyed it! I have to say, it was A LOT of fun to write, that’s for sure! 🙂

THANK U!!! Its clear u spend a lot of time to prepare this Am going to Brussels today I hope i can save the map but maybe i cant. If i can i hope u tell me how Thans again for this amazing post

Ok I found how to do that. It worked !! Thnk u

I’m so pleased you found our map helpful… and that you’ve worked out how to save it 🙂

I hope you have a fab time in Brussels – enjoy finding all the incredible street art pieces!

The Mickey was actually created for the 90th birthday of Mickey Mouse in 2018. There was a walk in the city with several art works (most of them are still there but they are a bit hidden).

Thanks for sharing this info Stijn! Very cool 😀

Hello! Wow this looks amazing. I can’t seem to see the map – is it still available? Thanks&

Hi there, So sorry about that! It looks like the map was broken, so we’ve created a new one. You should be able to access the new map just fine now 🙂 I hope you have a great time xoxo

Hello! I can’t seem to find the map you talk about, can i get some advice please? We’re headed to Brussels next week and keen to follow your blog!

Thanks in advance.

Hi Jess, Thanks so much for letting us know about this 🙂 It looks like the map was broken, so we’ve created a new one and updated the blog post. I hope you enjoy searching for all the fabulous street art! xoxo

Brussels Street Art Walking Tour Map : We are a group of friends and are interesting to do this walk with a french guide in Bruxelles in March next. Can you pls inform me if it is possible and give us a contact in Brussels ? Many Thanks. Myriam Van Hissenhoven – Belgium

Bonjour Myriam, Thanks for commenting! I don’t know if anyone would do this exact tour as this blog post was what I came up with after visiting with my husband. But I’ve found a local private tour operator that does a Brussels street art walking tour and it looks like they can give you a French speaking guide. Here’s the link to Get Your Guide so you can check prices and availability: https://gyg.me/4wV6BXAy I hope this helps 🙂 Best wishes, Justine xoxo

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This is my second tour with Europamundo. The first was not all that great, but I was partially to blame so I decided to give them another shot. This tour includes stops at locations that are in line with what one would expect to see in the cities included. The transportation is decent and comfortable. Another family and I were asked if we would mind going on a different tour bus because of seating space. Once on the bus it was conducted entirely in Spanish and we had to remind the guide that there were English speakers on board. The city tours provide a lot of information and scenic memories. Make a note that it says on the last day the end of services is after breakfast. Actually, after the city tour in Paris the day before the end of the tour you will get dropped off by the L'ouvre under the premise of a "free day" and you are on your own to get back to your hotel. The accommodations are about a 7.5/10. In Amsterdam I was at the Radisson Blu. It was a nice full service hotel. Daily breakfast was good. Room was comfortable and clean. However, it is not located by anything but warehouse/industrial buildings. However, in Paris We stayed at the Residhome Aparthome in Nanterre. The location is great!!! Lots of restaurants and buzzing college town. However the accommodations were horrid. Specifically my room #209 had old peeling furniture and mildew on the roof and doorways. I took pics and will upload. The staff were French speaking only. Overall, the tour is good. Saw lots of sights and made lifetime memories. Europamundo needs to do a little more fine tuning to be sure the tours run a little more smoothly. I will say I would consider doing another tour with them. Considering the price the value matches what was paid.

We had a great time but it rained every day and I very much wished I had roughy my winter coat!! The food was good but the portions were small. The room was small but comfortable. Many fellow travelers including myself wished for more to do on the ship. Maybe games to play, cards, etc.

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European cities hope jet-setting Taylor Swift fans will splash the cash for Eras tour

The superstar arrives in Europe next month – and Swifties, tourist boards and venues are already preparing

T im Brown, 44, and his wife, Marcella, 34, may not consider themselves bona fide “Swifties”, but when it was announced last June that Taylor Swift would be visiting their corner of the globe this summer they could not resist joining the scramble for a pair of tickets.

A post-pandemic appetite for live music events has fuelled huge worldwide interest in the American singer-songwriter’s Eras tour, which surpassed in $1bn sales in November to become the highest-grossing series of concerts in history.

The pop culture event of the summer will arrive in Europe next month, kicking off in Paris on 9 May and wrapping up in London on 20 August with 49 dates in between in Sweden, Ireland, Portugal, Germany, Poland, Austria, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Switzerland.

The unique nature of the tour’s ticketing system, which was tweaked after a number of hitches last year, means there will be a mass movement of travelling fans who will not only be Swiftie in affiliation but swift-like in their willingness to travel across the continent.

In expectation of intense demand, Ticketmaster introduced a pre-registration system that rewarded some early applicants with access codes to the ticket sale proper, via staggered windows for each city.

Notionally designed to prioritise genuine fans over “scalpers” – people who buy and resell tickets for a quick profit – the pre-sales system also meant many fans registered for tickets in multiple destinations across Europe to increase their chances.

Tim and Marcella, who live in Norwich, registered not just for the nearest concerts – in London and Liverpool – but also in Amsterdam and Lisbon. The pair got lucky with a pair of €91 tickets in the Portuguese capital and have turned the trip into a weekend break. “I used to live in Lisbon so I thought why not kill two birds with one stone,” Tim said. “We booked ourselves flights and four nights’ accommodation the same day.” They are far from alone.

Katie Soo, the chief business officer of DICE, a rival ticketing company, said: “The excitement and uncertainty inherent in the ticket-purchasing process might have inadvertently incentivised fans to apply for tickets in multiple cities, thereby increasing the likelihood of travelling across Europe to attend the concerts.”

Hotel prices

Several European cities have already reported a sharp rise in demand for hotel and short-term rental accommodation over the summer, when the Swift hurricane will arrive. In Edinburgh, Liverpool and Cardiff, rooms at the Travelodge chain around Swift’s June dates have been sold out since August 2023, a month after tickets for the shows went on sale.

In Paris, where fans anticipate Swift to debut an updated version of the Eras show with songs from the new Tortured Poets Department album, 80% of hotels and apartments listed on Booking.com are already full up. In Warsaw on 2 August, only 9% of hotels listed on the same site are still available.

Not all of the 18 cities covered by the Eras tour are obvious tourism destinations. From 17-19 July, Swift will play three concerts at the 65,000-capacity home ground of the football club Schalke 04 in Gelsenkirchen in Ruhr valley, western Germany. The city’s less-than-familiar name prompted one US chatshow host to quip that “the place might not even exist”.

Yet even in Germany’s rust belt the influx of Swift fans is temporarily transforming the hotel market: any two-bedroom apartments that remain available are going for €800-2,000 a night, with cheaper accommodation available only in surrounding cities that are just as off the usual tourist track as Gelsenkirchen, such as Essen, Bochum or Herne.

Cities with stricter rules on allowing Airbnb-style holiday lets and a more limited stock of short-term rental apartments are reporting a particularly marked increase in rates during Swift’s visit, with about 30% year-on-year spikes in rental rates in Cardiff, Edinburgh and Milan, according to AirDNA, a data analytics company specialising in the short-term rentals market.

Of all the tour’s European stops, Vienna is experiencing the most notable impact on its rental market, with booking rates for the nights of Swift’s concerts recorded in February 44% higher than at the same point the previous year. By the end of March the number of nights booked in the Austrian capital for the length of Swift’s stay in the second week of August had risen by 430% compared with the same period in 2023.

When Luke Tilden’s wife, Tatjana, suggested last summer that the couple buy their 13- and 15-year-old daughters, Lena and Maya, tickets to a Taylor Swift gig for Christmas, the 53-year-old Briton initially waved it off. “There’s no chance in hell we’d get a ticket without paying through our noses, I thought,” said Tilden, who works as an interpreter at the European parliament in Brussels.

But after pre-registering for tickets in London, Paris and Munich, the Tildens got unexpectedly lucky for four tickets in southern Germany and have turned the concert visit into a mini-holiday: “We’ll visit the in-laws in Bavaria, enjoy the countryside, do a bit of hiking.”

The hope in cities across Europe is that this will be replicated on a massive scale, with fans’ excitement translating into generous spending sprees on food, shopping and leisure. In Stockholm, for example, where authorities are expecting 159,000 visitors to arrive from 135 countries in mid-May, the chamber of commerce has forecast a spending boost of €50m. “We hope the whole town will buzz from the Eras tour,” said Tomas Andersson, a spokesperson for the Swedish capital’s tourism board.

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Whether fans will necessarily act like ordinary tourists, however, is up for debate. “Pop-culture tourists do not necessarily care about traditional buildings and authentic restaurants,” said Maria Lexhagen, a professor at the European Tourism Research Institute, Mid Sweden University.

“Joining up with other fan communities is stronger motivation, as is the idea that they might get closer to the stars themselves. Many of them will map out where Swift is spending her time in the city – they will seek out seemingly marginal but meaningful places like back alleys or coffee shops.” Venues may be hoping for a repeat of Sydney in February, when Swift swept into an unassuming Italian restaurant in the suburbs and sent its name into global media headlines.

In Stockholm the tourism board said it was expecting bookshops and secondhand clothes stores, rather than museums and royal palaces, to attract most of the arriving visitors. Some venues are being proactive: one restaurant within walking distance of the multipurpose Friends Arena in the Solna municipality is putting on a “Taylor Swift brunch experience” with a karaoke stage; the waterfront nightclub Debaser is hosting a pre-concert party on 16 May, an all-ages all-day party with a Swift-themed quiz on 19 May and an afterparty the day after.

Environment

As the Swift circus rolls across the continent, the transport infrastructure of urban centres will also be put to the test. Around the tour’s three-night stop in Dublin at the end of June, Irish Rail has announced additional late-night services to Cork and Limerick to meet an expected increase in demand. Extra tram and bus services are likely to be announced nearer the time.

Unlike rail operators, most airlines do not have capacity to charter additional flights. Due to yield management – airlines adjusting prices based on expected demand – a scramble for airborne journeys into cities that host the Eras tour is more likely to result in more expensive tickets rather than additional flights.

Officials at Lisbon airport said no additional flights had been chartered around Swift’s concerts on 24 and 25 May but that demand would probably be reflected in slightly higher load factors. A spokesperson for Amsterdam Schiphol said general aviation slots could be requested at short notice but nothing out of the ordinary had been logged so far.

Calculating the environmental impact of the tour with any certainty was difficult, experts said. “We can expect that some Swift fans will travel a long way to see one, if not several, shows across Europe”, said Stefan Gössling, a professor of tourism at Linnaeus University in Kalmar, Sweden. “But measuring the environmental impact of these trips is extremely difficult – it would involve a lot of guesswork.”

This did not mean the carbon footprint was negligible. “Every flight taken by a person adds to demand and hence influences supply considerations,” Gössling said. “The greater the demand, the more aircrafts are in service.”

The pop star’s carbon footprint is easier to estimate. Swift owns two jets by the French manufacturer Dassault, whose journeys are trackable. During the 2023 leg of the Eras tour, Swift’s planes spent 166 hours crisscrossing the US in about 75 individual journeys, though it is possible they were used by people other than the singer.

According to data available through the open-access aviation tracker ADS-B exchange, Swift’s jets caused carbon emissions of about 2,830 tonnes of CO 2 equivalent over the course of the US Eras tour – about 1,700 times the annual contribution of an average person.

A spokesperson for Swift told US media last year that in advance of the tour’s start in March 2023, the pop star bought more than double the carbon credits needed to offset all tour travel. Carbon offset credits are tradable certificates that allow purchasers to compensate for emissions by investing in environmental projects that claim to reduce carbon emissions, though recent studies have questioned the efficacy of these schemes.

Additional reporting by Ajit Niranjan

• Taylor Swift
• Travel & leisure
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