Discover the charm of Brussels in just two days! Explore iconic architecture, delve into world-class museums, and enjoy a romantic stroll through the city. This itinerary is perfect for art and architecture lovers seeking a memorable getaway.
Day 1 in Brussels: A Day of Art and Architecture in Brussels
Explore the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Start your day by immersing yourself in the heart of Brussels at the Grand Place. This central square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning display of opulent guildhalls and the majestic Town Hall. Take your time to admire the intricate architecture and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Discover Brussels' Cultural Gems at Mont Des Arts
After the Grand Place, head to Mont Des Arts, a cultural hub right in the city center. Explore the Royal Library, National Archives, and beautiful gardens. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance amidst the bustling city.
Explore an Impressive Collection of Art at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts
Continue your artistic journey at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, just a short walk from Mont Des Arts. Explore an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the 15th to the 21st centuries. Immerse yourself in the world of Belgian and international art.
Delve into the Surreal World of René Magritte
End your day with a visit to the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the surrealist Belgian artist René Magritte. Explore his captivating works and gain a deeper understanding of his unique artistic vision.
Day 2 in Brussels: A Romantic Day Trip to Ghent
Discover the Historical City of Ghent
Embark on a romantic day trip to Ghent, a charming city known for its canals, castle, and cathedral. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterways, admire the majestic Gravensteen castle, and explore the impressive St. Bavo Cathedral, home to the Ghent Altarpiece.
Explore the Canals of Bruges from a Different Perspective
After Ghent, take a boat ride through the canals of Bruges, a nearby city renowned for its medieval charm. Enjoy a romantic cruise, admiring the picturesque houses and bridges lining the waterways.
Enjoy a Romantic Bike Tour Through Brussels
Return to Brussels and end your day with a romantic bike tour through the city's charming streets and landmarks. Pedal along the cobblestone paths, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories together.
References
Weather in Brussels
In Brussels, Belgium in May, you can expect mild and pleasant spring weather, with average high temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F) and average low temperatures ranging from 9°C to 12°C (48°F to 54°F). It's a great time to visit, with fewer rainy days compared to the winter months. When packing for your trip, consider bringing layers of clothing, including light jackets, sweaters, and scarves, as the temperature can drop significantly at night. Don't forget to include comfortable walking shoes, as you'll likely want to explore the city's charming streets and attractions. Additionally, be prepared for occasional rain showers, so it's a good idea to bring a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella. With the spring flowers in bloom, May is a lovely time to visit Brussels, and you can enjoy the city's festivals and events, such as the Brussels Festival of Music and the Brussels Flower Carpet.
Transportation in Brussels
Brussels is a very walkable city, and you can easily get around on foot or by using public transportation. The city has a reliable public transport system that includes metro lines, pre-metro lines (trams in tunnels), trams, and buses. You can also hire a bike or an electric scooter, which is a fun way to see the sights. Alternatively, you can use a taxi, but be aware that rates are fixed, so you can find out the cost of your journey in advance. If you prefer to use public transportation, you can buy individual tickets from shops, vending machines, or the app, which give you 60 minutes to hop between trams and buses without limits. However, if you plan to use public transportation frequently, you may want to consider purchasing a city pass, which often includes unlimited use of public transport and entry to numerous monuments within the purchasing cost.
Dos in Brussels
- Explore beyond Brussels and visit smaller Belgian cities.
- Take advantage of Belgium's many train discounts.
- Be aware of the different train stations in each city.
- Try regional Belgian dishes and drinks, including Belgian Fries , waffles , and beer.
- Carry coins for the bathroom and have a 1 euro coin for museum lockers.
- Check for museum free days and consider purchasing attraction cards or city passes.
- Pack a rain/windproof jacket and a raincoat.
- Be prepared for Belgian humour.
- Use public transport instead of taxis when arriving in Brussels.
- Speak English when in doubt.
- Recycle like a Belgian.
Don'ts in Brussels
- Don't rely solely on Google Maps for opening hours.
- Don't rush to rent a car.
- Don't tip in Belgium.