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7-Day Itinerary: Brussels and Bruges

Tuesday, August 8: Arrival in Brussels

Welcome to Brussels! Start your trip by exploring the historic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the morning, marvel at the stunning architecture and visit the nearby Museum of the City of Brussels. For lunch, indulge in delicious Belgian cuisine at a local brasserie. In the afternoon, discover the iconic Manneken Pis statue and explore the charming streets of the Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries. In the evening, treat yourself to a taste of Belgian beer at a traditional brewery.

  • Grand Place: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Museum of the City of Brussels: €10 (approx.), 1-2 hours
  • Manneken Pis: Free, 30 minutes
  • Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Traditional Brewery: €15 (approx.), 1-2 hours
Wednesday, August 9: Brussels

Start your day with a visit to the European Parliament to learn about the workings of the European Union. In the morning, explore the nearby Parc du Cinquantenaire and enjoy a picnic. Afterward, head to the Royal Palace of Brussels and take a guided tour of its opulent interiors. In the evening, indulge in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles at local chocolatiers and pastry shops.

  • European Parliament: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Parc du Cinquantenaire: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Royal Palace of Brussels: €10 (approx.), 1-2 hours
  • Chocolatiers and Pastry Shops: €10-20 (approx.), 1-2 hours
Thursday, August 10: Day Trip to Bruges

Take a day trip to the enchanting city of Bruges, known for its picturesque canals and medieval architecture. In the morning, explore the historic city center and visit the famous Belfry of Bruges for panoramic views. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the canals and savor a traditional Belgian lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Groeningemuseum to admire Flemish art and take a relaxing stroll along the Minnewater Lake. Return to Brussels in the evening.

  • Belfry of Bruges: €12 (approx.), 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride: €10-15 (approx.), 1 hour
  • Groeningemuseum: €12 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • Minnewater Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday, August 11: Brussels

Explore the vibrant district of Saint-Géry in the morning, known for its trendy bars and art galleries. Enjoy a brunch at a cozy café and visit the Halles Saint-Géry, an old covered market now converted into a cultural center. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens and immerse yourself in the natural beauty. In the evening, experience the nightlife in the lively Place du Luxembourg area.

  • Saint-Géry District: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Halles Saint-Géry: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Royal Botanic Gardens: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Nightlife in Place du Luxembourg: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Saturday, August 12: Brussels

Start your day with a visit to the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, home to a vast collection of artworks including masterpieces by Flemish painters. In the morning, explore the Magritte Museum and delve into the surreal world of René Magritte. Enjoy a delicious Belgian lunch at a local brasserie. In the afternoon, discover the Atomium, a unique architectural landmark, and take in the panoramic views from its observation deck. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing walk in the Parc de Bruxelles.

  • Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium: €15 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • Magritte Museum: €15 (approx.), 1-2 hours
  • Atomium: €15 (approx.), 1-2 hours
  • Parc de Bruxelles: Free, 1-2 hours
Sunday, August 13: Brussels

Discover the historic district of Sablon in the morning, known for its antique shops and art galleries. Visit the Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon and browse through the flea market for unique finds. Enjoy a brunch at a local café. In the afternoon, explore the Royal Palace Park and visit the BELvue Museum to learn about Belgian history. In the evening, indulge in a gourmet dinner at a renowned restaurant.

  • Sablon District: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon: Free, 30 minutes
  • Belvue Museum: €10 (approx.), 1-2 hours
  • Renowned Restaurant: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Monday, August 14: Departure

Spend your last morning in Brussels by exploring the vibrant Sainte-Catherine district. Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants. Before your departure, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Rue de Bouchers and soak up the lively atmosphere. Bid farewell to Brussels and depart for your next destination.

  • Sainte-Catherine District: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Seafood Lunch: €20-30 (approx.), 1-2 hours
  • Rue de Bouchers: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a hidden gem, visit the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken (open in spring) to admire the stunning architectural beauty and vibrant botanical displays. Locals love to escape the city and relax in the Bois de la Cambre, a large park with charming lakes and picnic spots. Don't miss trying the famous Belgian fries from Maison Antoine, a popular fry shack in Place Jourdan.

For more information and to find the best hotel and flight prices, check here.

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