3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Brussels

Day 1: Exploring Historical Landmarks

Brussels, Belgium

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Start your day with a delicious organic breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien where you can enjoy fresh bread and homemade spreads that won't break the bank.
5-minute walk to Grand Place.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Grand Place

Marvel at the stunning architecture of Grand Place, Brussels’s central square, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by opulent guildhalls.
Walking around the square.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Manneken Pis

Take a brief 10-minute stroll to see the iconic statue of Manneken Pis, famous for its whimsical charm and history.
10-minute walk from Grand Place.
Free, 30 minutes

11:15AM

Tour the Brussels City Museum

Dive into the history of Brussels at the City Museum located in Grand Place, which features exquisite art and artifacts.
5-minute walk from Manneken Pis.
EUR8, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Fritland

Enjoy a quick and savory meal of Belgian fries at Fritland, one of the best fry shops in Brussels, renowned for its tasty sauces.
15-minute walk from the City Museum.
EUR5, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll Through Parc du Cinquantenaire

After lunch, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Parc du Cinquantenaire, a beautiful park featuring impressive arches and gardens.
Take a tram to Schuman.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Royal Museums of Art and History

Discover Belgium's artistic treasures at the Royal Museums of Art and History, which offers a wonderful peek into the country's rich history.
5-minute walk from Parc du Cinquantenaire.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Chez Léon

Savor a traditional Belgian meal at Chez Léon, renowned for its mussels and fries, offering a quintessential culinary experience.
15-minute walk from the museums.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Evening at Delirium Café

Cap off your day at the famous Delirium Café, home to thousands of beers, vibrant atmosphere, and good company.
15-minute walk from Chez Léon.
EUR5, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Art, Chocolate, and Culture

Brussels, Belgium

8:00AM

Breakfast at Maison Antoine

Enjoy a light breakfast of pastries and coffee at Maison Antoine, celebrated for its fresh offerings.
Walking to the nearby tram stop.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Atomium

Travel to the iconic Atomium, a symbol of Brussels, and explore its intriguing exhibitions and panoramic views.
Take the metro to Heysel.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Mini-Europe

Next to the Atomium, why not visit Mini-Europe, where you can see miniature replicas of famous European landmarks?
Located right beside the Atomium.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Le Roy d'Espagne

Savor some more local cuisine at Le Roy d'Espagne, located near the Grand Place, and enjoy the view.
Return to Grand Place via metro.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Chocolate Tasting Tour

Indulge in a guided chocolate-tasting tour, experiencing the finest chocolates that Belgium has to offer.
Walking around the area around Grand Place.
EUR20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Magritte Museum

Explore the surreal masterpieces of René Magritte at his namesake museum, a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
5-minute walk from the chocolate tour.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Le Pain Quotidien

Return to your favorite breakfast spot for a cozy dinner of organic salads and artisan pizzas.
10-minute walk from the museum.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Evening at the Sablon district

Wander through the Sablon district with its antique shops and galleries and enjoy a glass of wine or hot chocolate from a local café.
15-minute walk from Le Pain Quotidien.
EUR5, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: European Parliament and Local Culture

Brussels, Belgium

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de la Presse

Start your day at Café de la Presse with a simple breakfast of coffee and a croissant.
Short walk to the café.
EUR7, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit European Parliament

Tour the European Parliament and learn about its significance in European politics.
Take the metro to Maelbeek.
Free with reservation., 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Discover Parc Leopold

Take a relaxing walk through Parc Leopold, ideal for a little downtime in nature.
5-minute walk from the Parliament.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Cinquantenaire Museum

Visit the magnificent Cinquantenaire Museum to further explore Belgium's grand history and artifacts.
Metro back to Schuman and walk.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Roue d'Or

Enjoy a delightful lunch at La Roue d'Or, known for its classic Belgian dishes and reasonably priced menu.
10-minute walk from the museum.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Shopping in the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Wander through the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert and indulge in some shopping or window shopping in this elegant arcade.
Take tram to De Brouckère.
Free unless purchasing., 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center

Explore the fascinating world of comic strips at the Belgian Comic Strip Center, celebrating their artistic heritage.
Walking distance from the Galeries.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Chez Léon

Return to Chez Léon for a final meal of tasty mussels and fries, immersing in the local culinary tradition one last time.
15-minute walk from the Comic Strip Center.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Stroll Around the City

Take a leisurely evening stroll around the city, soaking in the ambiance and beauty of Brussels at night.
Walk down to the nearby areas.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability