7 Days in Brussels: The Perfect 7-Day Itinerary (2026)

By Flavia Voican, 360 Business Tour · Updated April 2026

Day 1-2: Arrival & City Highlights

Welcome to Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the de facto capital of the European Union. Upon arrival, you'll likely start at the central train station (Gare Centrale), which is a great starting point for exploring the city. Your first stop should be the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage site is surrounded by opulent guild houses and the stunning Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville), which is open to the public for guided tours (€12.50, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM). Don’t miss the view from the top of the belfry, which offers a panoramic view of the city.

Next, head to the nearby Rue de la Régence, a charming shopping street with a mix of high-end and local boutiques. End your first day with a visit to the European Parliament in the European Quarter. While the parliament building is only accessible to visitors with prior booking, the surrounding area is worth exploring for its modern architecture and vibrant atmosphere. You can also enjoy a drink at one of the many cafés in the area, like the popular Brasserie de la Senne.

• Train: €3.50 for a 7-day pass (€12.50)
• Grand Place: Free to visit
• Town Hall guided tour: €12.50
• Brasserie meal: €15-25

Day 3-4: Museums & Culture

Brussels is home to several world-class museums. Start with the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, located in the Sablon district. The museum complex includes the Oldmasters Museum (€12), the Magritte Museum (€13), and the Modern Museum (€12). Each museum offers a unique perspective on European art, with highlights including works by Rubens, Magritte, and Van Dongen. Opening hours are generally from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours on Fridays.

On your second day, visit the Musical Instruments Museum (€15), a hidden gem that showcases over 8,000 instruments from around the world. The museum is interactive, and you can even try playing some instruments. Another must-visit is the Atomium, an iconic structure built for the 1958 World Expo. It houses a small museum (€15) and offers breathtaking views from the top. The Atomium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with last entry at 8:00 PM.

• Royal Museums of Fine Arts: €12 per museum
• Musical Instruments Museum: €15
• Atomium: €15
• Lunch at a museum café: €10-15

Day 5: Local Neighbourhoods & Food

Spend a day exploring the local neighborhoods of Brussels. Start with the Marolles district, known for its bustling daily market (Marché aux Poissons) and cozy cafés. Visit the Bistrot des Marchands for a traditional Belgian meal. After lunch, head to the European Quarter and stop by the famous Delirium Café, home to over 3,000 different beers. Don’t miss the chance to try a local favorite like Duvel or Leffe.

In the evening, walk through the trendy Ixelles neighborhood. This artsy district is filled with independent bookstores, art galleries, and great restaurants. Try the vegetarian-friendly Bistrot Gourmand or the cozy Le Pain Quotidien for a lighter meal. End your day with a drink at one of the many microbreweries or rooftop bars in the area, like the popular The Hare.

• Marché aux Poissons: Free to visit
• Delirium Café entry: Free, beer prices from €4-10
• Dinner in Marolles: €20-30
• Rooftop bar drink: €8-12