A Weekend in Brussels by Eurostar
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Grand Place, Brussels ©PT Wilding
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Atomium in Heysel Park, Brussels ©VisitBrussels - Global View - S. Schmitt
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Manneken Pis Souvenirs in Brussels ©VisitBrussels
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Christmas Market on Markt and Simon Stevin Square ©Visit Bruges, Toerisme Brugge, Jan Darthet
Undoubtedly one of Europe’s premier cities, a weekend in Brussels is guaranteed to be fascinating.
Swirling outwards from centre you’ll find a hodgepodge of art nouveau facades, elite museums, 1960’s concrete and medieval houses. Guild houses huddle around the edges of the Grand Place, the square at the heart of Brussels’ medieval core, as if jostling for a view of the exquisite town hall. Begin your Belgian adventure here, in one of the world’s prettiest square, which is sure to impress.
Enjoy a convenient and relaxing journey from the UK to Brussels by Eurostar. Begin your weekend on the right note, with convenient and laid back travel, arriving just metres from your hotel. In addition to simplifying your arrival in Belgium, the Ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi’s location next to the train station also means you’re near to transport links for the duration of your stay. The city centre is less than 15 minutes away and trains to other cities including Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp are right on your doorstep.
The Belgian capital is a whirl of beautiful architecture. From higgledy-piggledy guildhouses to colossal modern glass buildings, the city is a pleasure to wander through. Furthermore, visit the iconic Atomium – a mesmerising structure which has become synonymous with modern Brussels. Explore the museums inside and head to the top sphere to enjoy panoramic views over this remarkable city. Be sure to visit another icon of the city – Mannekin Pis. Far removed from Paris’ Eiffel Tower or Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, the amusing statue of a urinating boy has become a symbol of this capital. With regular costume changes, this little statue always draws a crowd. The legends surrounding the statue vary greatly, but ultimately he demonstrates the humour of the residents.
From Tin-Tin to cherry beer, this city is full of delights. Whether you want to admire artwork, delve into European politics or delight in chocolate creations – Brussels will deliver.
Dates
Dates throughout 2024
Suggested itinerary by coach
Day 1
Travel to Brussels
Take the Eurostar to Brussels-Midi station. Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel, and then head to centre to take a 2 hour city tour to discover the sights. Admire the architecture in the Grand Place. Full of stunning medieval buildings including the imposing Gothic City Hall, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in the 1990s. In the evening head back to the Grand Place for an evening meal at the Roy d’Espagne, a traditional Belgian restaurant.
Day 2
Sightseeing, Chocolate and Beer
Today, explore the city further and take a guided tour to discover the sights. Admire the architecture in the Grand Place. Full of stunning medieval buildings including the imposing Gothic City Hall, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in the 1990s. Wind through the cobbled streets and stroll through the Parc du Cinquetenaire with its impressive triumphant archway. A key aspect of any trip to Brussels is meeting Mannekin Pis. This amusing statue is the city’s mascot and perfectly reflects the light-hearted attitude of the locals. The little statue has a large wardrobe and changes regularly, so he’s worth a visit even if you’ve seen him before!
Belgium is well renowned for its beer and chocolate, so why not experience some of these products. Explore the different chocolate shops or even join a workshop to create and fill your own chocolates. Sample Belgium’s different beers at a beer tasting. There are many different varieties and flavours – you may even discover a new favourite.
Day 3
Bruges
This morning, travel to Bruges by train and enjoy a full day exploring this medieval city. Take a guided walking tour of the city to get your bearings and then discover at your leisure. A good starting point is the Grote Markt, the main square in the centre of Bruges, bounded by colourful, ornate, historic gable-housed buildings. The Town Hall and the fascinating Church of the Holy Blood are popular attractions. The gardens of the Beguinage provide an oasis of calm away from the busy tourist streets. Afterwards, make your way back to the station to head back to the hotel in Brussels
Day 4
Return to the UK
The time has come to depart from Brussels. If time allows, perhaps enjoy a final jaunt through the Belgian capital before boarding the Eurostar to return to the UK.
Optional excursions
Exploring Flanders – Antwerp, Ghent or Leuven
Belgium is a small country and easy to explore by train. With your hotel located next to Belgium’s largest station, why not head off and explore Flanders’ highlights, all around 1hr away.
Perhaps take the train to Ghent also offers canals, guild houses and cobbled streets. The port town of Antwerp boasts a stunning Grand Place and the home of the famous painter Ruebens. Alternatively, perhaps head inland to Leuven, a quaint university town and renowned for its beers.
Featured hotel
Ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi ***
Conveniently located just 140m from Brussels’ central train station, Gare du Midi, this hotel is perfect for breaks by Eurostar. The Grand Place of Brussels, the highlights of the city are easily accessible by foot or public transport. Enjoy a buffet breakfast before your sightseeing and the hotel also features a bar and restaurant should you wish to relax there in the evening. Rooms have WiFi access, desks, LCD flat screen TVs and bathrooms with showers. Free coach parking is available nearby.
Hotel Novotel Brussels Centre Midi****
This hotel is also conveniently located opposite Midi station. The hotel has 93 spacious rooms, all relatively quiet for street view. All rooms have shower over baths. The hotel is currently half renovated and the other half will be finished by July/Aug 2020. Coaches can park outside the hotel free of charge.
Looking for other destinations in Belgium?
The 3 B’s of Belgium – Blankenberge, Battlefields and Bruges
| Date | Hotel | Half twin | Single supplement |
| Dates throughout 2024 | Ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi | From £405.00 per person | Price on request |
*** Eurostar seat prices are estimated and subject to pricing and availability when reservations open for your travel dates ***
