Brussels Bliss: A Budget Day Trip Guide

Experience the charm of Brussels without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

On a limited budget, a trip to Brussels, Belgium can still be a memorable experience. The city is known for its stunning architecture, famous chocolate, and exquisite beer, all of which can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. To save money, consider exploring the city on foot or by bike, staying in a budget-friendly hostel, and sampling local street food and beer at affordable prices.

Day trip plan

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Day

Brussels on a Budget

  • Start the day off with a visit to the iconic Manneken Pis statue, a quirky symbol of Brussels
  • Visit the Grand Place, a stunning square surrounded by ornate buildings, and take in the architecture
  • Check out the stunning Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, a Gothic masterpiece
  • Head to Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a historic shopping arcade filled with high-end boutiques and chocolatiers
  • Grab a classic Belgian waffle from a street vendor, topped with whipped cream and strawberries
  • End the night with a visit to Delirium Café, a bar with over 2000 different types of beer on the menu (and affordable prices!)

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Brussels, Belgium by plane is to fly into Brussels Airport (BRU) which is located approximately 11km northeast of the city center. Many airlines offer flights to Brussels from major cities across the world.

Car

Driving to Brussels is easily achievable as the city is well-connected by road. The E40 and E19 are major highways running close to Brussels, making it easy to approach the city from Antwerp or Ghent, and from France, respectively.

Train

Taking the train to Brussels is a convenient option as Brussels is well-connected to many major European cities. Brussels Midi station is the main station in the city, with high-speed trains arriving from London, Paris, Amsterdam and Cologne amongst others.

Boat

Unfortunately, Brussels is not accessible by boat as it is not located near any major waterways. The closest water connection is the Port of Antwerp which is approximately 50km north of Brussels.

Bus

There are many bus companies offering connections to Brussels, making it an affordable option. Eurolines, Flixbus and Ouibus all offer affordable connections to Brussels from various European cities.

More travel plans

Bite-Sized Brussels: A 4-Day Budget Adventure

A trip to Brussels, Belgium on a limited budget can still be a delightful experience. Explore the city's historic architecture, parks and museums through free walking tours or by renting a bike. Savor delicious local cuisine from the numerous street food stalls, taverns and markets at affordable prices.

A Long Weekend of Romance in Brussels

Brussels, Belgium is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway with your partner. Marvel at the stunning architecture, enjoy the local cuisine and sample the famous Belgian chocolate. Take a romantic stroll around the charming city, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the many outdoor cafes and bars.

Brussels Bliss: A 4-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Brussels, Belgium is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip with its vibrant culture and numerous attractions. Explore the enchanting Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and indulge in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles. Discover the wondrous Atomium, a giant steel structure that offers panoramic views of the city, and visit Mini-Europe, a delightful park featuring miniature replicas of famous European landmarks.

Brussels: A Cosy 3-Day Romantic Getaway

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, offers an ideal backdrop for a romantic trip, with its quaint cobbled streets, scenic canals and charming architecture. Take a stroll through Grand Place, considered one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Europe, and visit the Manneken Pis, a symbol of the city. Indulge in the local cuisine, including waffles, chocolates and beer, and end your day with a romantic dinner at one of the many candlelit restaurants that Brussels has to offer.