Brussels, Belgium, is a fantastic city to explore during a long layover, thanks to its compact size, walkable city center, and excellent transportation options that make it easy to get around. With almost 10 hours before my flight to Geneva, Switzerland, I took advantage of this opportunity and left the airport to experience a taste of Belgian culture, history, and, of course, some delicious treats. From iconic landmarks to local delicacies, Brussels offers plenty to see and do, even with limited time. Here’s how to make the most of a layover in this charming European capital. And of course, there are a few things you should keep in mind during your layover as you wouldn’t want to miss your connecting flight to your final destination!
Things To Be Prepared For Before Leaving The Airport
- Immigration and Customs – If you’re arriving from outside the Schengen Zone and plan to leave the airport, you’ll need to clear immigration. Ensure you have the necessary visa if required. If you’re coming from another Schengen country, you won’t need to go through immigration again. But depending on how busy the day is, customs told me it sometimes takes 2 hours or more for the wait to exit the airport. It took about 30 to 45 minutes when I visited at the end of August.
- Time Management – Allocate at least 2 hours for returning to the airport before your flight, accounting for transportation and security checks and other lineups that there may be. Take into account travel time and any traffic you may encounter.
- Luggage – I normally travel with a carry-on, but considering I’ll be leaving the airport during my layover, I had to check my luggage in to avoid the hassle. You may consider doing the same, or there are lockers available at Brussels Airport and Brussels Central Station for a fee so you can explore the city hands-free.
- Transportation – The fastest and most convenient option is to take the train to the city center. The train runs every 10 to 15 minutes from the airport to the central station. Taxis are also readily available but at a higher cost.
- Plan Ahead – Maximize your layover in Brussels by researching and creating a brief itinerary beforehand. This will help you prioritize the city’s top attractions and make the most of your limited time
- Stay Comfortable – Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the city with ease, and opt for a practical carry-on or personal bag that keeps your essentials handy without becoming a burden during long hours of sightseeing. Also keep a compact umbrella or raincoat on you as the weather can be unpredictable and you want to be prepared.
- Cash Or Card – Basically everywhere I went in Brussels accepted credit card, but if you want to play it safe, you can always exchange for a little bit of Belgian francs before you leave your own country for your layover.
Foods To Try In Belgium
Belgium is a culinary paradise, celebrated for its rich gastronomic traditions and iconic dishes that are beloved worldwide. Not only known for chocolates and waffles, the country’s national dishes include steak frites, a flavorful pairing of juicy steak and crispy fries, and moules-frites (mussels with fries), a classic combination originating from Belgium’s coast.
Brussels, in particular, is renowned for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene so make sure to try out some foods during your long layover! No visit would be complete without indulging in Belgian chocolate, crafted by master chocolatiers. Make sure to try truffles, pralines, and bars for the full experience. Another must-try is the famous Belgian waffle, available in two styles: the fluffy and light Brussels waffle, topped with powdered sugar, fruits, or whipped cream, and the denser, caramelized Liège waffle, which is a treat on its own.
Belgium is also famous for its frites – crispy, golden fries that are double-fried to perfection. They’re typically served in a paper cone and come with a selection of sauces, from classic mayo to tangy and unique creations you’ll want to try.
And of course, you can’t talk about Belgium without mentioning its legendary beer scene. With countless craft options, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into fruity lambics (lambics are a unique style of beer that originated in the Pajottenland region of Belgium and brewed through a process of spontaneous fermentation where they are exposed to wild yeasts and bacteria naturally present in the air), tangy gueuze (a blend of young and aged lambics and has a tangy, slightly sour taste and a sparkling, champagne-like quality) or rich, complex Trappist ales brewed in monasteries by Trappist monks. Enjoy a pint alongside your meal or sip it solo to truly appreciate Belgium’s centuries-old brewing tradition.
With all these incredible flavors to explore and so many delicious options, Belgium is a destination where every bite and sip feels like a celebration of tradition and craftsmanship.
Best Thing To Do In Brussels, Belgium During Your Longer Layover
St. Michael and St. Gudula
Time Spent – 30 to 45 minutes
Why You Should Visit – This stunning Gothic cathedral is an architectural masterpiece dedicated to the patron saints of Brussels with stained-glass windows depicting biblical stories, intricate woodwork, and steeped in history and artistry. It is over a thousand years old and is used as a venue for royal weddings and state events. There’s also a Romanesque crypt beneath the cathedral, which provides an opportunity to explore the cathedral’s early foundations and an impressive Baroque pulpit of Baroque woodcarving inside. You can also climb to the top for panoramic views of Brussels for a small fee.
Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert
Time Spent – 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – Built in 1847, this is one of Europe’s oldest covered shopping arcades and features high-end boutiques, chocolatiers, and charming cafés under a stunning glass roof, a ground-breaking architectural feature at the time which offers both light and shelter. Combining luxury and elegance, it’s a hangout hotspot for literary legends like Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas in the past. This gallery was a part of a movement to create sophisticated, modern urban spaces which made it a trendsetter for covered arcades across Europe. Here, you can see history, culture, and luxury all under one breathtaking glass roof.
Delirium Café
Time Spent – 1 to 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – A beer lover’s paradise, this world-famous bar holds the Guinness World Record for offering over 2,000 types of beer from across the globe. Tucked away on a cobblestone street near the Grand Place, its unassuming entrance opens up to a lively atmosphere that is also part of Brussel’s legendary nightlife. It has 3 levels, each with its own unique vibe adorned with vintage beer taps, quirky signage and other memorabilia which offers an immersive experience into Belgium’s brewing culture. Belgium’s brewing tradition is also recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Grand Place
Time Spent – 45 minutes to 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe – my jaw literally dropped and I was absolutely amazed at how beautiful it was, I just didn’t want to leave! It really is grand and a true masterpiece of Gothic and Baroque architecture. As you step into the square, you’ll see ornate façades of the Guildhalls, each intricately detailed and showcasing the wealth and craftsmanship of the city’s 17th-century guilds. The towering Brussels Town Hall with its 315-foot spire capped by a gilded statue of Saint Michael (the city’s patron saint) really showcases the grandeur of this building. With a rich history of serving as a central hub for the political, economic, and social life of the Belgians since the Middle Ages, today it continues to be the home t. events like the Flower Carpet which is held every 2 years when the square is covered in a vibrant tapestry of begonias.
Mannekin Pis
Time Spent – 10 minutes
Why You Should Visit – You’ll see many statues of this little boy peeing into a fountain all around Brussels – it is one of the city’s most famous symbols. Its origin dates back to the 17th century and according to the tale, Brussels was under siege and the enemy had set gunpowder charges to destroy the city walls. A young boy, unaware of the danger but in desperate need of relief, extinguished the fuse, saving the city from disaster. If you didn’t know about this story before visiting Brussels, it will be quite a laugh and a curious moment for tourists.
Maison Dandoy
Time Spent – 15 to 20 minutes
Why You Should Visit – For an authentic taste of Belgium, this is the place to try Belgian cookies and waffles made from recipes dating back to 1829. It is a family-owned bakery and offers rich, traditional flavors and artisanal quality that has earned them a devoted following for almost 2 centuries. Beyond the delectable treats, the bakery’s historic location adds to its charm with its old-world ambiance. You’ll find a variety of speculoo cookies, a beloved Belgian treat, as well as their signature liege waffles, which are denser and sweeter than the Brussels-style variety.
Choco Story Chocolate Museum
Time Spent – 1 to 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – Belgium is world-renown for its chocolate, and if you’re a chocolate lover, this is a must-visit. This interactive museum takes you on a journey through Belgium’s love affair with chocolate where you’ll learn about the history of cocoa – starting with the Mayan and Aztec civilizations, the art of chocolate making, and even live demonstrations where you can watch skilled chocolatiers work their magic and sample some of their creations. You’ll also learn of Belgium’s role in pioneering the creation of pralines in the 19thcentury by encasing fillings in chocolate shells. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Belgium’s status as the chocolate capital of the world and some delicious souvenirs to take home.
Wittamer
Time Spent – 15 to 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – Established in 1910, Wittamer is a family-run business passed down through generations, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship in luxury chocolates and has earned the prestigious title of being an official supplier to the Belgian royal family. It is located in the Sablon district, an area with antique shops and art galleries, this chocolatier offers beautifully crafted treats that are decadent and visually stunning. With traditional and contemporary flavors, their signature creations include pralines, truffles, and the famous tarte au chocolat, all made with the finest ingredients and
Royal Palace Of Brussels
Time Spent – 30 to 45 minutes
Why You Should Visit – Built in the 18th century, this neoclassical palace has been the official workplace of the Belgian monarchy since 1831, when Belgium gained independence. Although it is no longer the royal family’s official residence, the palace remains a symbol of Belgium’s monarchy with its grand architecture and sprawling grounds which offers a glimpse into Belgium’s regal history. The palace also remains a venue for state functions, official ceremonies, and other important events. Visitors can tour the palace during the summer months to take in the elegantly furnished rooms, art collections, and more. It also has a great view overlooking the Brussels skyline.
Parc Du Cinquantenaire
Time Spent – 1 to 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – This is a sprawling park that was created in 1880 to celebrate Belgium’s 50thanniversary of independence with grand arches, museums, and landscaped gardens. It offers a peaceful escape from the city and at the heart of the park stands the Triumphal Arch, which provides panoramic views of Brussels from the top and symbolizes the city’s resilience. Whether you’re looking to admire the natural or architectural beauty or explore historical exhibits, it is a great destination for a relaxing or fun-filled time.
If You Stay At The Airport During Your Layover
For some travelers, staying at the airport during a layover can be the most convenient option, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of clearing immigration, navigating transportation, and returning in time for your next flight. If you decide to remain at Brussels Airport, you’ll find plenty of amenities to keep you comfortable and entertained.
The airport offers a variety of shops, from duty-free stores to boutiques, where you can browse for souvenirs, Belgian chocolates, or even last-minute travel essentials. Dining options are abundant, ranging from quick bites to sit-down restaurants offering local and international cuisine.
For those looking to relax, Brussels Airport features lounges where you can unwind, recharge your devices, or even catch up on some sleep in a quieter setting. Some lounges offer showers and cozy seating, perfect for freshening up during long waits.
Additionally, the airport provides free Wi-Fi, so you can stream, catch up on work, or plan the next leg of your journey. And at some of the gates, you can even work out on a bicycle while waiting for your flight and multitasking on your devices. With these conveniences, staying at the airport can be a stress-free way to spend your layover.
For more, travel inspiration and itineraries, visit Destinations.