One day in Brussels
 

Hi there--

I'm heading to London again this summer, and would like to visit Brussels for a day as I've never been. Any suggestions on how to make the most of one day? How about a nice dinner reccomendation?

Thanks!

One day in Brussels is about all you'll ever need....

Before this thread gets inundated with posts urging you to visit Bruges instead, here are a couple of ideas for a nice day in Brussels.
It's a quirky, charming yet surprisingly laid-back city that is certainly worth a visit despite what some might say. (Time Out wouldn't have published a guidebook on the place if there was nothing going on there...)

In addition to the main tourist sights of the Grand Place and the (rather overrated) Mannekin Pis, a lovely museum to visit is the Museum of Musical Instruments which is beautifully laid out in an amazing building. No French required, as you tour the exhibits with headphones that pick up recordings of music from the different instruments as you walk round. There's a lovely restaurant at the top of the building with a fabulous panoramic view of the city.

You could also take a stroll around the Sablon, one of the prettiest squares in the city, and stop by Pierre Marcolini to purchase some truly memorable chocolate. There's also an antiques market at weekends that's fun to poke around.

Hopefully some of the other Brussels experts will check in with more ideas. I've only been living here a few months so I won't classify myself as an expert yet...

I would also add that the city's art museum holds a special collection of Northern European masters, including those of Brueghel and Rubens. For something different, the Cantillon Brewery has a tour and tasting. The Atomium, at the site of the 1958 World's Fair is kind of passe and run down, but the view from the top of one of those big molecule balls is worth the trip itself. Be sure and enjoy some of the local cuisine, which can include Mussels and Frites, if in season, but I also recommend a broiled Dover sole, something rarely found in the U.S.

Hi!
I just returned from a trip to Belgium, including about two days in Brussels. First- I actually preferred Ghent to Bruges. Much less touristed, lovely architecture- loved it. But! As for Brussels: I second the recommendation to go to the weekend flea market- great fun. There are a few- will you be there at a weekend?