Belgium may be small, but it packs a punch with its diverse cities. Two of its most iconic destinations—Brussels, the bustling capital, and Bruges, the storybook medieval town—offer vastly different travel experiences. Whether you’re a fan of cosmopolitan vibes or crave old-world charm, this guide will help you decide which city suits your wanderlust. During our European Adventure in October 2024, we spent 3 days in Belgium travelling across Brussels and Bruges and here is our guide to both of these contrasting destinations.

Brussels: Where Europe’s Heart Beats with Chocolate, Culture, and Charm

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a city that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern sophistication. It is a city of contrasts—where European bureaucracy meets bohemian flair, and Gothic architecture stands beside comic murals.

Top places to visit

Grand Palace

This UNESCO-listed square is the crown jewel of Brussels. Surrounded by ornate guild halls and the 15th-century Town Hall, it’s a visual feast—especially when lit up at night.

Atomium

This is a futuristic structure built for the 1958 World Expo, it’s part sculpture, part museum, and fully iconic. Designed as the symbol and principal pavilion of the Brussels World’s Fair in 1958, the Atomium is an enormous 102 m (334 ft) tall sculpture of an atom has become the image of the Belgian capital. This is located slightly away from all other attractions of the city and hence, we decided to skip it, but do give it a visit if you have time.

Manneken Pis

Brussels’ cheeky mascot—a tiny statue of a urinating boy—gets dressed up in different costumes year-round.

Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts, or Mount of the Arts, is a complex of gardens and sights located between Brussels’ Grand Place and Royal Palace. With meticulously manicured shrubs and esplanades, it’s the perfect vantage point from which to admire the city’s art nouveau architecture and Gothic Town Hall tower in the distance.

Top things to experience

Chocolate, Waffles & Beer: The Holy Trinity

If cities were desserts, Brussels would be a layered confection—rich, complex, and utterly irresistible. Beyond its Gothic spires and cobbled squares, the Belgian capital is a playground for the senses, offering indulgent experiences that go far beyond sightseeing. For those with a taste for the finer (and sweeter) things in life, Brussels delivers a trifecta of culinary delight: chocolate, waffles, and beer.

Belgian Chocolate: Belgium’s reputation for chocolate is legendary, and Brussels is its beating heart. From silky ganaches to crunchy pralines, the city’s chocolatiers treat their craft like haute couture.
Places to try good Belgian Chocolates: Neuhas, Pierre Marcolini, Mary Chocolatier, Corne Port-Royal

Waffles: Waffles in Brussels are not just snacks—they’re edible joy. Whether you prefer the light, square Brussels waffle or the dense, sweet Liège waffle, you’re in for a treat.
Places to try some good waffles: Maison Dandoy, Los Churros & Waffle, Le Funambule, Waffle Factory, Galet/Vitalgaufre (leige waffles)

Belgian Fries: Belgian fries—known locally as frites—are a national obsession and a culinary art form. Unlike typical French fries, these golden delights are double-fried: first at a lower temperature to cook the potato through, then again at a higher heat to achieve that signature crispy exterior. Typically cooked in beef fat, you can find places that advertise cooking these in veg oils.
Top places to try Belgian fries : Patatak (vegetarian), Fritland, Cafe Georgette, Frituur Tabora, Maison Antoine

Beer: Belgium boasts over 1,000 beer varieties, and Brussels offers a curated sip of this heritage. From ancient Trappist brews to modern microbrews, the city’s beer culture is as diverse as its architecture. Some well known bars: Delirium Taphouse, Little Delirium, Cafe Georgette

Street Art & Comics

Brussels is a canvas of creativity. From Gothic cathedrals to Art Nouveau facades, and comic strip murals to modern galleries, the city pulses with artistic energy. Though we gave this a pass due to shortage of time, I am putting this here for reference for anyone interested to explore –

Musical Instrument Museum: Housed in the stunning Old England Building, it features over 2,000 instruments and a rooftop café with sweeping views.

Comic Strip Center: Celebrate Belgium’s comic heritage with Tintin, The Smurfs, and more.

Street Art in the Canal District: Explore industrial spaces turned into vibrant art zones.

Bruges: A Fairytale Frozen in Time

Nestled in the heart of Belgium’s Flanders region, Bruges (or Brugge in Flemish) is a city that feels like it leapt straight out of a storybook. With its cobbled streets, winding canals, and medieval architecture, it’s no wonder Bruges is often called the “Venice of the North.” But beyond its postcard-perfect beauty lies a rich tapestry of history and culture that makes every visit unforgettable.

Bruges is compact and walkable – perfect for slow exploration. We did a day trip to Bruges from Brussels, but one can also stay overnight here to enjoy the charm of this picturesque town away from the hustle and bustle of the crowded Brussels.

Top things to see and do

Explore the Historic Center

Walk through the charming streets and admire the medieval architecture, including the iconic Belfry Tower and the Church of Our Lady.

Take a Boat Tour

A boat tour is a great way to see Bruges from a different perspective. You’ll glide through the city’s picturesque canals and learn about its history and landmarks.

See Michelangelo’s “Madonna and Child”

The Church of Our Lady is home to Michelangelo’s famous sculpture, “Madonna and Child.” This stunning work of art is a must-see for art lovers.

Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood

This sacred site houses a vial said to contain a drop of Christ’s blood, brought back from the Holy Land in the 12th century.

Indulge in Chocolate, FRIES, WAFFLES & Beer

Bruges is packed with artisanal chocolatiers and historic breweries. The great Belgian indulgence continues even in this quaint little town. Some top places to try these:
Beer: De Halve Maan, Bourgogne Des Flandres
Fries: FritBar, The Potato Bar
Waffles: Laurence take away, Chez Albert, House of Waffles
Chocolates: Dumon Chocolatier, Pierre Marcolini, The Chocolate Line 

Final Thoughts

Brussels and Bruges are like two sides of Belgium’s cultural coin. If you’re short on time, Bruges offers a concentrated dose of beauty and history. But if you crave variety and vibrancy, Brussels will keep you on your toes. Better yet—why choose? They’re just an hour apart by train, so you can experience both in a single trip.