Brussels Weekend Getaway by Eurostar: 48-Hour Itinerary
Brussels is one of Europe's most underrated capitals — packed with stunning architecture, world-class chocolate, incredible beer, and a vibrant cultural scene. At just 2 hours by Eurostar from London, it's the perfect weekend escape.
Getting There
- Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels-Midi: approximately 2 hours
- Advance fares from around £35 one way
- Trains run multiple times daily
- Book on FlipEarth for the best weekend return deals
Saturday Morning: Grand Place and City Centre
Start at the Grand Place — Brussels' magnificent central square and a UNESCO World Heritage Site:
- Marvel at the ornate guild houses and the Gothic Town Hall
- Visit the nearby Manneken Pis statue (it's smaller than you think!)
- Browse the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, one of Europe's oldest shopping arcades
Saturday Afternoon: Chocolate and Beer
Brussels is paradise for food lovers:
- Take a chocolate walking tour or visit iconic shops like Pierre Marcolini and Neuhaus
- Head to the Delirium Café — home to over 2,000 different beers
- Try a Belgian waffle from a street vendor (the Liège-style is our favourite)
Saturday Evening: Dinner in Sainte-Catherine
The Sainte-Catherine neighbourhood is Brussels' seafood district:
- Try moules-frites (mussels and chips) — the national dish
- Pair with a local Trappist beer like Chimay or Westmalle
- Walk along the canal and enjoy the neighbourhood's buzz
Sunday Morning: Museums and Parks
- Visit the Magritte Museum for surrealist art masterpieces
- Explore the Royal Museums of Fine Arts next door
- Stroll through the Parc du Cinquantenaire and its triumphal arch
Sunday Afternoon: Atomium and Beyond
- Take the Metro to the Atomium — Brussels' iconic 1958 World's Fair structure
- Enjoy panoramic views from the top sphere
- Visit Mini-Europe next door for a whirlwind tour of European landmarks
Before You Leave: Last-Minute Treats
- Pick up Belgian chocolates as souvenirs from a local chocolatier
- Grab a final speculoos coffee at a neighbourhood café
- Buy some Belgian beer from a specialty shop to take home
Practical Tips
- Brussels is walkable — most attractions are within 30 minutes on foot
- The Metro is handy for the Atomium and outer attractions
- English is widely spoken alongside French and Dutch
- Tipping is not expected but rounding up is appreciated
- Sunday markets at Place du Jeu de Balle are great for antiques
Brussels rewards slow exploration. With 48 hours and an easy Eurostar connection, you'll discover why this city deserves far more attention than it gets.