Belgium, a country renowned for its medieval towns, Renaissance architecture, and delectable chocolates, offers countless opportunities for exploration. With just one day to soak in the essence of this enchanting land, I found no better way to do it than by using the convenient and comprehensive Hop-On Hop-Off (HoHo) bus service. The HoHo bus allowed me to experience the highlights of Belgium without the stress of navigating public transportation or the expense of taxis. During the trip, I ventured through some of Belgium’s most renowned destinations.
My adventure began at the train station, which had a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. The sun was shining, and the decorative pots outside the station were in full bloom, adding a splash of color to the scene. The station itself was bustling with activity, with travelers hurrying to catch their trains and locals going about their daily routines.
As I boarded the HoHo bus, I had a planned itinerary for the day. My first stop was the Royal Palace of Brussels, the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians. Although not the residence of the royal family, the palace is used for official functions and state receptions. The grandeur of the building and its meticulously maintained gardens were a sight to behold. I took a guided tour of the interior, marveling at the opulent rooms and exquisite artwork.
My next stop was the Built in 1880 to mark the 50th anniversary of Belgium’s independence, Cinquantenaire Park is both a collection of French-style gardens and a historical site that’s home to monuments, sculptures and museums. It’s dominated by a triumphal arch with three arches and a bronze quadriga at its summit, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the capital.
Continuing my journey, I found myself at the The Church of Our Lady of Laeken, a Catholic parish church in the Brussels district of Laeken. Built in neo-Gothic style, it was originally erected in memoriam of Queen Louise-Marie.
Hopping back on the bus, my heart pounded with excitement as we approached the Atomium. Originally built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, this iconic structure, shaped like an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, offered panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Standing there, looking out over Brussels, I felt a profound connection to the past and the innovative spirit that built this marvel.
Soon I was back on the bust for next destinations but enjoying the historic buildings on the way and taking pictures of them.
On the way I stopped at Bourse Brussels. La Bourse, a magnificent building that was originally conceived as a home to the financial markets, has currently been transformed into a recreational place for public use.
Further up was the magnificent St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral.
This stunning example of Gothic architecture, with its impressive stained glass windows and towering spires, left me in awe. I
t was a moment of peace in an otherwise bustling day.
I also visited the Church of St. Nicholas, a Catholic church founded around 1125,.
It is one of the first four churches in Brussels and the best preserved in its successive developments.
As I continued on foot I found myself at the Brussels City Museum, a municipal museum on the Grand-Place/Grote Markt of Brussels. Conceived in 1860 and inaugurated in 1887, it is dedicated to the history and folklore of the City.
Just opposite to the museum was the Grand Place. Standing in the middle of this UNESCO World Heritage site, I felt a wave of awe wash over me. Surrounded by opulent guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King’s House, it felt like stepping back in time. The intricate facades and the lively atmosphere were a testament to the city’s rich history.
People were going about their business, marriages were happening in the center, artists were displaying their artwork for sale, and children were playing. The vibrant atmosphere of this historic center was simply captivating. It was an exhibition of European daily life with centuries of history embodied in every stone.
Taking a zillion more pictures I was in awe of the entire place but continued my journey onwards in search of a particular kid…
This was the famous Manneken Pis, the small bronze statue of a boy urinating into a fountain. This quirky landmark, with its playful spirit, brought a smile to my face and perfectly captured the city’s irreverent sense of humor. It was heartwarming to see the joy it brought to both locals and tourists alike.
For a touch of tranquility, I visited Parc du Cinquantenaire, a sprawling park with lush gardens, fountains, and impressive arches.
Strolling through the park, I felt a sense of calm and relaxation, enjoying the serene surroundings and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. It was the perfect spot to recharge before continuing my adventure.
No trip to Belgium would be complete without indulging in its world-famous chocolate. I made my way to one of the many chocolatiers in the city, where I was greeted by the rich aroma of freshly made chocolates. The variety of chocolates on display was astounding, from classic pralines to innovative flavor combinations. I sampled a few and couldn’t resist buying a box to take home as a sweet reminder of my trip.
I also visited some intricate lace work shops as they are famous in belgium.
Feeling a bit hungry, I decided to indulge in another Belgian specialty – waffles. I found a charming café and ordered a traditional Liège waffle, known for its caramelized sugar coating.
My final stop for the day was the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a stunning shopping arcade that dates back to the 19th century. The elegant glass-roofed galleries are home to a variety of luxury boutiques, chocolatiers, and cafes. I took my time browsing the shops, picking up a few souvenirs and gifts for friends and family.
As the sun began to set, I made my way back to the train station, reflecting on the incredible day I had spent in Brussels.
The city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture had left a lasting impression on me. I boarded the train with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that I had made the most of my one-day adventure in this enchanting city.
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