Hi -- I have an 8-hour layover at Brussels Airport coming up in late June and would like some suggestions for how to spend it fruitfully, including directions for traveling by train or bus. I've visited Brussels and would happily spend a day there again, but I'd prefer something new, such as Ghent or Bruges. Additionally, I would appreciate information on storing a suitcase at the airport for the day, so I don't have to carry it around with me. I enjoy art, museums, public gardens (especially when it's not raining), architecture, and simply wandering around. Would love to plan a destination for a nice lunch, too. Will have arrived from an overnight flight from the US so something easy on the mind would be best (ie, not up for a tour of the EU in Brussels!). Thanks!
Posted by
Franklin, TN, USA
987 posts
Go to Le Marmiton and enjoy a delicious meal…..the Galeries location it is in is delightful…..shop for chocolate at Pierre Marcolini and then walk around the corner to see Mannekin Pis and visit it’s museum where you get to hear its history and see its hundreds of costumes on display…….GARDEROBE MANNAEKINPIS.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
8652 posts
I would consider Bruges a bit risky, a bit far, with more possibilities for delay, Ghent better, but much of the same.
However, Antwerp would be perfect, about the same travel time as getting into Brussels, very frequent trains, the main station is right near pedestrian shopping streets and the old town just beyond. Lots to see, and less "grittiness" than Brussels.
I can't speak to bag storage at the airport, but I assume there is storage but likely outside the secure zone. There are however storage lockers at Antwerp Central station.
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
8356 posts
Leuven is a very pleasant visit, nice town museum, cathedral, and town hall exterior. University buildings, nice little Beguinage.