Hello!
I am considering spending a day in Brussels at the conclusion of a girls trip to Paris/Bruge/Ghent this upcoming April.
I will be on my own for this last day before flying home. Looking for recommendations to make the most of my solo day - love food, beer, art, and history.
I know opinions are mixed on Brussels, but I am intrigued and figured it was worth spending a day there prior to heading back to the US.
Open to all suggestions - including food and hotel recommendations. Mid-range on price. Willing to spend more to be comfortable and safe.
Thanks!
Posted by
Sydney, Australia
413 posts
For accommodation, if you want somewhere central but mid-range, then I can recommend the Novotel Brussels Off Grand' Place or the Ibis Brussels Off Grand' Place. Very similar locations, the Ibis is just a little cheaper in cost and quality but still good. My mother-in-law has also stayed at the Aparthotel Adagio Brussels Grand' Place, which is right on top of the De Brouckère metro station - ideal if you think you would be taking the metro anywhere, and she found it a good experience. All are Accor properties so if you are part of their free loyalty scheme (not the paid one) you get a small percentage off or an upgrade or similar. I personally now always stay out of the centre in the Louise district, at Citadines Brussels Toison d'Or, also an aparthotel. It is right at the Louise metro with trams stopping here also, and a nice upscale shopping district, a small supermarket and a restaurant street. If you want to be comfortable and safe then avoid staying near Bruxelles-Midi or Bruxelles-Nord stations, they are not so nice.
Hope you find what you are after,
Lavandula
Posted by
Belgium
52 posts
Agree with lavandula on hotels! For your one day: start at Grand Place early, walk to Manneken Pis, hit the Musée des Beaux-Arts or Comic Strip Center for art. Lunch = moules-frites (Chez Léon) + a waffle from a street stand. Afternoon, beer at Delirium Café or À la Mort Subite (try Cantillon if you like sours). End with a wander through Sablon pretty, less touristy, great chocolate shops. All walkable from Grand Place, so no need to worry about transit for one day. Have fun!
Posted by
OP
Green Bay, Wi
22 posts
Lavandula and KnightRd - thank you SO much! I really appreciate the thoughtful replies and insights! I will be using these recommendations on my trip!
Posted by
Arctophilia (x26), Northamptonshire, England
37114 posts
I didn't know about the Citadines mentioned just above. I had a look and it is perfect except it is a shower over bathtub and my disabled wife can' safely step into a bathtub. It would have been perfect for me otherwise... sad.
Posted by
Belgium
52 posts
@nortmanl You're so welcome !
Posted by
Sydney, Australia
413 posts
There is another Citadines at Sainte-Cathérine - I have never been there but I wonder if the bathtub is in the same configuration? Or perhaps ask the hotel (Toison d'Or) if there is an accessible room? It's a fantastic location if you have seen the centre and want to see a different side of the city.
Lavandula