It was a hot day when I left Bruges for Brussels. It was another decent walk back to the bus station lugging my backpack, but I made it in good time and the bus ride went smoothly. On arrival, I migrated from bus to train to get to the hostel I’d be staying at for the next two nights. The rail network was very confusing—or maybe I was just still a bit tired. Either way, I managed to check into the hostel and get settled. My next mission: laundry.
The laundromat was a short walk away and conveniently next to a café where the pints were served in frosted glasses and only €4! It would’ve been foolish not to wait there while the washing was going. The staff were very friendly too, so I ended up staying for dinner and planned how I’d spend the next day in the Belgian capital. In the end, I was very glad for a few beers—because the dorm I was in had a tractor in it… or someone snoring… it could have been either.
The next day I was up and out early. First stop was the Grand-Place, a stunning square surrounded by some epic buildings. I went hunting for breakfast waffles, but unfortunately, I couldn’t find anything open. I strolled around, saw some sculptures and incredible architecture, and eventually had breakfast in Brussels Park, overlooking the enormous Royal Palace. I visited Brussels Cathedral (St. Michael and St. Gudula), a towering Gothic structure. Its bells seemed to just play chromatic scales, which sounded a bit creepy.
I backtracked to a Musical Instruments Museum I’d passed earlier and I’m so glad I did. Inside there were hundreds of instruments from around the world—some very curious makes and designs. The audio guide played samples of what most of them sounded like, which was enlightening. Walking through the brass section really made me miss playing. I asked if I could try one out, but the staff said only by appointment or if you’re on a school excursion… rats.
Next up was the Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon. Much more Gothic in design, but no less amazing, with its stained glass and intricate details.
I went to check out the Palace of Justice, which was nearby—an absolute behemoth of a building. Unfortunately, it was mostly hidden by scaffolding due to ongoing restoration, but you could still get a sense of the sheer scale.
Next stop was the Atomium! I had no idea what it was, but it had come highly recommended. Another massive structure—this one shaped like a magnified iron crystal. I bought a ticket to go inside and added on Mini-Europe for fun. At first, I felt a bit ripped off after taking the lift to the top—assuming that was it. The view was great, but not worth the price alone. Thankfully, when I came back down, I was ushered onto an escalator that took me through the other spheres. It was a laser and light exhibit—so many flashing lights I wasn’t sure if I was in Tron or being brainwashed in some Manchurian Candidate scenario. Very cool in the end, glad I persevered through it!
Outside, the heat was brutal. Mini-Europe offered no shelter from the sun, so I just hot-footed around the miniature landmarks. They were detailed and cool, but the park was definitely geared towards kids.
It was a long day of walking and sunlight. I caught the train back into town and ended up having tacos at a small Mexican restaurant. I chilled in the hostel’s common room before another average night in the dorm. The tractor was gone, but with no airflow, the room was still hot from the day and didn’t cool down. So—not the most comfortable of stays in Brussels, but the city itself was pretty awesome.
The next morning, I packed up, checked out, and caught a train to the airport. Luck was on my side—I was upgraded to business class for the flight! I got to relax in the lounge before boarding.
Returning to Porto!
The next two weeks I’ll be walking the Portuguese Coastal Camino, from Porto to Santiago. That’s 275 km carting my backpack—hopefully I’m in decent enough shape to survive it. There’s the option for luggage transfers if I need to tap out, but I like the challenge.
Anyway, it’ll be fun arriving in Porto without the blackout this time. Sadly, no travel buddy though—I’ll have a beer on the hill and clap for the sunset in Jake’s honour.
Next stop… I can’t remember the name. North somewhere!
