Brussels is a treasure trove of experiences that won’t break the bank. From the allure of the Grand Place to the tranquility of the Sonian Forest, this city offers memories-in-the-making with no cost attached. Delight in scenic gardens, expansive parks, and iconic landmarks—all easily reached by public transport and ready to enrich your trip without stretching your wallet.
Brussels: Discover the Magic of the Grand Place
Cost: Free
Things to do: The Grand Place is a must-see with its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Admire the ornate guild houses, visit the City Museum, or simply relax and people-watch at a nearby café.
Local transportation: The closest metro station is ‘Brussels Central Station’, just a short walk away. Multiple bus routes, including the 48 and 95, serve the surrounding area.
Location/Address: Grand Place, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Open Days/Hours: Accessible 24/7, ideal for any time visit.
Mont des Arts: A Cultural Beacon in the Heart of Brussels
Cost: Access to the Mont des Arts is free.
Things to do: Soak up the breathtaking city views, explore the garden’s vibrant flowerbeds, and capture memories against the backdrop of the iconic water fountain and historic statues.
Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Central Station, which is a short walk away. Buses 38, 71, and 95 also serve the area.
Location/Address: Mont des Arts, 1000 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Open daily, accessible at all hours.
Stroll through the Marolles Flea Market in Brussels
Cost: Free entry
Things to do: Dive into the charm of local commerce at the Marolles Flea Market. Discover antique treasures, vintage clothes, and quirky trinkets. It’s the perfect place for treasure hunters and casual browsers alike.
Local transportation: The closest metro station is Brussels-Chapel. Several bus routes, including 27 and 48, also serve the area, making it easily accessible.
Location/Address: Place du Jeu de Balle, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Open Days/Hours: Daily, 06:00 – 14:00 (6 AM – 2 PM)
Brussels: Marvel at the Iconic Manneken Pis
Cost: Free
Things to do: Discover this famous Brussels landmark. Despite its small size, the cheeky Manneken Pis is a must-see sculpture that captures hearts with its rebellious spirit and history.
Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Anneessens, just a short walk away. Several buses, including routes 48 and 95, also serve the area well, making it easy to reach.
Location/Address: Corner of Rue de l’Étuve/Stoofstraat and Rue du Chêne/Eikstraat, 1000 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Accessible at all times, day or night
Brussels: Discover the Comic Strip Route
Cost: Free
Things to do: Explore the vibrant comic strip murals scattered around Brussels. Immerse yourself in Belgian comic culture, take photos, and follow the trail of famous characters like Tintin and the Smurfs.
Local transportation: The closest metro station is De Brouckère. Alternatively, trams and buses, including routes 29, 66, 71, and 86, provide access to various points along the route.
Location/Address: The route spans throughout Brussels, with key locations like Rue de l’Étuve/Stoofstraat.
Open Days/Hours: Accessible 24/7 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Enjoy the Bois de la Cambre in Brussels: A Serene Escape
Cost: Free
Things to do: Bois de la Cambre offers a tranquil setting for an array of activities. Take a leisurely walk, enjoy a paddle-boat ride on the pond, or relax in the wide-open spaces, all while soaking in the natural beauty.
Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Demey on line 5. Buses 41 and 72 stop near the park, making it accessible for all.
Location/Address: Avenue de Diane, 1000 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Accessible all week, dawn till dusk (around 07:30 – 19:00 or 7:30 AM – 7 PM)
Royal Palace of Brussels: A Regal Experience in the Heart of the City
Cost: Access to the exterior and gardens is free.
Things to do: Admire the stunning architecture of the Royal Palace and its lush gardens. Capture scenic photos, enjoy relaxing strolls, or take part in free summer guided tours inside.
Local transportation: The closest metro station is Parc/Park. Buses 38 and 71, as well as tram lines 92 and 93, provide easy access to the palace.
Location/Address: Place des Palais/Paleizenplein, Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Gardens are open daily. Interior open to the public free of charge during summer.
Brussels: Explore the Grandeur of the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula
Cost: Free entry, though donations are appreciated
Things to do: Marvel at the cathedral’s impressive Gothic architecture. Admire the stunning stained glass windows, and visit the underground archaeological site for a small fee.
Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Central Station, just a short walk away. Numerous buses, including the 29, 63, and 65, also serve the area.
Location/Address: Place Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Open Days/Hours: Open daily, 07:30 – 18:00 (7:30 AM – 6 PM)
Brussels and the Parc du Cinquantenaire: A Must-Visit Gem
Cost: Free entry
Things to do: Discover the expansive and stunning Parc du Cinquantenaire. Enjoy jogging, a leisurely stroll, or the vibrant floral arrangements. Visit the on-site museums for a small fee.
Local transportation: Merode station is the nearest metro, offering easy access. Buses 22, 27, 61, and 80 also serve the area, making it convenient to reach from any part of the city.
Location/Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire, 1000 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Always open to the public
Laeken Royal Greenhouses: Marvel at Botanical Splendour
Cost: Entry is often free, but some special exhibitions may charge a fee.
Things to do: Wander through a glass palace of tropical plants and rare flora. Take in the architectural beauty and the aromatic scents, or simply enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
Local transportation: The Heysel metro station is the nearest, with trams and buses also servicing the area. Connections are plentiful and convenient.
Location/Address: Avenue du Parc Royal, 1020 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Seasonally open in spring; specifics vary yearly (check the official schedule for exact dates/times).
Brussels: Marvel at the Atomium’s Unique Structure from the Outside
Cost: Free
Things to do: Witness the awe-inspiring Atomium, an iconic symbol of Brussels. The nine spheres connected to form a cell shape make for fantastic photographs. Enjoy the surrounding park and the impressive views of this architectural marvel.
Local transportation: The closest metro station is Heysel/Heizel, providing easy access to the Atomium. Nearby bus services include routes 84 and 88, which stop conveniently close.
Location/Address: Square de l’Atomium, 1020 Brussels, Belgium
Open Days/Hours: Exterior view available at all times
Visit the European Parliament: Delve into the Heart of Democracy
Cost: Free
Things to do: Explore the hemicycle, where debates take place, and visit the Parlamentarium to understand the European Union better. Great for those keen on politics and history.
Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Brussels-Luxembourg. Buses 12, 21, and 22 also serve the area, facilitating easy access.
Location/Address: European Parliament, Rue Wiertz / Wiertzstraat 60, 1047 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Open Monday to Thursday 09:00 – 16:00 (9 AM – 4 PM), Friday 09:00 – 12:00 (9 AM – 12 PM)
Brussels: Stroll Through the Splendor of Sonian Forest
Cost: Free of charge
Things to do: Explore the biodiversity of the Sonian Forest. Meander through its vast network of walking trails, observe an array of wildlife, and enjoy the quiet respite from the bustling city life.
Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Hermann-Debroux. From there, bus routes such as 41 and 72 provide access to the forest’s edge.
Location/Address: Sonian Forest, Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, from dawn until dusk
Explore the Brussels Park: A Haven of Greenery in the Heart of the City
Cost: Free
Things to do: Marvel at the lush landscapes of Brussels Park. Admire historical statues, fountains, and the regal feel of its manicured avenues. Ideal for a tranquil walk or a quick jog in the city center.
Local transportation: The Parc metro station is the nearest, providing easy access. Various buses, including the 29, 63, 65 and 66, serve the surrounding area well.
Location/Address: Brussels Park, 1000 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, from early morning till late evening (sunrise to sunset).
Place du Petit Sablon: Discover Brussels’ Charming Oasis
Cost: Free
Things to do: Amble through the elegant Place du Petit Sablon and admire the 48 bronze statues. Sit by the fountain, soak in the serene atmosphere, or explore the antique market on weekends.
Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Louise/Louiza. Buses 27, 95, and trams 92, 93 stop close by, making it accessible from various points in the city.
Location/Address: Place du Petit Sablon, 1000 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Always open, accessible any day, any time
Brussels: Window Shop at Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Cost: Free browsing
Things to do: Marvel at the elegant window displays of high-end boutiques, absorb the historic atmosphere, or grab a coffee in one of the charming cafes within the gallery. A delightful experience for fashion lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Local transportation: The central location is easily accessible by metro, with the closest station being De Brouckère, just a short walk away. Numerous buses, including routes 29, 66, 71, and 86, also serve the area.
Location/Address: Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Rue des Bouchers 5, 1000 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: The galleries are accessible every day. Shops typically open from around 10:00 (10 AM) to 18:30 (6:30 PM).
Brussels: Discover the Grandeur of the Palace of Justice
Cost: Access to the main hall and corridors is free of charge.
Things to do: Appreciate the intricate facade and opulent interiors of one of the largest courts in the world. The view from its steps offers a stunning panorama of Brussels.
Local transportation: The Louise/Louiza metro station is nearby, with trams and buses also servicing the area, making it easily reachable.
Location/Address: Place Poelaert, 1000 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Typically open to the public during weekdays, visit in the morning or early afternoon for the best experience.
Brussels Summer Festival: Multi-Day Cultural Extravaganza
Cost: Varies, with free events available
Things to do: Dive into the cultural heartbeat of Brussels at the Summer Festival. Enjoy live music, art exhibitions, and street performances. An electrifying mix of activities awaits all who seek entertainment.
Local transportation: Central Station is the nearest metro, providing easy access. Buses and trams also service the area, facilitating hassle-free commuting.
Location/Address: Place des Palais, 1000 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Typically in August, specific dates and times vary annually
Woluwe Park: An Affordable Nature Escape in Brussels
Cost: Free
Things to do: Enjoy a peaceful day at Woluwe Park. Ideal for a family picnic, a solo jog, or a relaxing afternoon feeding ducks by the ponds. It’s a favorite local spot for a tranquil escape from the city rush.
Local transportation: The Montgomery metro station is the nearest, with tram and bus services like the 39 and 44 providing easy access to the park.
Location/Address: Woluwe Park, 1150 Brussels
Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, dawn until dusk (approximately 07:00 – 20:00 or 7 AM – 8 PM)
Brussels: Discover Free Museums on First Wednesday Afternoons
Cost: Complimentary
Things to do: Explore Brussels’ rich culture without spending a euro. Visit esteemed museums, delve into art exhibits, and embrace Belgium’s history and heritage during these special afternoon openings.
Local transportation: Find the closest metro stations such as Arts-Loi/Kunst-Wet for easy access. Frequent trams and buses also service the museum areas, with stops nearby.
Location/Address: Various locations across Brussels
Open Days/Hours: First Wednesday afternoon of the month
Conclusion
When it comes to discovering Brussels’s treasures without breaking the bank, the Grand Place and Mont des Arts are standout choices. Visiting the Grand Place offers a dive into Brussels’s architectural glory and cultural vibrancy at no cost. It’s an open-air museum that never sleeps, accessible around the clock. Similarly, Mont des Arts serves as a cultural beacon providing stellar city views and a dose of tranquility also for free; it’s a picturesque spot that’s perfect for sunset strolls or morning ambles.
Whether you’re exploring Brussels by bus or by train, these options provide enriching experiences that are kind to your wallet.
Pro Tip: While in Brussels, take advantage of the well-connected public transport. A day pass can offer unlimited rides, making it economical and convenient to hop between these free attractions. Remember, walking is not only free but it lets you uncover hidden gems all over the city at your own pace.
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