What are the 10 activities and visits that you can do for free in Brussels?

Updated on June 18, 2024 by Pierre

Brussels: an unforgettable stay without breaking the bank!

Dreaming of discovering Brussels without breaking the bank ? Don't worry! The Belgian capital is brimming with free activities and attractions that will allow you to make the most of your stay. Whether you're passionate about history , art , comics , nature , or simply looking for a good dose of entertainment, this article offers a selection of ideas for exploring Brussels without spending a penny . Follow our advice and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

💡Important: Don't forget to print your free Brussels map before you start.

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Is Brussels an expensive city?

Brussels is a relatively affordable city for tourists, especially compared to other European capitals. On average, a tourist can expect to spend around €1,500 per week for a comfortable stay, including accommodation, food, transportation, activities, and souvenirs. This budget will obviously depend on your spending habits and travel style.

Here are some factors that can influence your budget in Brussels:

• (I.e.Type of accommodation: Hotel prices vary depending on category, location and time of year. You can find hostels for around €30 per night, while a room in a luxury hotel can cost over €200.
• ???? ️Food: Eating out can be expensive, especially if you opt for fine dining restaurants. However, Brussels is full of affordable restaurants and snack bars where you can find a meal for €10 or less. You can also save money by cooking your own meals by purchasing fresh produce from local supermarkets or markets.
• (I.e.Transport: Brussels' public transportation system is efficient and relatively affordable. A metro ticket costs €2, while a day pass for all public transport costs €7. You can also rent a bike for a day for around €10.
• (I.e.Activities: Many free activities are available in Brussels, such as visiting the royal museums, walking in parks and exploring historic districts. However, some attractions, like the Atomium (no need to enter) or Mini-Europe, have a higher entry price.

Here are some tips for saving money in Brussels:

• Stay in a less central neighborhood.
• Take advantage of the many free activities in the city offered in this article.
• Cook at home instead of eating out, enjoy street food.
• Use public transportation.
• Buy your groceries at discount supermarkets.
• Enjoy happy hours and promotions in bars and restaurants.

By following these tips, you can take full advantage of all that Brussels has to offer without breaking the bank.

What to do for free in Brussels?

1. The comic book route – the best free activity in the center of Brussels:

Did you know that Brussels was the world capital of comics! Since 1993, the city has transformed into a veritable open-air museum thanks to its Comics Trail.

Never heard of the Comic Strip Trail? It's a unique experience! Discover these giant comic strip murals that adorn the streets and houses of the city center. They'll transport you into the world of your favorite characters (Tintin, Spirou, Gaston Lagaffe, Boule et Bill, Marsupilami, and more). Get ready to relive the adventures that shaped your childhood.

The Comic Strip Trail is a fun, free, and educational walk that will allow you to discover the city in a new light. It's also an opportunity to learn more about the history of Belgian comics and its most famous authors. So, don't wait any longer and put on your walking shoes!

2. The Grand-Place in Brussels – Visit historical monuments for free:

This is one of the most beautiful squares in the world ! So don't hesitate to see it during your visit to Brussels. This collection of buildings, which originated towards the end of the 16th century, forms the heart of Brussels. Each architectural element reflects the vibrancy of the social and cultural life of this impressive political and commercial center.

The Grand-Place in Brussels represents a remarkable fusion of architectural and artistic styles, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Above all, it embodies the evolution of a northern European trading city. Victor Hugo described it as one of the most beautiful squares in the world. Karl Marx was completely captivated by its charm. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.

3. The famous Manneken Pis, a mythical statue to see for free in Brussels

During your visit to Brussels, don't miss the iconic Manneken Pis statue. It's one of the most popular free attractions in Brussels. Originally made of stone, the bronze statue of the little boy urinating, known as Manneken Pis, is a Brussels landmark. Located between Rue de l'Étuve and Rue du Chêne, it embodies the rebellious spirit of Brussels. When I first saw Manneken Pis, I was surprised by its tiny size! 😲

I was expecting a larger statue, but this little bronze boy, nestled in a niche on rue de l'Étuve, is barely higher than my hand. Despite its size, it still attracts so many visitors and brings a smile to everyone who sees it. Every time I pass by him, I can't help but stop and take a souvenir photo 📸. The simplicity and humor of this little statue make it a unique and charming symbol of Brussels 💦.

Did you know that there's also Zinneke Pis, his dog? We dedicated an article to him.

4. Free museums on the first Sunday of the month

We mentioned this before. Some museums offer free admission on certain Sundays … If you haven't yet decided on a date for your trip to Brussels, you could easily change it. The Magritte Museum , the Underwear Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts … there's something for everyone.

5. Parlamentarium: the European museum a free activity to see in Brussels

Enjoy the largest parliamentary visitor center in Europe. Thanks to this one, discover European politics in a new light. This museum is worth it, that's why 1,5 million people have already visited it. Discover for free while having fun, the stages of European integration, the functioning of the European Parliament as well as their challenges today. The exhibition is dynamic and interactive. It is possible to follow it in one of the twenty-four languages ​​of the European Union. Here is a free activity that will keep history and politics buffs busy.

Conclusion

The Parlamentarium seems to be a great option to learn more about the European Union in a fun and interactive way. Whether you are a European citizen, tourist or simply curious about the EU, it is worth a visit.

6. Galeries Royales Saint Hubert – a must see in the center.

This is a must-see in the city center. We recommend visiting it, especially if it's raining in Brussels . It's a lively place for a journey back in time. Tourists and locals alike come back time and again, especially to stroll and shop in Brussels . Designed in 1847, it still retains its elegance! A place steeped in history, not to be missed during your free visit to Brussels. Every year, it's visited by some six million people. It consists of three galleries: the Queen's Gallery, the King's Gallery, and the Princes' Gallery. Ideal if it's raining during your visit to Brussels.

7. The Flea Market on Sunday, a free flea market in the Sablon

Just a stone's throw from the Salon district , take advantage of Sunday morning to visit this Brussels market. Entry to the flea market is, of course, free, and you might unearth some rare finds to redecorate your home. Whether you're a bargain hunter, a tourist, a local, or simply passing through in search of a hidden gem, it's well worth a visit . The shops surrounding the square speak for themselves and reflect the history of this neighborhood: home decor , antiques, design, and vintage items.

I was still thinking about Tintin and the Unicorn , the captivating adventures, and the hidden treasures we always hope to discover. This vibrant and historic neighborhood, with its treasures of yesteryear and unexpected finds, reminds me of those Tintin stories, where every street corner could hold a fascinating secret. 🕵️‍♂️✨

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8. Take advantage of free Parks and Gardens

Brussels is brimming with green spaces . Did you know that our capital is indeed very green? It offers each Brussels resident approximately 28 square meters of green space: parks, woods, rather pleasant landscaped squares… and even urban vegetable gardens. Plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature! Our favorites are, of course, free to access: Cinquantenaire Park , Josephat Park, and the Florist's Garden.

We have listed the best green spots and walks here.

9. Admire the Atomium and the Japanese Tower for free

If this is your first visit to Brussels, be sure to take photos and stroll around the Atomium . This Brussels landmark was originally designed for the 1958 World's Fair. Behind its steel structure lies the conventional lattice of an iron crystal, magnified 165 billion times. The park is well worth a visit, and you can admire it from the outside for free. Don't miss the nearby Japanese Tower either. It's also free to view from the outside and makes for great souvenir photos in Brussels. Keep in mind that going up to the top of the Attomium isn't essential. The exterior is free and just as beautiful!

10. The Museum of the City of Brussels

After seeing Manneken Pis and the Place de la Grande Place, don't miss the Maison du Roi museum. It's free to visit on the first Sunday of the month. Otherwise, admission costs €4. Once inside, you can discover Manneken Pis's wardrobe—no fewer than 700 costumes in total.

Our good plans to go further in the free in Brussels

• Free water in restaurants in Brussels
• Museums open for free on Sundays in Brussels
• Free open-air cinemas in summer
• Free sports sessions in the parks of Brussels