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

Updated June 18, 2024 by Pierre

Brussels: an unforgettable stay without breaking the bank!

You dream of discovering Brussels without blowing your budget ? Do not panic ! The Belgian capital is full of activities and free visits that will allow you to fully enjoy your stay. Whether you are passionate history, of art, strip cartoon, nature or simply looking for a good dose of entertainment, this article offers you a selection of ideas for exploring Brussels without spending a cent. Follow our advice and prepare for an unforgettable experience!

💡Attention: do not forget to print your free map of Brussels before starting.

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Is Brussels an expensive city?

Brussels is a relatively affordable city for a tourist, especially compared to other European capitals. On average, a tourist can expect to spend between €1 per week for a comfortable stay, including accommodation, food, transportation, activities and souvenirs. This budget will obviously depend on your consumption 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 been transformed into a veritable open-air museum thanks to its Comic strip route.

Have you never heard of the comic strip course? This is a unique experience! Discover these giant comic book wall frescoes which adorn the streets and houses of the city center. They will transport you into the world of your favorite characters (Tintin, Spirou, Gaston Lagaffe, Boule et Bill, Marsupilami...) Get ready to relive the adventures that marked your childhood.

The Comic Strip Trail is a fun, free and informative ride which will allow you to discover the city in a new light. It is 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 sneakers!

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

This is'one of the most beautiful places in the world ! Do not hesitate to see it during your visit to Brussels. This set of buildings was born towards the end of the XNUMXth century and constitutes the heart of Brussels. Each architecture reflects the liveliness of the social and cultural life of an impressive political and commercial center.

The Grand Place in Brussels represents a remarkable fusion of architectural and artistic styles characterizing the cultural richness of the region. It is above all the image of the evolution of a merchant town in northern Europe. Victor Hugo described it as one of the most beautiful places in the world. Karl Marx totally succumbed to her 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, do not miss the mythical statue of Mannenken Pis. This is one of the most popular free activities in Brussels. Formerly made of stone, the bronze statuette representing the little boy urinating known as Manneken-Pis is a heritage of the city of Brussels. Located between Rue de l'Étuve and Rue du Chêne, it embodies the rebellious spirit of Brussels. When I saw the Manneken Pis for the first time, 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 it also exists Zinneke Pis, his dog? We devoted an article to it

4. Free museums on the first Sunday of the month

We have already told you about it before. Some museums open for free on certain Sundays… If you have not yet chosen the date on which you are coming to Brussels, you could very well change the date. Magritte Museum, Underpants Museum, Museum of Fine Arts… There is something for every taste.

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 not miss in the center. We advise you to see it, especially if it rains in Brussels. Here is a lively place for a trip out of time. Tourists and Brussels residents come and come back. Especially to stroll there and shopping in Brussels … They were designed in 1847 and still look classy! A place steeped in history, not to be missed during your free visit to Brussels. Each year, it is crossed by some six million visitors. They consist of three galleries: the Queen's Gallery, the King's Gallery and the Princes' Gallery. Ideal in case of rain during your visit to Brussels

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

Two steps from living room area,, take advantage of Sunday morning to go see this Brussels market. Entrance to the flea market is obviously free, you could find rare works there to redecorate your home. Whether you are bargain hunters, tourists, Brussels residents or simply passing through in search of that rare gem, it is worth the detour. The businesses located around the square speak for themselves and bear witness to the history of this district: Deco, antiques, design and vintage..

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

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8. Take advantage of free Parks and Gardens

Brussels is full of green spaces Brussels. Did you know that our capital is indeed very green. It offers each Brussels resident around 28m² of greenery: parks, woods, rather nice green squares... and even vegetable gardens in the city. There are many possibilities to go green. Our favorites are obviously free to access: the Cinquantenaire park, Josephat Park, Florist’s Garden.

We have listed the best places and green rides here.

9. Admire the Atomium and the Japanese Tower for free

If this is your first visit to Brussels, be sure to take pictures and walk around The Atomium. It is a Brussels monument originally designed for the Universal Exhibition of 1958. Behind this steel structure, hides the conventional mesh of iron crystal enlarged 165 billion times. The park is worth it and you can admire it from the outside for free. Also, don't miss the nearby Japanese tower. Also free from outside and great for souvenir photos in Brussels. You should know that it is not essential to have a moment above the Atomium. The outside is free and just as pretty!.

10. The Museum of the City of Brussels

After seeing Manneken Pis and the Grance Place don't miss the Maison du Roi museum. He visits free on the first Sunday of the month. Otherwise, the entrance will cost you 4€. Once inside, you can discover the wardrobe of Manneken Pis. In total no less than 700 costumes.

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