Le Sablon: A day in a chic and charming district of Brussels

Updated July 1, 2024 by Pierre

Located a stone's throw from the famous Grand-Place, Sablon is a chic and charming district of Brussels that is worth the detour. With its cobbled streets, its picturesque places ⛲️ and its numerous antique stores ✨, art galleries ️ and chocolate shops, Sablon has an undeniable charm.

Our Sablon tour itinerary

Our itinerary consists of a trajer to keep you busy from morning, noon to evening in this magnificent Sablon district. You will find a suggestion for lunch and snack break. Also, there is a joker option in case of rain.

Morning:

• 9h00: Start your day with a visit to the Place du Grand Sablon, one of the most beautiful squares in Brussels. Admire the architecture of the buildings surrounding it, including Gothic and Renaissance style houses. Don't forget to look up to admire the sculptures that adorn the facades. Place du Grand Sablon, Brussels

• 9h30: Visit theNotre-Dame du Sablon church, a 15th-century Gothic church known for its stained glass windows and sculptures. Entrance is free and the church is definitely worth the detour.
• 10h30: Stroll through the picturesque alleys du Sablon and discover its many antique dealers, art galleries and chocolate shops. There you will find unique and original pieces for all tastes and budgets.

To eat lunch:

• 12h30: Enjoy a delicious breakfast au restaurant Le Perroquet, renowned for its tasty pitas at low prices. Idyllic setting ️ for a guaranteed treat!

Afternoon:

In case of good weather:

• 14h00: Discover the Marolles comic strip route, a true ode to Belgian comics. This outdoor route, punctuated by giant murals, will delight the teenagers and comic book lovers of all ages.

• 15h30: Get lost in the winding streets des Marolles and let yourself be charmed by its authentic and bohemian atmosphere. Discover his vintage shops, flea markets and quaint cafes

• 16h00: Treat yourself to a gourmet break by savoring a ice in Marcolini. We love the duo mango & chocolate and decorate it with Marcolini chocolate toppings for an explosion of flavors.

In case of rain:

• 14h00: Visit the Jewish Museum of Belgium, located in the heart of Sablon. Discover Jewish history and culture through a vast collection of objects from Europe, Asia and Africa.

• 15h30: Enjoy a relaxing in one of the cozy cafes du Sablon. Enjoy a tea or coffee accompanied by a pastry or a piece of chocolate.
• 16h00: Visit the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the work of the famous Belgian surrealist painter.

17h00: End your day with a visit to the Palais de Justice, an imposing building in neoclassical style. If you want to rest and gain some height, take a ride on the Ferris wheel. Offering a panoramic view of Brussels from 55 meters high, “The View” Ferris wheel will allow you to admire the city from another angle and take unforgettable photos.

Additional Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes, because you will be walking a lot.
• Take the time to admire the architecture buildings of Sablon and Marolles.
• Don't hesitate to enter the shops to discover hidden treasures

Summary of the walk

In this article we take you to discover this magnificent neighborhood, both:

• History: immerse yourself in the past by admiring the architecture of the buildings of Sablon and Marolles, notably the Gothic and Renaissance style houses.
• Artistic: stroll through the picturesque streets and discover the numerous art galleries and antique shops full of hidden treasures.
• Gourmet moments: enjoy a delicious lunch at Le Perroquet restaurant, renowned for its tasty pitas at low prices, or treat yourself to a gourmet break with an ice cream at Marcolini.
• Relaxing: enjoy a moment of relaxation in one of Sablon's cozy cafés or visit the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the work of the famous Belgian surrealist painter.

If the area is not very big, it is possible to spend a whole day there wandering around, discovering its hidden treasures and enjoying its unique atmosphere.

Frequently asked Questions?

What is the history of the Sablon district?

The district of Template inherited its name from the fine sand that covered the hills overlooking the Senne valley. The Sablon district is one of the assets of the city of Brussels. The charm of architecture, the wealth gastronomic and especially its antique are treasures that absolutely deserve to be discovered. Did you know that originally the Sablon was a huge district of the Haute Senne, a meeting place for locals, until the XNUMXth century when Haussmannian architecture split the neighborhood in two, giving rise to the Small Template and at the Grand Sablon.

The Sablon district is located in the historic center of Brussels. It includes the Petit Sablon and its square. You will also find the famous Notre-Dame church and the Place du Grand Sablon. Do not miss the surrounding streets. He absolutely must be on your list, if you want visit Brussels in one day

Why is there a Petit Sablon and Grand-Sablon?

The Grant and the Petit Sablon served as connection of lower and upper town. The Grand Sablon was transformed little by little to receive a horse market, a guide of crossbowmen, a gothic church and the famous Ommegang procession. stretching to rue Rollebeek, the Grand Sablon is chocolate heaven. Lovers of truffles or pralines will not be disappointed with their visit.
Marcolini, Wittamer, Godiva await them to taste the masterpieces of the greatest chocolate artisans City. The Grand Sablon is also home to many restaurants and terraces that offer local dishes.

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