5 views of Central Brussels

I love a good view of the city, and with all the "Brusselization," there are plenty of rooftops to take it all in. Today, we’re sticking mostly to the city center as we explore some of my favorite spots to catch a glimpse of everything going on. Now, Brussels isn’t exactly the sunniest city, so don’t be surprised if the view is obscured by clouds—that’s just how things work here!

Walk Details
Distance: 2km
Walking time: 23min

1

Place Poelaert

Place Poelaert, 1000 Bruxelles

We’re starting today a bit outside the center and working our way in. Place Poelaert, located not far from Louise and at the foot of the Palace of Justice, is named after Joseph Poelaert, the architect behind the Palace of Justice and other notable works. From here, you get a fantastic view of the Basilica of Koekelberg and even the Atomium. There’s also a massive Ferris wheel that’s been here since 2019, offering an even better view if that’s your kind of thing. Oh, and don’t forget to spot the walking cloud!

Place Poelaert

2

Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts, 1000 Bruxelles

Our next stop on today’s walk is Mont des Arts. While it translates to "Mountain of the Arts," a better description might simply be "hill." My favorite view here is just past the fountain on the steps. From this spot, you get a central view of the spire at the Brussels Town Hall on Grand Place, with the beautifully manicured gardens below. This area used to be even more grand before Central Station and the railway were built, but if you ask me, it’s still one of the best spots to snap a photo with the city as your backdrop.

Mont des Arts

3

Brussels Town Hall

Grand Place, 1000 Bruxelles

I have to preface this next stop by saying that it’s not always open to the public. However, a couple of times a year—especially when the Flower Carpet comes to town—the spire at Brussels Town Hall opens for visitors to climb its narrow staircase. This is, without a doubt, the most central of our views today. The Brussels Town Hall is steeped in history, and the Grand Place, though likely already on your itinerary, is worth marveling at if the spire isn’t accessible. For an alternative view, the Brussels City Museum across the square offers a viewing deck, accessible with a ticket to the museum.

The view from Brussels Town Hall

4

The BeerLab at the Belgian Beer World Experience

Bd Anspach 80, 1000 Bruxelles

Located inside one of Brussels' most beautiful buildings, La Bourse—the old stock exchange—The BeerLab is accessible without admission to Belgian Beer World. So, if a museum on beer isn’t your thing, no worries! The view from the bar on the rooftop offers a lovely perspective of Grand Place and a glimpse down Rue au Beurre. It’s a fantastic spot to watch tourists ebb and flow into the square, stop to buy chocolates, and snap photos. Of course, it all pairs wonderfully with a beer, and the bar boasts an excellent selection of, what else, Belgian beers.

View from The BeerLab at the Belgian Beer World Experience

5

Rooftop 58

Rue de l'Evêque 1, 1000 Bruxelles

Our last view is from Rooftop 58, a bar perched atop the Brussels 1000 commune. The building was completed in 2023 and was previously known as Parking 58, a large parking garage that was famous for having one of the nicest views of the city center. From here, you can see the entire path we’ve traversed today—maybe with a drink in hand? Just be sure to check the hours, as it’s open at different times throughout the year. This is probably the only view on the list that might have a line to get in, depending on when you go, but it moves pretty quickly, and the view is definitely worth it.

View from Rooftop 58
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5 places for Asian food in the Center