Each time friends or family come to visit me in Brussels, I try to book a guided tour with the association ARAU to learn more about Art Nouveau in Brussels. ARAU is an unconventional organisation, let alone for the fact that it was founded in 1969 to raise awareness against the demolition, in those years, of part of Brussels’ historical heritage to build new offices and road infrastructures, which forced inhabitants to move to the suburbs. Even today, ARAU is not only a reference for guided tours with architectural interest, but it also organises workshops and publishes studies about urbanisation.
ARAU is a good alternative to the more popular and tourist-oriented tour operators in Brussels. People living in Brussels know ARAU well because it is an active participant in BANAD festival (Brussels Art Nouveau and Art Deco), which takes place yearly and is a great opportunity to visit famous maisons de maîtres normally closed to the public during the year.
Last time I booked a private tour with ARAU we had a very kind and experienced guide. It consisted of a 3-hour walk to see Art Nouveau facades in the Ixelles district and ended with an exciting visit of the Hortamuseum, the private house of Belgian architect Victor Horta, definitively one of my must-sees in Brussels.
Next time you come to Brussels make sure you book a tour with ARAU and you’ll find out more about the Art-Nouveau gems in Brussels.
Find your way with 292 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
From side dishes like dumplings to main dishes like Bibimbap and Bulgogi, all are served with freshly cooked vegetables, steamed rice & homemade sauces.
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Do you just want everyday dishes that you would eat at home in Japan? Then "Tokidoki" in Brussels is what you are looking for. No sushi or noodles here!
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"Tero" in Brussels is so much more than a restaurant - it's a philosophy. It offers tasty, natural cuisine that follows the seasons!
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"Certo" in Brussels is a tiny Italian restaurant on a corner just behind Place Saint Boniface and one of my favorites. Federico Mazzoni is the perfect host!
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"Les Petits Bouchons" is a typical Brussels bistro with a lot of wood, some mirrors and old-skool lighting. Zwanzers love it!
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"Rambo" in Brussels will make you feel like you're in LA. Loud music, an open kitchen and three amazing types of burgers!
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"Belga & Co" in Brussels is one of the city's great coffee places. Everything made in-house, friendly service, big window, no frills - just good coffee.
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Even though it's a little out of the route for most, Glacier Zizi is definitely worth the detour! Ice cream, waffles, crêpes, smoothies... Your pick!
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Come at any point of the day and have a fresh drink, a burger, salad or chill and let your kids/dogs run in the park while you chat with your friends.
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A simple but still refined style characterizes this café, which at night becomes a warm wine bar with small plates to share.
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The Perché rooftop bar is on top of the JAM hotel, which is why not many people wander up here, but it's so worth it! It has a great view and comfy chairs.
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292 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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