It is no secret that Brussels is renowned for its Art Nouveau buildings. If you are a fan of this end of 19th century's architectural style, there's of course the MIM, but I suggest an afternoon walk in one of Ixelles’ specific district, the Bailli/Châtelain block.
One of the most interesting thing I visited in Brussels was Maison Horta, the house of the famous architect Victor Horta, who greatly contributed to Brussels’ architectural scene. Start your afternoon at the Maison, which is worth visiting. It’s absolutely beautiful, and even if you think it’s “touristic” - which, agreed, it is - it’s an interesting hour-or-so visit that will fill your eyes with gorgeousness and take you back to Brussels’ glamorous days. I’m completely fascinated by the greenhouse in the attic, which you can access through the marvellous staircase. And by all the intricate details of the house.
Upon your entrance at Maison Horta, they will give you a pamphlet with a map at the back - suggesting an art nouveau walk around the neighbourhood to marvel at art nouveau facades of emblematic buildings. Embark on your walk! Alternatively, this excellent article details an itinerary, or there are many free art nouveau walking tours available.
Once your walk is completed and you are nostalgic of the days where glamour and gold were in architectural fashion, hit Parlor Coffee or Forcado (check out the articles) to top off a perfect Brussels’ afternoon.
Find your way with 295 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
You order a bouillon, which can have different bases, meat or veggie options. Add the sauces, what you would like to eat and then the magic happens.
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Piscine l'Espadon has three pools; a normal one, a small one for kids and even a mini heated one for babies and toddlers, with slides!
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The crispiness of the chicken perfectly matched the softness of the freshly made waffle, and the teriyaki sauce was just the “savory” cherry on top.
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"JeanBon" Comptoir Gourmand in Brussels offers freshly prepared products that are homemade with love, for your breakfast, lunch and apéritivos at home.
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"Joseph Marien Stadium" in Brussels doesn't look like a stadium - it's another Art Deco building that fascinates me with its long, beautiful facade.
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"Altitude 100" in Brussels is a fascinating place in the commune of Forest in Brussels. I like it's a church in the center of a big roundabout!
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My favorite is Spanakopita, a buttery & flaky phyllo pastry with a filling of cooked spinach and feta cheese. For dessert I recommend a slice of Bougatsa!
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"La Boule d'Oro" is my personal no. 1 brasserie in Brussels. This corner cafe resembles my primary school cafeteria & has excellent Belgian food & beer.
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The "Cemetery of Brussels" (opened in 1877) was designed as an English landscape garden - get lost among avenues and cobbestone streets here...
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"Le Monts des Arts" is my favorite place in Brussels, as all my friends know already - especially the esplanade at the end of it. Just go at sunset...
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They look at each other and then it starts right away, no time to think, they just do. What I love most is the conversations you have afterward...
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295 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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