If you need a break from the Brussels' buzz, the Centre Tour à Plomb or Hageltoren in Dutch is the perfect cultural oasis to visit. You can find it in an old lead production and storage facility (like the name indicates) and is located right next to the canal that leads to Charleroi for easy transport of materials. In the early 2000s, it was transformed into a cultural center and organizes a series of activities year-round from feminist conferences, to cultural exhibitions. Check out their upcoming events before you go, it is very local, so most of it takes place in French.
The bar downstairs can seem a little dungeon-y, but rest assured, they have good hot and cold drinks and it's the perfect place to relax on a cold and rainy day. Admire the industrial architecture and the large cartoon street art at the entrance. Sit down in the small but comfy garden out front or walk through the many rooms with activities going on. Parents with kids, couples, groups of friends, everyone has their pick at the Tour à Plombe! The best part is, unless there's a specific event that requires entrance, normally the center is free of charge, you just have to pay for your drinks.
Find your way with 292 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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"Monk Bar" Brussels has it all: a very wide selection of beers, cocktails, a nice terrace, live music on Saturdays AND a spaghetti restaurant out back!
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"Madame Moustache" is a neo-cabaret in Brussels and my go-to place for drinking and dancing! I love its daytime terrace & and its variety of parties...
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This place is definitely one of my favorites in the center of Brussels for when I'm looking for a moment of peace. I call it Les Maisons Blanches...
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"Jardin Hospice" is a beautiful oasis quietly hidden in the heart of Brussels. Located in a historic building, it has been carefully & gloriously restored.
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"Park Tour & Taxis" is the largest urban park developed over a century in the central area of Brussels.
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The coffee is good, yes, and so are the pies! You could just stay there all afternoon having a tasty brunch, teleworking, playing games, and reading...
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At Tartes Françoises the pies look and taste homemade - they are to die for. My personal favourites are the banana bread and the mini gourmand.
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The warm atmosphere and easy-to-share dishes mean this is a great place for groups. Do check their website beforehand as the menu changes every month.
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292 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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