Brussels is informally called the capital of Europe, as here we have all the main European Institutions that make the EU possible.
Walking along its streets, you can hear people speaking any language you can think of. These people are probably not tourists but people who live and work in Brussels. Up till not long ago, these people would have to return to their home country if they wanted to buy a book in their own language. Fortunately, not anymore!
Not far from the European Parliament (10 minutes walk at most), and just off the "Matonge" neighborhood, Librebook has now opened its doors. They describe themselves as "a bookshop based on the Brussels state of mind (mixed, chaotic, curious, odd, open, irregular...)". I agree 100%.
It's not too big, which makes it cosy. All the furniture is second-hand (mainly from banks, weird!), which is nice. Then you walk around and see books in all those "strange" languages, hear people talking in those random languages, and probably see them sipping a glass of good European wine, tea or coffee.
They also do different events such as workshops, book readings, aperojazz poetry reading in whatever language you know. Super interesting! Check out their website and Facebook page for the latest news.
Happy reading!
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Brussels guide.
The watermelon with baked halloumi and honey will make you wonder how come you didn’t put these two together before. Be prepared to stay long...
By
The counter just in front of the open kitchen where the team of Le 203 accurately plates up and serves each dish is definitely where the magic begins...
By
Located in the heart of Ixelles in Brussels," See U" and its 45,000 m2 site is all about bringing people together in a fun and unique way.
By
"Botanique" is the name of the Botanical Garden of Brussels which is now a cultural complex and a perfect example of the city's multicultural identity...
By
"Rue Vanderschrick" Brussels is a fantastic place to come and admire the delicacy and intricacy of Art Nouveau architecture, with its clever imitations...
By
"Umamido" Brussels is a Japanese restaurant which has the best Japanese noodles, that has gotten me craving for more. Once a stall at Flagey market, now...
By
"Rectangle" Brussls is a gallery work space, formerly a printing factory now used as an innovative meeting spot for artists. An unusual space but...
By
"Parc Josaphat" is one of my favorite green spaces in Brussels which is hidden deep within the neighborhood of Schaerbeek. So many discoveries to make..
By
The "Pessoa Memorial" is a perfect representation of how Brussels is a diverse city, displaying a giant metal head on top of a Portuguese...
By
"Marché des Tanneurs" Brussels is an organic market housed in an old wine warehouse which I believe have the best organic fresh food in town...
By
0 Insider Tips from Locals
Authentic Stories
Escape the Crowds
Full Access to our Art & culture Blog & App!
✓ 0 Hidden Gems only Locals know
✓ Full Access to the Art & culture City Blog & App!