Saint Nicholas Church: A Brussels Gem
Discover the timeless beauty of Saint Nicholas Church in Brussels, a historic gem blending Romanesque and Gothic architecture, home to priceless art and a serene atmosphere.
Saint Nicholas Church, nestled in the heart of Brussels near the Grand Place, is a captivating testament to the city's rich history. Founded around 1125, it stands as one of Brussels' oldest churches, showcasing a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Despite enduring war damage and a collapsed bell tower in the past, the church was lovingly restored in the 1950s. Today, it welcomes visitors with its serene atmosphere and houses remarkable artworks, including 'The Virgin and Child' by Rubens and a 12th-century Vladimir Icon from Constantinople. Its location, surrounded by charming old houses and shops, adds to its unique appeal, making it a must-see for those exploring Brussels' historical center. The church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Bari, famously known as Santa Claus, the patron saint of traders.
A brief summary to Saint Nicholas Catholic Church
- Brussels, Brussel, 1000, BE
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the Christmas season to experience the church's quiet charm amidst festive celebrations.
- Look for the cannonball embedded in one of the pillars, a relic from the French bombardment of 1695.
- Take time to admire the painting of 'The Virgin and Child' by Peter Paul Rubens and the Vladimir Icon from Constantinople.
- Explore the surrounding streets to appreciate the charming old houses and shops that lean against the church.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Grand Place and Brussels Stock Exchange for a comprehensive historical experience.
Getting There
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Walking
Saint Nicholas Church is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many major Brussels attractions. From the Grand Place, walk north towards the Bourse (Stock Exchange). Rue au Beurre (Boterstraat) leads directly to the church, which is situated across from the Bourse. The walk is short and straightforward, taking only a few minutes. Be aware of pedestrian traffic, especially during peak tourist season.
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Public Transport
The closest metro station is De Brouckère, served by lines 1 and 5. From the station, exit towards Place de la Bourse and walk along Rue au Beurre (Boterstraat) to reach the church. Several bus lines also stop near the Bourse, including lines 48, 95 and N04. A standard single-journey ticket (MOBIB Basic) costs €2.50 and can be purchased from vending machines at metro stations or via the STIB app.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Brussels. A short ride from Brussels Central Station or other central locations to Saint Nicholas Church typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and surge pricing. Be sure to specify 'Église Saint-Nicolas' or 'Sint-Niklaaskerk' to the driver.
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Driving
Driving directly to Saint Nicholas Church is not recommended due to the pedestrianized city center and limited parking. If driving, consider parking at Interparking Grand Place [€2.90 per hour] or Parking Ecuyer [€2.80 per hour], both within a short walking distance. Be aware of Brussels' Low Emission Zone (LEZ) regulations; ensure your vehicle meets the required standards to avoid fines.
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