The Iconic Manneken Pis: A Symbol of Brussels
Discover the charm of Manneken Pis, a whimsical fountain in Brussels that embodies the city's playful spirit and rich cultural heritage.
Nestled in the bustling heart of Brussels, the Manneken Pis is much more than just a fountain; it is a beloved symbol of the city's quirky charm and playful spirit. This small yet iconic statue depicts a little boy urinating into a fountain, and it has captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike since it was created in the early 17th century. The Manneken Pis stands just 61 centimeters tall, yet its significance looms large in the cultural landscape of Brussels. The statue often dons various costumes throughout the year, celebrating different events and traditions, making each visit a unique experience. Surrounded by picturesque streets lined with shops and cafés, Manneken Pis is conveniently located near other attractions, making it an ideal stop during your exploration of Brussels. Visitors often gather around to take pictures, and the atmosphere is lively, filled with laughter and the chatter of tourists. Nearby, you can find a variety of eateries offering local delicacies, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a Belgian waffle or a refreshing beer after your visit. Beyond its playful exterior, Manneken Pis embodies the spirit of Brussels—its humor, its history, and its rich cultural heritage. As you stand before this quirky fountain, take a moment to appreciate the stories it represents and the countless visitors it has delighted over the years. Whether you're here for a short visit or an extended stay, a visit to Manneken Pis is essential to experiencing the whimsical side of Brussels.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the perfect photo.
- Don't forget to check the nearby shops for unique souvenirs related to Manneken Pis.
- Look out for the various costumes the statue wears throughout the year during special events.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as the Grand Place and the Manneken Pis Museum.
- Try some local snacks from nearby vendors to enhance your experience.
A brief summary to Manneken Pis
- Brussels, Pentagon, 1000, BE
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards the center of Brussels. Use your GPS and enter the coordinates 50.844993, 4.349989 to navigate directly to Manneken Pis. There is limited on-street parking available around the area, but be prepared to pay for parking. Look for 'Zone de stationnement' signs which indicate paid parking areas. You can expect to pay approximately €2 per hour.
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Public Transportation - Metro
Take the Brussels Metro to the 'Parc' station on Line 1 or Line 5. From there, exit the station and walk towards 'Rue Royale'. Continue straight until you reach 'Place des Palais'. From there, head towards 'Rue de la Régence' and follow the signs to 'Manneken Pis', which is about a 15-minute walk. The metro ticket costs around €2.10.
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Public Transportation - Tram
Catch Tram 3 or 4 to the 'Bourse' stop. From the Bourse, walk towards 'Rue de la Bourse', then turn left on 'Rue de la Madeleine'. Continue straight until you reach 'Rue du Chêne'. Manneken Pis will be on your right. The tram ticket costs approximately €2.10.
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Public Transportation - Bus
Take Bus 20 or 47 to the 'Bourse' stop. From there, walk towards 'Rue de la Bourse' and turn left onto 'Rue de la Madeleine'. Continue straight until you reach 'Rue du Chêne'. Manneken Pis will be on your right. The bus ticket is also around €2.10.
Attractions Nearby to Manneken Pis
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Neuhaus
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Choco-Story Brussels
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Olivier Rameau - Mur BD - Street Art
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Fresque murale Tintin
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Tintin Comic Mural
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Escape Prod
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Sculpture Madame Chapeau
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Mural of Manneken Peace
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GardeRobe MannekenPis
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Pierre Ow artworks
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Grace Espace d'Art Dessin dans le Mur - Manneken Peace
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Fresque dinosaure
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Victor Sackville - Mur BD - Street Art
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Church of Notre-Dame de Bon Secours
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Le Passage Mur BD (Street Art)
