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Grand Place: The Heart of Brussels

Experience the grandeur of Brussels at the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and rich history.

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The Grand Place, or Grote Markt, is the central square of Brussels, Belgium, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its opulent guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King's House. Its history dates back to the 12th century, evolving from a marketplace to the political and social heart of the city.

A brief summary to Grand Place

Local tips

  • Visit the Grand Place during the evening to see the buildings illuminated in a beautiful light display.
  • Check the event calendar to see if any festivals or cultural events are taking place during your visit.
  • Take a guided tour of the Town Hall to explore its historic chambers and learn about the city's history.
  • Rub the statue of Everard t'Serclaes on the wall of the Maison de l'Étoile for good luck and a guaranteed return to Brussels.
  • Explore the surrounding streets for chocolate shops, waffle stands, and traditional Belgian restaurants.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Grand Place is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many points in Brussels. From Brussels Central Station, walk west along Rue de la Madeleine, then turn left onto Rue du Marché aux Herbes. The Grand Place will be directly ahead. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Grand Place is well-served by public transport. Take subway lines 1, 5, 4, or 10 to the Gare Centrale/Centraal Station or Bourse/Beurs stops, both within a short walking distance of the square. Several bus lines also stop near the Grand Place, including lines 29, 46, 58, and 95. A single ticket costs €3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Brussels. A taxi from Brussels Central Station to the Grand Place typically takes 3 minutes and costs between €6 and €8. Taxi stands are located near the station and major hotels.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available at Interparking Grand Place, located a short walk from the square. Hourly rates are approximately €3.60-€4, with a daily maximum of €25.20-€28. On-street parking is also available in the yellow and orange zones, with rates ranging from €1-€2 for the first hour and €3-€5 for two hours. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak tourist season.

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Discover more about Grand Place

The Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998, stands as the historical and geographical heart of Brussels. Known as Grote Markt in Dutch, this central square evolved from a 12th-century marketplace into a vibrant hub surrounded by stunning architecture that reflects Brussels' rich history. The square's architectural ensemble is a testament to the city's wealth and power over the centuries. The guildhalls, primarily dating from the 17th century, showcase Flemish Baroque style with ornate facades and intricate sculptural details. The Brussels' Town Hall, erected between 1401 and 1455, is the only remaining medieval building on the square. Opposite the Town Hall stands the King's House (Maison du Roi), housing the Brussels City Museum. The Grand Place has been the stage for numerous historical events, including the execution of Protestant martyrs in 1523 and the bombardment by French troops in 1695, which led to the square's reconstruction. Today, the Grand Place hosts cultural events, festivals, and markets, including the Flower Carpet, the Ommegang, and the Christmas Market. Visitors can explore the square's history and architecture, enjoy Belgian cuisine at nearby restaurants, and experience the vibrant atmosphere that makes the Grand Place a must-see destination in Brussels.

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