Explore These 10 Bars in Brussels for an Authentic Taste of the City

Brussels is the beating heart of Belgium – and one of the most visually attractive cities in Europe – so it’s perfect for a weekend break. It also has a vast selection of drinking establishments that cater to every taste, so if you’re looking for the best bars in Brussels, these 10 watering holes encapsulate the essence of the Belgian capital’s dynamic drinking culture. Please remember to plan a safe route back to your hotel by public transport or designate a driver each evening.

Just a stone’s throw from the Grand Place on Impasse de la Fidélité, Delirium Café is a beer lover’s paradise and one of the finest bars in Brussels. Holding the Guinness World Record for serving the most beers – over 2,000 varieties at the last count – this iconic bar caters for even the most discerning palate. The bar’s vibrant atmosphere is perfectly complemented by eclectic décor that includes the pink elephant symbol of its namesake beer, Delirium Tremens. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Delirium Café promises an unforgettable experience. Be sure to arrive early on the weekends though because this is a very popular establishment.

• Imp. de la Fidélité 4, 1000 Bruxelles
• Open Monday-Thursday, 11 am–3 am; Friday-Saturday, 11 am–4 am; Sunday 11 am–2 am

Tucked away on a busy thoroughfare, À La Mort Subite – literally "sudden death" – has a name that instantly intrigues. Walking into the bar is like stepping back in time. Established in 1928, this family-run watering hole retains its original 1920s charm with its tall brass pillars and intimate booths. Renowned for its Gueuze and Kriek beers, you can enjoy dozens of traditional ales with small plates of delightful snacks. Due to its proximity to the city’s main attractions, it’s a great place to stop for a drink after a day of sightseeing. And when you’re ready to turn in for the night, why not consider a stay at the quirky and colourful ibis Brussels City Centre? This budget-friendly hotel is only 600 metres from the bar.

• Rue Montagne aux Herbes Potagères 7, 1000 Bruxelles
• Open Monday-Friday, 11 am–midnight; Saturday 11:30 am–midnight

For those seeking a blend of history and live music, L’Archiduc is one of the city’s most popular nightspots. This Art Deco bar was established in the 1930s and has hosted jazz legends like Nat King Cole and Miles Davis. The intimate setting includes a grand piano and vintage décor that provides a unique ambiance. Sip expertly crafted cocktails while immersing yourself in live jazz performances, particularly over the weekends.

• Rue Antoine Dansaert 6, 1000 Bruxelles
• Open daily 4 pm–5 am

Perched atop the elegant Sofitel Brussels Europe, The 1040 offers a sophisticated escape from the city's bustle. Named for the European Quarter's postal code, this rooftop bar provides expansive views of Brussels' skyline, with the Place Jourdan and the European Parliament stretching out below.

A magnet for cocktail aficionados, the bar’s mixologists craft seasonal cocktails that tingle the senses, with fresh ingredients like passionfruit and red berries adding zing. Come here for a drink, or stay for dinner – the restaurant, which shares the same space as the bar, is known for its refined Belgian cuisine.

• Pl. Jourdan 1, 1040 Etterbeek
• Open daiy noon–2:30pm, 6pm–10pm

By embracing modern brewing techniques, Brussels Beer Project (BBP) is driving the city's craft beer renaissance. Founded in 2013, BBP provides a contemporary twist on traditional brewing, with flagship beers like Delta IPA and Jungle Joy among a great selection of ales. You can explore two locations: the laid-back BBP Bailli is known for its homemade pizzas, while the Dansaert brewery on Rue Antoine Dansaert offers tours of the premises and a bigger choice of beers.

BBP Bailli

• Rue du Bailli 1/A, 1000 Bruxelles
• Open Monday-Tuesday, 5 pm–midnight; Wednesday 5 pm–1 am; Thursday-Friday 5 pm–2 am; Saturday 3 pm–2 am; Sunday 3 pm–midnight

Tucked away near the Grand Place, Goupil Le Fol is a hidden gem that buzzes with an intimate and eclectic atmosphere. Formerly a brothel, the bar is now known for its jukebox playing traditional French chansons and its delicious homemade cherry and raspberry wines. Dimly lit rooms are decorated with vintage touches but there’s cosy seating for relaxing evenings spent in the company of locals. For something a little livelier, you could walk a couple of minutes north to Bonnefooi, a chandelier-lit bar serving beers and cocktails to live DJs or jazz music.

• Rue de la Violette 22, 1000 Bruxelles
• Open daily 4 pm–2 am

If craft spirits are your drink of choice, Tipsy Tribe on Avenue de la Liberté to the northwest of the city centre is Brussels’ first combined brewery and distillery. This Koekelberg watering hole serves a range of craft beers and spirits, including gin, vodka and the city’s first locally produced whiskey. You can even join tastings, workshops and tours that introduce you to their artisanal production processes.

• Chau. de Jette 374, 1081 Koekelberg
• Open Monday 11am-4pm; Thursday-Saturday, noon-7pm

A contemporary cocktail bar with a focus on hospitality, The Modern Alchemist is the brainchild of three passionate drinkers. The bar offers a curated menu of innovative cocktails, with a particular emphasis on those based on rum. With an interior that combines delightful modern touches with a cosy ambiance, the bar is as popular with the locals as it is with visitors to the city.

• Av. Adolphe Demeur 55, 1060 Bruxelles
• Open Monday-Thursday, 6pm-midnight; Friday-Saturday, 6 pm–1 am

As well as being one of the best cocktail bars in the city, The Green Man is a place where ordinary is left at the door. Sample extraordinary cocktails crafted with their passion for innovation and the highest-quality ingredients. Combining the freshest and most exotic spirits, each cocktail is infused with premium herbs and spices to create flavours that constantly surprise. Find an equally outstanding base at the delightful Le Louise Brussels – MGallery Collection hotel, only a 20-minute walk from the bar.

• Rue des Chapeliers 20, 1000 Bruxelles
• Open Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday 5 pm–midnight; Friday 5 pm–1 am; Saturday 5 pm–2 am

About five minutes’ walk from the Grand Place in the city centre, Poechenellekelder bar is one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks. Popular with locals and visitors, the walls are adorned with historic photographs and engravings, and the peaceful atmosphere only adds to this tavern’s charm. It’s open from 11am every day and closes at 2am on Friday and Saturday nights so you can swing by well into the evening for an authentic taste of Brussels.

• Rue du Chêne 5, 1000 Bruxelles
• Open Tuesday-Thursday, 11 am–1 am; Friday-Saturday, 11 am–2 am; Sunday 11 am–midnight

Experiencing the city’s history and contemporary culture should always include a visit to the best bars in Brussels. Thankfully, there are dozens of beautiful bars scattered throughout the city. So whether you’re in the mood for low lighting and expertly made cocktails, or you’d prefer the simple pleasures of a locally brewed beer or two, you’re spoiled for choice.