Brussels’ Grand-Place is one of the most beautiful square of its kind in the world, surrounded by guild houses, the City Hall, and the Maison du Roi. The Grand-Place was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998, so you know it’s worth the trip!
A little history
In the past, the Brussels Grand-Place was a marketplace for traders and locals. While you’re there, look out for the surrounding street names, which come from the types of produce once sold there.
As the city developed, buildings were erected around the Grand-Place including the Maison du Roi. Most of these buildings needed to be rebuilt or restored after the French bombing of 1695, making the Grand-Place the magnificent attraction it is today.
Visiting the Grand-Place
Impressive architecture and beauty aside, there are plenty of reasons to visit the Grand-Place during your time in Brussels.
In August every other year, the breathtaking Flower Carpet takes over, with around 500,000 begonias littering the square. Throughout the festive season, a towering Christmas tree looks over the Grand-Place, while the daily flower market and several concerts make wonderful additions to any trip.
Because it’s such an iconic destination, the Grand-Place is often packed with tourists and school groups. The atmosphere is more laid-back in the evening when people gather in the square to chat and drink with friends.
Restaurants near Grand-Place
There are plenty of great restaurants surrounding the Grand-Place, though you might prefer to eat elsewhere if you’re travelling on a budget. These are some of the best restaurants in Grand-Place:
• Le Plattesteen
• Osteria A l’Ombra
• Arcadi
Hotels near Grand-Place Brussels
Looking for the perfect Brussels hotel? We have plenty of beautiful central Brussels accommodation to choose from, so you can choose the style and location that suits you best.
If you’re planning to stay close to the Grand-Place, choose our family-friendly Novotel Brussels off Grand-Place. For a more budget-friendly option, go for the ibis Brussels off Grand Place.
Looking for luxury? Try the Sofitel Brussels Le Louise or Sofitel Brussels Europe, both of which offer French elegance and consideration from the very moment you arrive.
Ready to book your weekend away? Download the Accor hotels app on Google Play or the App Store and browse our beautiful hotels on the go. You can compare prices and secure the best offer for your trip, with more than 2,000 destinations available on our easy-to-use app.
