Sunday in the Marolles

The popular neighbourhood of the Marolles, which stretches from Chapel Church to the Palace of Justice, is without doubt the most authentic neighbourhood in Brussels. With the flea market, antique shops, street art and local bars to look forward to, your Sunday is certain to be a memorable one. 

Every day from 7:00 to 14:00 (and on weekends until 15:00), Place du Jeu de Balle is bursting with colour and objects to browse through. Along rue Haute and rue Blaes, you can admire nostalgic pieces and the beautiful shop window displays of the antique shops. Brussels locals can be found in the many bars around the square. 

It's lunchtime, so head over to Chapel Church. On the square sits a humble chip shop, where Marolles locals have enjoyed delicious, crunchy chips for years. To really savour the moment, make your way to one of the benches on Place de la Chapelle, or climb up to Place du Sablon, a 2-minute walk away. 

An unmissable spot in the Marolles neighbourhood, and of Brussels' urban culture, is place des Ursulines. It's home to both experienced and beginner skateboarders. Feel free to savour your portion of chips as you watch them. You will be amazed by their tricks... and the painted murals that decorate this skate park. 

Wander through the streets of the Marolles neighbourhood in search of street art works. You'll find them everywhere. By 15:00, you'll probably have already seen the work of Denis Meyers and Arnaud Kool, on rue Haute, at the entrance to the CHU Saint-Pierre. You’ll find at least four more on rue Blaes. Fans of traditional painting will enjoy the neighbourhood's Bruegel streetcar trail. 

Back at Place du Jeu de Balle, have a seat on the terrace of La Clef d'Or. This typical Brussels café is the ideal place for an aperitif. Let yourself be tempted by its wide range of homemade beers and aperitifs. 

For an evening of guilt-free indulgence, join us at Liu Lin in rue Haute. Sisters Liu and Lin's Asian cuisine is entirely plant-based and the bite-sized plates are ideal for sharing. Or maybe you don't like sharing... Want to splurge? Book a table at Les Brigittines, on the steps of Chapel Church. In a beautiful Art Nouveau decor, chef Dirk Myny serves traditional and seasonal cuisine with quality products. His famous Zennepot is a must. 

Want to enjoy the sunset from up high? Then take the lift up to the upper city and place Poelaert. From one of the benches, or using the binoculars, enjoy a breathtaking view of Brussels. 

To round off the evening, you can either go straight to bed, or go to Le Petit Lion for a nightcap. To get there, hop in the lift down to Rue Haute.