Sunday in the Marolles

The main attraction in the neighbourhood is undoubtedly the flea market on Place du Jeu de Balle. Seven days a week, old photos, furniture, second-hand clothes, vinyl records, crockery and other treasures are scattered across the square, much to the delight of bargain hunters. Here, the proverb ‘the early bird catches the worm’ takes on its full meaning. Bargain hunters descend upon the square from 7:00. Not a morning person, or prefer a lie-in? No problem, you can still find what you're looking for: on weekdays, the market is open until 14:00, and at the weekend, it stays open an hour longer.

After all that strolling between the stalls, your stomach is starting to rumble. For a tasty breakfast, head to Pinpin on rue Blaes. This artisan bakery is renowned for its exceptional bread, made with traditional Belgian flour. Stop for a quick break at the counter with a pastry and a speciality coffee from Mok.

Lucifer Lives Coffee opens its doors at 10:00. This espresso bar (which uses beans from Wide Awake Roastery) and brunch spot offers vegan pastries and the most popular breakfast in the Marolles district. The decor immerses you in the world of 1980s horror films with its posters, witchy knick-knacks and coffin-shaped bookcase.

Now that you've refuelled, it's time to dive into the many vintage and antique shops that make the Marolles so unique. On rue Haute and rue Blaes, you'll find a whole host of original boutiques selling carefully selected vintage clothing and charming objects bursting with character.

Why not pop into, for example, Melting Pot Kilo, where they sell second-hand clothes by the kilo or Vintage Seventies for that perfect retro 70s piece? For elegant vintage fashion, Mademoiselle l’Ancien is a real gem, while Foxhole Vintage offers a gorgeous range of clothing from the 60s to the 90s. Don't forget to check out the various boutiques owned by DJ and fashion guru Bernard Gavilan.

Antique lovers are spoiled rotten in the Marolles: there's Haute Antiques 207, Passage 125 Blaes, Via Antica, Bel-Oeil, Stef Antiek and Galerie des Minimes, where you'll find a beautiful collection of antique furniture and designer objects. There's everything you need to give your home a unique touch.

After a morning of bargain hunting, it's time to grab a bite to eat. Near Chapel Church, you'll find a fritkot chip van that has been serving delicious, crispy chips for years. Perfect for picnicking on one of the benches on place de la Chapelle or place du Grand Sablon, just a few minutes' walk away.

For those who prefer to sit at a table indoors or on a terrace, there are several great places nearby. Fish Tank is a must for original fresh fish dishes and La Clef d’Or is a classic spot for a typical Brussels brasserie lunch. At the Mazette cooperative cafe, you can enjoy craft beers paired with delicious, sustainable dishes or head to Al Jannah to savour Middle Eastern flavours. Chaff charms with its healthy, trendy dishes and high-quality coffee while at Kosto you can enjoy Mediterranean dishes in a warm and friendly setting.

What better way to digest all these culinary delights than with a short stroll? Why not explore the area's street art while you're there? In the Marolles district, the building facades reveal their own history. In addition to the famous comic strip murals murals paying tribute to the heroes of the ninth art, you will also find numerous works of street art. If you prefer traditional painting, there's a route featuring a dozen murals paying tribute to the Flemish master Pieter Bruegel. Don't forget to say hello to his bronze statue at the Chapel Church as you pass by. 

Another must-see for urban culture enthusiasts is the skatepark at place des Ursulines. Covered in original graffiti, it is a popular spot for both novice and experienced skaters. They'll blow you away!

How about relaxing with a drink? In the Marolles district, you'll find plenty of welcoming neighbourhood cafes where you can sit back and soak up the local atmosphere.

Let's start with Le Petit Lion on rue Haute, one of the last popular old-fashioned cafés in the neighbourhood. It has been serving pints for over a century. During the day, you'll find the regulars here, and in the evening, the cafe has begun to attract a slightly younger crowd in recent years, drawn by its unpretentious, authentic atmosphere, with occasional concerts and parties. 

On rue des Renards, you'll find GIMIC. This hybrid bar is also a radio station promoting the city's underground electronic music scene. It's the perfect meeting place for those who want a taste of Brussels' musical culture and creative energy.

Last but not least, we must give a mention to Wiel’s Renard Noir. This charming, characteristically Brussels cafe features beautiful wood panelling and is a unique place where the decor, music and menu are perfectly in tune with the singular atmosphere of the Marolles district.

After such a wonderfully busy day, you're starting to feel tired, and the idea of curling up under a blanket or relaxing on a terrace is becoming increasingly appealing.

Not ready to wind down just yet? Treat yourself to an invigorating dip in one of Brussels' most beautiful swimming pools! No need to go far, this heritage gem is located right next to place du Jeu de Balle (rue Reebok): the Piscine du Centre, formerly known as the “Bains du Centre”, dates back to 1953 and has a unique charm. Thanks to its ingenious architecture, the two pools are stacked on top of each other and you're treated to a panoramic view of the neighbourhood's rooftops through the pool's glass roof and large windows.

If you would rather stay dry, head to Art & Marges, Brussels' museum of outsider art on rue Haute. Here you'll discover works by artists outside the mainstream, often self-taught or with mental disabilities or psychological vulnerabilities. And as an added bonus, admission is free on the first Sunday of every month!

What a day! Now it's time to relax and indulge in a delicious dinner. In the Marolles, you're spoiled for choice, whether you opt for classic Brussels dishes or creative international cuisine.

Brasserie Ploegmans is an absolute classic: a typical Brussels brasserie with a warm and friendly atmosphere and a menu overflowing with local specialities. For a colourful and cosy alternative, head to Renard Bleu, a restaurant that serves refined seasonal cuisine in an intimate setting. Pois Chiche is the best spot for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours and L’Entrée des Artistes will blow you away with its creative dishes and arty vibe, perfect for those who want to make their night out extra special.

What better way to end the day than by taking in a spectacular view of the Marolles from above? Take the lift to place Poelaert, from where you can admire the imposing Palace of Justice and enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the city! The Ferris wheel that dominates the square will whisk you off into the clouds. And if you fancy a nightcap or a bite to eat, head to Schmet on place Poelaert.