Is Ixelles worth visiting during a short trip to Brussels?

Yes, Ixelles is highly recommended for its unique blend of Art Deco architecture and green spaces. It offers a more local, authentic experience compared to the Grand Place area and is only a short tram ride from the center.

What is the best time to visit Place Flagey?

The best time to visit is on Saturday or Sunday mornings for the local market, or in the evening when the square's cafes and the Maison de la Radio come to life with a vibrant atmosphere.

Can I see Art Nouveau architecture on this walk?

Absolutely. While the Maison de la Radio is Art Deco, many of the private townhouses lining the Ixelles Ponds feature exquisite Art Nouveau details, including ironwork and sgraffito.

Is the Abbaye de la Cambre free to enter?

The courtyard and the stunning terraced gardens are free and open to the public. Some of the interior buildings are used by schools and government offices and may not be accessible to visitors.

Where is the best place to get food near the Ixelles Ponds?

Place Flagey is the culinary heart of the area, famous for the Frit Flagey stand and numerous international restaurants. For a more upscale experience, there are several bistros located on the streets branching off the ponds.

Is this walking route accessible for strollers?

Yes, the paths around the ponds and the main square are wide and paved. The Abbaye de la Cambre has some gravel and slopes, but most areas remain accessible for strollers.

How do I get to the start of the Ixelles walk from the city center?

The easiest way is to take Bus 71 from Central Station or De Brouckère, which drops you directly at Place Flagey in about 15-20 minutes.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 45 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

Ixelles is widely considered the soul of Brussels' creative and bohemian scene, and this self-guided walk invites you to explore its most picturesque corner. The journey begins at Place Flagey, a bustling urban crossroads that feels like the city's living room. From here, the atmosphere shifts dramatically as you move toward the Ixelles Ponds, a series of tranquil waterways flanked by some of the most stunning Belle Époque and Art Deco architecture in the capital. This neighborhood stroll offers a perfect balance of urban energy and natural serenity, making it a favorite for locals and savvy travelers alike. As you explore independently, you will encounter the 'Paquebot' or 'Yellow Submarine'—the iconic Maison de la Radio. This Art Deco masterpiece once served as the heart of Belgian broadcasting and remains a premier cultural hub. The route then leads you along the water's edge, where the reflections of elegant townhouses dance on the surface of the ponds. It is a dream for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist centers. This walking route is not just about the sights; it is about the vibe of a neighborhood that transitioned from a marshy valley to an elite residential district. The final leg of this self-guided adventure takes you to the Abbaye de la Cambre. Tucked away at the end of the ponds, this former Cistercian abbey is a hidden gem that feels worlds away from the city. With its perfectly manicured terraced gardens and historic stone buildings, it provides a majestic conclusion to your walk. Whether you are interested in architectural history, local culture, or simply a beautiful place to wander, this walking tour Brussels experience captures the unique spirit of Ixelles. Discover the stories behind the statues and the secrets of the Maelbeek valley at your own pace.

Highlights

The iconic Art Deco 'Paquebot' building at Place Flagey
A scenic walk along the historic Ixelles Ponds
The famous 'Frit Flagey' stand for a local snack
Stunning Belle Époque facades lining the water
The hidden terraced gardens of Abbaye de la Cambre
Tranquil green spaces at the Jardin du Roi

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Place Flagey

Welcome to Place Flagey, one of the largest and most vibrant squares in Brussels. Once a marshy area where the Maelbeek river flowed, it was transformed in the 19th century into a major urban hub. Today, it is a melting pot of cultures, famous for its weekend markets and the legendary 'Frit Flagey' chip stand. Look around and you will see the scale of the square, which sits atop a massive storm basin designed to prevent flooding in this low-lying part of the city. It serves as the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the sophisticated side of Ixelles.

2

Ixelles Ponds

As you leave the bustle of the square, you enter the serene world of the Étangs d'Ixelles, or Ixelles Ponds. These two remaining ponds are all that is left of a chain of four that were created by damming the Maelbeek river centuries ago. In the late 1800s, this area became a fashionable residential district for the Brussels elite. As you walk, notice the variety of architectural styles, from Flemish Renaissance revival to stunning Art Nouveau. It is a favorite spot for local joggers and couples, offering a breath of fresh air in the heart of the city.

3

Flagey ASBL-VZW

This cultural institution is the heartbeat of the local arts scene. Housed within the historic radio building, Flagey ASBL-VZW hosts world-class jazz, classical music, and film festivals. It represents the successful rebirth of a building that almost faced demolition in the 1990s. Today, it stands as a testament to Brussels' commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while fostering a modern, inclusive cultural environment. The acoustics in its 'Studio 4' are world-renowned, often compared to the best concert halls in the world.

4

Maison de la Radio Flagey

Behold the 'Paquebot' or the Ocean Liner. Completed in 1938 by architect Joseph Diongre, this Art Deco masterpiece was one of the first broadcasting houses in Europe. Its streamlined curves and yellow brickwork earned it its nautical nicknames. Inside, the building was a marvel of 1930s technology, featuring sound-insulated studios floated on springs. Even if you don't go inside, take a moment to admire the geometric precision and the way the building commands the corner of the square, symbolizing the dawn of the mass-media age in Belgium.

5

King's Garden (Jardin du Roi)

Connecting the ponds to the Avenue Louise, the King's Garden is a formal green space that offers a bit of royal symmetry. It was commissioned by King Leopold II, who had a significant hand in the urban planning of Brussels. The garden features several notable sculptures, including a tribute to the novelist Charles De Coster. It’s a quiet spot that feels like a private estate, providing a moment of transition between the naturalistic ponds and the historic abbey that lies just ahead.

6

Abbaye de la Cambre

You have reached the Abbaye de la Cambre, a former Cistercian abbey founded in 1201. Though the abbey was suppressed during the French Revolution, the buildings survived and now house the National Geographic Institute and a prestigious arts school. The highlight here is the 18th-century terraced gardens, which are among the most beautiful in Brussels. Wander through the cloisters and past the ponds to find the source of the Maelbeek. It is a place of profound quiet and historical depth, marking the end of our neighborhood stroll.

Frequently Asked Questions

A leisurely stroll around both ponds and the surrounding gardens typically takes 45 to 60 minutes. The total walking route from Place Flagey to the Abbey is about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and takes roughly 90 to 120 minutes with stops.