How long does it take to walk through the Marolles?

A typical neighborhood stroll through the Marolles takes between 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time to browse the flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle and take in the views from the Palais de Justice.

When does the Marolles flea market take place?

The flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle is famous for being open daily, usually from 6:00 AM until about 2:00 PM. Weekends are the busiest times with the most vendors, while weekdays offer a more relaxed atmosphere for treasure hunters.

Is the Marolles neighborhood safe for tourists?

Yes, the Marolles is generally safe for travelers, though it has a more rugged, authentic feel than the city center. Like any busy market area, keep an eye on your belongings at the Place du Jeu de Balle to avoid pickpockets.

Can I see the Palais de Justice for free?

Yes, you can walk around the exterior and enter the main hall of the Palais de Justice for free during business hours. The plaza in front of the building also offers one of the best free panoramic views of the Brussels skyline.

Where is Pieter Bruegel the Elder buried?

Pieter Bruegel the Elder is buried in the Église Notre-Dame de la Chapelle in the Marolles district. There is a commemorative monument inside the church dedicated to him and his wife.

Is the Marolles elevator free to use?

Yes, the Ascenseur des Marolles is a public glass elevator that is free to use. It connects the Square de l'Epée in the lower city to the Place Poelaert in the upper city.

What should I buy at the Marolles flea market?

The market is known for vintage glassware, old Belgian comics, mid-century home decor, and quirky trinkets. It is a 'true' flea market, so expect to dig through boxes to find hidden gems among more common household items.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 40 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step into the soul of Brussels with a self-guided walk through the Marolles, the city's oldest and most authentic neighborhood. While many visitors stick to the polished Grand Place, this neighborhood stroll reveals a gritty, vibrant side of the capital where the unique 'Zwanze' spirit—a blend of self-deprecating humor and local wit—still thrives. This route invites you to explore a landscape of contradictions, where monumental 19th-century architecture looms over narrow medieval streets filled with antique shops, street art, and the daily rhythm of a traditional flea market. Your adventure begins under the urban curves of the Chapelle Skatepark, showcasing the neighborhood's modern edge, before moving to the historic Église Notre-Dame de la Chapelle, the final resting place of the legendary painter Pieter Bruegel the Elder. As you navigate the winding alleys, you will encounter the creative energy of Les Brigittines and the industrial charm of the glass-walled elevator that connects the lower city to the heights of the Palais de Justice. This massive structure, once the largest building in the world, offers panoramic views that stretch across the Brussels skyline. The journey culminates at the iconic Place du Jeu de Balle. This square is the beating heart of the Marolles, hosting a daily flea market where treasures and trinkets have been traded for over a century. Whether you are hunting for vintage vinyl, mid-century furniture, or just a authentic cup of coffee in a brown café, this walking route provides an independent way to experience the local life of Brussels. It is a perfect choice for those seeking an alternative to a traditional guided tour Brussels, allowing you to linger over the details that interest you most. This walking tour Brussels is best experienced in the morning when the market is at its peak, offering a glimpse into a world where history and community remain inextricably linked. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The daily flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle
Panoramic city views from the Palais de Justice
The burial place of Pieter Bruegel the Elder
The glass-walled Marolles elevator
Contemporary art in a former 17th-century chapel
Urban skate culture at Chapelle

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Skatepark Chapelle

Begin your exploration at one of the city's most vibrant urban spaces. Located directly under the railway tracks, the Chapelle Skatepark is a testament to the Marolles' gritty, creative spirit. This area often features a rotating gallery of street art and graffiti, which can change weekly, reflecting the neighborhood's constant evolution. The concrete bowls and ramps are a hub for local youth, creating a lively contrast with the ancient church nearby. Take a moment to appreciate how the city has reclaimed this industrial underpass as a community landmark before heading toward the historic spire of the Chapelle Church.

2

Église Notre-Dame de la Chapelle

This church is one of the oldest in Brussels, dating back to the 12th century. It serves as a bridge between the city's medieval past and its artistic heritage. Inside, you can find the memorial and tomb of Pieter Bruegel the Elder, the master of Flemish Renaissance painting who lived and worked in this neighborhood. The architecture is a fascinating mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, having survived fires, bombardments, and centuries of urban change. It remains a quiet sanctuary amidst the bustling Marolles, holding the stories of the common people Bruegel so famously depicted in his art.

3

Les Brigittines

Next, discover Les Brigittines, a striking example of how Brussels blends the old with the new. This contemporary arts center is housed in a restored 17th-century Baroque chapel, but look closely at the building next to it—a modern architectural mirror image that mimics the chapel's silhouette in steel and glass. This venue is a hub for contemporary dance and performance art. While the interior is often reserved for rehearsals or scheduled shows, the exterior architecture perfectly illustrates the neighborhood's transition from a religious enclave to a center for modern creativity and cultural expression.

4

Ascenseur des Marolles

This glass elevator is more than just a convenience; it is a symbolic link between the working-class Marolles below and the elite upper city. As you rise toward the Place Poelaert, the glass walls offer a widening view of the neighborhood's rooftops and the iconic Atomium in the distance. Historically, the physical height difference between the lower and upper city represented a social divide. Today, the elevator provides free, easy access for everyone, making it one of the best spots in the city for a panoramic photo without the climb. It is a favorite spot for locals and photographers alike.

5

Palais de Justice

Stepping off the elevator, you are confronted by the sheer scale of the Palais de Justice. Built in the late 19th century, it was once the largest building in the world and remains one of the most imposing courthouses ever constructed. Its creation was controversial, as many residents of the Marolles were evicted to make room for its massive footprint, leading to the local insult 'architecte.' Note that the building has been covered in scaffolding for decades—a local joke in itself. From the plaza in front, you have the most famous viewpoint in Brussels, looking out over the spire of the Town Hall and the city's sprawling northern districts.

6

Place du Jeu de Balle

Descend back into the heart of the Marolles to reach the Place du Jeu de Balle. Since 1873, this square has hosted the 'Old Market,' the only flea market in the world open 365 days a year. The atmosphere here is pure Brussels—unpretentious, chaotic, and full of character. Vendors spread their wares directly on the cobblestones, selling everything from antique silver to rusty tools. This is the place to practice your 'Zwanze' spirit. For the full experience, grab a drink at one of the 'brown cafés' surrounding the square, like Le Brocanteur, and watch the locals haggle over the morning's finds.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best way to explore the Marolles is via a self-guided walk that focuses on the Place du Jeu de Balle flea market and the Palais de Justice. This allows you to experience the local folklore and antique shops at your own pace without being tied to a group schedule.