Brussels Markets: Variety and abundance in Belgium

Brussels' general and specific markets

Brussels is home to over five general markets, selling mostly new and unused goods. These include the Place Emile Bockstael and Chaussée d'Anvers in the north of the city, both lying 200 meters either side of the Bockstael metro station. At Place Emile Bockstael and Chaussée d'Anvers you can find food, new or vintage clothing and an array of memorabilia. If you're only in Brussels for a short time and staying in the north of the city, it is well worth taking a walk through these two markets to get a general overview of market life in Brussels.

However, beneath the surface of these general outdoor markets are those that specialise in particular types of goods. Many of these are grouped in the centre of Brussels. The real standouts are the Gare du Midi, Marolles, Sablon and Chatelain.

The great Gare du Midi

The Gare du Midi market is a large and bustling food market, based at the exit of the Gare du Midi railway station. Exhibiting delicacies from Belgium and the wider European continent, the market at Gare du Midi is worth experiencing if you are really into foods such as fresh vegetables, cheeses and cured meats, but also for the knocked down prices offered towards the end of the trading day. For visitors interested in slowly perusing through stalls of great tasting food and wonderful aromas, the Gare du Midi really is a must-visit.

Easy to get to from the Gare du Midi train station, the market is accessible from all areas of Brussels using either the metropolitan metro or tram system.

Antiques in the Flea Markets

Marolles and Sablon are the ultimate flea markets to indulge in Brussels' charming vintage character. Different in character to the Gare du Midi market, the Marolles area was a working class neighbourhood throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, giving the areas a wonderful, worn character. In the Sablon neighbourhood, the flea market lies in the grounds of its grand church, the civic monument for which the area is famous. These two places best exemplify the true beauty of Brussels' markets.

Situated at the Place du Jeu de Balle only a five-minute walk from the Gare du Brussels-Chappelle station, a treasure trove of ancient treats can be discovered in the Marolles market. Amongst the vast sea of small trinkets, mirrors, vintage clothing, pocket watches and more, there is an honesty and imagination to the Marolles. Soaking up the aura and browsing the cheap antiques of the market allows one to disappear for hours, with no idea of what they will purchase. Even better, the Marolles market is open daily, allowing you to return over the course of a stay.

The Sablon, meanwhile, offers its clientele the ability to wander the maze of an antique market and indulge in the shops in the surrounding area on the Rue Blaes. In this regard, visitors have slightly more choice than in the Marolles. But, the two are similar in price and in the goods on offer from the traders, but this means there is an opportunity to find hidden gems within both. If wondering what to do on your weekend, meandering through the Sablon is well worth doing. The Sablon is only open on Saturday and Sunday from 09.00 until late, giving visitors less flexibility than a visit to the Marolles.

Brussels Christmas Markets

Christmas markets in Brussels are a traditional favourite around northern Europe. Winter wonders run over the Christmas period (late November-early January), do not charge admission and are easily accessible from the Central Station. Seeing all the attractions lit up against the crisp winter weather is a real charm, whilst the opportunity to drink and eat authentic seasonal Belgian delicacies at affordable prices should not be passed up.

Whatever your taste, markets in Brussels will keep you enthralled with their variety and abundance, guaranteeing a second, third or even fourth visit to Belgium's capital to see what's new to this triving scene.

Author: Sidy Diallo

Guest Relations Manager at the NH Collection Brussels Centre

My name is Sidy DIALLO, I am proud to be the Guest Relations Manager at the NH Collection Brussels Centre, deeply in love with Brussels. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Public Management and a Master's Degree in Administration and Public Policies, I have more than 10 years of professional experience in the world of hospitality. throughout my career I have always worked on numerous issues relating to customer relations. Together with my colleagues from Front Desk and Guest Services we are making sure that all guests have the best experience in our hotel and taking care of their special requests, celebrations and expectations. I get energy from solving problems and doing the best I can and I love that every day is different and full of surprises. I put my face to it, I take personal responsibility for my work, I like to take the hand of those who turn to me and accompany them throughout the experience we build together. It doesn't matter if I am asked a simple question or a request that may seem impossible: my function is to try to satisfy every Desire. I look forward to welcoming you warmly here at NH Collection Brussels Center to offer you a memorable experience!