Brussels · Historic centre
Grand-Place
The market square at the centre of the old town, closed in by the Gothic town hall and the guild houses. It is open at any hour and takes little time, but it is worth seeing both by day and after dark.
- 1 h 30
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Historic centre
Data checked on October 5, 2026
The Grand-Place began as a market in the 12th century. Most of what you see was rebuilt after the French bombardment of 1695, when the guilds put up the gabled houses that still line the square. The Gothic town hall on one side is from the 15th century and is still used by the mayor and city officials. The visit is a slow walk around the edges, reading the gilded details on each house.
What to look for
- The Gothic town hall and its tall tower
- The gilded guild house facades
- The King's House, the Broodhuis, opposite the town hall
- The square after dark
Opening hours
Always open.
The square is open at all times. Events such as the summer flower carpet and the Christmas tree change what fills it.
Source: visit.brussels (Brussels tourism board), checked October 5, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free. Free to visit at any hour.
Getting there
Gare Centrale / Centraal Station on metro lines 1 and 5 is about a 5 minute walk away.
Tip
Come early in the morning, before the tour groups arrive, and again after dark when the facades are lit.