Parc du Cinquantenaire Brussels
A majestic 19th-century park in Brussels, featuring a grand arch, museums, and beautiful gardens, celebrating Belgian independence.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming flowers, fewer crowds
Parc du Cinquantenaire Brussels
Best Time
Blooming flowers, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 19th-century park in Brussels, featuring a grand arch, museums, and beautiful gardens, celebrating Belgian independence.
"A magnificent park with stunning architecture and a rich history, perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation."
📸 Arch Views
Climb the Cinquantenaire Arch for stunning panoramic views of Brussels! :camerawithflash:
🛡️ Military Museum Treasures
Don't miss the impressive collection of tanks and aircraft at the Royal Military Museum. :military_medal:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cinquantenaire Arch
Centerpiece of the park
Majestic triumphal arch with a bronze quadriga, offering panoramic city views from its summit.
Royal Military Museum
North wing of the park
Explore Belgium's military history, from medieval armor to modern aircraft and tanks.
Art & History Museum
South wing of the park
Discover a rich collection spanning fine arts, decorative arts, and archaeological treasures.
Grand Mosque of Brussels
Within the park grounds
A significant Islamic cultural center, showcasing beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Access & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Arch Views
Climb the Cinquantenaire Arch for stunning panoramic views of Brussels! :camerawithflash:
🛡️ Military Museum Treasures
Don't miss the impressive collection of tanks and aircraft at the Royal Military Museum. :military_medal:
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls
The park is accessible at all times and can be safe for evening walks, but be aware of your surroundings. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Event Tickets
For special events like outdoor cinemas, book tickets online in advance! :admission_tickets:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Arch Views
Climb the Cinquantenaire Arch for stunning panoramic views of Brussels! :camerawithflash:
🛡️ Military Museum Treasures
Don't miss the impressive collection of tanks and aircraft at the Royal Military Museum. :military_medal:
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls
The park is accessible at all times and can be safe for evening walks, but be aware of your surroundings. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Event Tickets
For special events like outdoor cinemas, book tickets online in advance! :admission_tickets:
🕌 Mosque Visit
Respectfully visit the Grand Mosque of Brussels; it's a beautiful architectural site. :mosque:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Parc du Cinquantenaire for its grand architecture, particularly the iconic Arch, and its expansive, beautiful green spaces perfect for relaxation and exploration. The museums within the park are also highlighted for their rich collections, offering diverse cultural experiences. Some visitors note that while the park is generally safe, caution is advised for late-night solo walks.
"We visited in April, and although it was quite cold, the park was still beautiful and relaxing. The vibrant gardens and expansive green spaces make it a perfect place to unwind, take a leisurely stroll, or simply sit and enjoy the atmosphere. With so much to see you could easily spend several hours exploring. I can only imagine how wonderful it must be in warmer weather when the gardens are in full bloom and outdoor activities are at their best. Highly recommended for a peaceful and scenic escape in the heart of Brussels. 🌿🌸☀️"
Ezgi Bay
"Marvelous park, the gate is very similar to the Brandenburg gate in Berlin, and the buildings are beautiful. The park is very cozy and can be used as a place for gatherings and picnics.
There's also a museum in the premises which at the time had few visitors, but was full of interesting art and artifacts"
Guilherme Rocha
"Refreshing to be in nature among trees, grass, and water fountain. There's so much room to run around, kick balls, play and have a picnic.
There's a food vendor at the Parc.
It seems as though there's going to be a big event as there were tons of porta potties lined up. There were lights and stage being set up at the major entrance."
Michelle Peacock
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is easily accessible by public transport. Take Metro lines 1 or 5 to Schuman or Merode stations, both within walking distance. Several bus lines also stop nearby. :bus:
Limited street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find. Paid parking garages are located near the Schuman and Mérode metro stations. :car:
It's a pleasant walk of about 30-40 minutes from the European Quarter, or a longer walk from the historical center. Consider using public transport for a quicker journey. :walking:
Yes, there are bike paths leading to the park, and it's a popular spot for cyclists. You can also find Villo! bike-sharing stations nearby. :bike:
Both Schuman and Merode stations are convenient. Merode offers direct access to the park's main entrance, while Schuman is closer to the European Parliament. :metro:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park itself is free to enter and explore. However, individual museums within the park, such as the Royal Military Museum and the Art & History Museum, have their own admission fees. :ticket:
The park is generally open from early morning until late evening. Specific opening and closing times can vary seasonally and may be affected by events. :clock1:
It's recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially for popular museums or during peak season, to avoid queues. Some special exhibitions may require advance booking. :computer:
Yes, the park frequently hosts events, including outdoor concerts, festivals, and temporary exhibitions. Check the official website or local event listings for current happenings. :calendar:
Yes, you can visit the Cinquantenaire Arch. There is a fee to climb to the top for panoramic views of Brussels. :arrow_up:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Cinquantenaire Arch, the Royal Military Museum, the Art & History Museum, and the Grand Mosque of Brussels. The park also features beautiful gardens and fountains. :star: 
Absolutely! The arch, the museums' architecture, and the landscaped gardens offer numerous picturesque spots for photography. :camera:
Yes, there are cafes and kiosks within the park, especially near the museums. For more options, the surrounding neighborhoods offer a wide variety of restaurants and bars. :coffee:
While the park is accessible, some Reddit users advise caution for solo walks late at night due to past incidents. It's generally safer during daylight and early evening hours. :warning:
You can explore museums, enjoy a picnic in the gardens, walk or jog, admire the architecture, and attend special events. :running:
📸 📸 Photography
The Cinquantenaire Arch, especially from the front plaza and from its summit, is a must. The museum facades, the central fountain area, and the tree-lined avenues also make for great shots. :camerawithflash:
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for the arch and gardens. Midday can be harsh but is good for capturing details inside museums. :sunriseovermountains:
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban parks and near public buildings. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. :noentrysign:
Look for the intricate sculptures on the arch, the Beaux-Arts architecture of the museums, and the decorative elements in the gardens. :art:
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide shots of the arch and details of the museums. A wide-angle lens is useful for the park's expanse. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the park's gardens, making for a budget-friendly and enjoyable lunch. Keep an eye out for any family-friendly events or temporary exhibitions that might be taking place during your visit. Remember to check museum opening hours and consider purchasing tickets online to avoid queues.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
You can spend hours exploring the grounds without spending a euro. For a low-cost cultural experience, consider visiting the Grand Mosque of Brussels, which is free to enter and admire its architecture. While the museums have admission fees, you can choose to visit just one that most interests you, or focus on enjoying the park's free amenities. Bringing your own snacks and drinks can also help save money on food expenses within the park. Public transport to the park is also relatively inexpensive. :euro:
couples
Climbing the Cinquantenaire Arch together provides a memorable experience with breathtaking panoramic views of Brussels, perfect for a shared moment. Consider visiting one of the museums for a dose of culture, or if there's a special event like an outdoor cinema, it can make for a unique and memorable date night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Monument to Belgian Independence
+1The park itself is a beautifully landscaped space, designed in a formal French style with grand avenues, manicured lawns, and decorative fountains. It offers a serene escape from the city bustle, inviting visitors to stroll, relax, and admire the impressive architecture. The combination of historical significance, grand monuments, and green spaces makes Parc du Cinquantenaire a unique and captivating destination.
Beyond its commemorative purpose, the park has evolved to host various events and house significant cultural institutions. This blend of history, art, and public space ensures that Parc du Cinquantenaire remains a vibrant and relevant landmark in Brussels, attracting locals and tourists alike.
Exploring the Museums of Cinquantenaire
Adjacent to it, the Art & History Museum (Musées royaux d'Art et d'Histoire) presents a diverse panorama of human creativity. Visitors can explore ancient civilizations, decorative arts, and Belgian art through the ages. The museum's collections are vast, offering insights into different cultures and artistic movements.
For those interested in religious architecture, the Grand Mosque of Brussels is also located within the park. While not a museum in the traditional sense, its beautiful design and cultural significance make it a noteworthy site to visit respectfully.
Remember to check the specific opening hours and admission fees for each museum before your visit, as they can vary. Booking tickets online in advance is often a good strategy to save time. Safety and Evening Experiences
While the park can be enjoyed at night, especially during events like outdoor cinemas, it's advisable to exercise caution, particularly if you are alone. Sticking to more frequented and well-lit paths can enhance your sense of security.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit