Erasmus House Brussels
Discover where humanist Erasmus lived in 1521. Explore one of Brussels' oldest Gothic houses, filled with 15th-17th century art and a serene garden.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Erasmus House Brussels
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover where humanist Erasmus lived in 1521. Explore one of Brussels' oldest Gothic houses, filled with 15th-17th century art and a serene garden.
"A charming glimpse into history, this old Gothic house offers art, tranquility, and a connection to Erasmus."
Combine with Beguinage Visit
Don't miss the charming Beguinage next door, especially on the first Sunday of the month for free entry! :sparkles:
Free Entry on First Sundays
Enjoy free admission on the first Sunday of each month. A great budget-friendly option! :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Erasmus's Living Quarters
Inside the House
Step back in time to see where the renowned humanist Erasmus lived in 1521. Experience his private and intellectual world.

Gothic Architecture
Exterior of the House
Admire one of Brussels' oldest Gothic houses, a beautiful example of historical architecture that transports you to another era.

Art Collection
Throughout the House
Explore a fascinating collection of art spanning the 15th to 17th centuries, offering a glimpse into the artistic styles of the period.

Tranquil Garden
Rear of the House
Relax and unwind in the peaceful garden, a perfect spot to reflect on the history and art you've experienced.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Peaceful Visit
Combine with Nearby Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Beguinage Visit
Don't miss the charming Beguinage next door, especially on the first Sunday of the month for free entry! :sparkles:
Free Entry on First Sundays
Enjoy free admission on the first Sunday of each month. A great budget-friendly option! :moneywithwings:
Relax in the Garden
Take a moment to chill in the serene garden after exploring the house. Perfect for photos! :camerawithflash:
Explore the Art
Appreciate the 15th-17th century art collection that brings Erasmus's era to life. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Beguinage Visit
Don't miss the charming Beguinage next door, especially on the first Sunday of the month for free entry! :sparkles:
Free Entry on First Sundays
Enjoy free admission on the first Sunday of each month. A great budget-friendly option! :moneywithwings:
Relax in the Garden
Take a moment to chill in the serene garden after exploring the house. Perfect for photos! :camerawithflash:
Explore the Art
Appreciate the 15th-17th century art collection that brings Erasmus's era to life. :art:
Check for Special Events
Look out for any special exhibitions or events that might be happening during your visit. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Erasmus House for its historical significance and charming atmosphere, particularly highlighting its status as one of Brussels' oldest Gothic houses and the peaceful garden. The free entry on the first Sunday of the month is a major draw. Some find the exhibits a bit niche, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and tranquil cultural experience.
"Lovely little museum. Very nice atmosphere. Beautiful peaceful gardens. Admission €3. Erasmus stayed in this house, which belonged to a friend, for a few months in the early 16th century."
Rogier Holla
"One of the oldest gothic house in Brussels (built in 1515). When I came, no other visitor but me.
Handbook from the receptionist is a must because there is no information about the objects.
Drizzle, old woods scent, beautiful garden with some proverbs scattered around.
Peaceful.
Free admission if you have MuseumPass."
Amila Auliyah
"Great place to visit when looking for indoor activities. The house is lovely and it is filled with objects. Sadly, it lacked more information about everything. But it was nice."
Flavia Stucchi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Erasmus House is located in the Anderlecht municipality. You can reach it by public transport, often involving a tram or bus from the city center. Some visitors mention that certain areas of Brussels, like Anderlecht, can feel a bit daunting to navigate, so planning your route in advance is recommended. Check local transport apps for the best routes from your location.
Yes, it is accessible by public transport. Several tram and bus lines serve the Anderlecht area. It's advisable to use a journey planner app to find the most direct route from your starting point in Brussels.
Limited street parking may be available in the vicinity of Erasmus House, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially during peak times. Public transport is generally the most convenient option for visitors.
From the Brussels city center, you can take a tram or bus towards Anderlecht. Consult a local transit app like STIB-MIVB for real-time schedules and route information.
While most areas of Brussels are safe, some TikTok users have expressed feeling uneasy in certain neighborhoods, including parts of Anderlecht. It's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially when using public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Erasmus House website or local listings before your visit. They are typically open during the day, with potential closures on Mondays.
Admission to Erasmus House is generally affordable. A significant perk is that it's free to enter on the first Sunday of every month, making it a popular choice for budget travelers and locals alike.
For general visits, booking in advance is usually not required, especially if you are visiting on a regular day. However, for special events or group visits, it's always a good idea to inquire about booking procedures.
The most notable discount is the free entry on the first Sunday of the month. Keep an eye on their website for any other potential concessions or special offers.
Yes, the Beguinage adjacent to Erasmus House is a must-visit. It's the smallest in Belgium and is particularly charming. It's often accessible on the first Sunday of the month along with the house.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
At Erasmus House, you can explore the rooms where the humanist Erasmus stayed in 1521, view art from the 15th to 17th centuries, and learn about his intellectual and private life. The house itself is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. Don't forget to enjoy the peaceful garden.
While the historical and artistic content might be more engaging for older children and adults, the peaceful garden offers a nice space for younger ones to explore. It's a quiet, educational visit.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage within the museum or ask staff if photography is permitted, especially if flash is involved.
Erasmus House is significant as it was a residence of Desiderius Erasmus, a prominent humanist scholar, during his visit to Brussels in 1521. It's one of the oldest Gothic houses in the city, preserving a piece of intellectual history.
Absolutely! The garden is described as a great chill spot and a relaxing place to visit after touring the house. It offers a tranquil escape and is lovely for photos.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the Gothic house itself is very photogenic. The tranquil garden also offers lovely opportunities for capturing serene moments. Look for architectural details and the charming ambiance.
While the house itself is a historical site, some visitors enjoy capturing memories. One TikTok mentioned a cute photobooth experience in Brussels, though not specifically at Erasmus House. It's best to check museum rules regarding personal photography.
The house itself, being a historical residence of a famous scholar, offers a unique backdrop. Capturing the blend of architecture, art, and the peaceful garden can create memorable photos.
Architectural photography of the Gothic facade and interior, as well as nature photography in the garden, would be ideal. Capturing the historical atmosphere is key.
During free entry days, it might be more crowded, which could make capturing unobstructed photos challenging. Visiting during off-peak hours on these days or being patient can help.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on the first Sunday of the month for free entry, making it a budget-friendly outing. Encourage children to imagine what life was like for Erasmus in this old house. The nearby Beguinage also offers a charming, storybook-like environment that kids might find intriguing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the free entry day, the admission price is generally quite reasonable. Combining your visit with the adjacent Beguinage, which is also often free or low-cost, maximizes your cultural exploration without significant expense. Planning to use public transport instead of taxis will also help keep costs down.
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Lovers
The art collection spanning the 15th to 17th centuries is a significant draw for art lovers. The well-preserved Gothic architecture of the house itself is also a key attraction. Exploring these elements allows for a deep dive into the historical and artistic context of 16th-century Brussels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Life and Legacy of Erasmus
Erasmus House in Brussels offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of this influential humanist. During his stay in 1521, he was at the height of his intellectual powers. The house aims to recreate the atmosphere of his time, showcasing art from the period and providing insights into his daily life, his studies, and his interactions with other scholars. It's a chance to connect with a pivotal figure in the history of ideas.
Visiting Erasmus House is more than just seeing an old building; it's an immersion into a significant historical period. The displays and the preserved architecture help visitors understand the context in which Erasmus lived and worked, highlighting his contributions to humanism, education, and religious reform. The accompanying garden provides a peaceful space to contemplate his enduring legacy.
Architectural Charm and Artistic Treasures
Inside, the house is adorned with a curated collection of art dating from the 15th to the 17th centuries. These pieces are not merely decorative; they are integral to understanding the cultural and artistic milieu in which Erasmus lived and worked. The selection of paintings and artifacts aims to evoke the intellectual and aesthetic environment of the era, offering visitors a rich visual narrative.
The combination of its historical architecture and the displayed artworks creates a unique atmosphere. It’s a place where history, art, and scholarship converge, offering a multi-layered experience. The tranquil garden at the rear further enhances the visit, providing a serene space to reflect on the beauty and history contained within the house.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit