Place du Grand Sablon Brussels
An elegant Brussels square famed for its weekend antiques market, exquisite chocolatiers, and stunning Gothic church.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Antiques market buzz
Place du Grand Sablon Brussels
Best Time
Antiques market buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An elegant Brussels square famed for its weekend antiques market, exquisite chocolatiers, and stunning Gothic church.
"A beautiful old square with great architecture, excellent restaurants and bars, and far quieter than Grand Place."
🛍️ Shop 'til you drop
Explore high-end boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops surrounding the square.
🍫 Taste the best chocolate
Don't miss sampling chocolates from top chocolatiers like Pierre Marcolini.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Antiques Market
Place du Grand Sablon
A bustling weekend market filled with unique treasures and vintage finds. A must-visit for collectors and bargain hunters alike.
Chocolatiers Galore
Place du Grand Sablon
Indulge in exquisite Belgian chocolates from renowned shops like Pierre Marcolini and Neuhaus.
Church of Notre Dame du Sablon
Place du Grand Sablon
Admire the stunning Brabantine Gothic architecture of this historic church, a true masterpiece.
Café Culture
Place du Grand Sablon
Discover charming cafes, including the new Café Costermans, perfect for a quiet break or a delightful meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekend Antique Market Magic
Chocoholic's Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Shop 'til you drop
Explore high-end boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops surrounding the square.
🍫 Taste the best chocolate
Don't miss sampling chocolates from top chocolatiers like Pierre Marcolini.
☕ Relax at a cafe
Enjoy coffee or a meal in one of the many charming cafes, some with lovely courtyards.
🏛️ Admire the architecture
Take time to appreciate the beautiful Beaux-Arts buildings and the historic church.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Shop 'til you drop
Explore high-end boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops surrounding the square.
🍫 Taste the best chocolate
Don't miss sampling chocolates from top chocolatiers like Pierre Marcolini.
☕ Relax at a cafe
Enjoy coffee or a meal in one of the many charming cafes, some with lovely courtyards.
🏛️ Admire the architecture
Take time to appreciate the beautiful Beaux-Arts buildings and the historic church.
🚶♀️ Stroll through Petit Sablon
Visit the serene Petit Sablon garden just south of the church for a peaceful escape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Place du Grand Sablon is lauded for its beautiful architecture, upscale ambiance, and vibrant weekend antiques market. Visitors praise the concentration of high-end chocolatiers and the proximity to other attractions. Some find it a bit 'overrated' or expensive, particularly the parking and market prices, but most agree it's a charming and worthwhile area to explore in Brussels.
"Beautiful old square with great architecture, excellent restaurants and bars and an imposing cathedral. And far quieter and less 'tourist-y' than Grand Place."
Gavin Meerwald
"The Place du Grand Sablon is a nice area to visit especially at the weekends when there’s an antiques market and there was maybe 50+ stalls selling some interesting things. Situated between the royal palace and the palace of justice, Sablon has always been an upper class district. Nowadays there’s less aristocratic undertones and more chic and trendy. So there’s lots of nice cafes and restaurants in the plaza as well as several upmarket chocolatiers such as Neuhaus and Pierre Marcolini.
The Church of Notre Dame du Sablon is also on the square, and worth combining into one visit."
macedonboy
"Place du Grand Sablon is a nice square in the upper town. Here you find art galleries, high-end chocolate shops, restaurants as well as sightseeing. We recently stayed a few nights here during out visit Brussels and enjoyed being in this area of the city.
Historically, Grand Sablon saw an upper class neighbourhood built up in more recent centuries around the historic Blessed Lady of the Sablon. The church is considered one of the finest examples of Brabatine Gothic architecture in Belgium and is a nice place to visit.
Other quality sightseeing includes the small fountain of Minerva which was built on the square in 1751. There is also the very nice Petit Sablon garden just south of the church. Further area sightseeing includes the Royal Arts Museum complex just a few minutes away and the Grand Palace just a bit further. Further, the Grand Place (Grote Markt) and lower town are a mere 10 minutes away by foot.
During our time at Place du Grand Sablon, we enjoyed visiting a handful of the chocolate shops such as Patrick Roger, Pierre Marcolini and the small Passion Chocolat and found the restaurant scene to be quite good. We enjoyed meals at La Pizza E Bella, Hispania Brasserie, Sablon Pop-up, L'Entree des Artistes and La Rabassier during our visit.
In the end, we enjoyed our time spent on Place du Grand Sablon. This is an area of the city that we'd be happy to stay or at least spend some time during future trips to Brussels."
Brad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Place du Grand Sablon is easily accessible by public transport. You can take tram lines 93 or 94, or bus lines 27, 48, or 86, which stop nearby. It's also a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from the Grand Place.
Yes, it's very walkable! It's situated between the Royal Palace and the Palace of Justice, and is about a 10-minute walk from the Grand Place.
From Brussels Midi station, you can take a direct metro line (e.g., line 3 or 4) towards Gare du Nord and alight at Central Station, then it's a short walk. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-share service will take you directly there.
While there are parking garages nearby, they can be expensive. The square itself is often busy, especially on market days. Public transport is generally recommended.
Yes, Place du Grand Sablon is generally considered a safe and upscale neighborhood. However, as with any busy tourist area, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Place du Grand Sablon is a public square and is free to visit. Entry to the Church of Notre Dame du Sablon is also typically free, though donations are appreciated.
The antiques market usually operates on Saturdays and Sundays. It's best to check local listings for exact times, but it generally runs from morning until late afternoon.
There are no entrance fees for the shops or cafes. You pay for any purchases or services you use.
The building at Place du Grand Sablon 40 historically housed the Museum of Posts and Telecommunications. It's now often used for art galleries or other exhibitions.
The church generally has set visiting hours, which can vary. It's advisable to check their official website or local information for the most up-to-date opening times.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Sablon offers a range of dining options, from traditional Belgian cuisine to international flavors. Les Brigittines is a well-regarded option for classic Brussels dishes.
You're spoiled for choice! Top recommendations include Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, Patrick Roger, and Passion Chocolat.
Yes, several cafes offer pleasant outdoor seating, and some, like Café Costermans, boast quiet courtyards perfect for a relaxing break.
Café Costermans serves coffee, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a versatile spot for any time of day.
While Sablon is known for its upscale dining, you can find more affordable options by exploring slightly off the main square or looking for sandwich shops and bakeries.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the grandeur of the Church of Notre Dame du Sablon, the charming architecture of the surrounding buildings, and the vibrant stalls of the antiques market. The Petit Sablon garden also offers picturesque scenes.
Absolutely! The market provides a lively backdrop with diverse items and people. Go early to avoid the biggest crowds and get clearer shots.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for architectural shots. Midday can be good for capturing the market's energy.
Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. However, always be respectful when photographing people and inside private establishments like shops or restaurants.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is excellent for capturing the ambiance. For wider architectural shots or detailed market scenes, a camera with interchangeable lenses can be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for cafes with outdoor seating or courtyards where children can have a bit more space. The Petit Sablon garden offers a safe and pleasant area for younger ones to explore. Keep an eye out for street performers during market days, which can add an extra layer of entertainment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on enjoying the architecture and the public spaces like the church and Petit Sablon garden. For affordable eats, look for bakeries or sandwich shops slightly off the main square, or grab a quick bite from a street vendor if available. Enjoying a single, high-quality chocolate from a renowned chocolatier can be a more budget-friendly indulgence than a full meal.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider a romantic dinner at one of the area's fine dining establishments like Les Brigittines, or find a cozy cafe for coffee and conversation. The beautiful architecture and the tranquil Petit Sablon garden provide picturesque backdrops for memorable moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Sablon's Antiques
Beyond the market, the Sablon district is renowned for its high-end antique shops and art galleries that operate throughout the week. These establishments offer a more curated selection, often featuring exquisite pieces with significant historical value. Exploring these shops provides a deeper dive into the world of antiques and art, showcasing the district's enduring appeal to connoisseurs.
Pro-tip: Arrive early on market days to get the best selection and avoid the biggest crowds. Be prepared to haggle politely, as it's part of the market experience.
A Chocolate Lover's Pilgrimage
Visiting these chocolatiers is an experience in itself. Many offer tastings, allowing you to savor the complex flavors and high-quality ingredients. Whether you're looking for a luxurious gift or a personal indulgence, the chocolate shops in Sablon are an unmissable part of the Brussels experience. The sheer variety and artistry on display are astounding, making it a true pilgrimage for any chocolate enthusiast.
Must-try: Don't leave without trying a classic Belgian praline. Many shops offer tasting boxes, allowing you to sample a variety of their signature creations.
Architectural Gems and Hidden Courtyards
Beyond the grand facades, the area also hides tranquil spots like the Petit Sablon garden, a beautifully manicured space offering a peaceful retreat from the city bustle. Furthermore, some of the newer establishments, such as Café Costermans, feature lovely, quiet courtyards that provide an oasis of calm amidst the urban landscape. These hidden gems offer a chance to relax and soak in the atmosphere away from the main thoroughfares.
Photography tip: The intricate details of the church and the surrounding buildings are best captured during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit