Place Poelaert Brussels
A grand square offering breathtaking panoramic views of Brussels, connected by a free, stunning glass elevator.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively DJ sets and atmosphere
Place Poelaert Brussels
Best Time
Lively DJ sets and atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand square offering breathtaking panoramic views of Brussels, connected by a free, stunning glass elevator.
"Cinematic views and a free panoramic elevator make Place Poelaert a must-see in Brussels."
🎯 Catch the Golden Hour
The views at sunset are incredible! Perfect for cinematic shots of Brussels.
🎟️ Free Panoramic Elevator
Ride the unique glass elevator for free between the upper and lower towns.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Place Poelaert
Breathtaking vistas of Brussels' skyline, including the cathedral and beyond. Perfect for golden hour.

Marolles Glass Elevator
Connecting Louise district and Marolles
A free, unique panoramic elevator offering stunning city views as it connects upper and lower Brussels.
Coucou Open Air Thursdays
Place Poelaert
Enjoy free DJ sets and a lively atmosphere every Thursday evening from 6 PM to 10 PM.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Views & Vibes
Elevator Access & City Connection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Golden Hour
The views at sunset are incredible! Perfect for cinematic shots of Brussels.
🎟️ Free Panoramic Elevator
Ride the unique glass elevator for free between the upper and lower towns.
🎶 Thursday Open Air Fun
Join the Coucou Open Air for free DJ sets every Thursday evening.
🍺 Relax with a View
Grab a drink and sit on the walls of Place Poelaert for skyline views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Golden Hour
The views at sunset are incredible! Perfect for cinematic shots of Brussels.
🎟️ Free Panoramic Elevator
Ride the unique glass elevator for free between the upper and lower towns.
🎶 Thursday Open Air Fun
Join the Coucou Open Air for free DJ sets every Thursday evening.
🍺 Relax with a View
Grab a drink and sit on the walls of Place Poelaert for skyline views.
🎡 Ferris Wheel Views
Experience elevated city panoramas from the Ferris Wheel at Place Poelaert.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Place Poelaert for its breathtaking panoramic views of Brussels, especially during sunset. The free, unique glass elevator connecting the upper and lower towns is a major highlight, offering both convenience and stunning vistas. While the square itself is a public space, special events like the Thursday open-air parties add a lively dimension.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Place Poelaert is easily accessible by public transport. You can take trams or buses to nearby stops. The iconic Marolles Glass Elevator also connects it directly to the Louise district, offering a scenic and free way to reach the square.
While direct parking at the square might be limited, there are several parking garages in the vicinity, such as Parking Poelaert. It's often recommended to use public transport or the elevator to avoid parking hassles.
The Marolles Glass Elevator is the most recommended method. It's completely free and provides stunning panoramic views as it descends to the Marolles district.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the city center, especially if you enjoy exploring Brussels' streets. Alternatively, you can use the metro to get closer to the Louise area and then walk up.
Utilizing the free panoramic elevator is a must-do experience. It's a unique way to see the city and saves you from climbing many steps.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Place Poelaert itself is a public square and is free to access. The panoramic elevator connecting it to the lower town is also completely free to use.
The Coucou Open Air event on Thursdays is generally free, offering DJ sets from 6 PM to 10 PM. However, specific ticketed events might occur, so it's always good to check their social media for the latest information.
As a public square, Place Poelaert is accessible at all times. The Marolles Glass Elevator has specific operating hours, typically from early morning to late evening, but it's best to verify these locally.
Yes, riding the Ferris Wheel (The View) at Place Poelaert typically involves a ticket purchase. The cost varies, but it offers spectacular panoramic views of Brussels.
For specific events like the Coucou Open Air, it's usually free entry. For other potential events or the Ferris Wheel, booking in advance might be possible or recommended during peak times, though not always necessary.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire square offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially during golden hour for stunning sunset shots. The panoramic views from the square and the glass elevator are prime locations.
Absolutely! Nighttime at Place Poelaert is magical, with the city lights creating a cinematic backdrop. It's a popular spot for capturing the illuminated Brussels skyline.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views. For sunset and night shots, a tripod can be very helpful to ensure sharp images.
Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces like Place Poelaert. However, be mindful of private property and any specific event regulations if you're visiting during a special occasion.
Sunset is highly recommended for its beautiful light and city glow. However, sunny afternoons also offer clear views, and evenings provide a vibrant, illuminated cityscape.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Place Poelaert is primarily known for its stunning panoramic views of Brussels. You can enjoy the cityscape, ride the free glass elevator, and on Thursdays, experience the Coucou Open Air with DJ sets.
Yes, the spacious square is perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can walk along the edges to take in different perspectives of the city and the Palace of Justice.
The imposing Palace of Justice is a prominent landmark located right on Place Poelaert. It's one of the largest 19th-century judicial buildings in the world and an impressive architectural sight.
You can sit on the walls surrounding the square, which offer excellent vantage points for enjoying the view. It's a popular spot for locals to relax with a drink on sunny days.
Riding the elevator is a unique experience. As you ascend or descend, you get unobstructed, panoramic views of Brussels through the glass walls, connecting the chic Louise district with the bohemian Marolles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the novelty of the elevator and the expansive city views can be captivating for younger visitors. Consider visiting during daylight hours for clearer views and a more relaxed atmosphere. The Ferris Wheel, if operational, can also be a fun, albeit ticketed, attraction for families seeking an extra thrill and a different perspective.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For night photography, Place Poelaert transforms into a glittering cityscape. The illuminated buildings and streets offer a dramatic backdrop for capturing Brussels after dark. Consider bringing a tripod for sharper low-light shots. The Thursday Coucou Open Air events can also provide dynamic, candid photo opportunities amidst a lively atmosphere.
🚶 Budget Travelers
On Thursdays, the Coucou Open Air event provides free entertainment with DJ sets, a great way to experience local culture without spending money. While the Ferris Wheel has a fee, you can still enjoy the general atmosphere and views without purchasing a ticket. Grabbing a simple drink from a local shop and enjoying it on the walls of the square is a classic, affordable Brussels experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marolles Glass Elevator: A Free Marvel
Travelers rave about the elevator's design and the stunning vistas it offers. It's not just a mode of transport; it's an experience in itself, providing a different perspective of the city's architecture and urban landscape. Whether you're heading down to explore the antique shops of Marolles or ascending to the grandeur of Place Poelaert, the elevator is a must-use feature.
Key takeaway: Don't miss this free, scenic ride that offers some of the best panoramic views in Brussels without the climb. It's a practical and visually rewarding way to experience the city's verticality.
Experiencing Place Poelaert: Views, Events, and Atmosphere
Beyond the views, Place Poelaert comes alive on Thursday evenings with the Coucou Open Air event. From 6 PM to 10 PM, the square hosts free DJ sets, transforming it into a vibrant hub with music, food, and drinks. This event adds a lively, contemporary dimension to the historic setting, attracting both locals and tourists looking for an enjoyable evening out.
For those seeking an elevated perspective, the Ferris Wheel (The View) often situated at Place Poelaert, offers an even higher vantage point, providing a 360-degree panorama of Brussels from up to 55 meters. Whether you're there for the breathtaking views, the lively Thursday events, or simply to soak in the atmosphere, Place Poelaert offers a memorable Brussels experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit