5 Ways to Explore the Art Scene in Brussels For Free

Brussels is an incredibly arty city. Though from the outset it might seem a little dull with its office-block buildings, dig a little deeper and you’ll find a city filled with impressive art nouveau architecture and a hearty dose of contemporary design along the way.

Like most European cities, the art in Brussels isn’t always free to explore, which can be a problem for those travelling on a budget. That being said, there are still plenty of ways you can get to know the creative side of the city without spending a single penny (that’s right, you can dive into the art scene for absolutely free). Here’s how:

1. Make Do at the Markets

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The market scene in Brussels is huge, and you can pretty much find a flea market or foodie affair going on every single day. Browsing through markets is a great way to get to know the local life in Brussels, as well as uncover some native art too.

Head to Place du Jeu de Balle, which hosts an antiques market with old art and quirky furniture every day. Otherwise, let your eye carry you around the streets, where you’re bound to stumble on a collection of creative stalls at one point or another.

2. Line Up With Some Art Festivals

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Brussels hosts a number of arty events throughout the year, from great exhibition openings, to full-city affairs. Nuit Blanche is one of the most popular creative events, and it’s taking place at the beginning of October.

During it, you can explore the city which will be transformed into a huge work of art. Impressive light and music installations will dot the city, whilst art shows and performances will be held throughout the streets.

3. Wise Up With a Walking Tour

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Walking tours are a great way to get an initial overview of a city, and in Brussels there are many to choose from. Just a heads up – more often than not, it’s good manners to leave a tip for your guide, so this won’t necessarily be free. That being said, it’s a great opportunity to delve into the art scene at a really affordable price.

Brussels is known for its Comic Strip Walk, which has proven to be one of the most popular routes through the city, but you might also want to try the Art Nouveau Walk or the Fashion Trail if you’re so inclined. If you don’t fancy being guided through the city, make up your own tour and hit up all the hotspots you want to along the way.

4. Find the Free Museums

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Brussels is home to a huge number of museums, some of which are great bastions of culture, and others which display incredible contemporary art. With so many dotted throughout the city you’re bound to find one that interests you. The good news? Almost all of Brussel’s museums and galleries are free to enter on the first Wednesday of every month, so if you can line your trip up to match these dates, you’ll be laughing all the way to creative nirvana.

However, if you can’t be in the city at the beginning of the month, simply seek out the range of museums and galleries that are free all of the time. Major institutions like the ULB Contemporary Art Collection, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Belgium, and Espace Photographique Contretype are free all the time.

5. Get Cultured in the Garden

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Le Botanique, Brussel’s botanical gardens are not only picturesque, but they are also home to an important cultural centre. Amongst the vibrant displays of exotic flora you can discover some of the city’s leading artistic talent and buff up on the cultural trends. It’s a great way to kill two birds with one stone – check out one of the city’s best-loved attractions, and indulge your love of all things art.

So there you have it. A starting point for exploring the art scene in Brussels on a very tight budget. A lot of people think having an interest in art means that travel will be costly, what with all the museum entrance fees and the souvenirs you’re bound to want to buy in the gift shop, but wise up before you go and you’ll be able to explore the creative side of Brussels without breaking the bank.

Have you been to Brussels? What arty things did you get up to?