Markets In Brussels You Must Visit

One of the most authentic ways to experience any city is by exploring its markets, and Brussels is no exception. From antiques to clothing, food, and flowers, Brussels’ street markets have it all. Don’t miss these ones in the Belgian capital.

Grand Place

Market

For plants and flowers, look no further than the Grand Place, or Grote Markt, which is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Beyond serving as a market, this square is at the epicenter of the entire city; it is ringed by guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the famed King’s House building which is home to the Museum of the City of Brussels. The Grand Place is even a UNESCO World Heritage site — what better location than this to buy a spontaneous floral bouquet?
Grand Place, Ville de Bruxelles, Belgium, +32 2 279 22 11 Bruxelles Maisons Bordant la Grand Place | © Galaxa1/WikiCommons

Marché du Midi

Market

Next door to the main train station is this sprawling market, said to be the biggest one in all of Europe. Check out the food scene, like Moroccan crêpes and mint tea, Mediterranean spices, and cheeses. And don’t miss the leather wares and clothing in this vibrant and lively market.

Place du Grand Sablon

Market

On weekends (Saturdays from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sundays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.), this gorgeous historic square comes alive with an antique and book flea market. After perusing the market, check out the beautiful old houses, mouthwatering chocolatiers and cute shops which encircle it.

Place Sainte-Catherine

Market

This food and flower market is up and running every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. — but if possible, stop by on a Wednesday, when from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. it also serves as an all-organic food market. In wintertime, there is also a Christmas market in the square.

Place du Jeu de Balle

Market

A flea market in the truest sense of the word, open every day of the week, this is a bargain-hunter’s paradise. The market opens at 6 a.m., so get there early— especially on Thursdays and Fridays, which according to locals are the best days to visit— before all the best gems are gone.

About the author

Madeleine Bazil

Maddy is in her second year reading English at the University of St Andrews. Born and bred in Washington, DC, she retains an affinity for political intrigue, urban green space, and Ethiopian cuisine despite newly appreciating the British traditions of queueing, apologising, and Wimbledon. Maddy's freelance writing has been published in media such as Matador Network and Thistle Magazine as well as in St Andrews-based publications. She'll travel anywhere, just give her a moment to lace up her Adidas.