Itinerary: 1h30 in the heart of the Îlot Sacré
Between heritage and urban art
Brussels, the European capital, is a city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. The Îlot Sacré, an emblematic district in the city center, offers strollers an immersion into its rich architectural heritage, picturesque alleys, and touches of contemporary art.
This route will guide you through the hidden treasures and must-see spots of the neighborhood, blending history, gastronomy, and culture.
Starting point: Grand-Place
There’s no better place to begin. Considered one of the most beautiful squares in the world, Grand-Place is the historic and symbolic heart of Brussels. Its magnificent architecture reflects the city’s prosperous past, with its lavishly decorated guild houses, the Gothic Town Hall, and the Maison du Roi.
📸 Don’t miss:
✔ Admire the gilded façades of the guild houses.
✔ Spot the Maison des Ducs de Brabant, a row of seven houses behind a monumental façade.
✔ Touch the golden statue of Éverard t’Serclaes, beneath the archway of Rue Charles Buls. Legend has it that touching his arm brings good luck and ensures a return to Brussels.
✔ Enjoy a coffee on the square and watch the bustling life unfold.
Stop 2: Galerie Bortier (3 min walk)
Leaving Grand-Place via Rue de la Madeleine, you will arrive at Galerie Bortier, a hidden gem full of charm, tucked away from the crowds. Built in 1848, it is home to passionate booksellers and renowned gourmet artisans.
📸 Don’t miss:
✔ Browse antique books and rare editions in the independent bookstores.
✔ Stop by one of the fine grocery stores or artisanal patisseries.
✔ Take a break in this quiet passage for a moment out of time.
Stop 3: Jeanneke-Pis (5 min walk)
Head towards Rue des Bouchers, where you will find the lesser-known counterpart to Manneken-Pis: Jeanneke-Pis. This modest fountain depicts a young girl squatting, adding a humorous and modern twist to Brussels’ heritage.
📸 Don’t miss:
✔ Compare this contemporary statue with her more famous male counterpart.
✔ Explore the nearby bars, including Delirium Café, renowned for its impressive beer selection.
Stop 4: Tintin Comic Strip Mural (5 min walk)
Brussels is the comic book capital, and its historic center is dotted with murals paying tribute to legendary comic book heroes. One of the most iconic is Tintin, featuring Captain Haddock and Snowy, as if bursting through a wall on Rue de l’Étuve.
📸 Don’t miss:
✔ Admire the vibrant colors and detailed artwork, staying true to Hergé’s iconic style.
✔ Continue the comic strip hunt by discovering more murals throughout the city center.
Stop 5: Manneken-Pis (2 min walk)
A few steps away, you’ll find Manneken-Pis, Brussels’ most irreverent symbol. This small bronze statue from the 17th century represents the cheeky, rebellious spirit of the city.
📸 Don’t miss:
✔ Check if he’s wearing one of his many costumes (over 1,000 outfits in his collection!).
✔ Enjoy a crispy Belgian waffle from one of the nearby vendors.
Stop 6: Zinneke-Pis (7 min walk)
After Manneken-Pis and Jeanneke-Pis, it’s time to meet the third member of Brussels’ quirky fountain trio: Zinneke-Pis, a sculpture of a dog lifting its leg, located on Rue des Chartreux. This modern addition symbolizes Brussels’ cultural diversity and melting pot identity.
📸 Don’t miss:
✔ Compare this contemporary sculpture to the older statues along the route.
✔ Explore the Marolles district nearby, one of the most authentic neighborhoods in Brussels.
Stop 7: The Cat House (5 min walk)
To end this walk on a unique note, head to La Maison des Chats on Rue du Marché au Charbon. This peculiar façade features cat sculptures seemingly watching over passersby—a discreet yet fascinating detail in the city’s architecture.
📸 Don’t miss:
✔ Spot all the sculpted cats hidden in the façade.
✔ Enjoy the lively cafés and bars in the area, known for their warm and vibrant atmosphere.
