If you have one or two hours...
The European quarter has recently been equipped with new cultural assets. The Parlamentarium aims to make the European institutions interesting, even sexy. The challenge may seem daring, but it has been met with honours thanks to a playful approach. Interactive equipment puts the building of Europe in its historical context and explains the role of each of the Union's institutions. Given the number of visitors to the site - 500,000 a year - the initiative has been a resounding success. This educational effort will be extended with the inauguration of the House of European History in 2016.
... or an afternoon
Travellers who enjoy strolling through the district often opt for its green spaces: the Square Ambiorix with its Art Nouveau buildings or, above all, the vast Parc du Cinquantenaire, with its many museums. But the advantage of Brussels is of course its small size. Within a 15-minute transport radius of the Parliament, you can immerse yourself in the authentic yet trendy atmosphere of Marolles, be seduced by the majestic Grand Place or visit the museums devoted to Magritte or the masters of ancient art, such as Bosch, Bruegel, Rubens... In fine weather, it's nice to get some height in the Jardins Suspendus, a roof terrace lounge at the top of Parking 58.
Fabien OdellaFrench expatriate in Brussels: "The cosmopolitan dimension of Brussels is unique. Here, and particularly in the European Quarter, extraordinary multicultural relationships are created that you can't find anywhere else."
Shopping
Avenue Louise has long been Brussels' high-end commercial showcase. It's home to the gotha of luxury brands, just a twenty-minute walk from the European Parliament. The 'classic' route usually involves a slight diversions via the Chaussée d'Ixelles and the picturesque Matonge district, where the major ready-to-wear brands rub shoulders with small boutiques and African restaurants. But there are other alternatives nearby: Marolles and Sablon, for a vintage atmosphere, or Rue Neuve and Rue des Fripiers, further north. Note that the city centre's new traffic plan, which came into force at the end of June, has created a 50-hectare pedestrian zone, the largest in Europe. A great place to do your shopping.
