Pentagon, Brussels guide

At the heart of the Pentagon lies the Grand-Place, one of Europe’s most breathtaking squares. Architecture enthusiasts admire the ornate guildhalls and historic townhouses encircling it, each gilded with centuries of detail. Pause for a drink at La Maison du Cygne, where Karl Marx is said to have written ‘The Communist Manifesto’, then return at dawn to see the square before it stirs to life.

One of Brussels’ most beloved — and cheekiest — landmarks, Manneken Pis has been delighting visitors since the 15th century. The small bronze statue of a boy relieving himself stands just a few blocks from the Grand-Place. Nearby, GardeRobe Manneken Pis showcases his many costumes, while his equally mischievous companions, Jeanneke and Zinneke Pis, await close by.

Make time to wander through the Pentagon’s distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own rhythm and charm. Elegant Sablon offers a calm escape from the busy centre, with leafy gardens and exceptional Belgian chocolate. Down by the canal, Dansaert buzzes with creative energy, home to hip breweries, indie boutiques and design studios.

Follow beloved comic characters like Tintin and the Smurfs through Brussels’ Comic Strip Trail, where more than 50 murals brighten walls across the Pentagon. Dive deeper into the art form at the Comics Art Museum, then indulge your sweet and savoury sides at Choco-Story Brussels and the Frietmuseum Brussels, two temples to Belgium’s most iconic treats.

You could spend an entire day exploring the museums in the Pentagon, especially those clustered around Mont des Arts. Admire Flemish masterpieces by Rubens and Bruegel at the Old Masters Museum, or delve into surrealism at the Magritte Museum. The Musical Instruments Museum showcases global craftsmanship, while BOZAR blends exhibitions and performances beneath its striking Art Deco dome.

The best restaurants in the Pentagon capture the heart of Belgian cuisine, with ‘moules frites’ (mussels steamed in white wine and herbs, served with golden fries) as the local favourite. Around Place Sainte-Catherine, seafood spots spill onto the square, while nearby Rue des Bouchers brims with old-school brasseries dishing up rich stews, crisp fries and indulgent desserts.

In the Pentagon, nightlife flows from cosy historic taverns to rooftop bars with panoramic views. Beer takes centre stage here — whether you’re sipping a traditional ale in a timeworn brown cafe or sampling inventive lambics at a modern microbrewery. Wherever you end up, expect friendly locals, rich flavours and a deep sense of Brussels tradition.

Browse for unique souvenirs and antique treasures at markets around the Pentagon. Place du Jeu de Balle hosts a famous flea market every day of the year in the Marolles district. You’ll also find loads of antique shops and boutiques along Rue Haute and Rue Blaes. Plus, a weekly antique market in the Sablon neighbourhood features fine arts, costume jewellery and curiosities.

The Grand-Place provides a spectacular setting for festivals and celebrations year-round. From November to January, Winter Wonders fills the square with lights, market stalls, performances and a Ferris wheel. In July, the Ommegang pageant re-creates medieval pomp and ceremony, while every other August, thousands of begonias form the dazzling but short-lived masterpiece known as the Flower Carpet.