Is the Sablon neighborhood worth visiting?

Absolutely. It is considered the most beautiful and sophisticated part of Brussels, offering a high concentration of historic architecture, world-class chocolatiers, and prestigious antique markets.

Where is the best chocolate in Brussels located?

The Grand Sablon is widely regarded as the chocolate capital of the city. It hosts legendary names like Wittamer and Neuhaus alongside modern masters like Pierre Marcolini and Patrick Roger.

Is there a walking tour Brussels for food lovers?

The Sablon area is the primary destination for any self-guided food walk. While many people look for a guided tour Brussels, you can easily explore the famous chocolatiers and pastry shops independently using this route.

Can I visit the Sablon church for free?

Yes, entry to the Église Notre-Dame des Victoires au Sablon is free for visitors. It is an active place of worship, so visitors are asked to be respectful during services.

When is the Sablon antique market held?

The famous antique and book market takes place every Saturday (9 AM - 5 PM) and Sunday (9 AM - 2 PM) in the Place du Grand Sablon.

Is the Sablon walk family-friendly?

Yes, kids usually enjoy the chocolate shops and the open space of Egmont Park. The Petit Sablon garden is also a great place for children to see the different 'statues of jobs'.

What is the best time to visit the Sablon?

Weekend afternoons are best for the lively market atmosphere. However, weekday mornings are better if you want to photograph the architecture without crowds.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into the most elegant quarter of Brussels, where the air is scented with roasted cocoa beans and the shop windows glitter with centuries-old treasures. This self-guided walk through the Sablon neighborhood invites you to experience the sophisticated side of the Belgian capital. Historically a swampy area outside the first city walls, the Sablon transformed into an aristocratic enclave in the 15th century, eventually becoming the prestigious hub for antiques and luxury chocolate it is today. On this neighborhood stroll, you will traverse the Grand and Petit Sablon, two distinct squares that offer a masterclass in Brussels' history and lifestyle. You will encounter the legendary masters of Belgian chocolate, from the traditional royal warrant holders to the modern 'haute chocolaterie' innovators. Beyond the sweets, the route highlights the stunning Gothic architecture of the Church of Our Lady of the Sablon and the meticulously manicured gardens of the Petit Sablon, which pay tribute to the city's medieval guilds. The journey concludes in the serene Egmont Park, a hidden green oasis tucked away behind the bustling streets. Whether you are a gourmand seeking the perfect truffle or a history buff admiring Baroque facades, this walking route provides a curated look at the refined soul of Brussels. It is a perfect afternoon activity for those who prefer to explore independently and at their own pace, away from the standard tourist tracks.

Highlights

Sample royal-approved chocolates at the historic Wittamer

Explore the weekend antique market at Place du Grand Sablon

Admire the intricate Gothic details of Église Notre-Dame des Victoires

Find the 48 bronze statues of medieval guilds in the Petit Sablon garden

Visit the modern chocolate temple of Pierre Marcolini

Escape the city buzz in the secluded Egmont Park

Tour Stops (6)

Wittamer

Begin your journey at Wittamer, a name synonymous with Belgian excellence since 1910. This family-run establishment is one of the few to hold a Royal Warrant, meaning they are official suppliers to the Belgian Court. Notice the signature pink branding that adorns their shopfront on the Grand Sablon. Wittamer was the first to bring modern pastry techniques to the city, and their pralines remain a benchmark for traditional quality. As you stand outside, consider the history of this square; what began as a sandy area for the city's crossbowmen evolved into the epicenter of high society. Wittamer has witnessed this evolution for over a century, serving generations of Brussels' elite.

Place du Grand Sablon

The Place du Grand Sablon is the heart of the neighborhood's social and commercial life. Surrounded by 17th and 18th-century gabled houses, the square is famous for its high-end antique dealers and art galleries. If you are here on a Saturday or Sunday, you will see the red-and-green striped tents of the antique market, one of the oldest in Europe. This square perfectly captures the 'Sablonais' lifestyle—a blend of luxury shopping and relaxed cafe culture. Take a moment to look at the fountain in the center, donated by an English Lord in the 18th century as a token of gratitude to the city.

Pierre Marcolini | The Biscuit Shop

Across the square, you find the contemporary face of Belgian chocolate: Pierre Marcolini. Marcolini revolutionized the industry by championing the 'bean-to-bar' movement, traveling the world to source cocoa beans directly from farmers. This specific location also features his exquisite biscuits and macarons. The minimalist, jewelry-store aesthetic of the shop reflects his philosophy that chocolate is a luxury product worthy of the highest presentation. It is a sharp, modern contrast to the traditional houses surrounding it, proving that the Sablon is a place where history and innovation coexist harmoniously.

Église Notre-Dame des Victoires au Sablon

Dominating the landscape is the Church of Our Lady of the Sablon. This 15th-century masterpiece is a premier example of Brabantine Gothic architecture. Its origins are tied to a local legend: a woman from Antwerp allegedly stole a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary after a vision, bringing it to Brussels by boat. The guild of crossbowmen, who had their practice ground here, patronized the construction of this church to house the statue. Inside, the light filters through massive stained-glass windows, and the ornate Baroque carvings offer a glimpse into the immense wealth of the guilds that once governed city life.

Place du Petit Sablon

Just across the street lies the Petit Sablon, a Neo-Renaissance jewel of a garden designed in the late 19th century. This isn't just a park; it is a symbolic representation of Belgian history. The garden is enclosed by an iron fence topped with 48 bronze statues, each representing a medieval trade or guild—from the masons to the brewers. In the center, a large monument honors the Counts of Egmont and Hornes, symbols of resistance against Spanish tyranny. It is a quiet, contemplative space that offers some of the best photographic angles of the church you just visited.

Egmont Park

Conclude your self-guided adventure by slipping through a narrow passage into Egmont Park. This hidden green space was once the private gardens of the adjacent Egmont Palace. Today, it serves as a peaceful retreat for locals. As you wander the paths, look for the statue of Peter Pan, a replica of the one in London's Kensington Gardens, gifted to Brussels as a sign of friendship during World War I. The park is home to an old orangery that now serves as a charming cafe. It is the perfect spot to sit and reflect on the mixture of elegance, history, and indulgence you have discovered in the Sablon.

Frequently Asked Questions

A focused walk takes about 60 to 90 minutes. This allows time to admire the church, stroll through the Petit Sablon garden, and browse a few chocolate shops on the Grand Sablon.