Brussels, Town Hall and Tour & Taxis site

Discover Brussels through two of its historic and architectural gems

We learn about the history of Brussels and its urban and administrative functioning over the centuries.

When we talk about Brussels, most of us will undoubtedly picture the Grand Place and the iconic Town Hall, although many have probably never visited its interesting interiors. A visit in November will give you the opportunity to explore in detail the richly decorated meeting rooms, with tapestries, paintings and historical furniture.

A symbol of civic pride and built in stages between 1402 and 1455, the Brussels Town Hall is indeed a true masterpiece and an excellent example of the Brabantine Gothic style, characterised by ornate brickwork, pointed arches and intricate spires.

Its central tower, designed by Jan Ruysbroeck and rising about 96 metres, is topped by the statue of Saint Michael, the patron saint of Brussels, slaying a dragon.

The Town Hall is now considered one of the most beautiful public buildings in Europe and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, together with the Grand Place.

Tour & Taxis

Those interested in urban renewal initiatives and revitalized industrial sites can indulge in a visit to the Tour & Taxis site, located along the Brussels canal, just north of the city center.

Originally built in the 19th and early 20th centuries as a customs and freight depot, Tour & Taxis was one of the first large-scale intermodal transport hubs in Europe.

Today, the site is known for its beautifully restored buildings, including the Royal Depot, the Gare Maritime, former customs offices and many warehouses with steel and glass structures reminiscent of train stations and exhibition halls of the time.

Transformed into a vibrant center for culture, business and community life, the site is a model for Brussels’ evolving identity and sustainable urban renewal, prioritizing green space and technologies, energy efficiency, repurposing, housing and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.

Practical arrangements

• 10:00   welcome coffee/tea in the “Le Pain Quotidien” bakery. We will be welcomed there by our guides.
• 10:30   guided tour in English and Dutch of the renovated Tour & Taxis site. Our Dutch-speaking guide the Brussels alderman for environment matters, sustainable urban development and citizen participation
• 12:00   departure to the Brussels Bourse building ( Beursgebouw), Boulevard Anspach 80.
• 14:00   lunch in “The Brasserie” located in the renovated Bourse (former stock exchange) building. Further information will be provided in the additional guidelines which will be sent to participants in the week preceding the week of the outing.
• 14:30   guided tour in English and French of Brussels Town Hall
• 15:30   farewell drink ( optional)

If you have registered and paid for this event please let the organiser know, preferably by e-mail.

How to get there:

• By car: accessible from the center of Brussels. Ample parking space in Parking Picard, rue Picard 13 and Parking Anna Boch, Drève Anna Boch
• By train: from Brussels North-Station a 10 min’ walk.
• By trams: lines 51 and 93: stop Sainctelette
• By metro: lines 2 and 6: stop Yser or Ribeaucourt