Brussels unveiled: an artistic guide to the city's creative canvas
Belgium may be small in size, but it’s not in terms of cultural riches. If you prefer destinations with a vibrant artistic heritage, Brussels should rise to the top of your shortlist. The city’s location at the heart of the European Union makes it a must-visit destination for both art enthusiasts and discerning connoisseurs.
A thriving collecting scene attracts internationally renowned masters, while strong links with Africa and Asia add a cosmopolitan vibe. The result is a creative canvas that will delight and surprise the most passionate art admirers. There's a lot to see, so let’s take a quick tour through Brussels' artistic attractions and help you plan your trip.
Begin your adventure at the Royal Fine Arts Museum
There is only one place to begin an artistic break in Brussels. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Belgium houses more than 20,000 works, stretching from magnificent Old Masters to abstract modernists.
Visitors can easily lose themselves wandering through the six galleries of this remarkable institution, a place where prestigious masterpieces emerge at every turn to leave a lasting impression..
David’s “Death of Marat" and Breughel the Elder’s “Landscape with the Fall of Icarus” are instantly recognisable pre-20th century attractions. Going deeper into Flemish history, Rogier van der Weyden’s “Flagelation of Christ” and Jordaens’ “Prometheus Bound” are fantastic examples of Belgium’s artistic glory. The Magritte Museum is a must-see for those with more contemporary tastes. Located next to the main gallery, it showcases Magritte’s unique surrealist style, from the icy grandeur of “The Domain of Arnheim” to the peacefulness of “The Return".
Discover hundreds of galleries across Brussels
The Fine Arts Museum is the crown of the city's art scene, but hundreds of smaller art galleries in Brussels glitter like jewels awaiting discovery. While the central museum district offers a compact overview of monumental pieces, Brussels truly rewards those who venture off the beaten path, uncovering hidden gems in its intimate venues and galleries.
The Xavier Hufkens Gallery is an unmissable stop for art lovers. Active since 1987, Hufkens represents global names like sculptor Anthony Gormley, iconoclastic installation artist Sterling Ruby and perceptive portraitist Alice Neel. He currently operates three locations across Brussels within walking distance of each other and a short stroll from Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels.
Elsewhere,Greta Meert’s space on the Rue du Canal showcases younger artists and experimental mixed-media visionaries like Melissa Kretschmer or Jef Geys. Templon on Rue Veydt brings together different generations. Dreamy surrealists like Oda Jaune or intense colourists like Valerio Adami provide food for thought and visual feasts.
Physical media is also well-represented. For instance, the design gallery Maniera on Rue Meyerbeer has hosted avant-garde Japanese furniture designer Junya Ishigami and the eco-futurists of Studio Verter. If you’re in search of refined contemporary interior design inspiration, look no further.
Attend unmissable events at BOZAR
The next must-see on an artistic exploration of Brussels BOZAR. One of Brussels’ most iconic Art Deco buildings, BOZAR was designed by Victor Horta in 1928. Today, this centre for fine arts is a nexus of the Brussels art scene. It’s an essential stop-off for every visitor and a short walk from the hotel along the Rue Royale.
Above all else, BOZAR is a place of gathering for both people and artistic currents. Expect events that bring together global cultures and visionary ideas. In recent years the BOZAR Fine Arts Centre has hosted stellar events, from an outstanding Fernand Leger exhibition to the Brueghel Family Reunion.
There is also a bustling permanent schedule. Be there in late spring for the Afropolitan Festival, bop with locals at Winter Jazz or discover new artistic talents at September’s Art on Paper. And look out for Bozar Sundays – special occasions with family-friendly events.
Uncover a hidden collection of masterpieces on the Brussels metro
Art is everywhere in Brussels. Master works are even discreetly displayed in the city’s Metro stations. In fact, the designers of the Brussels Metro saw art as an essential feature. Nowadays, the 69 stations host 90 public artworks (while the steel and marble architecture of the stations continues to impress).
These aren’t throwaway pieces. They could easily take a place in the capital’s finest galleries. Stunning stained glass designs by Guy Vandenbranden grace Beekkant station, Ribaucourt is dominated by the comic book style of Fernand Flausch, while Bourse features works by modern Belgian masters Paul Delvaux and Pol Bury. Every station has a unique artistic touch.
Attend exciting annual art events
Finally, we recommend consulting the calendar to check annual art exhibitions in Brussels. Brussels is a gathering place for artists, collectors, and connoisseurs alike. There’s always something happening or just on the horizon.
The Brussels Art Fair (BRAFA) is the year’s centrepiece. Scheduled for late January and early February in the Expo Building, BRAFA covers the artistic spectrum. Expect flamboyant fabric designs, ambitious installations and galleries devoted to world-changing movements.
April’s Art Brussels (also at the Expo) has a more contemporary slant, offering highly rated newcomers in the Discovery section and famous names in the Prime gallery. The event also brings together local galleries. It’s the perfect place to discover several local galleries at once.
If you can't resist the urge to explore, Brussels Gallery Weekend is the time to do so. This mid-September event features a burst of gallery openings across 40 venues. Browse at leisure or engage with curators and artists for insights into the creative process.
That’s not all. Alongside BOZAR’s Art on Paper, highlights include the spectacular light shows of Bright Brussels (February), while the Kunstenfestivaldesarts or KFDA (May) blends performing and visual arts.
Stay with us during your Brussels art escape
Immerse yourself in one of the world's foremost art destinations, where timeless masterpieces blend seamlessly with bold, avant-garde expressions and emerging talent. It’s an inspiring haven for artistic minds. For those seeking to uncover the city’s creative treasures, Corinthia Brussels offers an unmatched retreat. With expert guidance, a serene space to unwind between gallery visits and a prime location close to every major venue, your cultural journey begins here.
