Take in the city’s authentic charm from one of its many squares. Head to a terrace, soak up the sun, and watch the vibrant city life unfold around you.
Mechelseplein
Creative vibes in the theatre district
- Hotspots: Museum Mayer van den Bergh, Botanical Garden, De Studio, and five-star hotel Botanic Sanctuary
- When: perfect for unwinding after shopping
- Terraces:
- De Pallieter: traditional pub with brown café vibes
- KORSAKOV: alternative spot with Berlin-style vibesKapitein Zeppos: no-nonsense café-bar
©Woodmonkey - Gianni Camilleri
Vrijdagmarkt
Charming square in the historic city centre
- Hotspots: Museum Plantin-Moretus, MoMu Fashion Museum, Mercator-Orteliushuis, and the Voetgangerstunnel (the pedestrian tunnel to the left bank)
- When: perfect for an aperitif among locals
- Terraces:
- Bistro Bar 2: casual bistro with Belgian dishes
- Pinot: popular wine bar with a wide selection by the glass
- Café Corso: fun and traditional pub vibes
- Marigold: stylish and intimate cocktail bar
©Woodmonkey - Gianni Camilleri
Graanmarkt
A historic square in the theatre district
- Hotspots: Rubenshuis, Bourla theatre, Arenberg theatre, and the Stadsschouwburg
- When: the perfect end to an evening at the theatre
- Terraces:
- De Duifkens: authentic brown café often frequented by artists
- De Varkenspoot: cosy meeting spot with a laid-back atmosphere
©Victoriano Moreno
Marnixplaats
Charming square in the Zuid district
- Hotspots: KMSKA, Zuidpark, and Kloosterstraat
- When: warm summer evenings in the setting sun
- Terraces:
- Café Baron: a local favourite with a relaxed atmosphere
- Vitrin: trendy spot for an aperitif
- Fiskebar: bustling fish restaurant
©Victoriano Moreno
Dageraadplaats
Bustling neighbourhood square in Zurenborg
- Hotspots: Belle Époque architecture, Zomerfabriek, and Berchem station
- When: great for relaxing afternoons and early evenings with kids
- Terraces:
- ZeeZicht: a popular pub-style café with a large terrace
- Aan Het Strand Van Oostende: family-friendly bistro
- Bar Salon: trendy lounge bar with cocktails
©Victoriano Moreno
Regine Beerplein
Green courtyard in the Groen Kwartier district
- Hotspots: Groen Kwartier, De Koninck brewery, and Berchem station
- When: a cool, shady stop on a hot day
- Terraces:
- Spéciale Belge Taproom: for craft beer lovers
- Caffenation: trendy coffee bar
©Lucid
Troonplaats
Friendly neighbourhood square in the Zuid district
- Hotspots: Palace of Justice, Monty, and KMSKA
- When: perfect for brunch or a quiet aperitif
- Terraces:
- Bar d’Henri: tapas bar with plant-based burgers
- Bar Cava: tapas and cava bar with southern vibes