· BE

Schaarbeek

Schaarbeek, Brussels-Capital Region, Belgium

Discover the Vibrant Diversity of Schaarbeek, Brussels Step off the beaten tourist track and into the heart of multicultural Brussels in Schaarbeek, a commune brimming with life, history, and hidden gems. More than just …

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Stay & fly Things to do Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Schaarbeek.

Top Hotels in Schaarbeek

Top Flights to Schaarbeek

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Schaarbeek.

Tours

Explore Parc Josaphat

A beautiful park in Schaarbeek with picturesque landscapes, perfect for family outings and relaxation.

Visit Maison Autrique

Dive into the work of Victor Horta by visiting this architectural gem, one of his early designs.

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

An exceptional complex with a vast collection of exotic plants set in stunning greenhouses, open to the public during specific months of the year.

Explore Place Colignon

The central square of Schaarbeek, featuring the impressive town hall and an authentic Belgian atmosphere.

Mini-Europe

A miniature park with reproductions of famous European landmarks, offering educational fun for all ages.

Shopping

Shop at Docks Bruxsel

A modern shopping center offering a variety of shops, entertainment, and dining options.

Outdoor

Terdelt Park Outdoor Activities

Enjoy various outdoor activities such as cycling and picnicking in this tranquil park.

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Schaarbeek.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

132,000

Languages

French, French, Dutch

Average weather

Schaarbeek

Jan

5°0°

Feb

6°0°

Mar

9°2°

Apr

13°4°

May

17°8°

Jun

20°11°

Jul

23°13°

Aug

23°13°

Sep

19°11°

Oct

14°8°

Nov

9°4°

Dec

6°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Schaarbeek.

What people love

Schaarbeek, located in the Brussels-Capital Region of Belgium, offers several advantages for travelers:

Cultural Diversity: Schaarbeek is known for its diverse population, which contributes to a rich cultural atmosphere. Visitors can experience a mix of languages, cuisines, and traditions in this vibrant neighborhood.
Architectural Heritage: The area is home to stunning architectural landmarks, including the beautiful Josaphat Park and the Art Nouveau houses designed by renowned architects such as Victor Horta.
Gastronomic Delights: Schaarbeek boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and markets where visitors can indulge in delicious Belgian cuisine, including famous dishes like moules frites (mussels and fries) and waffles.
Accessibility: Schaarbeek is well-connected to the rest of Brussels via public transportation, making it easy for travelers to explore the city and its surrounding areas.
Local Markets: Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting the vibrant markets in Schaarbeek, where they can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and other local specialties.

Overall, traveling to Schaarbeek provides a unique and enriching experience for visitors looking to explore the diverse culture, history, and culinary delights of Brussels.

What to know

Schaarbeek is a diverse and lively neighborhood in Brussels, Belgium. However, like any destination, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Schaarbeek:

Safety Concerns: While Schaarbeek is generally considered safe, like any urban area, there may be some areas or times of day where visitors should exercise caution, particularly with regards to pickpocketing and petty crime.
Language Barriers: While many residents in Schaarbeek speak multiple languages, including French and Dutch, some may have limited proficiency in English. This could potentially pose a communication challenge for English-speaking travelers.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Schaarbeek is primarily a residential area and may not have as many tourist amenities, attractions, or English-speaking services compared to more touristy areas of Brussels. This could make it slightly more challenging for travelers to navigate and explore the neighborhood.
Distance from Tourist Hotspots: Schaarbeek is located a bit further away from the main tourist attractions in central Brussels, which may require additional time and effort to travel to and from the neighborhood.
Potential Noise Levels: Schaarbeek is a bustling neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas, so there may be some noise from traffic, businesses, and other activities that could affect the overall ambiance for some travelers.

It's important to note that these cons are relative and may not impact all travelers in the same way. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to make the most of your trip to Schaarbeek.

Schaarbeek, also spelled Schaerbeek, is one of the 19 municipalities located in the Brussels-Capital Region of Belgium. It has a rich history that reflects the broader historical developments of Brussels and Belgium. Here is a detailed history of Schaarbeek, highlighting significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

Origins: The name "Schaarbeek" is believed to derive from "Schaer," which means a notch or incision, and "beek," meaning brook, referring to a small stream that once flowed through the area.
Medieval Period: Schaarbeek's history dates back to the Middle Ages when it was a rural area outside the city of Brussels. It was known for its farmlands and orchards.

19th Century

Industrialization: The 19th century saw significant changes in Schaarbeek as it began to industrialize. The construction of the Brussels-Liège railway line in 1835 contributed to its development as an industrial and residential suburb of Brussels.
Urbanization: The area experienced rapid urbanization, with the construction of workers' housing and the development of infrastructure. This period marked the transformation of Schaarbeek into a more densely populated urban area.

20th Century

World Wars: During both World Wars, Schaarbeek was affected by the broader conflicts impacting Belgium, including German occupation.
Post-War Period: After World War II, Schaarbeek continued to develop as part of the expanding Brussels metropolitan area.

Significant Events

Cherry Festival: Schaarbeek was historically known for its cherry orchards, and the commune was famous for the "Kriek" beer, a cherry lambic beer. While the orchards have mostly disappeared due to urbanization, the tradition is celebrated through local festivals.

Historical Figures

Georges Eekhoud (1854–1927): A renowned Belgian writer born in Schaarbeek, known for his novels and short stories that often depicted the lives of marginalized individuals.
Paul Deschanel (1855–1922): A notable French politician who served as President of France and was born in Schaarbeek.

Important Landmarks

Town Hall (Hôtel Communal de Schaerbeek): Built between 1887 and 1901, this impressive building is a fine example of eclectic architecture and serves as the administrative center of the municipality.
Josaphat Park: A large public park established in 1904, offering a green space for recreation and relaxation. It is a significant landmark in Schaarbeek.
Church of Saint Servatius: This church is one of the prominent religious landmarks in Schaarbeek, showcasing beautiful architecture and historical significance.
Train World: A railway museum located in Schaarbeek, known for its extensive collection of historical trains and railway artifacts.

Modern Times

Today, Schaarbeek is a vibrant multicultural municipality within the Brussels-Capital Region. It is characterized by diverse communities and a mix of historical and modern urban landscapes. The area continues to balance its rich historical heritage with contemporary developments.

Information regarding specific events or lesser-known historical figures may not be widely documented. However, Schaarbeek’s contribution to the cultural and historical fabric of Brussels remains significant.