Parlamentarium
Pl. du Luxembourg 100, Bruxelles, Belgium, 1050
As one of the official seats of the European Union, Brussels is where the European Parliament meets to make countless decisions for the residents of 27 countries. Make sense of the system—and how it affects daily life for nearly 450 million people—at Parlamentarium, a free visitor center with interactive exhibits about the EU’s structure, lawmaking practices, and current challenges.
The basics
While exploring Parlamentarium is free, you’ll need to book your timed visit online. Upon arrival, pick up a multimedia guide to check out the exhibits. These include a 360-degree theater that shows you what the parliament’s plenary sessions are like, and an interactive floor map telling stories from all corners of the EU. If you’d rather see the site with a local guide, opt for a customized private sightseeing tour that visits Parlamentarium and your other points of interest in Brussels, from Grand Place to the Royal Palace.
Things to know before you go
Parlamentarium’s maximum capacity is 75 guests, so the only way to ensure you’ll be able to visit when you like is to register in advance.
Multimedia guides are available in 24 languages.
The visitor center is wheelchair accessible and offers both audio and sign-language guides for those with disabilities.
Lockers, restrooms, and a gift shop are available.
Bring your ID and be prepared to go through a security check before entering Parlamentarium.
How to get there
Parlamentarium is located in Espace Léopold, a complex of parliament buildings in central Brussels. Within a 15-minute walk of attractions like the Brussels Royal Palace and Cinquantenaire Park, it’s also easy to reach with public transportation; the building is just steps away from the Luxembourg bus station, a 15-minute ride from Grand Place.
When to get there
An indoor attraction that’s open year-round, Parlamentarium can be a respite from both chilly winter weather and hot summer temperatures. It’s closed on May 1, November 1, and select dates around Christmas and New Year’s Day—check the website for updates on closures and special exhibits before planning your visit.
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