Pavo's City guide X Brussels

This week, we've compiled our favorite spots for you in a new City Guide. This time, Pavo has settled in the cosmopolitan city of Brussels. The vintage paradise of Europe, if you ask us!

Brussels is a city brimming with culture, history, and surprises, and what could be more fun than exploring the city in autumn? The leaves change color, the streets quiet down, and hidden treasures are everywhere. Whether you're a vintage enthusiast, want to discover antiques, or simply enjoy delicious food, Brussels has it all. We'll take you along to our favorite hotspots, starting with one of the city's most unique spots: the Vossenmarkt (Fox Market).

Your city break begins at the Vossenmarkt ( Fox Market), the ultimate destination in Brussels for vintage lovers. Located in the Marollen district, this market is a paradise for anyone who loves secondhand finds. From coats and hats to antique cameras and paintings, you'll find absolutely everything. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, with stalls overflowing with antiques and curiosities. Take your time browsing the stalls and enjoy the feeling that you might just discover a hidden treasure in Brussels. For example, there are many beautiful glass vases and ashtrays from Val Saint-Lambert, the old glass factory in Belgium that produces the finest glassware, often with beautiful colors. The Vossenmarkt is at its best in the morning, so start your day early!

After your visit to the Vossenmarkt, it's time to explore the surrounding neighborhood, the Marollen (Brussels' best neighborhood ;)). This neighborhood is known for its many antique shops and secondhand clothing stores. Stroll through the narrow streets and discover boutiques full of unique furniture, art, and design. The Marollen has a raw charm and is a must-visit for anyone who loves a mix of authentic Brussels and an artistic atmosphere. Here you'll find not only vintage clothing but also stylish interior pieces with a story to tell. For example, an antique dealer told us that last week he sold a Ligne Roset Togo set to a Dutch couple for only 800 euros! He could have asked for ten times as much, as he later realized ;)

After a morning filled with vintage and antiques, it's time to unwind with a delicious lunch. Stop by Todt's , a favorite of ours in Brussels, as well as locals and visitors. Here you'll find the best lasagna you've ever had, rich in flavor and perfectly prepared. But Todt's is also known for its exquisite steak tartare , a dish not to be missed if you appreciate refined, classic flavors. Todt's has a small menu, but what it offers is truly excellent Belgian cuisine. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make Todt's the perfect stop on your Brussels explorations.

Brussels is a large and diverse city, and what better way to explore it than by bike? Cycling is the ideal way to easily get from one neighborhood to another, enjoying everything the city has to offer along the way. Don't miss the beautiful Brussels Botanical Garden , a green oasis in the heart of the city. It's the perfect place to unwind between all that exploring, with beautiful walking paths and impressive plant collections.

If you're near the Grand Place and fancy a delicious meal, a visit to Rue des Bouchers is highly recommended. This narrow street in Brussels is known for the large number of fish restaurants clustered here in a small space. In summer, you can dine al fresco, while in winter, you can cozy up inside by a fireplace. Although Rue des Bouchers is sometimes considered a "tourist trap" in Brussels, it's certainly not a punishment in this case. The atmosphere and culinary experience make it a unique experience.

Did you follow our City Guide and discover any new favorite spots in Brussels ? We'd love to hear about your experiences! Let us know how your visit to Brussels was and which places you visited. And we'd love to hear which city you think we should explore next for our next City Guide. Share your recommendations with us; we can't wait to discover more unique destinations!