Top 5: Outdoor Spaces in Brussels, Belgium

Although the northern European weather of Brussels can mean a healthy dose of rain and clouds, when the sun actually does come out, Belgians are keen to get outside and enjoy the treasured moments of le soleil. Here are some of the city’s best places to get out, stretch out and feel miles away from the rush of the European capital.

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Arguably Brussels’ most scenic park, this rectangular space in the eastern part of the city is rife with walking/running/biking paths, surrounding patches of green, sporadic statues, playgrounds and even a running track, bordered by a Triumphal Arch at the eastern end.

Parc Léopold

A few blocks south of Cinquantenaire is Parc Léopold, a small but hilly park with a modestly sized pond surrounded by the diverse architectural styles of the European History Museum, the Museum of Natural Sciences, the Antoine Wierz Museum of Fine Arts and a Parliament building.

Square Marie-Louise/Square Amboix

These two central parks are separated by a grassy median and a slight incline, but each park has its own panache: Marie-Louise centers around a large pond with a far-reaching fountain, while just up the hill Amboix is the better spot for views of the city’s high rises.

Jardin Botanique

Marvel in the manicured gardens and more than 40 varieties of plant life in the botanical gardens. The gardens were commissioned in 1829 and feature 14 acres of natural beauty.

Parc Josaphat

Due north of the city in Schaerbeek, Parc Josaphat is a natural respite with winding paths, ponds and community events throughout the year.