can you visit the european parliament in brussels

How to visit the European Parliament in Brussels and the EU Quarter

One of the most interesting things to do in Brussels is to visit the European Parliament and see the EU Quarter, a surprisingly attractive and fascinating part of Brussels. Here’s how to go on a tour of the European Parliament and pay a visit to the other key buildings and attractions of the EU Quarter.

Where is the EU quarter in Brussels?

The EU or European Quarter, also known as the Leopold Quarter, is a compact area to the south-west of Brussels city centre, about 1.5 miles (2km) from the Grand-Place. In the 1800s the Leopold Quarter was one of Brussels’ most prestigious neighbourhoods, and there are lots of beautiful old buildings left over from those days.

During the early 20th century, the wealthy residents of the Leopold Quarter moved further outside the city centre to the new suburbs. Office buildings replaced many of the mansions, and in the late 1950s, new European institutions moved in.

Today the area is dominated by politics and business but it’s still surprisingly green and attractive, with beautiful parks and squares. There are also plenty of things to see and do in this part of Brussels.

Read more: How to see the best of Brussels in 48 hours

How to get to the European Quarter

As you’d expect, this international meeting-point is well-connected to the rest of Brussels, as well as to the airport and European high-speed trains.

From the Grand Place, Bourse and the historic centre

To get to the EU Quarter from the Grand Place, take bus 95. It’ll take about 12 minutes to travel to Place du Luxembourg, outside the European Parliament.

From Brussels Midi

To get to the buildings of the European Quarter from Brussels Midi, the main inter-city and international train station in Brussels, take Metro line 2 to Trône. From Trône it’s around a 7-minute walk to Place du Luxembourg.

From Brussels Airport

If you’re coming straight to the EU Quarter from Brussels Airport, take bus route 12. The journey takes about 35 minutes.

From elsewhere in Brussels

A number of bus lines serve the European Quarter. The nearest Metro stops are Maelbeek and Schuman on lines 1 and 5, and Trone on lines 2 and 6.

Things to do in Brussels’ European Quarter

The european parliament: how to visit.

The most significant attraction in the EU quarter is the European Parliament. To visit the European Parliament and the famous hemicycle debating chamber as an individual, you’ll need to take one of the self-guided tours, which run at set times, Monday to Friday. Information about timings for the European Parliament tours are available on the Parliament website .

To join a tour, go to the rear entrance of the European Parliament building, just off Rue Wiertz. There are clear signs to get you to the right place from the front of Espace Léopold and Place du Luxembourg (follow the signs for the Hemicyle), but once at the door there’s not a lot to indicate that it’s ok to go in. Don’t worry; if you’re there at the right time just push open the door.

Read more: Visiting all the European Union capitals

You’ll be asked to show your passport, then you’ll go through airport-style security before picking up a headset and electronic guide. Although you can only take the EU Parliament tour at designated times, it’s a self-guided tour with the headset rather than a fully guided tour. The electronic tour is available in all EU languages – you can even download it as an app onto your own mobile phone rather than take a headset if you prefer. There are also printed guidebooks available in all EU languages which you can take away with you for free.

The first exhibit is an arrangement of all the flags of the EU member states – great for a photo opportunity. Once you’re through security, it’s ok to take as many photos or videos as you want inside the European Parliament building.

From the flags, you go up in a lift to the atrium where you can see a large sculpture representing cooperation between the member countries. The building is decorated with an art collection of works by up-and-coming European artists on themes of peace and cooperation.

After you leave the atrium, the next stop is the Hemicycle – the main debating chamber of the European Parliament in Brussels. Each EU member country elects representatives in the same way as they would for a national parliament. These Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) meet here and in Strasbourg.

The tour finishes after you’ve seen the Hemicycle. All together, your visit will last between 30-60 minutes. Visiting the European Parliament is free – just don’t forget your passport.

Station Europe

The original station buildings of the Brussels-Luxembourg train station now house a welcome centre for the European Quarter. You can get your bearings here, pick up a map and plan your visit to the area. There’s also a branch of the official Visit Brussels tourist information centre.

Between Station Europe and the buildings of the Espace Léopold (the name of the European Parliament complex) you’ll find a public square with chairs set up in circles, seemingly to encourage discussion.

Parliamentarium

If you want to understand more about the EU and the European Parliament, visit the Parliamentarium . The Parliamentarium is the EU Parliament’s official visitor centre, and has longer opening hours than the Parliament itself, so it’s a great option if you can’t make one of the Parliament tours.

Like the European Parliament tour, visiting the Parliamentarium is free. The entrance is just off Espace Léopold, towards Rue Montoyer.

House of European History

For an exploration of Europe’s turbulent history, and the events that led up to the formation of the European Union, visit the House of European History  in Léopold Park.

The House of European History aims not to tell the story of each individual country in Europe, but to draw together the themes that European nations have in common. The permanent exhibition covers Europe as a global force in the 19th century and the two World Wars that shattered the continent, before examining the political divisions of the second half of the 20th century.

The exhibitions are free to visit, and a multimedia tour is available in all the EU languages.

Berlaymont Building

While you can’t go inside the Berlaymont Building, it’s an impressive sight and is probably the most iconic building of the European Quarter. The Berlaymont Building is the home of the European Commission, where the day-to-day work of the EU is carried out.

You can walk around the Berlaymont building; there are information boards about the history of the building spread out around the perimeter. If you’re lucky, you might see a TV news crew filming a report.

Statue of Europe

The Statue of Europe is a 5-metre tall sculpture symbolising peace in Europe and also the European Union motto, United in Diversity. Hands painted in different colours raise up a globe decorated with the EU stars, with a white dove perched on top.

The Statue of Europe is in the grounds of the former Convent Van Maerlant, now the library of the European Commission.

Other sights in and near the EU Quarter

Léopold park.

A pretty patch of green in the middle of the European Quarter, Léopold Park was the site of a zoo until the 1880s – symbolised by a quirky and controversial group of ostrich sculptures right outside the Parliament building.

With rolling green hills, benches for an outdoor lunch and a beautiful lake, it’s the perfect spot to take a break in the European Quarter.

Parc du Cinquantenaire

If you look west along Rue de la Loi, you’ll see an enormous triumphal arch, reminiscent of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. The arch itself is slightly more recent but the buildings either side were built for the 1880 National Exhibition which celebrated the Belgian nation’s 50th birthday.

The park itself is a very pleasant place for a walk, with lots of flowers, trees and lawns, and it’s a popular place for tourists and Brussels residents alike to relax.

Royal Military Museum

The Royal Military Museum occupies the left-hand side of the Cinquantenaire buildings. It holds an impressive collection of arms, armour, vehicles and aircraft. There are also two galleries dedicated to the First World War which devastated much of Belgium.

For an incredible view of the European Quarter and the surrounding area, take the stairs inside the Military Museum up to the viewing gallery on top of the arches.

On the right-hand side of the Cinquantenaire arch you’ll find Autoworld, a fantastic museum dedicated to cars and driving. Among the gleaming permanent exhibits and fascinating temporary exhibitions you’ll find information about Belgium’s contribution to automotive history.

Art & History Museum

The right-hand side of the complex also houses the Art and History Museum . More informative than an art gallery, more inspiring than a history museum, the unique collection eventually wants to be as well known as the British Museum or the Louvre.

Cauchie House

If you’re interested in architecture, and especially if you’re a lover of Art Nouveau, you can’t miss the Cauchie House . Artist couple Paul and Carolina Cauchie built the house in 1905 and decorated the front as an advertisement for their businesses; graphic design for him, art lessons for her. In the centre of the facade you can read the words “Par Nous, Pour Nous” – “By Us, For Us”. The house is at the top of Rue des Francs, just across the road from Parc du Cinquantenaire.

Museum of Natural Sciences

Another interesting museum in the European Quarter is the Museum of Natural Sciences . The museum’s most impressive exhibits are the dinosaur skeletons, including an enormous Tyrannosaurus rex. You can also explore the history of humankind and exhibitions on the natural world. The Museum of Natural Sciences is near the Hemicycle and Léopold Park, on Rue Vautier.

Would you like to visit the European Parliament?

If you’re visiting Brussels, you might also like my other post about visiting Belgian breweries and beer tasting in Brussels .

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20 thoughts on “How to visit the European Parliament in Brussels and the EU Quarter”

These places are stunning! Pinning this now 🙂

Thanks Sarah 🙂

We only made a quick stop in Brussels years ago, would love to go back and explore more.

Ah, hope you get back to Brussels soon! I’m also hoping to go back!

I would love, love to visit the EU Parliament in Brussels! My friend and I actually walked by several of these buildings and monuments during our short weekend stay there, it was such a culturally rich city to visit!

It’s so interesting, I’m so glad we were able to catch a tour! There’s definitely a lot of fun and cultural things to do in Brussels.

Great post! I visited Brussels several years back on a university trip, specifically to visit the EU, and expected to find the city very bureaucratic- however, I was surprised by how beautiful it was! Definitely a great place to spend a few days 🙂

Same, I thought the European Quarter would be grey and boring and full of suits, but it was actually really pretty and vibrant. And everyone we met that day was so warm and funny. It definitely exceeded my expectations!

Helen, I enjoyed your post! I actually had a stay over in Brussels and I saw a little bit but I want to go back

Thanks Kiera, I hope you get back there soon, I’m also hoping to go back, three days wasn’t enough!

I have visited this area but did not take a tour of the Parliament for lack of time. I have fond memories of my trip to Brusselx as I went there with my mom, and I love mother-daughter trips. We were there only for a weekend so we didn’t have much time, and there was so much good food and great beer we needed to explore, too! 😀 Still, I think it’s an important institution and I would like to get there to learn more about it.

Haha I’m with you on the beer! And the delicious chocolate, and the frites!

I had no idea that you could visit! Really interesting post

Thanks Catherine 🙂

Very cool. I didn’t realize there was so much in the EU area!

There’s absolutely loads to do, definitely worth a day on a Brussels trip 🙂

What a lovely place to visit! This just makes me realize how much I missed by not going there, I was supposed to next week, but I have a scheduling issue and had to turn down the offer 🙁

Sorry to hear that,I hope you get to visit soon. It’s definitely worth a trip!

This is awesome- our boys love history and would love to see this. Pinned so I have this when we finally get them over to Europe! Someday!!!

Thanks Elizabeth, there’s so much to see in this area and you really feel the history behind what the European project wanted to achieve – all the wars and the division. Whatever you think of the modern EU it’s a fascinating part of Brussels.

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The European Parliament is open for visitors! - Main contents

Visit the centre of European democracy, the place where decisions affecting the whole EU are made.

It is no longer obligatory to book your visit, but it is recommended.

Visit the Parlamentarium

The Parlamentarium in Brussels is Europe’s largest parliamentary visitors centre. It hosts a cinema where you can get a 360° view of Europe and the European Parliament. Discover how the Parliament works, how laws are made and why European politics matter. An interactive floor map takes visitors on a virtual tour around the EU, featuring more than 100 stories highlighting the diversity of the bloc.

Parlamentarium is open seven days a week and entrance is free of charge. It is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities.

Book a visit to the Parlamentarium.

Make a tour at the House of European history

Want more? In The House of European History a permanent exhibition guides visitors through European history, from Europe’s origins and evolution, to the descent into war and search for a better life. Workshops and learning resources allow students to engage with European history, and hands-on activities and events allow families to explore European history together. Individuals and groups of less than ten do not need to book.

Book a visit and find out more.

Discover the plenary chamber in Brussels

In addition to plenary sessions in Strasbourg, Parliament also sometimes holds plenary sessions in Brussels. Visit the European Parliament’s building in Brussels and learn more about how the Parliament works.

Visits are free of charge and are available in any of the European Union’s 24 official languages. It is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities.

Book a visit for the plenary chamber.

Check out the Info Hub

Pop into the Parliament’s latest visitors venue in Brussels - the Info Hub - and catch up with the latest from the European Parliament, discover topical exhibitions, do some research, meet other people or have your say on the EU in the citizens’ voices corner. There will be events from talks to film screenings, so make sure you check out the programme.

Discover some of Brussels's best-kept secrets

The best way to explore the European quarter is on foot and European Parliament walking tours allow people to discover the European institutions, the quarter’s green spaces, its art, history and architectural gems. With the help of an experienced tour guide, visitors can discover some of Brusselss’ best-kept secrets and get answers to all their questions.

The 90-minute long guided tours take place every weekend during spring and summer. The tours are available in English, French, Dutch and German.

Book free walking tours of the European quarter.

The European Parliament in Strasbourg

It’s also possible to visit the European Parliament’s building in Strasbourg again. Visits take you inside the stunning Louise Weiss building to the public gallery of the plenary chamber where the most important debates and historic votes take place and to the interactive Simone Veil Parlamentarium.

Visit the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

Elsewhere in Europe

Find out all about the European Parliament near to you in the Europa Experience:

• -  Berlin
• -  Copenhagen
• -  Helsinki
• -  Ljubljana
• -  Paris
• -  Tallinn

Find out more

• -  Visiting the European Parliament
• -  Coronavirus guidelines for visitors
• -  Online activities
• -  Other interesting places to visit

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Guided tour

The European Parliament

Grab this unique opportunity to discover the home of European democracy through a guided tour of the European Parliament’s emblematic sites. The European Parliament with its imposing glass structure is an iconic fixture of the Leopold Quarter. For the Heritage Days, the public will have access to two major buildings in the European Parliament complex: the Paul-Henri Spaak and the Altiero Spinelli. The former, an elliptical building symbolising unification, is home to the Parliament’s chamber in Brussels. As well as 720 seats for the members of the European Parliament (MEPs), it has galleries with a total of 500 seats, where the public can follow the plenary sessions. The building is named after the Belgian who was the first President of the Common Assembly of the European Coal and Steel Community. Opposite it, the Altiero Spinelli building was erected between 1991 and 1998 to house the offices of MEPs and political groups. Covering 286,000 m² and split into two 15-storey wings, the building was named in honour of an Italian MEP who was a strong advocate of European unification. The two buildings are connected by a two-storey interior pedestrian walkway.

Only five groups of 30 people will have the chance to see the European Parliament and its behind-the-scenes. Register now until September 8 via this link .

WARNING: Registrations are open until Sunday 8 September 2024.

On the day of the visit, bring your ID or passport that was used to register online.

In cooperation with Itinéraires SH.

Practical information

Sat. 09:00 to 17:30

meet at the European Parliament Accreditation center, esplanade Solidarnosc, rue Wiertz/Wiertzstraat 60, BE-1050 Ixelles/Elsene

Advance booking mandatory via this link

Accessible with assistance

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Belgium: How to visit the European Parliament in Brussels

Last updated: 01/10/2019

Did you know that it is possible to visit the European Parliament in Brussels? In this post, we tell you everything you can see and do in this important place for world politics and commerce.

THE EUROPEAN UNION AND THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

The European Parliament is the parliamentary institution of the European Union, a bloc of 28 countries that speak 24 different languages, with the objective of commercial, economic and political union. The EU established a common market through a standardized system of laws applicable to all member states.

It is in the European Parliament that important debates and votes are held that govern Europe's decisions. There are 3 European Parliament complexes: in the city of  Luxembourg ; in Strasbourg, France; and in Brussels, Belgium. The latter is also known as  Espace Leopold . Currently, administrative offices are based in Luxembourg, while most Parliament work and committee meetings are held in Brussels. However, Strasbourg is the official seat of the bloc.

VISIT TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT IN BRUSSELS

The European Parliament in Brussels is made up of several buildings. Check the map below for how to get to know them. Note that there are several entrances to the Parliament and you need to enter the right place depending on what you want to see. Opening hours are at the end of the post.

SOLIDARITY ESPLANADE 1980

The Esplanade Solidarność 1980 (with the Agora Simone Veil at its center) is the area that concentrates the European Parliament buildings in Brussels around it. For those who like modern architecture, here is a full plate. In the center of this square there is a very beautiful panel with photos of people from different European Union countries who collaborated in its construction. The place hosts some public events organized by the European Union and other institutions.

PARLIAMENTARY

This is the modern European Parliament Visitors Center in Brussels. Right at the entrance, on the left is a place where you can choose your nationality and take a photo somewhere in the parliament. To enter the visitor center itself, you have to go through security (x-ray, metal detector). Grab one of the interactive multimedia guides and go!

The exhibition is very rich and explains the diversity of peoples and cultures that make up the European Union and how all member countries came together to establish this bloc of mutual interest, how the European Parliament works, among other interesting information for understanding the relationships between the countries. The exhibition is very dynamic and interactive and can be explored in any of the 24 languages of the countries that make up the bloc. Those of us who love history think the exhibition is amazing! It is an immersion in European (and world) history showing the conflict issues that led to World Wars or localized wars. The objective is to highlight not only the economic and commercial importance of this union, but also the political one.

One of the highlights is at the end of the visit, in a 360º movie theater that simulates the Hemicycle (we will talk about it), offering a unique point of view on its functioning and on the elaboration of European legislation.

The European Parliament Chamber is the heart of European democracy. It is a room with capacity for up to 751 Members of the European Parliament. The place is used for sessions for debates and historic votes. The place, unlike the Parlamentarium, can only be visited through guided tours with a maximum of 10 people. The tour lasts about 30 minutes and can also be accompanied by an audio guide in 24 different languages. It is not necessary to book in advance (although it depends on the availability of places) and it is mandatory to present an identification document. It is also possible to attend parliament sessions, but the entrance has a limited number of seats available.

HOUSE OF EUROPEAN HISTORY

It exhibits a permanent exhibition that gives an overview of European history with a focus on the events of the 20th century, seeking to understand what led the continent to face wars of unimaginable proportions. The counterpoint is to show that these wars led to the search for an increasingly united Europe. Visitors are led to reflect on Europe today, the importance of the European Union and the future of this bloc.

ECONOMY TIP: BRUSSELS CARD If you want to visit many museums, it is worth buying the Brussels Card. It gives free admission or discounts to a number of attractions, including free access to 39 museums. There are versions as per your need with 24h, 48h or 72h with or without public transport to enjoy the best of Brussels. You can buy it online or at one of the available outlets. If you buy online, you don't even need to print it, just show the barcode on your cell phone at the entrance to each of the attractions. see more information in this link . Read more:  Belgium: What to do in Brussels – 3 days itinerary  

• TRAIN: The best way to get to the European Parliament in Brussels is to disembark at Brussels-Luxembourg train station . You will already be at Esplanade Solidarność 1980.
• SUBWAY: The closest stations are Maelbeek and Schuman, on lines 1 and 5, and Trône, on lines 2 and 6. After getting off at one of them, you still have to walk for 10 to 15 minutes.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

European parliament, group & hemicycle visits.

• Parliamentarium / Chamber: Rue Wiertz 60, 1047 Brussels, Belgium
• House of European History: Rue Belliard 135, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
• Parlamentarium: Monday from 1 pm to 6 pm / Tuesday to Friday from 9 am to 6 pm / Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm
• Chamber: Monday to Thursday from 9 am to 12 pm and from 2 pm to 4 pm / Friday from 9 am to 12 pm / no visits on weekends and during plenary sessions
• Plenary Sessions in the Hemicycle: go to the visitors' area on the following days/times: Wednesday 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm / Thursday 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
• House of European History: Monday from 1 pm to 6 pm / Tuesday to Friday from 9 am to 6 pm / Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm
• Entrance:  free
• Language:  audio guide available in the 24 languages that make up the European Union

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Read more about Brussels:

• Belgium: Comics Museum in Brussels
• Belgium: Atomium – Brussels' postcard

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Visit a European Union institution

Welcome to the eu institutions.

The European Union institutions are open to visitors from around the world to learn more about the EU and get an understanding of their work. 

With sites in several major European cities, the institutions offer a variety of options to visitors. Some institutions provide interactive on-site visitor centres, some allow physical access to their buildings, and some organise tailor-made presentations and discussions involving their staff.

Whatever form a visit to an EU institution takes, visitors are guaranteed an interactive and educational experience. Students and tourists alike will see and learn first-hand how the EU works. And have fun, too.

Open Day and virtual tours

Each year, to celebrate Europe Day , the EU institutions open their doors to the public in early May in Brussels and Strasbourg. Local EU offices in Europe and across the world organise a variety of activities and events for all ages. 

The EU’s Open Day offers a unique opportunity for you to discover how the European institutions affect your life. You can step inside the buildings and take part in special activities, such as public debates and guided tours. 

And if you can’t visit in person, you could always take a ‘virtual tour’. Several institutions offer virtual access to their buildings, so you can discover how the EU works from the comfort of your own home.

Click on each city section to open a full list of the possible venues, along with a link for more detailed information.

Brussels (Belgium)

European Parliament

The European Parliament has a number of venues in Brussels, for individual or group visits. This includes the ‘hemicycles’ where EU laws are debated and voted on, the EU’s interactive visitor centre - the Parlamentarium - the House of European history and Station Europe.

Plan your European Parliament visit (Brussels)

European Council / Council of the EU

Step inside the Council, discover the buildings where EU leaders meet and learn how the Council shapes Europe's future. To visit the Council, you can either explore our visitor centre and the public areas on your own or take part in our weekly guided tours.

Plan your Council visit

European Commission

The European Commission has different visit venues in Brussels. This includes the Commission’s Visitors’ Centre where groups wishing to discover the Commission and its policies can hear directly from Commission officials. Visits should be booked at least 10 weeks in advance, and can be tailored to groups’ needs. Experience Europe is the interactive exhibition centre of the Commission at the Schuman roundabout (300m from the Visitors’ Centre).  No prior registration required for individual visitors or groups of less than 10 persons. Open 7 days a week.

European External Action Service

The European External Action Service welcomes group visits to its headquarters in Brussels. Find out how the External Action Service manages EU diplomatic relations with countries outside the European Union, carrying out the EU’s common foreign and security policy. All visits are tailor-made.

Plan your visit to the European External Action Service

European Economic and Social Committee

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) welcomes visitors to its headquarters in Brussels for an interactive presentation on its activities and its role in the decision-making process. Virtual group visits can also be arranged. 

Plan your visit to the European Economic and Social Committee

European Committee of the Regions

The European Committee of the Regions (CoR) organises information visits at its premises in Brussels. Find out how the CoR works and the role of the regions in shaping the content of EU legislation. Virtual visits are also possible.

Plan your visit to the Committee of the Regions

European Data Protection Supervisor

The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) welcomes specialist groups - such as students at post-graduate level - to its premises in Brussels to learn about what it does and how it works. Only official requests (e.g. from an official organisation email address) are considered.

  Request a visit to the European Data Protection Supervisor

Strasbourg (France)

The European Parliament welcomes individual or group visits to its ‘hemicycle’ building in Strasbourg. See where the Parliament’s most important debates and votes are held before visiting the Simone Veil Parlamentarium, an interactive exhibition offering insight into the Parliament’s role and work.

Plan your European Parliament visit (Strasbourg)

The European Parliament offers guided tours of its Robert Schuman building in Luxembourg. Visit the site of the first administrative seat of the European Parliament and see its ‘hemicycle’ building during your group tour.

Plan your European Parliament visit (Luxembourg)

Court of Justice of the European Union

The Court welcomes individual or group visits to its site in Luxembourg. Attend a public hearing at the Court of Justice or the General Court, or take a guided tour of the buildings and the various works of art, donated or loaned to the Court by EU countries, which reflect Europe’s varied cultural heritage. 

Plan your visit to the Court of Justice

European Court of Auditors

The European Court of Auditors (ECA) organises group visits to its site in Luxembourg. Visits involve a presentation by an ECA official on the role and workings of the Court, followed by a discussion. You must book at least 2 months in advance.

Plan your visit to the European Court of Auditors

European Investment Bank

The European Investment Bank admits groups of visitors to its premises in Luxembourg on receipt of a written request. Visitors must have a direct professional interest in the bank’s activities or be university students studying economics or finance. 

Request a visit to the European Investment Bank

Frankfurt (Germany)

European Central Bank

The European Central Bank (ECB) offers a number of options to visitors, to explore what its work entails and the activities it supports in Frankfurt. Take a tour of the ECB’s Visitor Centre, attend a tailored lecture or visit its art collection.

Plan your European Central Bank visit

Further information

Role and work of the EU institutions

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House of European History  

House of european history.

From myths and discoveries to the chaos and cohesion of the 20th century, the House of European History takes visitors on a journey along the path of Europe's history and challenges them to contemplate its future.

Entrance is free and visits take around 90 minutes. Its exhibits are available in all 24 official European Union languages. Tailored resources and experiences for schools, families and groups are also available.

Opening hours

Museum is closed on: 1 January / 1 May / 1 November / 24, 25, 31 December.

Individual visitors

Individual visitors and groups of less than 10 people do not need prior booking to visit the museum. Visitors can enjoy the exhibition at their own pace, with the multimedia guides available in all 24 languages of the European Union.

Groups of more than 10 people need to book their visit online minimum 2 weeks in advance, if requesting a multimedia guide, or 4 weeks, if requesting a tour with a guide. Multimedia guides are available in all 24 languages of the European Union and guided visits are offered in English, Dutch, French and German.

MEP sponsored groups

For MEP sponsored groups, booking is mandatory via the platform below, in order to properly process travel arrangements.

Book for sponsored groups

Discover the features

Permanent exhibition

The permanent exhibition guides visitors through European history, from Europe’s origins and evolution, to the descent into war and search for a better life.

Education and learning Workshops and learning resources allow students to engage with European history and its legacy in the contemporary world.

Families Hands-on activities and events get visitors of all ages involved, and allow families to explore European history together.

• See the House of European History website for more details.  

A house with a history

The House of European History is located in the beautifully renovated Eastman Building in leafy Parc Léopold. The 25-acre park is situated on the site of the former Royal Zoological Garden and was opened to the public in 1880. It features a beautiful lake with a host of wildlife, as well as an outdoor picnic and seating area. The building itself has been painstakingly renovated in line with its 1930s origins, when it was a dental clinic for disadvantaged children. Don’t miss the lovingly restored art deco paintings of animals, based on stories by French author Jean de La Fontaine.

Accessibility

The House of European History is a museum for everyone. All our facilities and activities are accessible for wheelchair users. Working together with diverse groups and communities is a vital aspect of the museum's activities. We aim to reach out to extraordinary people both near and far through tailored visits and specific programs. Do not hesitate to send us your specific requests and we will do our utmost to make our museum more accessible: [email protected]

The House of European History has lockers, baby-changing facilities, a cloakroom, a shop , and a café (seating 60) with a selection of refreshing drinks and tasty snacks.

Security and Safety

Security and safety are priorities for the European Parliament. For that reason, a number of security measures are in place in and around our buildings. In order to ensure a safe visit for all, we invite you to read and comply with these measures:

• A valid identity document (national ID card or passport) is required to access European Parliament buildings. If you registered in advance and you provided your ID document details, you must bring this same document to the Parliament on the day of your visit.
• All visitors and bags are subject to airport-style security checks before entry. Firearms, explosive or inflammable substances, pepper sprays, sharp items and other objects that could be considered weapons are prohibited. In accordance with national legislation, certain prohibited items may be handed over to the police.
• No trolleys, suitcases, or other large luggage are allowed into the buildings.
• Animals are allowed in the buildings only as trained guides for visually impaired persons or to assist persons with reduced mobility.
• If an access pass has been issued, visitors must visibly wear it whilst in the Parliament buildings.
• Photography and filming are permitted inside the visitor area, but are prohibited in the security area and in the cafeteria. For more information, please consult the Rules Governing Recordings on the Premises of the European Parliament .
• If the fire alarm goes off, leave the building immediately without running and follow the instructions given by the security staff and evacuation volunteers.
• For any safety emergency, call 85112 from any internal phone.
• Some areas are subject to video surveillance in accordance with the European Parliament Video Protection Policy . 

Last update: 02.2024

Rue Belliard / Belliardstraat 135 1000 Brussels Belgium

How to get there

Brussels-Luxembourg serves the European Parliament

• Belgian Railways  

Lines 22, 27, 34, 38, 64, 80 and 95 all stop at the European Parliament. Lines 12 and 21 also connect to Brussels Airport. The Zweig entrance in Rue D'Ardenne allows for pick-up and drop-off by bus and for visitors to get their bearings before starting the visit.

• Public transport in Brussels  
• Download our practical information leaflet  

The nearest stops are Maelbeek and Schuman on lines 1 and 5, and Trone on lines 2 and 6.

Practical information

Lines 22, 27, 34, 38, 64, 80 and 95 all stop at the European Parliament. Lines 12 and 21 also connect to Brussels Airport.

European Quarter

Esplanade Solidarność 1980 B-1050 Brussels Belgium

Paul-Henri Spaak Building Rue Wiertz / Wiertzstraat 60 B-1047 Brussels Belgium +32 (0)2 28 41482

Jean Monnet House

7 chemin du Vieux Pressoir, Houjarray 78490 Bazoches sur Guyonne France

European Parliament Liaison Offices

Robert schuman building.

Place de l'Europe L-1499 Luxembourg

Esplanade Solidarność 1980

Place du Luxembourg / Luxemburgplein 100 B-1050 Brussels Belgium

Station Europe

Musée de la vie wallonne Cour des Mineurs 4000 Liège, Belgium

Parlamentarium

Esplanade Solidarność 1980 Rue Wiertz / Wiertzstraat 60 B-1047 Brussels Belgium

Europa Experience Paris

Europa Expérience Paris 28, place de la Madeleine 75008 Paris France

Leopold Park

1040 Etterbeek

Closed for maintenance until further notice. Visitors to the European Parliament in Brussels can now leave their car in the car park, by sending the booking request at least one working day in advance of a visit.

• European Parliament Parking Request  

Berlin wall

Please consult the SNCF (French railways) website.

• SNCF  

Bus line H (direct line). Bus lines 6, 30 and 72: ‘Droits de l’Homme’ stop (a 10-minute walk from the Parliament).

• Public transport in Strasbourg  

Tram line E: ‘Parlement Européen’ stop.

European Parliament

Louise Weiss building 1 Allée du Printemps F-67070 Strasbourg cedex

Paul-Henri Spaak Building Wiertzstraat 60 1047 Brussels, Belgium

APOLLONIA EUROPEAN ART EXCHANGES

23 rue Boecklin 67000 Strasbourg

All. du Souvenir Français 67130 Schirmeck, France

Citizens' Garden

Rue Vautier / Vautierstraat 68 B-1050 Brussels Belgium

Brussels-Luxembourg serves the European Parliament.

Esplanade Solidarność 1980 B-1050 Brussels Belgium +32 2 28 48077

BNU Strasbourg

BNU 6 Pl. de la République 67000 Strasbourg France

Europa Experience

Europa Experience Luxembourg 17 Av. John F. Kennedy l 1855 Kirchberg Luxembourg

Continue your visit

Lunchtime tours every tuesday.

September Lunch Tours theme – "East, west, home's best?"

“Bellum et Artes” kickstarts journey in 17th century Europe

Inspired by the House of European History’s temporary exhibition Bellum et Artes, storyteller Luisa Bevilacqua takes her audience on an imaginary journey during the first half of the 17th century.

Bellum et Artes

The upcoming international exhibition centres on the role of arts during the Thirty Years’ War (1618–1648). Named Bellum et Artes (War and Art), the exhibition unravels the complex interplay between conflict and artistic expression. 

Digital Journey to the European Parliament

Are you ready for an online voyage of discovery? With the Digital Journey to the European Parliament, a free online and immersive experience, you can dive deeper into European democracy from wherever you are. Discover the Parliament in 360°, meet its Members for a day and have your own time-travelled adventure through European History. Enjoy full immersion to the European Parliament on your computer or in virtual reality with VR-glasses. Stroll through the corridors of the Parliament in Brussels and Strasbourg, tour the office of President Roberta Metsola and even explore the House of European History’s permanent exhibition. Come and sit in the European Parliament and vote on important EU legislation in this group game. For groups only, 60 to 90 minutes (minimum 16 players). From whenever you are. Whenever you want. Get started: ep-digital-journey.eu * Free * Available in 24 languages

Location: Digital Journey to the European Parliament, 1047 Parlement Européen

Digital Journey: take a virtual tour of the European Parliament

Unable to visit the European Parliament in Brussels or Strasbourg in person? Take the Parliament's new Digital Journey.

Free and available in all 24 official EU languages, embark on the digital journey to the European Parliament and experience the Parliament in 360 °, become an MEP, discover the history of the EU and join a role-playing game with others.

1. Experience the European Parliament in 360°

Take a 360° virtual tour of the Parliament in Brussels and Strasbourg, discover the people and the buildings and find out how you can make your voice heard. Meet MEPs and gain a deeper understanding of their work at the heart of EU politics. Enjoy interactive surroundings, multimedia content and activities.

2. Be a virtual MEP

Try your hand at being an MEP with the help of virtual reality. Take on challenges that will immerse you in how MEPs and Parliament work. You will even have the chance to vote in the plenary session in Strasbourg - virtually, of course.

3. Virtual tour of the House of European History

Find out about the EU’s history during a virtual tour of the House of European History . Enjoy exhibitions and detailed 3D reproductions of historical objects.

4. Online role playing game

  Parliament launched an online game that allows you to learn all about its role in creating EU laws. You can interact with game characters, EU institutions, civil society and others involved in decision-making.

Join other players, aged 16+, for an immersive gaming experience into the democratic process. The game is free, available in 24 languages and takes about an hour to complete.

Discover other ways to visit the European Parliament

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