On Sunday, September 20, it’s that time again: Car-Free Sunday in Brussels! For one day, the whole city becomes a paradise for cyclists, walkers, and public transport travelers. Good news: you can travel for free with the STIB-MIVB that day. The perfect opportunity to head out and (re)discover Brussels in a different way. Here are 5 tips to fill your day.
1. A behind-the-scenes look at the STIB-MIVB
To celebrate the metro’s 50th anniversary, the doors of the Jacques Brel depot open, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Discover the workshops where metros and buses are maintained, take a seat at the controls of a metro, and get acquainted with the new generation of electric buses. Activities are also planned for children. A unique opportunity to peek behind the scenes and meet the people who keep Brussels moving every day!
- Everything you need to know about the open day can be found on the website; you can easily reach Jacques Brel via Gare de L’Ouest.
2. Dive into the past during Heritage Days
Every year, Heritage Days put the spotlight on Brussels with free guided tours, exclusive visits, and original discoveries. This year you can once again explore the city’s hidden gems.
- More information can be found here; the various activities are spread across the city.
3. Dive into the world of comics
Feeling like a little escape? On September 19 and 20, the Comic Strip Festival takes over the Bourse and Brussels city center. Authors, publishers, and fans come together for signings, meet-and-greets, exhibitions, and activities for young and old. A great opportunity to (re)discover the richness of the ninth art — and maybe head home with some new reading material under your arm!
- Discover the program at https://www.lepietonnier.com/en/home-en/ and you can get there quickly via De Brouckère or Bourse.
4. Celebrate in Molenbeek with Open Molen
For one day, Open Molen turns the streets of Molenbeek into a real playground. Performances, music, participatory workshops, circus arts taster sessions, and activities for young and old fill the Saint-Jean-Baptiste square, not too far away from metrostation Comte de Flandre, and its surroundings. A great chance to enjoy the car-free city, discover the neighborhood in a new light, and kick off the cultural season in a festive atmosphere!
5. Experience Brussels by bike
Car-Free Sunday is also the perfect occasion to hop on your bike! In Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, Pro Velo takes you on a free guided 13 km ride to discover the small and large treasures of the municipality. From the Stoclet Palace to the Chant d’Oiseau neighborhood, past green spots and heritage sites, let yourself be guided through the streets without having to worry about cars.
- Discover the ride: https://www.provelo.org/en/events/woluwe-saint-pierre-a-velo-balade-guidee-a-velo-gratuite-4/
Free with the STIB-MIVB
On Car-Free Sunday, you can travel for free all day on metro, tram, and bus. The perfect opportunity to move from one activity to the next without a worry. Leave your car at home, hop on, and enjoy Brussels like never before!