Garden of the Mont des Arts

The Garden of the Mont des Arts is one of the most iconic green terraces in central Brussels, spreading across a hill that links the upper and lower parts of the city. Sitting between Place Royale and the Grand Place, the garden offers one of the finest panoramic viewpoints over the historic heart of the Belgian capital.

How did this garden come about?

The first garden on this hill was created for the 1910 Universal Exposition. To boost the appeal of the area ahead of the Brussels International Exposition, the ruling king commissioned French landscape architect Jules Vacherot to design a temporary garden on the slope, complete with a monumental staircase, cascading fountains and terraces. The park opened in 1910, a year after the death of King Leopold II, and was formally inaugurated by his successor, King Albert I.

How has the garden changed since then?

In the 1950s, the original layout was replaced by the much larger Mont des Arts urban complex, within which the present-day garden was built. Its current geometric design was created by Belgian landscape architect René Pechère for Expo 58, one of the defining events of post-war Brussels. The garden underwent a further renovation starting in 2001, which refreshed its layout while preserving the symmetrical, mid-20th-century character of Pechère's original design.

What can visitors see in the garden?

The layout is built around clear symmetry and geometric planting schemes. The main section of the park features a green area planted with yew trees, flower beds framed by boxwood hedges and filled with perennials, small circular water basins, and a monumental fountain that anchors the composition. A second, more informal section centres on a basin with playful recreational fountains, along with a playground for younger children.

Walking through the garden's alleys, visitors are treated to one of the most recognisable views of Brussels: a sweeping panorama stretching toward the Grand Place and the medieval city centre below. The garden acts as a green transition between the upper town, home to museums and the royal palace, and the historic lower town.

Why is this garden worth a visit?

The Garden of the Mont des Arts is a place where the city's history intertwines with landscape design, from a temporary exposition feature built over a century ago, through a post-war modernist reinvention, to today's carefully restored public space. It remains one of the most photographed viewpoints in Brussels, drawing both tourists and locals looking for a quiet moment in the middle of the city.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the garden located? The garden sits on the Mont des Arts hill, between Place Royale and the Grand Place, right in the centre of Brussels.

Who designed the garden's current layout? Its present geometric design was created by René Pechère for the 1958 Expo.

Is there anything for children? Yes, the garden's second section includes a playground for younger children and a basin with recreational fountains.

Is entry to the garden free? Yes, it is an open public space with free access at all times.