Brussels is a city rich in museums, from the iconic Magritte Museum to the quirky Musical Instruments Museum. With over 100 museums in the Brussels-Capital Region, culture lovers can easily spend weeks exploring. But entrance fees add up quickly: a single adult ticket to the Royal Museums of Fine Arts costs €15, while the Atomium charges €16. That's where museum passes come in. They offer significant savings and convenience, allowing you to visit multiple museums without buying individual tickets. In this guide, we break down the main passes available, their prices, benefits, and how to choose the best one for your visit. Whether you're a tourist or a resident, there's a pass that fits your needs.

What Are Museum Passes?

Museum passes are pre-paid cards or tickets that grant access to multiple museums, often with skip-the-line privileges, discounts at shops and restaurants, and free public transport. They are typically valid for a set period (e.g., 24, 48, or 72 hours) or for a certain number of visits. In Brussels, the most popular passes are the Brussels Card, the MuseumPass, and the ICOM card. Each has different conditions, so it's important to compare them.

Brussels Card: The Tourist Favorite

The Brussels Card is designed for short-term visitors. It offers free entry to over 50 museums in Brussels, plus discounts on attractions, tours, and shops. It also includes a free public transport ticket for the STIB network (metro, tram, bus) for the duration of the card. Prices (as of 2025):

  • 24-hour card: €30 (adult), €27 (senior/student), free for children under 6.
  • 48-hour card: €40 (adult), €36 (senior/student).
  • 72-hour card: €50 (adult), €45 (senior/student).

The card is available online at visit.brussels or at the Visit Brussels Info Shop (Rue Royale 2). You can also buy it at participating museums. A major benefit is the included STIB pass, which saves you around €8 per day if you would otherwise buy a 24-hour transport ticket. However, the card is not valid for the Museum of the City of Brussels or the Brussels City Museum, and some temporary exhibitions may require a supplement.

MuseumPass: For Residents and Frequent Visitors

The MuseumPass is a subscription-based card that gives unlimited access to over 300 museums across Belgium, including all major Brussels museums. It costs €60 for one year (€50 for students/seniors, free for children under 12 when accompanied by a paying adult). The pass is personal and non-transferable, with a photo ID required. It is ideal for residents who visit museums regularly. For example, if you visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts (€15) and the Musical Instruments Museum (€14) twice a year, you've already saved money. The pass also includes free entry to the Atomium, the Horta Museum, and many others. You can purchase it online at museumpass.be or at participating museums.

ICOM Card: For Museum Professionals

The ICOM (International Council of Museums) card is for museum professionals and scholars. It grants free entry to museums worldwide, including in Brussels. However, it is not available to the general public; you must be a member of ICOM. The annual fee varies by country (around €100–€150). While not for tourists, it's worth mentioning for researchers or those working in the museum field.

Other Discount Cards and Tips

Brussels City Tourist Card

This is a limited version of the Brussels Card, offering free entry to 10 museums for 24 hours at €20. It's a cheaper alternative if you only have one day. Available at the Visit Brussels Info Shop.

Museum Night Fever

Held annually in October, Museum Night Fever offers a single ticket (around €15) that grants access to over 30 museums from 7 PM to midnight, with special events, performances, and DJ sets. It's a great way to explore multiple museums in one night.

Free Museum Days

Many Brussels museums offer free entry on the first Wednesday of the month (for certain museums) or during special events like the Museum Day (usually in May). Check our article on free entry days for a full list.

How to Choose the Right Pass

Consider your itinerary and length of stay:

  • Tourists staying 1–3 days: The Brussels Card is best, especially with included transport. If you plan to visit 3+ museums per day, it pays off quickly (average museum entry €12).
  • Residents or long-term visitors: The MuseumPass is unbeatable at €60 per year. If you visit just 5 museums in a year, you break even.
  • Budget travelers: Focus on free days and the Brussels City Tourist Card for a one-day blitz.
  • Museum professionals: Check if your institution provides an ICOM card.

Top Museums to Visit with a Pass

Here are some must-see museums included in both the Brussels Card and MuseumPass:

  • Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium (Rue de la Régence 3) – Houses the Magritte Museum and Old Masters.
  • Musical Instruments Museum (MIM) (Rue Montagne de la Cour 2) – Stunning Art Nouveau building and 7,000 instruments.
  • Atomium (Place de l'Atomium 1) – Iconic landmark with panoramic views.
  • Horta Museum (Rue Américaine 25) – Victor Horta's former home, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Cinquantenaire Museum (Parc du Cinquantenaire 10) – Art and history collections.
  • Museum of Natural Sciences (Rue Vautier 29) – Famous for the Iguanodon skeletons.
  • Belgian Comic Strip Center (Rue des Sables 20) – Celebrates Tintin, Smurfs, and more.

Many of these are located in central neighborhoods like Ixelles and Saint-Gilles, which are also great for brunch and craft beer after a museum visit.

Practical Tips for Using Museum Passes

  • Check opening hours: Most museums are closed on Mondays. Some are open late on Thursdays.
  • Skip the line: Brussels Card holders often get priority access. Show your card at the entrance.
  • Download the app: The Brussels Card app includes a map and list of participating museums.
  • Combine with other activities: Use your included transport to explore beyond the city center, like the Schaerbeek hidden gems or a street art trail.
  • Plan for temporary exhibitions: Some may require a supplement (usually €2–€5). Check in advance.

Annual Festivals and Events

Museum passes can also be used during special events like the Brussels Museum Night Fever and the Heritage Days (September). During these, many museums are open late or offer special programs. For a full calendar, see our annual festivals guide.

Conclusion

Museum passes in Brussels are a smart investment for anyone wanting to explore the city's rich cultural scene without breaking the bank. Whether you choose the Brussels Card for a short trip or the MuseumPass for year-round access, you'll save money and time. Don't forget to check free entry days and combine your museum visits with other attractions like food markets or craft beer bars. Happy exploring!

Related articles

  • Free Museum Days in Brussels: When to Visit for Free
  • The Complete Guide to Living in Brussels as an English Speaker
  • Brussels Street Art Trail: A Self-Guided Walking Tour
  • Annual Festivals and Events in Brussels
  • Best Brunch Spots in Brussels for Museum-Goers