Schaerbeek, often overshadowed by its flashier neighbors like Ixelles or Saint-Gilles, is a commune of quiet surprises. Located northeast of Brussels' pentagon, it combines a rich architectural heritage with an abundance of green spaces that many visitors—and even some residents—overlook. This article uncovers Schaerbeek's hidden gems, from century-old greenhouses to community-run gardens, and offers a practical guide to enjoying its parks and cultural spots. For a broader context on living in Brussels as an English speaker, see our complete guide.

Josaphat Park: The Green Heart of Schaerbeek

Josaphat Park (Parc Josaphat) is the largest and most beloved green space in Schaerbeek, covering 20 hectares. Created in 1904 on the site of a former marsh, it features a large pond, a rose garden, and winding paths perfect for jogging or strolling. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including herons and swans, and its playgrounds are popular with families. In summer, the open-air theatre hosts free concerts and performances. The park's main entrance is at Avenue Ambassadeur van Vollenhoven, near the Josaphat metro station (line 5).

Hidden Corners of Josaphat Park

Most visitors stick to the main alleys, but a few hidden spots are worth seeking out:

  • The Secret Garden – A walled garden near the rose garden, planted with perennials and shrubs, often locked but open during special events.
  • The Chinese Pavilion – A small wooden pavilion near the pond, donated by the Chinese community in the 1990s, offering a quiet spot for reflection.
  • The Hill of Memories – A grassy knoll with a panoramic view of the park and the surrounding rooftops, located behind the tennis courts.

Art Nouveau and Architectural Treasures

Schaerbeek boasts one of the highest concentrations of Art Nouveau buildings in Brussels, many designed by architects such as Paul Hankar, Édouard Pelseneer, and Gustave Strauven. Unlike the more famous examples in Ixelles or Saint-Gilles, these buildings are often tucked away on quiet streets, waiting to be discovered.

Notable Buildings to Visit

  • Maison Cauchie (Rue des Francs, 5) – Built in 1905 by architect Paul Cauchie, this house is famous for its sgraffito frieze depicting the arts. It now houses a museum open on weekends (€8 entry).
  • Hôtel Cohn-Donnay (Avenue de la Brabançonne, 72) – A masterpiece by Édouard Pelseneer (1905), with a striking curved facade and stained-glass windows. Private residence, viewable from the street.
  • Maison Saint-Cyr (Square Ambiorix, 11) – Designed by Gustave Strauven in 1903, this narrow house features an elaborate wrought-iron balcony and a distinctive owl motif. Currently a private home.

For a self-guided tour, pick up a map from the Schaerbeek Tourist Office at Place Colignon. If you enjoy architectural walks, you might also like our article on Ixelles and Flagey, which highlights similar treasures.

Community Gardens and Urban Agriculture

Schaerbeek is a pioneer in community gardening, with several initiatives that transform vacant lots into productive green spaces. These gardens are not only beautiful but also provide fresh produce and a sense of community.

Key Community Gardens

  • Jardin Collectif du Pavillon (Rue du Pavillon, 87) – Established in 2012, this garden covers 300 m² and grows vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Open to volunteers on Saturday mornings.
  • Potager de la Senne (Rue de la Senne, 43) – A riverside garden created in 2015, focusing on permaculture. It hosts workshops on composting and seed saving.
  • Jardin Partagé de la Paix (Rue de la Paix, 25) – A small but lush garden with fruit trees and a beehive. The honey is sold at the annual Schaerbeek fair.

These gardens often have open days and harvest festivals. Check the commune's website for schedules. For a similar vibe in another commune, read our piece on Saint-Gilles' community spirit.

Multicultural Markets and Food Halls

Schaerbeek's diversity is reflected in its markets, where you can find ingredients from around the world. The largest is the Marché de la Place de la Reine, held every Sunday morning. With over 100 stalls, it offers fresh produce, spices, textiles, and street food from Moroccan, Turkish, Congolese, and Polish cuisines.

Other Food Spots

  • Hall des Tanneurs (Rue des Tanneurs, 58) – A covered food market with artisanal vendors, open Friday to Sunday. Try the organic bread from Boulangerie de la Senne (€3.50 per loaf) or the Ethiopian coffee from Café Kaldi.
  • Bissap (Chaussée de Haecht, 130) – A Senegalese restaurant known for its thieboudienne (fish and rice, €15) and bissap juice (€3).
  • Chez Momo (Rue de la Poste, 45) – A tiny Moroccan bakery selling msemen and briouats from €1 each.

Green Corridors and the Senne River

The Senne River, which was largely covered in the 19th century, re-emerges in Schaerbeek along the Promenade Verte, a 60-km walking and cycling path that encircles Brussels. The Schaerbeek section follows the river through Parc de la Senne, a narrow linear park with wildflower meadows and a small waterfall.

Walking the Promenade Verte

Start at the Josaphat Park and follow the signs towards the Evere cemetery. The 5-km stretch from Josaphat to the Brussels-Noord station takes about 1.5 hours on foot. Along the way, you'll pass:

  • The restored watermill of the Senne (Moulin de la Senne), now a cultural center.
  • The bird sanctuary of the Senne valley, where kingfishers and grey herons nest.
  • The community orchard of the Verger de la Senne, with over 50 apple and pear trees.

Cultural Spaces Off the Beaten Path

Schaerbeek is home to several cultural venues that are less known than the major Brussels institutions but offer unique experiences.

Must-Visit Venues

  1. Le Botanique (Rue Royale, 236) – Though technically in Saint-Josse-ten-Noode, its garden extends into Schaerbeek. The former botanical garden now hosts concerts and exhibitions. Check their website for free Wednesday afternoon visits.
  2. Théâtre de la Balsamine (Avenue de la Balsamine, 1) – A small theatre in a former school, known for avant-garde plays and dance performances. Tickets range from €8 to €15.
  3. Librairie Tulitu (Rue de la Consolation, 75) – A cozy second-hand bookshop specializing in comics and children's books. It also hosts storytelling sessions in French and Dutch every Saturday.

Practical Tips for Exploring Schaerbeek

To make the most of your visit, consider these practical details:

  • Getting there: Metro lines 5 and 6 stop at Gare du Nord, from where buses 58, 59, and 61 run into Schaerbeek. Tram 7 and 25 also serve the area.
  • Bike rental: Villo! stations are located near Josaphat Park and Place Colignon. A day pass costs €1.65.
  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) for the cherry blossoms in Josaphat Park; autumn (October) for the foliage and harvest festivals.
  • Where to stay: The Hotel Bloom! (Rue Royale, 250) offers rooms from €80 per night and is a 10-minute walk from the park.

For more on navigating Brussels as an expat, see our comprehensive guide for English speakers.

Related articles

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  • Ixelles and Flagey: A Local's Guide
  • Saint-Gilles: Vibe and Community
  • Brussels' Best Parks and Gardens
  • Art Nouveau Walks in Brussels