Don't underestimate the parks in
Brussels! The Belgian capital may not be known for its green spaces, but it still has more than a handful that will take your breath away. They're even some of the best spots for a nice picnic in Brussels. Forest Parc is a great example as it offers amazing views of the city and, true to its name, several trees for some much-needed shade. Bois de la Cambre is another perfect picnic spot too, especially if you set it up by the lake. And what of La Cambre Abbey? Well, its gardens provide peace and sunshine. What more could you want in a picnic spot?
Parc du Cinquantenaire
Let's start this list with two of the most famous
parks in Brussels. First up is Parc du Cinquantenaire at the center of the Belgian capital. Most people know of it for the grand Cinquantenaire Arch and various museums but at the end of the day, it's still a green space. The park has ample grass fields, all of which are perfect for a nice picnic in Brussels. Arguably the best area is the one near the Cinquantenaire Arch. The grass is always well-cut here, the flowers are beautiful, and there's no denying that a picnic by the world-famous monument is pretty cool!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Parc de Bruxelles
Named after the city itself, Parc de Bruxelles is the first public park to ever open in the city. It opened in the late 18th century and was even named the “Royal Park” (some still refer to it with this name). The park has a total of 32 acres so it's not exactly the biggest green space out there. But what it may lack in size, it makes up for in botanical bliss. With lots of lush trees all around and patches of well-cut grass, Parc de Bruxelles is among the greener parts of the city. Thus, it's perfect for a lovely picnic in Brussels
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Parc Elisabeth
The view of the Basilica of Koekelberg enveloped by tree leaves has become iconic among the locals of the Belgian capital. Anyone who lives or has
moved to Brussels will know that this is the best part about going to Parc Elisabeth. The site was supposed to be occupied by a massive Parthenon but fortunately, it never materialized. So now, Brussels has this amazing park full of fascinating flora. It's also a great place for a picnic at the heart of the city. You can easily lay out a blanket on the grass, put out a delicious feast, and eat to your heart's content.
Source: Flickr.com/ Alex-David Baldi
Forest Parc
Despite its name, Forest Parc isn't an actual forest. The city park is named after the municipality of Forest, one of the 19 towns in the Brussels-Capital Region. Don't be too disappointed! The park still has its fair share of tall trees, each more greener and more luscious than the next. If you set up your picnic here, you'll still get to enjoy the overload of oxygen and some nice shade when the sun gets too bright. But the best part about hanging out in Forest Parc, however, is the view. The place is surrounded by tall buildings, making up a cityscape sight you won't ever forget!
Source: Flickr.com/ Stephane Mignon
Bois de la Cambre
Bois de la Cambre is to Brussels what
Central Park is to New York City. This doesn't mean that it's the most famous park of the Belgian capital, but that it's the archetypal city park. The place has beautiful grass fields, a serene lake, lots of trees, and many other features. There are even a few restaurants in the park too. They're nice alternatives for when you're not in the mood for a picnic. Though, it's highly unlikely you'll feel that way when you see just how pleasant and idyllic the park is. There's no way you won't prefer a picnic by the lake!
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Lëa-Kim Châteauneuf.
La Cambre Abbey
Ever had a picnic by an abbey before? Well, you can if you when you go on a picnic in La Cambre Abbey. The monasterial estate has been around since 1201, so it's one of the oldest parts of the city. Its cloisters have been around since the Middle Ages too, making it a go-to spot for any history buff out there. And even if you're not one, you'd still enjoy a picnic in the abbey's lush gardens. These well-manicured gardens look straight out of a storybook, the kind you'd expect in royal residences and noble houses. Why not add some old-world grandeur to your picnic?
Source: PICRYL
Sonian Forest
The charm of going on a picnic in Brussels—or anywhere else, for that matter—is getting to enjoy good food and the great outdoors. Granted many of the spots on this list are city parks, but there are still a few that let you get closer to Mother Nature. One such is the Sonian Forest. Covering over 4,000 hectares, all fresh woodlands, there's no better place to have a quiet picnic. You may have to go further into the forest to snag the best peaceful spot, but don't worry! The forest is still an urban park, which means you'll remain safe here.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Edison McCullen
Planning on having a picnic in Brussels? Then check out these amazing picnic spots! From world-famous parks to full-blown forests, these places are perfect for a nice time with friends and family outdoors.
