August is the perfect time to slow down. While the city buzzes with festivals and bustling terraces, there are also places where you can escape the rush and truly unwind. Brussels is full of hidden green gems, quiet gardens, secret parks, and peaceful corners where the noise of the city fades into the background.
Whether you're a tourist looking to take a break or a local craving a mini staycation, these spots offer the ideal dose of calm for a summer in the city.
Mont des Arts Garden: Serenity with a View
Just a short walk from the city center, the Mont des Arts Garden offers both a stunning panoramic view and a moment of tranquility in the heart of Brussels. With beautifully manicured flower beds, shaded benches, and a view over the skyline, it’s the perfect place for a coffee break or a quiet moment with a book. A great stop on a sightseeing day or the start of a peaceful evening stroll toward the Sablon district.
Leopold Park: Hidden in the European Quarter
Tucked away between the modern buildings of the European Quarter, Leopold Park is a lush and surprisingly quiet space with a pond, quaint bridges, and diverse greenery.
You’re more likely to hear birdsong than city traffic here. The shaded paths and flowing water make it the perfect refreshment on a warm summer day. It’s also conveniently located near the Parlamentarium and the Natural Sciences Museum, making it a lovely break between cultural stops.
The Beguinage Garden in Anderlecht: A Step Back in Time
For something truly unique, visit the Beguinage Garden in Anderlecht.
Located next to the historic beguinage chapel, this small garden offers a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. The herb beds and vegetable patches are lovingly maintained by locals, and the entire space feels like a step back in time. It’s a beautiful spot to escape the city's bustle and enjoy the simplicity of nature and history.
The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken: Regal Tranquility
Few people know that the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken open to the public during specific times in spring and summer. These elegant glass structures are nestled in a royal park and offer a grand yet serene experience. Wander among exotic plants, century-old palms, and colorful blooms. As access is limited, be sure to check the opening dates in advance. If you get the chance, it’s one of the most enchanting green experiences Brussels has to offer.
Lakes of Ixelles: Stillness by the Water
For a more unique kind of relaxation, head to the Lakes of Ixelles, near Place Flagey. During the summer, you can sometimes rent a small rowboat, or simply relax on a bench by the water. The soft sound of the breeze in the trees and the gentle ripple of the lake create a soothing atmosphere you won’t soon forget.
Urban Calm with a Coffee in a Hidden Garden
Several cafés across Brussels have beautiful hidden gardens tucked away behind their facades. Enjoy a latte in the courtyard of Parlor Coffee in Saint-Gilles, sip an iced drink at La Fabrique en Ville inside the Egmont Park, or unwind at Living Room in Ixelles, a cozy café with a lush green terrace. These quiet oases are perfect for reading, working, or simply enjoying the calm with a drink in hand.
Relax and Stay in the Heart of the City at OPO Hotel
After a day filled with soft stillness and green impressions, there’s no better place to come home to than OPO Hotel. Centrally located yet blissfully quiet, our hotel is the perfect base for exploring Brussels' hidden gardens. We’re always happy to help you find the calmest walking routes, peaceful reading spots, or quiet cafés nearby.
At OPO Hotel, summer isn’t just about exploring, it’s also about truly relaxing.
This August, treat yourself to a moment of peace.
Brussels is full of serenity, if you know where to look.
