Saint-Michel district

As well as the European district, Etterbeek has many other interesting neighbourhoods, particularly sought-after for the quality of life they offer.

In the collective imagination, Etterbeek conjures up images of the Cinquantenaire Park, the European institutions and the famous Chez Antoine chip shop on Place Jourdan. Etterbeek is also one of the most urbanised and expensive municipalities in the Brussels region, and its geographical location attracts many expatriates who settle there.

Its main assets? Conveniences (metro, tram, bus), proximity to the European district, the Ring and Brussels’ main thoroughfares, the large number of schools, the surrounding green spaces (Parc du Cinquantenaire, Parc Léopold, etc.) and its shopping centre (Rue des Tongres).

More specifically, the Saint-Michel district, which is crossed by the Boulevard of the same name, is very popular for its urban and residential feel and its strategic location. It is home to a number of eclectic and Beaux-Arts-style mansions and town houses.

Under the protection of the Archangel Saint Michael, the famous Collège Saint-Michel is a large complex with several red brick wings that is a major visual landmark in the district. The school is highly regarded and has welcomed many generations of the Belgian bourgeoisie.

The Saint-Michel theatre is also a key address in Brussels’ cultural life (the vast Art Deco-style auditorium seats 1,300) and regularly plays host to famous actors and actresses from the Parisian stage.

The district is bordered to the north by the Avenue de Tervueren, renowned for its elegant facades. King Leopold II wanted this avenue to be laid out for the Universal Exhibition of 1897, in order to link the Cinquantenaire park to the Château of Tervueren park, where the Congo exhibition was held.

Its proximity to the Rue des Tongres shopping centre is also a real asset. Poissonnerie des Tongres and Maison Lanssens (with its traditional charcuterie) are two of the many food shops in the area.

Last but not least, the district has excellent public transport links, with several metro stations in the immediate vicinity.

The 3 must-sees in the area:

• Léopold – café presse. You can borrow books to read on the spot while enjoying one of their delicious bagels.
• Le Monde est Petit for its gourmet cuisine and warm welcome.
• The Cinquantenaire park, where you can recharge your batteries, go for a run, take a yoga class or enjoy an urban aperitif.