Are you looking for a change of scenery to your remote work set-up? Look no further!
The Brussels Times has compiled an extensive list of places to work or study in the Belgian capital, all of which are free to use or ask for a symbolic amount. From libraries to hidden gems, there is something for everyone.
Muntpunt
The imposing Flemish library Muntpunt is a classic spot for those looking to spend some time in an accessible, public space with lots of amenities.
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It offers plenty of spaces, a seed library, a huge collection of books, free Wi-Fi, cheap coffee, computers, a newspaper corner and much more. Rooms can be booked for free through the bookaplace platform.
Place de la Monnaie 6, 1000 Bruxelles
Open from 10:00-19:00 on weekdays, 10:00-18:00 on Saturdays, closed on Sundays
Korean Cultural Centre
The Korean Cultural Centre might sound like an unusual choice for a study session, but this spot is loved by locals for the quiet, cosy and almost private experience it offers.
Credit: Korean Cultural Centre
No prior booking is required – just turn up and register on the spot. Aside from the open space, the KKC also organises regular Korean cultural events.
Rue de la Régence 4, 1000 Bruxelles
Open from 12:00-19:00 on weekdays exclusively
CAPITAL
CAPITAL is a vibrant youth community hub targeting 16-25 teenagers and young adults. Set up as a safe-space promoting social inclusion and diversity, it offers study spaces, alongside training, mentorships and fun events.
Credit: CAPITAL / Brik.be study spaces
It is a walk-in open space, meaning no registration is needed.
Boulevard d'Anvers 40, 1000 Bruxelles
Open from 10:00 - 20:00 every day of the week
ULB university libraries
If you are looking for a deep-focus study session with a classic university vibe, ULB university libraries offer just that. Those over 18 without a student card have to register for an annual fee of €25 or a one-week pass for €2.50. The space is also exclusively reserved for ULB students during exam season.
ULB library of psychology. Credit: ULB
Considering ULB has several libraries, the Human Sciences Library (Solbosch) is the perfect one for a first visit, with some 1,400 spaces.
Avenue Paul Héger 1, 1000 Bruxelles
Open from 08:00-22:00 Monday to Saturday, closed on Sundays
GC Elzenhof
GC Elzenhof is one of many Gemeenschapscentrums (Flemish community centres) dotted across the city. Derived from Elsene, the Dutch name for Ixelles, it's the neighbourhood's warm community house.
GC Elzenhof. Credit: Visit Brussels
While it's aimed primarily at locals, everyone is welcome. Aside from an open foyer, you can enjoy any of their fun neighbourhood activities, have a drink at the bar or come for a twice-monthly community pizza event.
Avenue de la Couronne 12, 1050 Ixelles
Working hours: 9:00-20:00 on workdays, closed during weekends
Pianofabriek
Pianofabriek is the epitome of Saint-Gilles: chaotic, creative and filled with character. Located in a renovated 19th-century piano factory (known as Gunther piano factory), it boasts the industrial aesthetic of the time with high ceilings, exposed brick walls and steel beams.
Pianofabriek building. Credit: VI.be
Stop by the local bustling social café, Alcantara, or use the secluded open space for a quieter workflow. Just like Elzenhof, it is a community centre, meaning you are also likely to meet new people here and can participate in events.
Unfortunately, there aren't any historic pianos left in the building, but you can drop by The Museum of Belgian Pianos just next door to witness the products the piano factory once produced.
Rue du Fort 35, 1060 Saint-Gilles
Open from 08:00-23:00 on weekdays, 09:00-23:00 on Saturdays, closed on Sundays
IKEA
If working or studying in IKEA sounds odd to you, think again. Known among students as a legendary spot, their canteen has large open spaces, comfy tables and free hot beverages with an IKEA family card. The company secured its workspace-friendly legacy by participation in the Study360 campaign, offering its canteen as a study place for students during exams.
It's quite out of the centre, but if you are in the area, it’s worth stopping by. You can pair your working session with a classic IKEA dining experience.
Chaussée de Mons 1432, 1070 Anderlecht
Open from 10:00-20:00 on most days, 10:00-21:00 on Fridays, closed on Sundays
Circularium
Circularium is one of the coolest and most unique places on the list, as it is a vast 20,000 m² car factory transformed into a social-business hub. If you need to channel raw creative energy, you will find inspiration here in its post-industrial aesthetics, raw concrete and greenery.
Credit: Circularium
It may not be the most practical of places, but a short creative work session can be fun here. You can also visit the tool library, repair café, crafting workshops, the donation store or upcycling markets.
Chaussée de Mons 95, 1070 Anderlecht
Open from 13:00-18:00 Tuesday to Friday
VUB university libraries
Just like its Francophone counterpart, VUB university has a central library open to the public. But unlike ULB, it is completely free. The library is slightly further away, but you'll also have access to the VUB cafeteria for a hearty lunch.
Credit: VUB Central library
Central library closes its doors to external visitors during the exam period.
Boulevard de la Plaine 2, 1050 Ixelles
Open from 08:00-21:00 on weekdays, 09:00-17:00 on Saturdays, closed on Sundays
Bibliothèque Communale Hergé
Another library on the list is the Bibliothèque Communale Hergé, named after the legendary Belgian comic artist and creator of Tintin. It is a solid free workspace with a dedicated quiet zone and amenities for children.
Bibliothèque Communale Hergé. Credit: Affluences
The relatively new building offers plenty of light and a relaxed, casual atmosphere, but usually only opens in the afternoon.
Avenue de la Chasse 211, 1040 Etterbeek
Opening hours vary per day and can be found on Google Maps.
