1. Brussels, Belgium - June, 15, 2023: The Atomium of Brussels, a modernist building that represents a silver atom model. Originally constructed as the centrepiece of the 1958 Brussels World's Fair
    Photograph: Shutterstock
  2. An aerial shot of Brussels and the Atomium in the distance
    Photograph: Shutterstock
  3. Atomium, eitw
    Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/diamond geezer

Atomium

Brussels’ most iconic and distinctly quirky landmark is part sculpture, part museum, part panoramic viewpoint.
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Time Out says

What is the Atomium?

Originally built for the 1958 World’s Fair, the beaming structure represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. The spaceship-like building with its nine connected spheres is somewhere between a sculpture and a museum, and what was meant to be temporary is now a beloved Belgian icon.

Is it worth visiting?

Yes, and not just for the photo opp. Inside, you’ll find a mix of exhibitions about topics such as the history of air travel or the surrealist art of René Magritte. Escalators through the tubes and a panoramic lift transport you between spheres, and the top one offers a spectacular 360° view over Brussels. There’s also a restaurant up there if you fancy lunch with a view. It’s touristy, but in a delightfully retro-kitsch way.

What else is nearby?

Right next door is Mini-Europe, a charming theme park of miniature replicas of famous European landmarks, and Parc de Laeken across the street is great for picnicking or a post-Atomium stroll. There’s also the Brussels Design Museum. So although it’s all a bit far from the city centre, it’s definitely worth a trip.

Tickets, accessibility and booking

For 17€ you get access to both the Design Museum and the Atomium

📍 Discover more great things to do in Brussels

Details

Address
Place de l'Atomium 1
Brussels
1020
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