National Basilica of the Sacred Heart
National Basilica of the Sacred Heart
4
Points of Interest & LandmarksLookoutsObservation Decks & TowersReligious SitesChurches & Cathedrals
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
anked fifth among the world's largest churches, the National Basilica stands as a magnificent Art Deco monument, offering breathtaking panoramic views. This summer, from June 15 to August 18, 2024, the Basilica proudly hosts an extraordinary immersive exhibition by renowned Bulgarian artist and iconographer Dian Kostov : Crossroads, The Price of Choice. Experience "Crossroads," a unique showcase that transforms the Basilica inside and out with custom installations and modern icon paintings. This collaboration invites visitors on a contemplative journey, merging traditional artistry with contemporary vision. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness Kostov’s unparalleled work in a setting that enhances its beauty and significance. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind artistic experience at the National Basilica.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Plan your visit
Are you currently on your trip?
Help us find experiences available for you.
The area
Address
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
2,641 within 3 miles
Attractions
830 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- YannifrombelgiumAntwerp, Belgium981 contributionsI feel guilty …Yes, I blame myself for having often driven past this building without stopping. Perhaps the architecture reminded me of that of the Parisian basilica of Montmartre, but less well.... In the end, I visited the interior and loved it. Very original !Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten April 14, 2024
- dakenasAlexandroupoli, Greece82 contributionsONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SPOTS IN BRUSSELSThe inside of the temple is very beautiful, although we went late and could not see it very well, because the place was being prepared for a concert in the evening. The place outside is amazing. The square around is very quiet and ideal for a picnic. There is parking in the yard and in the surrounding areas for free!Visited April 2024Traveled with friendsWritten May 12, 2024
- Tatiana FChalon-sur-Saone, France6,187 contributionsA very atypical churchThis church leaves an ambivalent impression: an external majestic classic and ultra-modern interior decoration. The church includes several chapels, a museum and an exhibition hall. You can take the lift to the observation deck and see all of Brussels. Visits to the museum, exhibition and observation deck are subject to payment. An amateur.Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten August 1, 2024
- Freddie BCoalville, United Kingdom206 contributionsArt deco basilica in BrusselsVery impressive art deco basilica. It is absolutely massive and is one of the largest church buildings in the world. It is rather tall being able to be seen from the other side of the city. When I visited, it was not very busy, which I imagine is a side effect of it not really being in the touristy part of Brussels. Despite its massive size, the architecture is rather plain, and it feels empty on the inside, but it is a very interesting place to visit.Visited August 2024Traveled with friendsWritten October 5, 2024
- Alberto Teodosio BiondiMerate, Italy891 contributionsThe Sacred Heart of BrusselsIt is located outside the city center (in Koekelberg, a district northwest of the so-called pentagon that encloses the main core of the city), but is visible from any raised point of the city (for example from the Palais de Justice). It's huge (it's the sixth largest church in the world and the first in Art Nouveau style) and it has its charm, but it must surely please, because its mass certainly does not make it graceful and slender. Inside, the size is exceptional and you can appreciate it by taking the elevator that leads to the dome with spectacular views of the city (Euro 8 ticket). Also beautiful is the walk along the avenue that starts from the Simonis/Elisabeth stop (attention that the entrance of the church is on the opposite side from the avenue).Visited October 2024Traveled with friendsWritten October 26, 2024
- B TLondon, United Kingdom1,256 contributionsBetter to visit this for Brussels views than atomiumThe building is huge, but personally I think it’s very ugly. Inside is dark, not much decoration, it’s very gloomy and depressing inside. There’s just dark brick, not much paintings etc. It is probably worth it just for the view. I would recommend going here rather than the atomium as there is was one long queue. Here, there was hardly anyone visiting, entrance is cheaper, and the view of Brussels has the atomium in it.Visited December 2024Traveled soloWritten December 2, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
846 reviews
Excellent
338
Very good
336
Average
121
Poor
33
Terrible
18
These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
This service may contain translations provided by Google. Google disclaims all warranties, express or implied, with respect to translations, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and freedom from forgery.
KH
London, UK676 contributions
Jan 2024 • Solo
The name "National Basilica" seems to be a better name. As I got closer, I realized that it was bigger than I thought. It's free to go inside, but you need to buy a ticket from the automatic ticket machine inside to go up to the tower. It was 8 euros when I visited. After taking the elevator to the observation deck, I was able to enjoy the cityscape of Brussels.

Written January 8, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul Legate
United Kingdom21,955 contributions
Sep 2019 • Solo
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is an impressive building on Koekelberg Hill. The basilica is in art deco style and is as impressive inside as it is externally, the enormity of the place is immediately apparent. There are many attractions within the Basilica to be seen which costs 6€ including various exhibits and entry to the panoramic terrace but definitely worth the extra expense. I decided to walk up to the terrace which was worth the effort as the views of the city and beyond were truly spectacular, I had an easier journey back down to ground level as I took the lift back down. In the 30 plus years I have been visiting Brussels I have never visited Basilica of the Sacred Heart which really is a shame because it is an amazing building and although slightly away from Central Brussels it is well worth exploring.
Written March 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Leonhkny
Hong Kong, China23,232 contributions
Jun 2023
The first sight of the National Basilica must be impressive for most visitors. It is one of the largest churches in the world and can be seen from the end of Parc Elisabeth. Given its sheer size, the basilica has a surprisingly simple, almost austere interior. It is out of tourist area and thus remains serene and peaceful. Metro line 6 connects it with downtown Brussels.
Written June 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
B T
London, UK1,256 contributions
Dec 2024 • Solo
The building is huge, but personally I think it’s very ugly. Inside is dark, not much decoration, it’s very gloomy and depressing inside. There’s just dark brick, not much paintings etc.
It is probably worth it just for the view. I would recommend going here rather than the atomium as there is was one long queue. Here, there was hardly anyone visiting, entrance is cheaper, and the view of Brussels has the atomium in it.
It is probably worth it just for the view. I would recommend going here rather than the atomium as there is was one long queue. Here, there was hardly anyone visiting, entrance is cheaper, and the view of Brussels has the atomium in it.
Written December 2, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HenriMeunier
Florianopolis, SC5 contributions
Oct 2012
Let's put it straight: this is not a church for moron tourists who expect every religious building to be more or less the same as all the others. This basilica is realy different. It is huge of course, yes (the biggest Art Déco Monument and the fith biggest church in the world). But inside, the architect has managed to create a rather intimate space and you can pass many hours to enjoy the perspectives and all details which make this building so special. In my opinion a far more homogenous and interesting example of an imposant 20th century church than the helplessly overrated Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Forget what you think to know about churches and discover this architectural masterpiece! It is a must do when you visit Brussels, unless you just want to see the usual city-stuff.
Written October 18, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Giles C
London, UK21 contributions
Oct 2019
Free entry and only 6 Euros to go up to the dome, when we were there we were the only ones so enjoyed the views in peace. Church is not that old but still have the appropriate ambiance. The stained glass windows are beautiful.
Written October 28, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
photovagabond
Cary, IL157 contributions
Apr 2019 • Solo
Beautiful art deco cathedral - worth the trip to go see - incredible architecture and a fixture on the skyline of Brussels.
Written April 19, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Ronny V
Amstelveen, The Netherlands46 contributions
Apr 2012 • Friends
Larger than that other magnificent art deco structure in the southern hemisphere, the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. This church must be the largest art deco church in the world. And of course it took also a few decades to build it entirely. Visitors who know nothing about art deco don't like this basilica. People who know only a little bit about 20th century architecture like this masterpiece by Ghent architect Albert Van Huffel. Everything started with some megalomaniac plans by King Leopold II fur a church à la Sacre-Coeur in Montmartre (Paris). The king died, World War I broke out, so it all got pretty delayed. In the roaring twenties, art deco became popular. So, they decided to make it more fashionable and went completely for an art deco reinterpretation of the classical western cathedrals. For that decision we may be cardinal Mercier very grateful. The building is entirely of concrete, and inside they used lost formwork in the shape of huge ceramic hollow bricks, filled up with concrete. The result was a marvel (but outdated, when finally completed in the sixties ;-)
No wonder, Albert Van Huffel won the great architecture prize at the 'Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes' in Paris. Not to be missed inside are the eight stained glass windows representing the life of Jesus by Belgian painter Anto Carte.
Now the basilica is a true landmark on the Brussels skyline, with a fantastic view on it from one of its towers.
So if you like other famous art deco marvels like the statue of Christ The Redeemer in Rio, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco or the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building in New York, then you should add the Basilica of Koekelberg to your To-Do list too.
No wonder, Albert Van Huffel won the great architecture prize at the 'Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes' in Paris. Not to be missed inside are the eight stained glass windows representing the life of Jesus by Belgian painter Anto Carte.
Now the basilica is a true landmark on the Brussels skyline, with a fantastic view on it from one of its towers.
So if you like other famous art deco marvels like the statue of Christ The Redeemer in Rio, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco or the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building in New York, then you should add the Basilica of Koekelberg to your To-Do list too.
Written July 7, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your in-depth review! We hope other visitors follow your advice and add us to their to-do list : )
Cedric
Written July 23, 2012
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
grape53
Oklahoma19 contributions
My experience with cathedrals is limited, but this one is decidedly mind-boggling. The largest Art Deco church in he world, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart is an astonishing work of art. Located a few miles outside of Brussel, it is a subway ride and a decent walk through a park, but it is worth the trouble. The stained-glass windows are the most beautiful I've ever seen. The building is an amazing and lovely achievement. If you have some free time in Belgium, this is an important work you can't miss.
Take line 1A or line 2 of the subway to the Simonis station.
Take line 1A or line 2 of the subway to the Simonis station.
Written October 16, 2009
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Myo M
Coquitlam, Canada27,501 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
Quite an "eye-catcher" (one for an "awesome impression" at my first sight of it) is how I would describe this basilica not so much for its structure but mainly for its "surrounding nature" which is a widespread & meticulously-maintained "sloping lawn" (which supposedly is called Koekelberg Hill but really just a "very gentle rise" from the street outside the basilica grounds). And so, just after the "slight glitch" of finding the entrance all the way on the "back side" of the Basilica (after almost assuming it was closed without being able to go in the main door on the front side), I was also once inside fairly impressed by the spaciousness with not one but "two altars" (one at each end of the length of the floor) although yes the basilica overall is just "quite a modest one" in terms of decorations & such except for like colorful stained-glass windows on the walls beside and all the way to the top (some "significant number" of them to see though). And also, with just "free admission" to the Basilica itself, there's a fee (of about 8 euros) to go up one of the two towers (which I skipped after having already seen the city from the top of the Cinquantenaire Arch just the day before).
After about a 20-minute metro ride from the Bourse/Beurs station near the Grote Markt at the "city center" (with also a line change at Rogier) was arriving at the Simonis station right beside the Parc Elisabeth in a long-rectangular shape followed by about a 15-minute "leisure walk" (actually one just for about 5 minutes or so) through the park to the "far end" just across the street from this basilica (with a pretty nice photo-op of the Basilica seen between the two rows of trees and where at the time of my visit in the fall was also an "added charm" of fallen leaves all along the way).
After about a 20-minute metro ride from the Bourse/Beurs station near the Grote Markt at the "city center" (with also a line change at Rogier) was arriving at the Simonis station right beside the Parc Elisabeth in a long-rectangular shape followed by about a 15-minute "leisure walk" (actually one just for about 5 minutes or so) through the park to the "far end" just across the street from this basilica (with a pretty nice photo-op of the Basilica seen between the two rows of trees and where at the time of my visit in the fall was also an "added charm" of fallen leaves all along the way).
Written March 12, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, I am going to be in Brussels 28-31st ? Will there be any Easter church service?
Written March 25, 2018
BasilicaKoekelberg
Brussels, Belgium
Hi! There's a mass every week day at 9'00 AM (in french on monday, tuesday, thurday ,friday, and saturday in Dutch on wednesday. On sunday, 10'00 (french) and 11'30 (bilingual frenh-dutch)
Written March 26, 2018
Olá! Em Bruxelas eu me hospedei no Hotel Ibis Brussels Ste Catherine.
Written January 27, 2018
Hello, anyone knows if the tourist hop on hop off buses could reach this? Or do I have to take a taxi?
Written November 5, 2017
BasilicaKoekelberg
Brussels, Belgium
Hi Rodella,
There's a touristic bus line passing by, and you can also take the metro (station Simonis/Elizabeth)!
Don't hesitate to send us a mail for any further info: tourism@basilicakoekelberg.be
Written November 6, 2017
Ciao, mi sapete dire se l'entrata è libera o a pagamento? Vale la pena salire per vedere il panorama?
Written July 23, 2017
BasilicaKoekelberg
Brussels, Belgium
Hi,
Access to the upper part of the basilica and panorama costs €5 (accesse to temporary exhibitions and museums). From there, you'll have a 360° view on Brussels and surroundings (up to 30 km when the weather allows it).
Comparatively, Atomium costs €12 for adults and we are a bit higher!
Written July 25, 2017
Showing results 1-4 of 4
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing