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Belgium/Things to Do in Brussels, with kids

National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg?

73%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 73% Kids-Friendly: Older children like the lift ride, towers, and stained-glass stories, and they can burn energy in Elisabeth Park afterward, but parents must enforce church-quiet and supervise narrow stair sections.

Google
Reviews4.5/ 5
(from 6,122 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free entry to main areas: Explore the nave and chapels at no cost.
  • Stroller and wheelchair access: Wide ramps and elevators let you move easily through the building.
  • Engaging for kids: Stained glass and open spaces hold children’s interest.

Challenges:

  • Weather at the gallery: The open-air dome gallery can be windy and cold.
  • Narrow summit staircase: The 250-step stairway is tight and may frighten younger children.
  • Limited seating: Few benches inside mean little ones may need to stand longer than they like.
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What is National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg?

  • A monumental Art Deco Roman Catholic basilica and national sanctuary on Koekelberg hill in Brussels
  • Constructed entirely of reinforced concrete and brick, the basilica features twin towers flanking an 89-meter-high copper-clad dome
  • Ranking as the sixth largest Catholic church in the world, it houses two on-site museums dedicated to modern religious art and ecclesiastical heritage

What is so special about National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg for with kids?

  1. Free walkthrough of the Art Deco nave and chapels
  2. Glass lift to 52 m-high dome with sweeping city views
  3. Small art museum free with lift ticket offers colourful exhibits
  4. Nearby Elisabeth Park provides lawns and picnic spots
  5. Optional summit stairs for adventurous older kids

Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours

Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to explore the interior, ride the dome lift, visit the museum and enjoy a park picnic without rushing.

(View National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg

Explore the Art Deco interior:

Walk through the vast nave and side chapels built of concrete and brick.

Tip: Point out stained-glass windows and large pillars; keep young children close to avoid echoing noise.

Take the panoramic lift:

Ride a glass elevator 52.8 m under the dome for 180° views of Brussels.

Tip: Use the stroller-friendly lift; challenge kids to spot landmarks like the Grand Place.

Browse the Modern Religious Art Museum:

See 20th-century paintings and sculptures by Miró and Belgian artists.

Tip: Focus on colourful artworks; the small layout is easy to navigate with kids.

Picnic and play in Elisabeth Park:

Relax on lawns, walk safe paths or feed birds behind the basilica.

Tip: Pack snacks or pick up waffles nearby; use benches or bring a blanket for resting.

Climb to the dome summit:

Ascend 250 narrow steps from the gallery to reach the 89 m-high dome.

Tip: Only for children over 10; skip this if younger kids are tired or uneasy.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg

  1. Buy tickets online: Pre-book panorama tickets to skip the line at the entrance.
  2. Visit late morning: Arrive before noon to avoid school groups and local crowds.
  3. Pack your picnic: Bring snacks from your accommodation to save time and money in the park.
🏖️ Tour National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg

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Hugo

Hugo

Oct 2025

Impressive architecture and stunning views over Brussels from the top. Peaceful atmosphere and definitely worth a visit, especially at sunset. ⛪✨

Graham Short

Graham Short

Sep 2025

An absolutely massive place, people actually get lost in the perspective of this Basilica. You can go up through the levels and rest the outside are and walk around. The ‘collection’ of modern stained glass windows are very impressive. You can see over much of Brussels and out towards the Atomium.

Michael Uzmann

Michael Uzmann

Jul 2025

A minor basilica made famous by the visions of Margaret Mary Alacoque, Basilica of The Sacred Heart is one of the few sites I missed on my last trip to Brussels. More modern in its approach than other churches of the era, this is the 5th largest Catholic Church in the world, with a panoramic roof open to visitors for 6 Euros while the church itself is free to visit, with free parking.

Cristy Gardner-Vecchio

Cristy Gardner-Vecchio

May 2025

This is a beautiful and holy place! I wish I came in earlier to see the panoramic view but unfortunately I went there very late! The lift was close. You can easily spend half a day here specially if you would like to pray and do your rosary/novenas.

Mikey C

Mikey C

Apr 2025

Thus is quite a big cathedral. It's impressive from the outside. Many stain glass windows inside. Nice areas to look at inside especially the area at the front. However I would say there are other churches and Cathedrals that are more impressive. But good hour of visit.

When is the best time to visit National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg (Brussels, Belgium)?

Spring and summer are ideal for combining the dome ride with a park picnic. In autumn, enjoy fall colors in Elisabeth Park. In winter, dress warmly for the open-air gallery and limit park time if it’s chilly.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Brussels on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Panorama tickets (4 × €8)EUR 32
Picnic snacks and wafflesEUR 12
Total EstimatedEUR 44

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg

Address: Basiliekvoorplein 1, 1083 Brussel, Belgium

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About National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg

Opening Hours

Monday:8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+32 2 421 16 60

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