The full story
Start in the historic centre for Grand-Place, civic monuments and covered galleries, but expect the densest visitor traffic. South of it, the Marolles feels rougher and more lived-in around Place du Jeu de Balle, with antiques, steep streets and the lift to Place Poelaert. Sablon is calmer and more polished, linking art dealers, churches and chocolate shops with the Royal Quarter's museums. The European Quarter is strongest for institutions, modern offices and Leopold Park rather than old-city atmosphere. Ixelles spreads across several distinct pockets: Matongé, Flagey, the ponds and the student streets near the cemetery should not be treated as one compact stop. Saint-Gilles rewards architecture walks and café breaks along sloping residential streets. Brussels' municipalities and districts overlap imperfectly, so plan around named squares and transit stops instead of broad borough labels.