Place Poelaert terrace

The terrace on Place Poelaert is a wide viewing platform in front of the Palace of Justice, on the hill that separates the Upper Town from the Marolles district of Brussels. From the balustrade, visitors look out over the rooftops of the lower town, the Marolles, and the distant skyline, with the spire of the Town Hall and other landmarks visible on clear days. The terrace is free and open at all times, so it works as a quick stop of ten to twenty minutes or a longer pause with a drink bought nearby. The most popular approach is the free public glass lift from Rue de l'Epée in the Marolles, which carries passengers up to the square in a few seconds and makes the climb easy. Alternatively, visitors can walk up steps and streets from the Marolles, or reach the square on foot from the Sablon or from Louise metro station. The view is at its best around sunset, when the light turns golden over the city and lights begin to appear, and photographers often return at dusk. Weekday middays are quiet, but evenings and weekends in good weather see more visitors and locals. Immediately behind is the huge Palace of Justice, whose dome and columns give a dramatic backdrop to portraits. The terrace pairs naturally with a walk through the Marolles, a visit to the Place du Jeu de Balle market, or a stroll to the Sablon.