A Guide To Belgian Comic Strip Center, Brussels

Things to do / Highlights

Learn about Tintin and Hergé

One of the most iconic comic book characters in the world, Tintin and his creator Hergé have their own section in this museum. In the Hergé area, visitors can learn about the talented Belgian comic strip artist and his journey as an illustrator. This permanent exhibit is designed like the façade of Marlinspike Hall, home of another popular character, Captain Haddock, and illuminates Hergé’s creative career both before, during and after creating Tintin. This exhibit is a must-visit for all Tintin fans.

Immerse yourself in the world of Smurfs

At the museum, another permanent exhibit that attracts thousands of visitors is the Peyo Exhibition, dedicated to Belgian cartoonist, Pierre Culliford, who went by the pseudonym ‘Peyo.’ Suspended above this exhibit are hundreds of Smurfs portraits. An additional delight for children will be the Smurf house play area. In the exhibit itself, you will get a chance to see realistic reproductions of Peyo’s works, documentation and unknown facts about him.

Read your favourite comic book at the Reading Room

The museum also has a fantastic library and reading room that stocks thousands of books, documents and actual comic books that visitors can enjoy. At the reading room, you can take your pick from more than 7,000 comic books, some of which have been translated into over 40 languages. The reading room is open daily and entry is free with your museum admission ticket.

What to eat

Waffles

The museum also has a beautiful Art Nouveau-style eatery attached to it called Horta Brasserie. Named after the designer-architect Victor Horta, this bistro has tall windows and a fantastic decor of comic strip art on the walls. Serving a prominently Belgian menu, one of the must-try items here is Belgian waffles served with a variety of toppings like sugar, whipped cream and chocolate. Enjoy as a dessert or with a cup of coffee - these waffles are mouth-watering and delicious!

Crêpes

Another popular item to try at Horta Brasserie is their crêpe. This thin pancake served in a variety of savoury or sweet flavours is a delightful item to have as a snack, breakfast or even as a dessert. Pair your crêpe with an ice-cold Belgian beer or a cup of hot tea.

Things to buy

Comic books

At Slumberland Bookshop adjacent to the museum, you can shop for souvenirs and a range of classic comic book titles, manga, comic strip albums, modern comics and children’s books. A must-buy item here is comic books, of course! An amazing variety of titles in various languages are available at the bookshop, and specialists will be able to help you make a choice that suits your reading taste. Buy for yourself or gift a comic book to that comic book fan in your life.

Posters or figurines

Other amazing things to buy at the bookshop are posters and figurines. The bookshop stocks an excellent selection of art products like screenprints, postcards, posters and figurines. Pick up a poster of Tintin and Snowy or a figurine of your favourite Smurf as a keepsake of your time in Brussels.

Travelers tips

Wheelchair accessibility

The museum is very wheelchair-friendly. Visitors in wheelchairs can access the museum via Horta Brasserie’s entrance. Elevators are available throughout the museum property for ease of movement. Adapted toilets are also available for the use of disabled visitors. The museum staff is also available if you need any kind of help.

Brasserie and bookshop closing times

Horta Brasserie and Slumberland Bookshop are both attached to the museum and they close when the museum closes. Be mindful of their business hours if you plan to grab a bite or buy a souvenir. It is advisable to plan your visit accordingly.

How to get there

Public transport

Since the museum is conveniently located in the centre of Brussels, near many landmarks and popular tourist attractions, it is quite easy to reach by public transport. Many public transport stops are located near the museum, and visitors can choose to travel by tram, train, metro or bus. The train station Bruxelles-Congres is just a three-minute walk away, and the stopping points of international buses like Eurolines and Flixbus, train stations Gare Centrale and Gare du Nord are also just a short walking distance away. Two bus stations are a mere a two-minute walk away from the museum.

Bicycles

Cycling is another popular mode of travelling within the city. You can easily reach the museum from anywhere in Brussels by riding your bicycle. Parking for bicycles is available right in front of the museum. You can even use a bike-sharing service located at the Villo bike-sharing station just a two-minute walk away.

Private cars

Due to its location in one of Brussels’ oldest areas, just a stone’s throw from Grand Place, the museum can easily be reached by car as well. It is located in the heart of the city, and driving directions are easily available.

Parking information

A paid parking lot with about 2,000 parking spaces is located just a four-minute walk away from the museum. Nearer parking spots are also available during the weekends.

How to book tickets

The best way to book tickets for the museum is on-site at the time of your visit or via a third-party websites. Admission tickets for adults cost 11.12 USD (10 EUR) and discounts are available for groups, seniors and children between certain ages.

Admission fee includes access to the museum, permanent and temporary exhibitions and the reading room. Visitors who possess a Brussels Card are entitled to free entry upon presentation of their card.

Belgian Comic Strip Center information

Belgian Comic Strip Center

Address: Rue des Sables 20, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Cost: 11.12 USD (10 EUR)

Official Website: Belgian Comic Strip Center

Department of tourism: Visit Brussels