St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels image

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels

Tourist attraction Catholic church Church Cathedral Catholic cathedral

One of the Most Revieweds in Brussels


Address

Esp. de la Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Website

www.cathedralisbruxellensis.be

Contact

+32 2 217 83 45

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (18.5K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 8 AM to 6 PM
  • Sunday: 8 AM to 6 PM
  • Monday: 8 AM to 6 PM
  • Tuesday: 8 AM to 6 PM
  • Wednesday: 8 AM to 6 PM
  • Thursday: 8 AM to 6 PM
  • Friday: 8 AM to 6 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: cathedral (36) beautiful (27) Brussels (26) visit (22) church (20) architecture (20) Beautiful (12) worth (12) Cathedral (12) history (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Chris S. 1 year ago on Google
    We happened to be here during the national holiday and we're treated to an event that honored those that fought for Belgium. Beautiful big cathedral that towers over everything else. Lovely pipe organ that we got to hear for the event. Definitely worth seeing.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark P. 7 months ago on Google • 944 reviews
    Well maintained/restored structure sure to be popular with architectural history buffs. You can roam around freely to take in all the details and there are not any restrictions on photography (like in some cathedrals). I especially liked the old school confessional which brought me back to my parochial school days.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ewa Z. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place. If you like angels, you can see gorgeous statues of archangels holding different positions. Really interesting. If you find out why they have different poses, please let me know!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Suraj Anuradha V. 4 months ago on Google • 196 reviews
    One of the must see locations in Brussels. We went on a Saturday morning. Free to enter. There is also a museum inside that charge Euro 4 if you want to see some very interesting antiques. Definitely worth checking the museum. It’s one of the most worshipped holy places in Belgium.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ishanka H. 2 years ago on Google
    A grand cathedral in the middle of Brussels city. You can go inside as well. Just in walking distance from Brussels Central Station.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shellie B. 2 years ago on Google
    Wow!! The cathedral is impressive. We timed our visit to catch the late afternoon sun bouncing across the ceiling. You can take a €1 tour to view the original foundations under the church, then you will notice that the tile work is done to mark out the dimensions of the original church.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 T D. 2 years ago on Google
    It is an old church in city of Brussels. is considered to be one of the finest examples of Brabantine Gothic architecture. It is within city centre and you should visit if you are in Brussels. It is well decorated at the time of Christmas and it is best time to visit but it will be more crowded at that time.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marek S. 2 years ago on Google
    It is obvious that this cathedral must be nice, although it has a strong sense of tourism, the cathedral is of course large, full of many ancient artifacts, but this is no longer a quiet place to sit alone because of many people, a very interesting is a small museum where you can find wood from the Jesus cross and beautiful paintings, the lady in the museum is very kind and helpful, she explains everything to you, if you want to go underground prepare some coins
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Keith B. 2 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous BIG church sitting high atop a hill overlooking all of Brussels city center, The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is a medieval Roman Catholic church constructed in the 11th century and was largely complete by the 16th. It is considered to be one of the finest examples of Brabantine Gothic architecture.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daniel G. 1 month ago on Google • 249 reviews New
    Sehr schöne Kirche. 5 Minuten vom Zentrum. Also am Rand der Altstadt. Lohnt sich auf jeden Fall. Eintritt frei. Empfehlenswert
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dan S. 6 months ago on Google • 238 reviews
    An incredible masterpiece of architecture and art… well worth the visit! So much history and so many pieces of art and sculpture… Enough to fill hours if you want! The building is very impressive.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tina J. 1 month ago on Google • 150 reviews New
    Was für eine herrliche Kathedrale, wunderschön und äußerst beeindruckend. Kein Wunder das hier die Könige geheiratet haben. Und das Glockenspiel, man muss es gesehen und gehört haben!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Farin S. 4 months ago on Google • 116 reviews
    A Spiritual Haven I recently had the opportunity to visit, and it left a profound impact on me. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with heartfelt sermons, created a sense of community and connection. The beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings added to the overall spiritual experience. Whether you're a regular churchgoer or just seeking a moment of reflection, u should visit once.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sayak D. 3 months ago on Google • 375 reviews New
    St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral in Brussels is a divine masterpiece that left me awe-inspired. As a tourist, this architectural marvel is an absolute must-visit. The intricate Gothic design, towering spires, and breathtaking stained glass windows create a serene atmosphere that transports you to a bygone era. The cathedral's historical significance is beautifully preserved, offering a glimpse into Belgium's rich cultural tapestry. Tourists will appreciate the informative guides, providing insights into the religious and architectural history in multiple languages. The central location makes it easily accessible for those exploring Brussels. Inside, the sheer beauty of the interior, including the majestic organ and impressive nave, is a testament to the craftsmanship of centuries past. St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral is a spiritual and visual delight, making it an indispensable part of any tourist's itinerary in Brussels. A visit here is a journey through time and a testament to the city's cultural heritage.

  • 5/5 Gloria L. 5 months ago on Google • 342 reviews
    What a stunning cathedral!! The interior is so beautiful and felt so peaceful. We went towards closing time (5pm) and therefore it was very quiet inside. Definitely worth a detour if you are into cathedrals and architecture. The outside is modest looking, but a absolutely breathtaking inside.

  • 5/5 Harneet K. 1 year ago on Google
    The biggest cathedral I have ever visited. It's so huge ! Beautiful interiors and extremely serene. We were here for around 25 minutes, lit some candles. Definitely one of the highlights of visiting Belgium 🌟
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael M. 1 year ago on Google
    A beautiful cathedral with a presence over the skyline in Brussels. Love the architecture and the decoration on the outside of the cathedral. It was equally as nice on the inside. Not as decorated as some places I have seen, but very nice.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jacques “Nickelson” T. 2 months ago on Google • 299 reviews New
    Even more beautiful in real life, the Cathedral of St Michel and Gudula dates back to the 9th century and it was truly wonderful to see this cathedral in real life for the first time... I heard there is also guide tours that one can go on if you wish to hear the full history...

  • 5/5 Emeka O. 2 months ago on Google • 134 reviews New
    Beautiful cathedral and still in use today. Serene with the organ music. Deserves reverence both as a church and an iconic Landmark.

  • 5/5 Sarah L. 2 months ago on Google • 38 reviews New
    This was a stunning cathedral to visit in Brussels. The exterior reminds you of the facade from Notre Dame and the stained glass windows on the interior are beautiful. Well worth a visit and no entrance fee.

  • 5/5 serena n. 9 months ago on Google
    Beautiful church :-) When you enter in the afternoon (I went on a Saturday), just next to the door you have volunteers who take you around. The visit was around 1h and went in great detail (interesting information) of the church, stain glass windows and history. It's a great way to see more than what appears at first glance.

  • 5/5 Gavin J. 8 months ago on Google
    Well maintained and beautiful cathedral in the heart of Brussels (near Brussels Central station). There are proper spaces available for the religious to pray in peace, and an self guided audio tour of the cathedral and its history by scanning a QR code - super convenient!

  • 5/5 David D. 8 months ago on Google
    A spectacular Gothic cathedral in the centre of Brussels. If anyone enjoys Gothic architecture and is in Brussels, they should see this cathedral. It is a wonderfully done place, with excellent stained glass and intricate decorations throughout. Particularly stunning is the wooden pulpit dating from 1699, which is beautifully carved and depicts the fall and future redemption of humanity.

  • 5/5 DINETTO J. 1 year ago on Google
    Wat a stellar view the church has at it stands tall against the bright sky. There is a pious serenity and devotion u feel inside the church. The architecture and splendid interiors are a visual treat. Truly a testimonial to the belief and devotion of the Christian community in Belgium

  • 4/5 G G. 9 months ago on Google
    Beautiful majestic Cathedral! The Royal family weddings took place here. The stain glass windows are amazing. The audio guide app was disappointing, just didn’t work. There is so much history there, I wish they would simply keep the audio guide gadgets that we could pay and use rather than struggle with the app. 4 stars just for the lack of audio guide otherwise a must visit.

  • 5/5 Joyanta M. 1 year ago on Google
    The gothic architecture was splendid and superbly crafted. One can just take a glance and be mesmerised by such art of sheer perfection. As all cathedrals and churches are, here too you can pray and contemplate in perfect silence. We loved it and would love visiting again.

  • 4/5 Rupesh B. 10 months ago on Google
    The only reason I am posting this review is to show these relaxing chairs that they have in the park facing the Cathedral... People as I noticed were able to wait with their luggage here instead of having to wait at the Central Train station... Lovely atmosphere and breeze, quite relaxing...

  • 5/5 Pavan B. 1 year ago on Google
    Its such a nice Cathedral inside and outside. Beautiful big cathedral that towers over everything else. Lovely pipe organ inside the cathedral. Definitely worth seeing, if you have time. There is archeological site for 1 euro. The façade from outside looks amazing. The tainted glass frames inside the cathedral looks fabulous. Equally, the is beautiful garden outside with various flowers and trees which give you many photography options to view and click with.

  • 5/5 Ben C. 8 months ago on Google
    Very impressive architecture both inside and out. Wheelchair accessible entrance made It possible for me to enter and experience. Certainly worth the visit if you like this kind of thing

  • 5/5 Carol 11 months ago on Google
    A medieval Roman Catholic cathedral in central Brussels, Belgium. It is dedicated to Saint Michael and Saint Gudula, the patron saints of the City of Brussels, and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Brabantine Gothic architecture. Visited on Easter Monday with no queue. St. Gudula is situated on the Parvis Sainte-Gudule/Sinter-Goedelevoorplein, a large forecourt east of the Boulevard de l'Impératrice/Keizerinlaan. This area is served by Brussels Central Station, as well as by Parc/Park metro station on lines 1 and 5 of the Brussels Metro.

  • 5/5 Aerial A. 8 months ago on Google
    FREE AND BEAUTIFUL I loved walking around this old church. It was great to be in such a large place with such beautiful art. The stained glass alone is worth a visit.

  • 5/5 Amo O. 8 months ago on Google
    The gothic architecture is one of the finest I have seen so far. It was a majestic and very beautiful cathedral. Peaceful as well. The cathedral is open to all and mass and other services are being held here.

  • 5/5 Francis U. 3 months ago on Google • 20 reviews New
    The Brussels Cathedral, St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, dates to 1519 in its current form. Its twin towers dominate the center city with their 65 m elevation, truly a touristic magnet for the city, ornated with stunning stainglass windows.

  • 5/5 C T. 8 months ago on Google
    It is a great Gothic cathedral. Both the exterior and interior are fascinating. There are stained-glass windows which are admirable. This is a must-see place in Brussels.

  • 5/5 Erik Hagen N. 8 months ago on Google
    St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral in Brussels, Belgium, is a stunning Catholic cathedral and Belgium's national church. Its architectural beauty is captivating. A must-visit landmark in Brussels for history and art enthusiasts.

  • 5/5 Shanaz A. 7 months ago on Google
    Very beautiful inside , had a very angelic choir singing in the background. Such a beautiful place to visit and it's free. So much architecture.

  • 5/5 Olympus U. 3 months ago on Google New
    Visit the cathedral at Christmas and see the so many different Christmas decorations, from Chinese to Ukrainian. Must visit. Free entrance. Quiet atmosphere.

  • 5/5 Krishna Rani S. 7 months ago on Google
    It definitely represents a nice work of Gothic architecture in the city of Brussels. One can also see the fine architecture of the Roman Cathedral.

  • 5/5 Joseph F. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing cathedral. Lots of paintings and sculptures to marvel at. The building itself is incredibly impressive.

  • 5/5 Kiril K. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful piece of christian architecture and art in general.

  • 5/5 Cory T. 2 years ago on Google
    Simply amazing. Must go.

  • 5/5 Daniel M. 2 years ago on Google
    Simply one of the oldest and most beautiful pieces of gothic architecture I've seen. There are details in the details in the details of the cathedral, simply amazing, and so much of it is still intact or renovated.

  • 5/5 Emi H. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful cathedral near the station.

  • 5/5 Марина 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing and beautiful place (outside and inside)

  • 5/5 Danyil Y. 2 years ago on Google
    One of symbols of Antwerp and Belgium, very beautiful, entry cost 8€. Near are many cafés

  • 5/5 Robert K. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful and very welcoming spiritual abode, with a lot of beautiful art. The 2€ admission fee to visit the Treasures is definitely worth it, and the elderly parishioners running the exhibit can lovingly inform you about many of the pieces. The stained glass windows depicting Charlesquint and his family members alone are worth the visit.

  • 5/5 Emmanuel A. 2 years ago on Google
    I loved being here, i walked into the cathedral exactly during the consecration, it was for me a blessing (I'm Catholic of course). Although I've been in more beautiful cathedrals, this one has a special place in my heart.

  • 5/5 Artem Z. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing cathedral! You must visit it. Absolutely beautiful, very interesting. If you are lucky enough to be there for a concert sure get a ticket!

  • 5/5 Erick Dos S. 2 years ago on Google
    It's very pretty, although not as the original pf course, but it is a most to see building when you visit Brussels.

  • 5/5 Nedercup 2 years ago on Google
    Very nice church. If you like churches and are in the neighborhood pay it a visit

  • 5/5 Roxana I. 2 years ago on Google
    Packed experience: architecture, window lights, colors, history, heavenly music, spirituality.

  • 5/5 Joan N. 2 years ago on Google
    Nice church with lots of things to see.

  • 5/5 Bianca O. 2 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous, splendid I loved it

  • 5/5 JULIUS CARMELO P. 1 year ago on Google
    The cathedral is so beautiful. Had to go to the treasury because of line inside. €2 is so worth it. The story behind the stained glass and the cross amazes me. Thankful to the cashier/guide who exerted extra effort she can speak many languages indeed! Must see. Dont go to the cathedral without going to the Treasury.

  • 5/5 Frista 1 year ago on Google
    Nice and beautiful place. Gothic church with beautiful mosaic. The mosaic can be used as well as to know the month of the year. Very peaceful. There is a museum below the cathedral.

  • 5/5 mohammed alattar محمد �. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful churches that i ever visited , looks amazing and the entry is free , except some part inside and some part for prayer , everything is explained with signs , very lovely experience , recommend to go , specially its locate in the heart of the city near yo other attraction sites and a myst visit .

  • 5/5 Debaleena S. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful cathedrals I have ever seen in my life. The atmosphere inside the church is very quiet and peaceful. The entry is free but you can light candles with 1 or 2 euros. It seemed like a popular tourist spot and the place is near grand place.

  • 5/5 Andrej C. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful and tall cathedral, that is surrounded by small park and is usually fooled with many people enjoying the break and chill on the stairs. Didn't go inside and enjoyed only the outside view and atmosphere of the lively and lovely place. Great place to visit during the stay in Brussels.

  • 5/5 Cathleen C. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful large 16th century Roman Catholic Cathedral with stunning Gothic architecture. Really a nice energy about this church.

  • 5/5 陳燕妮Hugie 1 year ago on Google
    Super beautiful, both inside and outside. Really big cathedral, inside there is a machine for you to get a souvenir coins for 2 euros. Architecture is super amazing, super amazed by the inside.

  • 5/5 Toto Hermanto S. 1 year ago on Google
    It came to our surprise that the church is right in front of our hotel so we spent a lot of time in the evening in front of the church, just admiring the beauty and serenity of it. The interior is also very rich with all the patrons and saints statue and a lot of stories.

  • 5/5 Oktavianus I. 1 year ago on Google
    I got lucky to see a choir doing practice (maybe they are). It was open for all people (mainly tourist). The mass was only in France and Dutch. Probably gonna attend it at Sunday. Have a very friendly security.

  • 5/5 Hillbilly Kitchen W. 1 year ago on Google
    The church is very well maintained. It is open to the public to walk through and there is an optional exhibit which you must pay for, this exhibit shows all the artifacts that was recovered during and after the war.

  • 4/5 Susanne W. 2 years ago on Google
    A lovely cathedral which sits on a hill not too far from the city center with beautiful stained glass windows. Inside you'll also find a set of stairs that lead you to the basement where you'll find the remnants of a Roman Church. Entry is 1€.

  • 4/5 Laura R. 1 year ago on Google
    Is enormous and beautiful. Full of details and the wood work is astounding. I don’t recommend to pay the euro so you can go down because is very short and gives no further details.

  • 5/5 Gwendolyn A. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful cathedrals I have ever been in. Go early if you don’t want to see a lot of tourists because it gets busy very quickly. Stunning architecture, and they had a gorgeous display of nativities from around the world. Colder inside than outside, so dress warmly!

  • 5/5 James S. 1 year ago on Google
    If you like culture and history then this place is worth a trip, architecturally it is stunning but the cream is when you get inside. You don't need to be religious or know religion to admire and savour this place, it is stunning.


Call +32 2 217 83 45 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance

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