Visit the Atomium in Brussels

This monument, built for the 1958 Universal Exhibition, is one of the attractions not to be missed during a stay in Brussels. Like the Eiffel Tower, this monument, considered to be ephemeral when it was built, was never meant to stay in place.

But it did! Driven by a national campaign, the renovation of the building between 2004 and 2006 restored it to its former splendour, and today more than 600,000 people flock to this tourist attraction, whose interior architecture is often compared to an intergalactic spaceship.

From the top of the Atomium, you can enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the city of Brussels, and if you’re feeling peckish, the panoramic restaurant welcomes you 100 metres above ground, in the highest sphere of the monument.

How do I visit the Atomium?

You should allow a good hour to visit the Atomium, to discover the spheres, the interior architecture, the view and the exhibitions… 5 of the 9 spheres are open to the public.

Peak times

To avoid the biggest crowds, the 11am to 3pm period is the busiest for tourists. It’s best to get to the Atomium as soon as it opens, or at 5pm.

The panorama

The first part of the tour takes place in the upper sphere of the Atomium, from where you can enjoy a 360° view over Brussels and, in fine weather, as far as Antwerp. There are signs to help you find the city’s monuments, so you’ll have a good idea of where you’re going next! There are also panels where you can discover the 1958 exhibition through shots taken around the monument.

The permanent exhibition

An exhibition on Belgium’s last participation in a Universal and International Exhibition in 1958. It was intended to convey a message of optimism and confidence about society in the future. The exhibition also describes the history of the building using documents, videos, photographs and scale models.

Temporary exhibitions

The themes of these exhibitions are very varied and change regularly.

The children’s sphere

This sphere is not open to tourists, but is used by local schools and families for educational purposes.

The Atomium panoramic restaurant

At the highest point on the site, 100 metres above the ground, you can enjoy a privileged view of the city of Brussels, while enjoying a leisurely meal with family or friends. Belgian specialities and seasonal dishes are served.

How do I get into the Atomium?

Access is by lift only, so you’ll need to be patient depending on how busy it is. In 1958, it was the fastest lift in Europe, carrying up to 500 passengers in 1 hour. Its speed is 5 metres per second. Inside, the spheres are linked by steep staircases, the longest measuring 35 metres. These tunnels, which connect the various spheres, give the Atomium a futuristic look.

When does the Atomium light up?

For reasons of cost, the Atomium no longer lights up, as the energy bill is too high for the building’s finances.

Where is the Atomium located?

The Atomium is located at: place de l’Atomium 1 – 1020 Laeken

How to get to the Atomium

By metro

Go to Heyzel/Heisel metro station (line 6), the arrival point is 300 m from the monument.

By bus

The red tourist bus BrusselsSightSeeing stops just 20 m from the Atomium.

Parking

There is no on-site car park, but there are parking spaces in the vicinity of the Atomium, which are not guarded: we advise you not to leave anything visible in your vehicle and to lock your doors.

Do I need to book in advance to visit the Atomium?

It is not compulsory to book in advance, but as access is limited by the lift, the wait for tickets and access may be longer or shorter depending on the time of day and the period (school holidays, summer period, etc.).

Busy periods). You will be asked to choose a date and time to reduce the waiting time.

Please note that this booking does not give you any priority, and that if there are many visitors, you may have to visit outside the time slot you have booked.

Practical information about the Atomium

Opening times

The Atomium is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on 24 and 31 December from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on 25/12 and¹ January from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Prices 2022

• Senior citizens under 65: €14
• Adults aged 18-64: €16
• Children >115cm-17: €8.50
• Children ≤115cm: free
• Student [with card]: €8.50
• Disabled person: €8.50
• PRM: free

The ticket price includes a visit to the Atomium and the Brussels Design Museum, just 150 metres from the site.

The Explorer’s Guide

A booklet designed for children aged 6 to 12 with riddles to solve and age-appropriate information about the Atomium.

Atomium Play

Download the application onto your mobile phone and discover 12 secrets about the Atomium using QR codes.

Who created the Atomium? Why was the Atomium created?

The Atomium was the brainchild of engineer André Waterkeyn, then built by two other architects, André and Jean Polak, for the 1958 Universal Exhibition. It has since become a veritable symbol of Belgium, like the Manneken-Pis.

The Atomium in figures:

• 102 m high,
• It is made up of 9 spheres, each 18 m in diameter,
• The tubes between the spheres have a diameter of 3.30 m,
• Total weight: 2,500 tonnes,
• This giant sculpture represents an iron atom enlarged 165 billion times.

This symbol of Brussels, with its futuristic allure, is intriguing from the outside and surprising once inside. It’s sure to be a great photo opportunity when you’re in Brussels!