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Atomium
Atomium
The Atomium is one of the most recognizable structures in Brussels, and one of the strangest. The futuristic steel building features nine stainless steel balls connected by large metal tubes to resemble an iron crystal. It was originally constructed as the centerpiece for Belgium’s 1958 World Expo. Today, the newly renovated Atomium can be seen from across town or photographed from below in the beautiful Ossegempark. The public can visit four of the Atomium’s upper spheres. One of the spheres contains a restaurant while others contain permanent exhibitions. The Atomium is the most popular attraction in Brussels and will appeal to families, history enthusiasts and those with an appreciation for innovative design.
Approach the Atomium from the southeast to appreciate its stature against the beautiful surroundings of Ossegempark. The Atomium is located at the park’s northwest corner. The best photo opportunities can be found on the promenade that flanks the park.
Once you reach the Atomium, take an escalator to reach the upper spheres. Visit the permanent Expo 58 exhibition and learn about the story behind its creation. While an engineer designed the outside, the inside is the work of two Belgian interior architects. The apartment-sized spheres are spacious and otherworldly. Photographs, brochures and stories from the Expo appear throughout the exhibition. Another sphere hosts revolving temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Take the central elevator to reach the topmost sphere, home to a panoramic restaurant. Enjoy stunning views across the city as you order from the restaurant’s a la carte menu. International fare and Belgian classics are offered at reasonable prices. Reservations are needed only in the evening.
The Atomium is located on the edge of Ossegempark and can be reached by car or metro. Streets surrounding the complex have paid parking. The Atomium is open daily and there is a modest admission fee.
Guide to Exploring Atomium
Top Hotel Deals
ibis Brussels Expo-Atomium
Romeinse Steenweg 572, BrusselsSituated near the airport, this hotel is within 1 mile (2 km) of Brussels Expo, Atomium and Mini-Europe. Bruparck and King Baudouin Stadium are also within 1 mile (2 km).
Le Centenaire Brussels Expo
Avenue Jean Sobieski 84, BrusselsSituated in Brussels, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Heysel Park and Atomium. Mini-Europe is 0.7 mi (1.2 km) away.
Hotel Expo
Avenue Houba De Strooper 600, BrusselsSituated in Brussels, this hotel is within a 15-minute walk of King Baudouin Stadium, Atomium and Mini-Europe. Bruparck and Brussels Expo are also within 15 minutes.
Motel One Brussels
Rue Royale 120, BrusselsLocated in Quartier Marais-Jacqmain - Wijk Marais-Jacqmain, this hotel is within a 5-minute walk of Grand Place and Cathedral of St. Michael. Belgian Comic Strip Center and Museum of Musical Instruments are also within 10 minutes.
Hotel Iris Expo - Auberge van Strombeek
Temselaan 6, GrimbergenSituated in Strombeek-Bever, this hotel is within 1 mi (2 km) of Brussels Expo, Atomium, and Mini-Europe. Bruparck and Heysel Park are also within 1 mile (2 km).
Novotel Brussels City Centre
Rue De La Vierge Noire 32, BrusselsThis family-friendly Brussels hotel is located in the entertainment district, within a 5-minute walk of St. Catherine's Square, Brussels Stock Exchange and Halles de Saint-Gery. Rue des Bouchers and Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert are also within 10 minutes.
Value Stay Brussels Expo Hotel
Luitberg 1, BrusselsSituated in Brussels, this hotel is within 1 mi (2 km) of Brussels Expo and Atomium. Mini-Europe is 1.3 mi (2.1 km) away.
Charming Studio nearby Atomium
77 Rue Steyls, BrusselsSituated in Brussels, this apartment is within 2 miles (3 km) of Heysel Park, Atomium and Mini-Europe. Belgian Comic Strip Center and La Grand Place are also within 3 miles (5 km).
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