Sablon & Marolles Antiques Hunting (Self Guided), Brussels

Search for hidden gems, bargains and attention-grabbing pieces when you tour the art galleries and antique stores of the Sablon and the Marolles districts. There are stores, galleries and markets filled with fascinating items from past eras.

A good place to start is in the antique and modern art galleries of the Sablon. On Saturdays and Sundays, browse the stalls of the weekly antiques market at the Place du Grand Sablon where you will good quality items such as candlesticks, clocks and silver tableware. While you are in the square, visit Costermans, which has been open for business for nearly 200 years. It specializes in European furniture, fire mantles, paintings and chandeliers from the 18th and 19th centuries. Nearby is rue Haute, home to numerous antique stores that become more affordable the further away they are from the Place du Grand Sablon.

Then go to the large market in the Place du Jeu Balle in Morelles. This central square, which is surrounded by pubs and restaurants hosts a daily flea market, where the assiduous buyer can find true antique gems for bargain prices. Be prepared to rummage and then haggle hard with vendors. This is widely considered to be one of the best flea markets in Belgium and many an antique and art collector has found exceptional pieces of art, unique antiques and bargains galore here.