What to do · Brussels
The Atomium, the giant atom of Expo 58
Information
- From
- €17 adult
- Duration
- 1 h 30
- Season
- All year, 10:00 to 18:00; closed 18 January to 5 February 2027
- Who it's for
- All ages; with small children, for the escalators and tubes
The Atomium is an iron molecule magnified 165 billion times, built for the 1958 World's Fair: nine steel spheres joined by tubes with escalators. Inside there are exhibitions on Expo 58 and the design of the period, and at its feet is the Design Museum Brussels.
What you need to know before going
Open every day from 10:00 to 18:00, with last entry at 17:30. Admission costs €17 for adults and €9 from 1.15 m to age 17; children under 1.15 m do not pay. In November 2026 the website warns of two things: the top sphere, the one with the viewpoint, is temporarily closed, and tickets are sold only at the ticket office, with waits that can exceed an hour. Check the website the day before. It closes for maintenance from 18 January to 5 February 2027.
Getting there
Metro line 6 to Heysel/Heizel, about 25 minutes from the centre, and a five-minute walk. Next to it is Mini-Europe, with a combined ticket of €35 for adults.
Tips
- Go first thing If the ticket office is the only way in, at 10:00 the wait is shorter.
- Mini-Europe with children The combined ticket works out cheaper than separate ones if you are going to both.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to go into the Atomium?
€17 for adults, €15 for over-65s and €9 from 1.15 m to age 17 and for students. Under 1.15 m is free.
Can you go up to the viewpoint?
In November 2026 the top sphere is temporarily closed. Check the website before going.
How do I get there from the centre?
On metro line 6 to Heysel, about 25 minutes.
With young childrenAs a familyWith teenagers
