Parlamentarium — Attraction in Ixelles - Elsene

The Parlamentarium takes on the challenge with interactive tools such as a 360° digital film, role playing for school children and an interactive floor map. The Parlamentarium is open every day, visits are completely free and can be experienced in no less than 24 European languages. Suitable for individual visitors, schools and families.

The ins and outs of how the European Parliament works, how European unification came about and how Members of the European Parliament address todays challenges are explained in an easy and accessible way in what is the largest parliamentary visitors’ centre in Europe.

• 360° film: be a part of the action live from the front row of the European Parliament and learn the process of European lawmaking. • 751 MEPs: interactive tools let you meet your Member of the European Parliament. Who are they and what do they do for you? • Interactive floor map: set off on a trip around the European Union and discover hundreds of examples of how the EU impacts your daily life. • Listen to European citizens: sit back in a comfortable armchair as European citizens tell you what the EU means to them. • Role-playing game for school children: school children are split into imaginary political groups to discover European lawmaking first-hand. The budding parliamentarians will be confronted with press conferences, urgent text messages and negotiations with lobbyists! • A scavenger hunt for families: the Luna Game, a scavenger hunt for children aged 6 to 10 years old, is a fun challenge for the...

The Parlamentarium, the visitor center of the European Parliament in Brussels, offers a highly engaging and interactive insight into the workings of the European Union (EU). The modern design and cutting-edge technology provide an immersive experience, making it accessible and appealing to people of all ages and backgrounds.

One of the highlights is the 360-degree cinema, which gives visitors a panoramic introduction to the European Parliament's role and functions. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore the history of European integration, the structure of EU institutions, and the daily lives of Members of the European Parliament. The center’s multilingual approach ensures inclusivity, offering content in all 24 official EU languages.

The virtual role-playing game, where visitors can simulate being MEPs negotiating laws, stands out as an innovative and educational feature, fostering a deeper understanding of the legislative process. The Parlamentarium also provides personal stories of EU citizens impacted by its policies, adding a human dimension to the political narrative.

Overall, the Parlamentarium successfully demystifies the EU’s complex structures, making it an engaging experience for both EU enthusiasts and those unfamiliar with European politics. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the political and cultural...

We visited the Parlamentarium on a Saturday morning, and I’m so glad we planned ahead. Booking the tour in advance was quick, completely free, and absolutely worth it.

The exhibition does a great job of presenting the rich and sometimes complicated history of European countries and the creation of the EU. You’re provided with an audio guide (headset) in the language of your choice, which makes the visit easy to follow and surprisingly enjoyable - no rushing, no strict structure. You simply move at your own pace, stop where something interests you, and keep going when you’re ready. Our visit took about 60–90 minutes, but you could stay longer if you’d like — there are plenty of benches where you can sit, pause, and take everything in.

The practical side is also well thought out: free restrooms and lockers are available, especially handy if you’re carrying backpacks or small luggage while exploring Brussels. And yes, like every good museum experience, there’s a gift shop waiting for you at the end. 😊

Overall, this was a very interesting and well-designed introduction to how the European Parliament works and how Europe became what it is today. If you’re curious about history, politics, or simply want a meaningful activity while in Brussels, the Parlamentarium is...