Attraction
Grand-Place
Brussels' central market square, rebuilt after the 1695 bombardment, framed by the Gothic Town Hall and ornate guildhalls and listed by UNESCO in 1998.
Musical Instruments Museum (MIM)
A collection of more than 7,000 instruments in the Old England building, an Art Nouveau department store designed by Paul Saintenoy in 1899.
At a glance
- Type
- Music museum
- Area
- Mont des Arts (Royal Quarter), Brussels, Belgium
- Opening
- Open 6 days a week (closed Monday)
- Official site
- mim.be
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Adapted toilet
- Museum shop
- Library
- Concert hall
- Free for under-18s
Why we recommend it
The Musical Instruments Museum, known as the MIM, is part of the Royal Museums of Art and History and one of the most distinctive museums in Brussels. Its collection was created in 1877 and now runs to more than 7,000 pieces, from European folk and classical instruments to examples from around the world. It occupies the Old England building, a former department store designed in 1899 by Paul Saintenoy and one of the city's best-known pieces of Art Nouveau architecture.
The displays are spread over four floors, arranged by theme and type of instrument. Highlights include decorated harpsichords by the Ruckers family of Antwerp and the oldest known surviving saxophone, a fitting treasure for the country of Adolphe Sax. The range, from European classical and folk instruments to pieces from other continents, means there is something for every interest, whether you play an instrument or simply enjoy music.
The museum suits music lovers of every age, and it works well for families because entry is free for under-18s. It is also a good option on a rainy day, as it sits right in the centre of the Royal Quarter. The building is listed as wheelchair accessible, with an adapted toilet and facilities for visitors with sight or hearing impairments. There is a museum shop, a library with audiovisual collections and a concert hall used for performances.
Brussels Museums lists the MIM as closed on Mondays and open from 09:30 to 17:00 from Tuesday to Friday and from 10:00 to 17:00 at weekends. It closes on several public holidays, including 1 January, 11 November and 25 December. Allow one and a half to two hours to see the main floors at a comfortable pace. Even if you do not go in, step back on the Rue Montagne de la Cour to look at the façade.
The museum stands at the top of the Mont des Arts, a few minutes' walk uphill from Brussels-Central station and next to the Place Royale. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts, the Mont des Arts gardens and the Royal Palace are all close by, so it fits easily into a day exploring the upper town.
Musical Instruments Museum (MIM) FAQs
What are the opening hours?
Brussels Museums lists Tuesday to Friday 09:30 to 17:00 and weekends 10:00 to 17:00. It is closed on Mondays.
What is the Old England building?
A former department store designed by Paul Saintenoy in 1899 in the Art Nouveau style, now home to the museum.
How big is the collection?
The collection holds more than 7,000 pieces, displayed over four floors.
What are the highlights?
Ruckers harpsichords and the oldest known surviving saxophone are among the best-known items.
Is it free for children?
Yes, entry is free for visitors under 18.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes. It is listed as wheelchair accessible, with an adapted toilet.
How long should I allow?
About one and a half to two hours.
How do I get there?
Walk uphill from Brussels-Central station; the museum is next to the Place Royale.