Manneke

Any tourist passing through a country inevitably enters a souvenir shop. In Brussels, Manneke is the place not to be missed. Far from being a classic tourist trap, the shop refuses clichés to highlight only local know-how. Say goodbye to Manneken Vis keyrings, make way for Brussels creations!

According to its founder, the store is a reflection of a "city of character and contrasts". Indeed, Brussels is more than 1000 years old but nevertheless young, dynamic and diverse. Manneke intends to celebrate this fascinating city by reinventing memory. A showcase for local designers, the shop, a stone's throw from the Grand-Place, showcases all kinds of objects. You can find everything from small brewers' beers, designer jewellery, purely Belgian t-shirts and books about the unusual Brussels. Nothing is missing in this little Ali Baba's cave in the flat country! Locals or tourists can discover the wonders of Brussels by strolling through the shop, taking part in workshops (creating recycled items for example) or even going to craft markets.

Manneke has been distinguished by prestigious tourist guides such as the Guide du Routard and the Petit futé. The city of Brussels itself has praised it with the Brussels Label, an award that rewards shops that contribute to the dynamism of the city. 

If you're tempted by the Manneke adventure, join the team #ceci is not a memory!