Atomium
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Atomium - by Damien Schneider on Google
Description
The Atomium is Brussels' most famous landmark and its most visited tourist attraction. The structure was designed by engineer André Waterkeyn and the architects André and Jean Polak for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair and looks like an iron crystal magnified by several orders of magnitudes (x165bn to be exact). There are 9 stainless steel-clad spheres with a 19m diameter connected by tubes with escalators or staircases as well as an elevator leading to the central sphere. Six of the nine spheres are open to the public and the top one (viewing deck is 92m above ground) has a panorama area and a restaurant. The bottom sphere is dedicated to the construction of the structure and the Expo '58, and the second one hosts temporary exhibitions. The Design Museum Brussels next door focuses on modern and contemporary design works (20th/21st centuries).
Access & Transport
The Atomium is located on the Heysel Plateau in Laeken, 6km northwest of the historical centre of Brussels. It is easily reached by metro (6) or tram (7), stopping at Heysel station, less than 5mins walk away.
Instructions & Recommendations
Note that the Atomium ticket automatically includes the entrance to the Design Museum Brussels (150m away). You can expect some queues during holiday periods (buying online saves time at the ticket office but does not entitle ticket holders to cut the entrance line)
Environmental & Social
No environmental data about the structure but it uses a fair amount of electricity. Part of the city's architectural heritage.
Conclusion
The Atomium is one a Brussels' must see but whether it is a must-visit depend on your budget elasticity. The inside is cool enough but does not justify the pricing, only its popularity... Anyways, there are other attractions nearby (mini-Europe and the Laeken Park) so it is definitely worth coming if you have at least 2 full days in the city.
Key positive
Creative and visually impressive
Other attractions nearby
Key negative
Somewhat expensive entrance fees
Suitability
Only the central and panorama spheres are accessible for wheelchair users (lifts)
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 40m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Monday10:00 - 18:00
Tuesday10:00 - 18:00
Wednesday10:00 - 18:00
Thursday10:00 - 18:00
Friday10:00 - 18:00
Saturday10:00 - 18:00
Sunday10:00 - 18:00