Place du Jeu de Balle in Brussels

9Hotel Sablon, near Place du Jeu de Balle in Brussels

If you're planning a visit to Brussels, the capital of Belgium, you can't miss one of the city's most vibrant and historic neighborhoods: the Marolles district. At the heart of this area lies the famous Place du Jeu de Balle (Vossenplein in Dutch), a must-see for flea market lovers and those seeking an authentic Brussels atmosphere. Since 1873, this square has hosted a daily flea market every morning, offering a variety of vintage items, antiques, and curiosities.

Place du Jeu de Balle, with its rich history and lively ambiance, is the perfect place to begin your exploration of Brussels.

If you're looking for a comfortable and ideally located place to stay to make the most of this experience, 9Hotel Sablon is an excellent choice. Located on Rue de la Paille, just steps from the city center and many tourist attractions, our hotel offers everything you need for a memorable stay in Brussels.

In this article, we will present 9Hotel Sablon in detail and explain why it is the perfect choice for your next visit to Brussels—especially if you want to stay close to Place du Jeu de Balle and all that the Marolles neighborhood has to offer.

Introducing 9Hotel Sablon

Comfort and Features

9Hotel Sablon, a 4-star hotel in the heart of Brussels, offers a spacious and comfortable environment for your stay. We offer several room types, all equipped with en-suite bathrooms, individual air conditioning, 40” LCD TVs, safes, Nespresso machines, kettles, bottled water, bathrobes, and slippers. Among our rooms, we also have “family” rooms, which are actually two connecting rooms (one Club Room and one Classic Room).

Hotel amenities include an indoor pool, a sauna, and a coworking space, allowing our guests to relax, work, or maintain their wellness routine during their stay. Our stylish bar, set in a cozy ambiance, provides a warm, friendly space to unwind after a busy day.

Breakfast is served from 7:00 to 10:30 a.m. on weekdays, and until 11:00 a.m. on weekends and holidays, with a wide variety of choices to suit all tastes.

Our hotel is certified with the "Green Key" eco-label, reflecting our commitment to the environment. It is also accessible to guests with reduced mobility. Families can enjoy a range of services: baby cots (available in Superior Rooms and above), bottle warmers at the reception, and high chairs in the breakfast room. A concierge service is available, and private parking is accessible for €30/day. Small pets (up to 7kg) are welcome for €20/night, excluding dining and wellness areas.

A Strategic Location in Brussels

One of the hotel’s main assets is its prime location. Situated on Rue de la Paille, the hotel is just a few minutes' walk from Brussels Central Station and the Grand Place, making it easy to access the city's major tourist attractions and public transport.

The Grand Place, one of the most iconic landmarks of Brussels, is only a 7-minute walk away. The hotel is also about 15 minutes on foot from Place du Jeu de Balle, and 20 minutes from Porte de Hal, offering easy access to the Marolles district and its famous flea market.

With such a central location, the hotel is ideal for tourists and business travelers alike who want to explore Brussels without the hassle of long commutes.

Proximity to Place du Jeu de Balle

A Prime Advantage

One of the key advantages of 9Hotel Sablon is its proximity to Place du Jeu de Balle, located in the Marolles district. This location offers a unique and immersive experience in local Brussels life. The daily flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle, open from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., is a treasure trove of vintage items, second-hand goods, and curiosities, all within a vibrant and historical atmosphere.

Being so close to this market means you can easily combine your stay with treasure-hunting adventures and antique discoveries, without worrying about travel time. The central location also allows you to enjoy the many typical Brussels restaurants and cafés surrounding the square, offering an authentic culinary experience.

Easy Access to Local Attractions

In addition to Place du Jeu de Balle, 9Hotel Sablon offers easy access to many other local attractions. Thanks to its central location, guests can quickly reach other iconic Brussels sites such as the Mont des Arts and several art and history museums. The Church of Our Lady Immaculate, with its chiming bell tower, and the former fire station, now a cultural and commercial hub, are also nearby.

The Brussels region is rich in history and culture, and our hotel's location allows you to explore these treasures effortlessly. Whether you're interested in flea markets, historic sites, or the vibrant atmosphere of the Marolles district, 9Hotel Sablon is the perfect base for your Brussels adventure.

Recommended Experiences During Your Stay

Explore the Flea Market at Place du Jeu de Balle

A highlight of your stay at 9Hotel Sablon will undoubtedly be visiting the flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle, also known as the “old market.” Open 365 days a year, this market immerses you in a unique and lively atmosphere.

Each morning, from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., you can explore more than 300 stalls selling a variety of second-hand goods—from clothing and jewelry to furniture, books, antique paintings, and much more.

Treasure hunting is an integral part of the flea market experience. Take your time to browse the stalls and uncover rare finds and one-of-a-kind items, each with its own story. The friendly, laid-back atmosphere makes the experience enjoyable, whether you're a seasoned bargain hunter or simply a curious passerby.

Cultural and Culinary Discoveries Nearby

The flea market, the Marolles district, and its surroundings offer a wealth of cultural and culinary experiences. The nearby Centre Culturel Bruegel hosts activities that foster community interaction and promote cultural access. You can discover contemporary art creations and take part in cultural events that reflect the neighborhood’s diversity.

Art and history lovers will enjoy easy access to several museums, such as the Magritte Museum, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, and the Brussels City Museum, which showcase the city's rich cultural heritage.

On the culinary side, the Marolles district is renowned for its typical Belgian eateries and cafés. Enjoy local specialties such as mussels and fries, Belgian waffles, or craft beers in one of the many nearby brasseries.

The warm, friendly service at these local establishments adds to the experience, giving you a real taste of authentic Brussels cuisine.

In Summary

9Hotel Sablon offers the ideal accommodation experience in Brussels, especially for those eager to explore the lively Marolles district and the famous Place du Jeu de Balle. With our strategic location, comfortable rooms, and easy access to local attractions, our hotel is the perfect choice to combine relaxation and discovery.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the daily flea market, explore local museums, and savor Belgian cuisine in nearby restaurants.

Discover the charm of Place du Jeu de Balle, the beating heart of the Marolles district, known for its daily flea market and authentic atmosphere. Wander through its picturesque streets, admire the typical façades, and explore the landmarks that make this historic Brussels neighborhood so special. After immersing yourself in the soul of the city, treat yourself to a relaxing moment at 9Hotel Sablon—enjoy our pool, sauna, or coworking space to end your day in serenity.