Atomium

About

The Atomium is an iconic symbol of Brussels and a landmark in European architecture. Originally built as the centerpiece of the 1958 Brussels World's Fair (Expo 58), the structure is a 102‑metre‑tall model of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, consisting of nine 18‑metre‑diameter stainless‑steel spheres connected by tubes. The eight outer spheres are open to visitors, while the top sphere houses a panoramic restaurant offering sweeping views of the city. Inside, a mix of permanent and temporary exhibitions showcases the history of the exhibition, the nuclear age, Belgian design, and contemporary art, making the Atomium a must‑visit for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and families alike. Visiting this modernist wonder typically takes about one and a half hours, and guided tours are available for those who wish to delve deeper into its rich past and design. Tickets can be purchased online in advance.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Tickets & pricing