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Aux Bon Vieux Temps

4.5
·622 reviews·Bruxelles, Belgium

Step into 'The Good Old Times' at Aux Bon Vieux Temps, a historic Brussels pub famed for rare beers like Westvleteren 12 and stunning stained glass.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Le bar

Aux Bon Vieux Temps

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into 'The Good Old Times' at Aux Bon Vieux Temps, a historic Brussels pub famed for rare beers like Westvleteren 12 and stunning stained glass.

4.5
(622 reviews)

"Travel in time, and step into a nearly sacred pub. Wonderful old times in Belgium."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance

Look for a small alleyway entrance on the right side; it's easy to miss but worth the search!

💰 Bring Cash for Beers

They prefer cash and may charge extra for credit cards. Have Euros ready!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 622 reviews

Type

Bar

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Westvleteren 12

Westvleteren 12

Bar counter

Savor the world's best beer, a rare treat in a truly authentic setting. A must-try for any beer aficionado.

Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

Interior

Admire the intricate, colorful stained glass that adds to the pub's timeless and almost sacred atmosphere.

Authentic Belgian Ambiance

Authentic Belgian Ambiance

Main bar area

Step back in time in this historic pub, filled with dark wood, vintage decor, and a palpable sense of history.

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Planning Your Visit

Seek Out Rare Brews

Aux Bon Vieux Temps is renowned for its selection of rare and hard-to-find Belgian beers, including the legendary Westvleteren. Be prepared for higher prices for these exclusive offerings.

Cash is King

While some places accept cards, this historic pub often prefers cash. It's wise to have Euros on hand to avoid potential credit card fees and ensure a smooth transaction.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Early evenings
Why
Experience the vibe before peak
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Traveling to Belgium. Where would you go?

In March, I'm traveling to, what I understand to be, a birthplace of amazing beers. I love Belgian style ales. I'll only be there for 2-3 days, but I want to hit the best of the best, most unique, most authentic. None of the main stream shit. Where would you go?

🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance

Look for a small alleyway entrance on the right side; it's easy to miss but worth the search! Reddit

💰 Bring Cash for Beers

They prefer cash and may charge extra for credit cards. Have Euros ready! Reddit

reddit.com

Bier Tempel in Brussels or where to find Westvleteren?

Hi. I'm in Brussels for a few days, and it seems that Bier Tempel on Grasmarkt is closed. According to the website and other sources, they should be open. Does anyone know why they're closed, and if it's going to be for a while? I'm mainly looking for some Westvleteren and…

reddit.com

Good morning, Brussels! Please help a tourist out

I am visiting the beautiful city of Brussels to enjoy culture, fine food, beer and chocolate. However, I have three questions for locals. :) 1. What's the best hidden gem of a bar/pub? 2. Where can I find Brussels best kebab and falafel? 3. Is the tap water safe to drink for a…

📸 Picture Perfect Windows

Don't forget to snap photos of the beautiful stained glass windows. Reddit

🗣️ Ask for Recommendations

Tell the bartenders your preferred taste (dark, bitter, light) for expert suggestions. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance

Look for a small alleyway entrance on the right side; it's easy to miss but worth the search! Reddit

💰 Bring Cash for Beers

They prefer cash and may charge extra for credit cards. Have Euros ready! Reddit

📸 Picture Perfect Windows

Don't forget to snap photos of the beautiful stained glass windows. Reddit

🗣️ Ask for Recommendations

Tell the bartenders your preferred taste (dark, bitter, light) for expert suggestions. Reddit

⏳ Visit Earlier for Calm

Arrive earlier to enjoy a more relaxed experience and soak in the atmosphere. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(622 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Aux Bon Vieux Temps is a highly-rated, authentic Belgian pub celebrated for its rare beer selection, especially Westvleteren 12, and its timeless, historic atmosphere with beautiful stained glass. While some find it quiet, most appreciate the unique experience and knowledgeable staff. It's a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and those seeking a genuine taste of old Brussels.

"Only 5 stars, but it deserves the highest 5 there is. Travel in time, and step into a nearly sacred pub. Amazed to see 3 ladies manning the counter like queens. The simple laminated menu lists rare beers that you may be lucky to taste in your lifetime. The funky music plays to show you are in downtown Brussels. Yet, you really feel the church experience that the stained glass saints and the carved virgin sculpture offer. It's definitely a place to find and visit. Wonderful old times in Belgium."

Indy Villagarcia

"This bar is well known place for beer bar in downtown of Brussels, located 2 minutes walk from grand place.

You can feel the heart of Brussels when entering the gate to the bar. If it is not easy to find, the entrance is right hand side.

They offer the bottle beers and you can choose or ask for their recommendation if you tells your favorite taste such as dark, bitter or light and low alcohol.

If you are visiter, don’t forget take picture of stained glasses.

Recommend to visit earlier since you can relax more.

Enjoy local beer and cheers!!"

ジェイク(お得食&旅)

"Went in for a Westvleteren 12. In addition we took Kriek (one of the few places where it is available on tap).

A huge plus of the place is the opportunity to try rare beers. The bar is old, beautiful with lots of wood and stained glass. It is worthy of a visit at least once.

But despite the large number of pluses I lacked atmosphere. The place is very quiet. Like its neighbor lacks noise and fun. In my opinion this is very important for such a classic old bar."

Yurii R

What People Like

Rare beer selection
Authentic atmosphere
Stained glass windows

What People Dislike

Can be quiet
Higher beer prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Aux Bon Vieux Temps is located just a 2-minute walk from the Grand Place in downtown Brussels. Look for a small, unassuming entrance on the right-hand side, often down a narrow alleyway. It's a hidden gem that requires a bit of searching! Reddit

Yes, it's very centrally located. The closest public transport options would be the tram or metro stops near the Grand Place, making it easily accessible from anywhere in Brussels. Reddit

From Brussels Airport (BRU), you can take a direct train to Brussels-Central Station. From there, it's a short walk (about 10-15 minutes) to Aux Bon Vieux Temps. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-share service is also an option. Reddit

Street parking in the immediate vicinity of the Grand Place can be very difficult and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or a parking garage slightly further away if you're driving. Reddit

From the Grand Place, it's only a 2-minute walk. From Manneken Pis, it's about a 5-7 minute walk. The area is very walkable, so exploring on foot is highly encouraged. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Aux Bon Vieux Temps is a pub, not a ticketed attraction. You can walk in freely, but it's recommended to arrive earlier to secure a good spot, especially if you want to try rare beers. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open in the afternoons and evenings. It's best to check their social media or a reliable local guide for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to get into Aux Bon Vieux Temps. You pay for the drinks and any food you consume. Reddit

Reservations are typically not taken, as it's a classic pub. The best strategy is to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you get a seat. Reddit

The pub strongly prefers cash payments and may charge a fee for credit card transactions. It's highly advisable to have Euros on hand to avoid any extra charges. Reddit

🎫 🍺 Beer & Drinks

Aux Bon Vieux Temps is famous for its incredibly rare and sought-after Belgian beers, most notably the Westvleteren 12. They also offer other unique brews that are hard to find elsewhere. Reddit

The Westvleteren 12 is a premium beer and comes with a premium price tag. Expect to pay around 15€ for a bottle, which is considered fair given its rarity. Reddit

Absolutely! The bartenders are knowledgeable and happy to provide recommendations. Just tell them your preferred taste profile, such as dark, bitter, or light, and they'll guide you. Reddit

While beer is the main draw, they likely offer a selection of other beverages, though the focus is undeniably on their extensive beer list. Reddit

Yes, they do offer some local beers, and in some cases, even rare ones on tap, like Kriek. It's always worth asking the staff about their current tap offerings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Atmosphere

Yes, Aux Bon Vieux Temps is incredibly photogenic! The stunning stained glass windows, dark wood interiors, and vintage decor create a unique and atmospheric backdrop for photos. Reddit

The atmosphere is often described as historic, authentic, and like stepping back in time. It has a quiet, almost sacred feel due to its decor, though some visitors find it lacking in lively 'fun'. Reddit

The stained glass windows are a major highlight for photography. The bar itself, with its antique elements and the counter manned by the 'queens,' also makes for memorable shots. Reddit

Generally, taking photos of the interior and decor is acceptable, especially the stained glass. Be mindful of other patrons and avoid intrusive photography, particularly if people are actively engaged in conversation. Reddit

The name 'Aux Bon Vieux Temps' translates to 'The Good Old Times,' and the pub lives up to it with its preserved historical elements, including the stained glass, carved sculptures, and overall ambiance. Reddit

Aux Bon Vieux Temps (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide