Living in Ixelles: 

the students' municipality

Many expats are living in Ixelles, this is partly due to the fact that the municipality gathers the campuses of the VUB and ULB.

Yet, students, young professionals or young parents are enticed here for various reasons.

Whether it's a drink with friends, a jog around the ponds, an evening at the cinema, an intimate dinner for two at a 

restaurant or a shopping spree, you'll be spoiled for choice in Ixelles! The area of Saint-Boniface, known for its

friendly atmosphere, is an integral part of the municipality and it's easy to feel at home here!

In addition, Ixelles is partly bordered by the Bois de la Cambre, which is ideal for lovers of walking and running.

Studying in Ixelles

First of all, the municipality hosts the ULB and VUB campuses. Two internationally renowned universities. The 

campuses cover a large part of Ixelles' territory.

There are many student bars, student residences, green spaces, libraries etc. Not to mention the many printers! Yes

indeed! In Ixelles, there are printers on every street corner. These are the reasons why so many students and PhDs 

are living in Ixelles.

Shopping in Ixelles

In order to start your successful shopping day, stroll along the luxury boutiques of the famous Avenue Louise. The

largest high-end brands occupy this chic Parisian-like avenue.

Ixelles also hosts a major commercial artery on which many ready-to-wear chains can be found. This artery extends 

from the Porte de Namur to Place Fernand Cocq. On weekends, fashionistas rush into the various stores on the 

avenue before enjoying a tasty meal in the Place Saint-Boniface district.

Eating and having fun

In the heart of the municipality is the famous Place Flagey: an ultra trendy district! During summer and winter, 

people gather there to have a few drinks and celebrate.

Place Flagey is also host to the weekly Saturday market. Every weekend, the market gardeners offer fresh and local 

products in a friendly atmosphere. During the summer, enjoy yourself and grab some food in one of the various food

trucks of the market. Asian, burgers, Moroccan, vegetarian… the choice is wide!

Café Belga has further taken up residence there, this café/bar is a real entity in the capital. It is located in the former 

premises of the Maison de la Radio: an atypical building that cannot be missed.

Finally, the main advantage of living in Ixelles is the wide range of restaurants on offer. Because of the diversity of 

its population, there is also diversity in diet. Small or big budget, gourmet or fast-food eater, everyone can get their 

share.

Practical life

Whatever the area you're living in, it is easy to get around the town by bus or tram.

The student district is located around the Ixelles Cemetery, while the young active people and families are more

likely to find themselves on the side of Place Flagey up to Porte de Namur.