If you’re studying for your upcoming EPSO exam, you might want to separate your home from your studying space every once in a while. Being somewhere new, with an abundance of good coffee, can help you focus differently, and escape the potential of being distracted by housemates, family members, pets, or home-tasks.
In and around the European Quarter there are dozens of great places with fast WiFi and strong coffee, where you can find a quiet place to do some online Verbal, Numerical, Abstract Reasoning practice questions, complete an EPSO Case Study simulation or read a few chapters of The Ultimate EU Test Book.
Without further ado, here are 21 of the best places to study in and around Place Luxembourg and Schuman.
1. Karsmakers
Where?
1-minute walk from the European Parliament: Rue de Trèves 20, 1050 Ixelles
What makes it great?
It is right next to the European Parliament and is one of the more popular local hang-outs for EU officials, lobbyists, politicians and students. While it is a vibrant and stylish place, it can get really busy, especially around lunchtime. Finding a spot can sometimes be difficult, but by late afternoon it usually gets quieter. The decor is warm and welcoming, there are loads of armchairs, good WiFi and English-speaking staff. The leafy terrace in the back is perfect in the warmer months - a superb place to do some EPSO exam preparation and get a feel for what it will be like to work in the heart of the EU.
(Photo Credit: S Marks the Spot)
What do people say about it?
| “Really excellent coffee—but there is also a pretty broad selection of other drinks. The staff is very friendly and the place is nicely decorated, with a small backyard for quietly enjoying a coffee in the open air. There are plenty of sockets and WiFi to connect your laptop and do some work.” — Marc Peeters, expat |
2. Café Luxembourg
Where?
1-minute walk from the European Parliament: Place du Luxembourg 10, 1050 Ixelles
What makes it great?
While it might be hopping during the week at lunchtime (not to mention Thursday evenings), the moody Café Luxembourg is surprisingly peaceful on the weekends. During the warmer months, the terrace is an ideal space to spend hours quietly studying, drinking coffee, and having a snack - their carrot cake is next-level lovely. They have reliable WiFi and you cannot get much closer to the heart of the EU.
(Photo Credit: Café Luxembourg)
What do people say about it?
| “They have a very nice selection of drinks (and the mojitos are good), the patio area is also nice, with long tables and benches, some plants, and most importantly heaters on the sides. The roof over the patio can come down in case of bad weather.” — Alessa E., Brussels Local |
3. OUIBar + KTCHN
Where?
1-minute walk from the European Parliament: Rue d'Idalie 35, 1050 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
A few short steps up the street from the European Parliament, the OUIBar + KTCHN is a trendy and spacious cafe underneath the new Radisson RED Hotel. There are a ton of options when it comes to seating: wide open tables where you can spread out your laptop and papers, secluded booths where you can find some privacy, or the couches towards the back where you can relax. The WiFi is fast and reliable, the menu is simple and fresh, and the atmosphere is bright and fun. You can easily study here for a few hours without being disturbed.
(Photo Credit: OUIBar + KTCHN)
What do people say about it?
| “The OUIBar + KTCHN has a great atmosphere. Their snacks and drinks are good, and the service is excellent. It's a good place to meet, and it seems like a lot of people do their work here. There is plenty of space, and I really like the design.” — Saz Dosanjh, Brussels Local |
4. The Office
Where?
4-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue d'Arlon 80, Bruxelles
What makes it great?
The Office is a very popular lunch spot for many people working in and around Place Luxembourg with good reason. The modern-retro decor creates a cool and relaxed atmosphere, their bagel sandwiches are super yummy and the coffee is good. But while it might be bustling at lunch, during the quieter hours this is a great place to grab a comfy armchair and sip on a hot beverage as you listen to an EPSO methodology webinar or pour over your study notes.
(Note: The Office gets really busy at lunchtime, with lots of people looking for a place to sit and eat, so probably best to avoid between 12hr to 13hr.)
(Photo Credit: The Office)
What do people say about it?
| “Great interior, cool atmosphere! It can get a bit crowded around noon, try and skip the lunch rush. It is my new favorite place in the EU district for a quiet, informal meeting or for getting some work done on my laptop.” — Pieter Janssens, Brussels Local |
5. Silversquare
Where?
5-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Square de Meeûs 35, 1000 Brussels.
What makes it great?
This is a very professional co-working space where you will rub shoulders with entrepreneurs, contractors, freelancers, startups, and creatives from the EU and a handful of other industries. Right across from Parc Aire de Meeûs, it has a nice view from the big, bright windows. The atmosphere is rather focused but feels social and comfortable at the same time. A great place to settle in at a table, fill up on free coffee, and get some quality studying done.
(Note: normally a Day Pass is €30, but if it is your first time, you can get a free day pass.)
(Photo Credit: Silversquare)
What do people say about it?
| “As far as working places go, this is one that will boost your workflow. Big, open spaces with a contemporary style to it.” — Liselot De Groote, Brussels Local |
6. Café Europa in the European History Museum
Where?
7-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue Belliard, 135, 1000 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
Weave behind the European Parliament through Parc Solvay to the brand new Museum of European History and up to the Café Europa for a zen atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, and a lovely view of the park. Energise yourself with a Continental or English breakfast, then enjoy the peaceful, focused atmosphere. If you need a breather or a quick break, pop into the free museum for a top-notch, inspiring experience.
(Note: normally a Day Pass is €30, but if it is your first time, you can get a free day pass.)
(Photo Credit: Café Europa)
What do people say about it?
| “Modern and beautiful. The food and drinks are really superior quality, and there is an excellent choice of drinks in all categories. Nestled in the beautiful House of European History overlooking the Parc Solvay and Parc Leopold. A great find.” — Pierre Massart, Brussels Local |
7. Elvis Food Store
Where?
7-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue de la Science 14, 1000 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
A few short blocks away from the Parliament buildings, Elvis Food Store is a little jewel in an otherwise boring neighbourhood. The coffee is excellent, and they have a selection of fresh smoothies, juices, sandwiches, and tea. Snag one of the cozy armchairs in the corner or, if the weather is nice, take a table out front. While it gets very busy between 11am-1pm, in the late afternoon it is a great spot to grab a perfect cup of coffee and get some EPSO exam preparation done.
(Photo Credit: Cafe and Boterham)
What do people say about it?
| “Good coffee and excellent (but very sweet) flavored lattes. Friendly staff but not a wheelchair friendly entrance. Comfortable chairs and couches, free WiFi, very much like a cafe from the US West coast. Is very busy during coffee break between 10-11am.” — Kaliel Aeolian, Brussels local |
8. Le Grand Central
Where?
7-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue Belliard 190, 1040 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
Designed by the renowned Frédéric Nicolay, this European Quarter gem is a mixture of high ceilings, concrete walls, and marble counters. Their barista is nothing short of a coffee artist. While in the evenings, during lunch rushes, and on sunny days, Le Grand Central can get quite busy, in off-peak times it is quiet and peaceful with good WiFi and only a stone's throw from the European Parliament.
(Photo Credit: Le Grand Central)
What do people say about it?
| “Really cool place for a drink, coffee or even lunch (bagels are delicious). Staff is nice and welcoming. The place is quite bright and cozy with a lot of room to work (internet is fast) or simply relax. I definitely recommend!” — Paul Faure, Brussels local |
9. The Living Room
Where?
8-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Place Jean Rey 8, 1040 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
The Living Room lives up to its name - it's like being in someone's (very stylish) living room. And many do use it as a living room. You will often see people tapping away on their laptops getting some work done. Choose between the comfortable couches and armchairs by the windows downstairs or the more private tables and chairs upstairs. We love how The Living Room is tasteful and stylish but still feels comfortable and relaxed. It's pretty close to Place Luxembourg, without being in the midst of the bustle.
(Photo Credit: Brussels Kitchen)
What do people say about it?
| “An enjoyable atmosphere, very bright with comfy couches and plenty of sitting areas. The coffee is good and there is also a large selection of teas. This place is quite calm which is very enjoyable when in need to get some work done.” — Marie Josephine Lambert, Brussels Local |
10. Maison Renardy
Where?
8-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Chaussée de Wavre 111, 1050 Ixelles
What makes it great?
This is one of our favorite little places and we highly recommend it if you need to get out of the house to study for a few hours. Maison Renardy has been around since 1912 and they have the cafe concept down to an art form. The atmosphere is lovely and there are over 20 different coffees and more than 100 types of teas from across the globe. Plus, the pots of tea (which are €3.20 each) are served with homemade chocolates from their chocolatier. Expect good WiFi and yummy, homemade treats.
(Photo Credit: The Sartorial Diner)
What do people say about it?
| “La Maison Renardy is a real gem, lost between Matongé and the European headquarters. The dream place to drink tea or coffee, spend the whole afternoon talking while watching the rain against the windows.” — Pauline Et Elliot |
11. OR Coffee Roasters Espresso Bar
Where?
10-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Place Jourdan 13a, 1040 Etterbeek
What makes it great?
OR Coffee Roasters Espresso Bar is right on Place Jordan making it a short walk across Parc Leopold from Place Luxembourg. It is a superb place to study, whether you need to get some simulated EPSO practice test questions done on your laptop or read a few chapters from your book. They keep the music pretty low, and while there are cafe sounds and convos happening, the place is large and you can usually find a table in the back where you can study undisturbed. The team is friendly and bilingual, and the coffee is notably top notch.
(Photo Credit: OR Coffee Roasters)
What do people say about it?
| “It's my favorite place in Brussels to work for a couple of hours: a big space, lots of single tables, not a lot of noise, not too bright, and super quick WiFi. And of course the OR coffee is great and service is top notch. I had a Pecan Pie the other day with my latte - perfect way to start my day.” — Marc B., Brussels Local |
12. Le Comptoir Florian
Where?
10-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue Saint-Boniface 17, 1050 Ixelles
What makes it great?
If you can, get a seat in the old world-y back room where there are only a few seats available. With its dark red walls and comfortable leather armchairs, it’s the ideal place to get stuck into your studies. They have a “phones-on-silence” policy, which means you will get ample peace and quiet in this beautiful Art Nouveau tea house. The atmosphere is perfect for those who want to spend a few hours in a distraction-free environment while having a cup of fine tea.
(Note: While this is a really nice place to take a book and quietly read, they do not have WiFi, so if you are planning on doing some online practice tests, this might not be the ideal spot.)
(Photo Credit: Brussels Kitchen)
What do people say about it?
| “My absolute favourite tea room, in fact, this is my favourite place ever. I love the romantic vintage interior with jazz music playing and a wide selection of high-quality teas. I could spend hours in this beautiful place.” — Brigita Soldo, Brussels Local |
13. FIKA
Where?
10-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue de la Paix 17, 1050 Ixelles
What makes it great?
The Swedish word “fika” translates to “coffee”, but usually connotes the act of sitting down, relaxing, and having a cup of coffee and a sweet treat. This little cafe stays true to its origin - it is the ideal place to relax with coffee and dessert. The cafe is minimalist and charming in a Scandinavian sort of way, with a relaxed atmosphere, good WiFi, and lovely back terrace. Mid-afternoon is the ideal time to study here.
(Photo Credit: Brussels Kitchen)
What do people say about it?
| “The best coffee place in Brussels. Not only for tasty coffee but also for the owners, charming & peaceful garden, perfect for reading a book or simply to chill out, rest from city rush and rumour. I always keep on coming back.” — Barbara Galczynska |
14. Bon Jour
Where?
10-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue du Sceptre 57C, 1050 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
Bon Jour is a beautiful, comfy coworking space with unlimited coffee, tea, and snacks. There are plenty of bright and cheery open spaces. A comfortable workstation in the common area with great WiFi makes it an excellent place to get some quality studying done. They have a lot of amenities, from an office printer/scanner to a kitchenette - basically everything you could want from a workspace. While the ambiance is bright and focused, it attracts a slightly more creative and social crowd, which is perfect if you need to get out of the house and study in a less isolated atmosphere.
(Note: it is €4 an hour, or €10 for a half day, or €15 for a full-day pass, but if it is your first time, you can get a free pass.)
(Photo Credit: Bon Jour Bruxelles)
What do people say about it?
| “The place is beautiful, cozy, pleasant, well decorated, fairly quiet, and immediately feels like home. Perfect for working alone or with others. You have unlimited access to WiFi, coffee, cakes, and meeting space. The manager is very nice, and the concept is to become a place not only to work, but to meet people on the evenings and weekends with acoustic concerts, wine tastings, meditation workshops, and brunches. Definitely, the place to be!” — Julien Fabre, Brussels Local |
15. The Mug Schuman
Where?
12-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue Charles Martel 8, 1000 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
Snuggled right in the European Quarter, The Mug is a medium-sized coworking space spread across four floors, including a meeting room, kitchen, and terrace. It is quiet with a very productive atmosphere, but not in an overly corporate way. If you are feeling a bit lonely because you’ve been holed up studying at home for too many days on end, The Mug is a great place be around other people and still get stuff done.
(Note: a 1-day pass is €25)
(Photo Credit: The Mug)
What do people say about it?
| “It's a really lovely atmosphere to work in— complete tranquility in a very relaxed atmosphere. And free coffee is always nice!” — Corentin de Voghel, Brussels Local |
16. Jat’ Café
Where?
15-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue de Namur 28, 1000 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
The natural lighting, easy listening lounge music, and fast WiFi make Jat’ a perfect spot to study. Get comfortable in one of the vintage armchairs, or at one of the wooden tables, and settle in for a few hours. We’d suggest going in the mid-afternoon after the lunch rush for optimal peace and quiet (it does get busy!). Definitely try the speculaas-, or Oreo-flavored coffee.
(Photo Credit: Jat’ Café)
What do people say about it?
| “I LOVE this place. It’s a bit crowded during lunch— but other than that it is really comfortable. I study here and there are lots of electric outlets near the table. The WiFi is great. The service is really nice too. They are so friendly. I do not speak French but they all speak English which was really helpful.” — Iva M., studying in Brussels |
17. TICH Healthy Living
Where?
15-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue de Namur 25, 1000 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
Right across the street from Jat’ is TICH - the plant-based alternative created by the same owners. There is a ton of room in this bright and airy spot a block or two from Port de Namur. The WiFi connection is good, and they always have cool background music, making it an ideal place to pull up a vintage chair or take a seat at the large wooden table and study for a few hours. TICH has a lot of space, so you will always be able to find a little corner for yourself.
(Photo Credit: The Brusselsprouts)
What do people say about it?
| “Brussels is getting more and more modern. Tich is a hipster-looking place with bikes on the walls, the food is healthy, everyone speaks English and there are plenty of power sockets. It's perfect for those who need to get some work done and prefer drinks/meals that are good for their body. WiFi connection is solid and reliable. Tested and approved by picky me.” — Olga Zalite, Brussels Local |
18. The Royal Library
Where?
19-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Boulevard de l'Empereur 4, 1000 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
Belgium’s Royal Library in Mont des Arts is one of the best-kept secrets in Brussels. It boasts gorgeous views, a colorful terrace and a simple cafe. It is the ideal spot to get some focused studying done. The only trick is knowing how to get there. To spend time in the library there is a €5 entrance fee… but you don’t need to pay this if you go straight to the cafe. To get there, enter the library, walk up the stairs, and then take the elevator up to the 5th floor. Once you find it you’ll be amazed it isn’t better known.
(Photo Credit: La Kusman)
What do people say about it?
| “The large glass windows of the indoor space let plenty of light in and offer a fine view of the buildings in the Grand Place – it’s the perfect spot to read a book or enjoy some quiet time with a cup of coffee.” — Pauline Et Elliot |
19. My Little Cup
Where?
17-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue de la Croix de Fer 53, 1000 Bruxelles
What makes it great?
Take a quick cut across Park Royal and pop around the corner to find this little gem. While this place is tiny, it proves some of the best things do come in small packages. They are open early and it does get busy in the mornings. By mid-afternoon, however, it gets quiet and you can enjoy some peaceful study time with a high-quality espresso, fast WiFi and chill music. Seating is limited, but it is comfortable, clean and modern.
(Note: because it opens early, it also closed early - around 16hr)
(Photo Credit: My Little Cup)
What do people say about it?
| “Top quality coffee brewed with skill and attention, and the baristas are always friendly and helpful. It’s a nice environment that is always chill and pleasant. The WiFi is always reliable and I think it is the perfect place to relax or focus on work.” — Jeff Dalton, expat |
20. Le Pain Quotidien
Where?
17-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Rue des Tongres 71/73, 1040 Brussels
What makes it great?
While you can find Le Pain Quotidien everywhere around the world from New York to Moscow, this elegant boulangerie is a Brussels native. It is an ideal place to grab a seat at one of the sturdy wooden tables by the window and get stuck into some EPSO practice tests. A few blocks past Parc du Cinquantenaire, it is generally a bit quieter than Place Luxembourg which makes it ideal to get some solid studying done. You can fill up on coffee, fresh bread (accompanied by their delightful selection of chocolate spreads and jams) and easily spend a few hours in this relaxed atmosphere.
(Photo Credit: Le Pain Quotidien Tongres)
What do people say about it?
| “I like to come here in the afternoons, for a snack and somewhere quiet where I can get some work done— I definitely feel comfortable sitting here and working for a couple of hours. There is always space, and it has a nice atmosphere. Also, the staff are friendly and forgiving of my bad French!” — Peter S., expat |
21. Léopold Café Presse
Where?
33-minutes walk from the European Parliament: Avenue de Tervueren 107, 1040 Etterbeek
What makes it great?
Inspired by coffee and cycles - this place is a unique mix. The decor is a stylish mix of vintage furniture and modern art. The space is beautiful, with lots of light thanks to its large windows. Plenty of seating options are available: benches, sofas, tables, or if the weather is nice, you can sit out on the terrace wrapped in a big blanket. There is normally some hustle and bustle and while busy, it is not distracting because usually there are a lot of people working on their laptops.
(Photo credit: Minimalist Coffee Girl)
What do people say about it?
| “I really like coming to Leopold café when I want to work out of the home on my computer. You feel welcome here, the service is friendly and efficient. There are plenty of usuals who come regularly. You can have breakfast, lunch, quick meal or buy/read a magazine or a book. Everything tastes good and fresh.” — Elena, Blogger of Little Brussels Sunshines |
Once you've found the perfect place, and you're settled with a coffee and a tasty slice of cake, get started on your EPSO prep work here.
Do you have a favourite study spot that we’ve missed? We’d like to add it to the list! Send us an email here with the details.