Located in the bustling heart of Brussels, the Grand Casino Brussels, also known as VIAGE, stands as Belgium’s largest and most prestigious gaming destination, offering a vibrant blend of modern entertainment and urban sophistication. Situated at Boulevard Anspach 30, within Europe’s largest pedestrian zone, this expansive 14,500-square-meter complex has been a cornerstone of the city’s nightlife since its opening in 2010, drawing visitors with its vast array of slots, table games, and cultural attractions. For those exploring the most prestigious land-based casinos of Western and Southern Europe, Grand Casino Brussels is a standout, merging the thrill of gaming with the cosmopolitan energy of Belgium’s capital.
The casino’s roots trace back to 2006, when Casinos Austria International (CAI) first established a presence in Brussels, but its relocation to the renovated Anspach Galleries in 2010 marked a transformative leap. This move placed it behind a UNESCO-protected façade, blending historical significance with cutting-edge design, and solidified its status as a leader in Belgium’s gaming industry, boasting a 50% market share. Its central location—steps from the Grand Place and De Brouckère metro—makes it a natural hub for both locals and the millions of tourists who visit Brussels annually. This article explores the casino’s dynamic history, its architectural innovation, and the diverse entertainment that makes it a jewel in Western Europe’s casino landscape.
Grand Casino Brussels thrives on its ability to cater to a wide audience while maintaining an upscale appeal. Whether you’re a poker enthusiast drawn to its World Poker Tour events, a casual player testing the 400+ slot machines, or a visitor seeking fine dining and live performances, the casino delivers a multifaceted experience that feels both grand and approachable. Its role as a cultural and social anchor in Brussels, enhanced by its theater, bars, and event spaces, sets it apart as a destination that transcends traditional gambling. From its strategic beginnings to its modern-day prominence, Grand Casino Brussels invites you into a world where excitement meets elegance in the heart of Europe.
A Modern Entertainment Powerhouse: Key Features at a Glance
Grand Casino Brussels combines an extensive gaming portfolio with a lively entertainment scene, all within a sleek, modern complex designed to captivate. The table below outlines its core offerings, giving a snapshot of what visitors can expect from Belgium’s biggest casino.
| Feature | Details | Location | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slot Machines | 400+ machines, slots and video poker | Ground Floor | 12 p.m. – 4 a.m. (5 a.m. weekends) |
| Roulette | European, American, electronic | Main Gaming Floor | 12 p.m. – 4 a.m. (5 a.m. weekends) |
| Blackjack | Classic and multi-hand variants | Main Gaming Floor | 12 p.m. – 4 a.m. (5 a.m. weekends) |
| Poker | Texas Hold’em, WPT tournaments | WPT Poker Room | 3 p.m. – 4 a.m. (varies) |
| Theater Shows | Concerts, exhibitions, events | VIAGE Theatre (Top Floor) | Varies by event |
From Vision to Victory: The Rise of Grand Casino Brussels
The Grand Casino Brussels story began in 2006, when Casinos Austria International, a global leader in casino management, partnered with local stakeholders to bring a world-class gaming venue to Belgium’s capital. Initially operating in a smaller capacity, the casino’s true ascent came in 2010 with its move to the historic Anspach Galleries, a former shopping arcade in the city center. This relocation, following a meticulous renovation that preserved the building’s UNESCO-protected façade, marked a turning point, transforming it into VIAGE—a name that encapsulates its mission of vibrant play and entertainment. The shift positioned it as Belgium’s largest casino, a title it holds with a commanding 50% market share in the country’s gaming sector.
The casino’s early years were shaped by Brussels’ growing status as a European hub, attracting a mix of locals, diplomats, and tourists eager for upscale leisure. The 2010 opening capitalized on this momentum, offering 375 slot machines and 39 table games, a scale unprecedented in Belgium at the time. Its poker room, launched with the backing of the World Poker Tour (WPT), quickly became a focal point, hosting major tournaments like the WPT National Brussels that draw hundreds of players annually. Over the years, it has adapted to changing tastes, adding live entertainment and dining options to broaden its appeal beyond gaming.
Today, Grand Casino Brussels stands as a symbol of resilience and innovation. Its history includes weathering economic fluctuations and regulatory shifts, such as Belgium’s strict 21+ age requirement and responsible gaming policies enforced by the Gaming Commission. Key milestones in its journey include:
- 2006: Initial establishment by Casinos Austria International in Brussels.
- 2010: Relocation to Anspach Galleries, opening as VIAGE with expanded facilities.
- 2015: Hosts first WPT National Brussels, cementing its poker reputation.
- 2020s: Continues to thrive with modern upgrades and cultural events.
These moments highlight how Grand Casino Brussels evolved from a modest venture into a Western European powerhouse, its growth mirroring the city’s own rise as a cultural and political capital.
Design Innovation and Entertainment Excellence
Grand Casino Brussels’ design is a striking fusion of historical reverence and modern flair, reflecting its place in the heart of Brussels’ pedestrian zone. The exterior retains the restored façade of the Anspach Galleries, a UNESCO-protected relic from the 19th century, with its arched windows and ornate stonework contrasting the sleek interior. Inside, the 14,500-square-meter space unfolds across multiple levels—brightly lit gaming floors hum with activity, while the top-floor VIAGE Theatre boasts cutting-edge audiovisual tech for shows. The ground-level VIAGE CHILL offers a relaxed entry with coffee and pastries, easing visitors into the casino’s vibrant core.
The gaming experience is expansive and varied. The 400+ slot machines, open from noon to 4 a.m. (5 a.m. on weekends), span classic reels and video poker, with bets starting at €0.01 to suit all budgets. The main gaming floor, buzzing with the same hours, features over 39 tables—European and American Roulette wheels spin alongside blackjack and Punto Banco, with stakes ranging from €10 to €10,000 in the exclusive Oak Room for high rollers. The WPT Poker Room, active from 3 p.m., hosts Texas Hold’em cash games and tournaments, accommodating up to 100 players with buy-ins from €50 to €1,500 during major events. The layout ensures a seamless flow, with gaming zones distinct yet connected to dining and leisure areas.
Entertainment at Grand Casino Brussels goes far beyond the tables, making it a cultural hub in its own right. The VIAGE GRILL serves gourmet Belgian and Italian dishes until late, its open kitchen adding a theatrical flair, while the Cinna Bar offers daily happy hours from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. with cocktails overlooking the gaming floor. The top-floor theater hosts international acts—think tribute bands, comedy nights, and exhibitions—seating up to 800, with events often free or ticketed separately. The Sports Bar screens live matches, enhancing the betting area’s appeal, while VR experiences during special weekends add a modern twist. Standout entertainment features include:
- VIAGE Theatre’s 800-seat capacity for concerts and shows.
- Cinna Bar’s daily happy hour specials.
- Live sports screenings in the Sports Bar.
- Seasonal VR gaming events.
This blend of gaming and leisure ensures the casino remains a dynamic destination in Western Europe.
Why Grand Casino Brussels Shines
Grand Casino Brussels’ prestige stems from its scale and versatility, offering Belgium’s largest gaming floor alongside a rich entertainment lineup. Its 400+ slots and 39 tables cater to a broad spectrum of players, from casual visitors to seasoned gamblers, while the WPT Poker Room elevates its status with international tournaments that draw crowds three times a year. The Oak Room, with its private tables and premium service, adds an exclusive touch, though it’s smaller than some VIP offerings elsewhere, balancing accessibility with luxury.
The casino’s integration with Brussels’ urban pulse enhances its allure. Open daily from noon to 4 a.m. (5 a.m. on weekends), it aligns with the city’s late-night energy, with a €10 entry fee (including a €5 chip) for first-timers that’s waived for returning members. Its central location—near the Grand Place and accessible by metro, tram, or a short walk from Bruxelles-Central station—makes it a seamless stop for tourists and locals alike. Additional draws that set it apart include:
- UNESCO-protected façade blending history with modernity.
- Multi-level design with distinct gaming and leisure zones.
- Free theater events alongside ticketed international acts.
From its 2010 debut to its thriving presence in 2025, Grand Casino Brussels stands as a Southern European treasure, offering a vibrant escape where gaming, dining, and culture converge in the heart of Belgium’s capital.