Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Municipal pool 't Zeepaardje
★3.9(193 reviews)Sports
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers will love the shallow areas and gentle water features, while elementary-aged children can practice swimming skills in a safe, supervised environment.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Municipal pool 't Zeepaardje offers both indoor and outdoor swimming facilities perfect for families visiting the Brussels area. With dedicated shallow areas and child-friendly water features, this local pool provides a relaxed atmosphere where kids can splash around safely while parents enjoy a break from sightseeing.
Highlights
- ✓Indoor pool option for year-round swimming regardless of weather
- ✓Outdoor pool area for sunny summer days
- ✓Shallow children's areas designed specifically for young swimmers
- ✓Water features and play elements to keep kids entertained
- ✓Affordable municipal pricing compared to tourist-focused facilities
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Saturday mornings (10:00 AM-12:00 PM) for the most consistent family-friendly hours without competing with lap swim times.
- 2.Bring your own towels and swimming cap, as Belgian pools often require caps for hygiene reasons and rental options may be limited.
- 3.The varied weekday hours can be confusing, so double-check opening times before visiting as some slots may be reserved for swim lessons or lane swimming.
- 4.Vilvoorde is about 15 minutes from Brussels city center by train, making it an easy half-day trip if your kids need pool time during your visit.
- 5.Download a translation app as staff may primarily speak Dutch or French, though basic English is usually understood at the reception desk.
Best Time to Visit
Saturday is ideal for international visitors, offering the longest continuous hours (10:00 AM-5:00 PM) without confusing time slots. Arrive early in the session for less crowded conditions, especially during Belgian school holidays.
What to Know
Entry fees are typically budget-friendly (around 3-5 euros per person at most Belgian municipal pools). Parking is available near Heldenplein, and you'll need to bring your own swim gear including required swimming caps.
Seasonal Notes
The indoor pool operates year-round, while outdoor pools typically open during warmer months (May through September). Summer weekends can get busier with local families.
Nearby Eats
Head to Vilvoorde town center (5-minute walk) for family-friendly options like pizzerias and local Belgian cafes. Alternatively, the nearby Carrefour supermarket has a prepared food section perfect for quick post-swim snacks.
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Café De Bries is a welcoming family restaurant in Vilvoorde that makes dining out with children stress-free and enjoyable. With a dedicated play area to keep little ones entertained and a special kids menu featuring child-friendly options, parents can actually relax and enjoy their Belgian meal while the kids are happily occupied.
Playground
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Sint-Jozefpark Playground offers a welcoming neighborhood play space perfect for families exploring Vilvoorde, just north of Brussels. This modern playground features all the essentials for active play, including swings, slides, and climbing structures, plus shaded seating areas where parents can relax while keeping an eye on the kids. Best of all, it's completely free, making it an excellent budget-friendly stop during your Belgian adventure.
Nature
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De Groene Muur (The Green Wall) is a scenic nature trail perfect for families seeking an easy outdoor adventure near Brussels. This well-maintained walking and cycling path winds through peaceful green spaces, offering a safe and accessible route for kids to explore nature, spot local wildlife, and burn off energy away from city traffic. It's an ideal free activity for families wanting to experience Belgium's beautiful countryside without venturing far from the capital.
Activity
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