Housed in a striking minimalist-style building, the Hergé Museum shines the spotlight on Georges Remi and the inspiration behind his beloved comic book character, Tintin, and his trusty terrier, Snowy.
Visitors explore the three-floor museum independently—perhaps choosing to use an audio guide for added insight—roaming the eight rooms to view artifacts, videos, and Remi’s own possessions to understand his life and creative processes. Exhibits include more than 800 original plates and drawings, biographical films, and examples of Remi’s other work. Visitors can also buy Tintin merchandise at the shop and relax in the basement café-restaurant.
The Hergé Museum lies about 20 miles (33 kilometers) southeast of Brussels, in Louvain-la-Neuve’s university campus. By car, take the E411 and exit 8a that leads directly to the museum—expect a journey of around 45 minutes. Public underground car parking is available nearby, close to Louvaine’s Grand Place. Trains run from Brussels to Louvain-la-Neuve, with one connection, and take an hour; the station is a five-minute walk away. Round-trip shuttle buses also run to the museum from select locations in Brussels.
The museum is open from late morning to early evening Tuesday to Friday and a bit longer at weekends. It rarely gets crowded. If you can, consider visiting on the first Sunday of any month, when entry is free.
Parking can be hard to find if you’re coming by car, so check out the museum website’s downloadable directions before traveling. If you want to make a day of your visit, finish with a stroll around Louvain-la-Neuve’s nearby Grand Place—it’s lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants.
