Brussels International Guitar Festival and Competition
Brussels, Belgium · Classical guitar competition
- Location
- Brussels, Belgium
- Type
- Competition
- Event dates
- 28 November 2025 – 2 December 2025
- Frequency
- annual
Official website
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Check your repertoire matchVisiting? A guitarist's guide to Brussels
Photo: Francisco Conde Sánchez, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and a pivotal city in Europe, hosts the Brussels International Guitar Festival and Competition. This event takes place in a city renowned for its blend of medieval Flemish heritage, grand 19th-century architecture, and modern international institutions. As the unofficial capital of the European Union, Brussels is a dynamic, bilingual hub, offering a unique cultural tapestry for the discerning visitor.
Getting there
Brussels is exceptionally well-connected, serving as a major hub for rail, road, and air traffic. Brussels Airport (BRU), the largest and busiest in Belgium, offers extensive international connections. From the airport, direct trains provide easy access to the city center. The Brussels Metro is the country's only rapid transit system, making internal travel efficient, especially when navigating the city's variable weather. Regular train services connect Brussels to other major European cities, placing it at the heart of the continent's transport network.
Compare trains, buses & flights to Brussels on Omio →
Belgium runs on Type E sockets, standard across most of Europe, so you will only need a travel adapter if you are coming from the UK, Ireland, or beyond Europe.
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Where to stay
Given Brussels's oceanic climate and potential for rain, basing yourself in an area with good access to the public transport network is advisable. The City of Brussels municipality, home to the deeply ornate buildings of the Grand-Place, offers a central location with many attractions within walking distance. Consider accommodation near major metro stations like De Brouckere or Central Station for convenient access to museums and venues. While much of the old town was replaced during the 19th century, areas like the Marolles neighborhood offer a glimpse into the city's historic charm.
What you'll hear
The Brussels International Guitar Festival and Competition, held annually from late November to early December, draws a diverse array of talented guitarists. Attendees can expect a high level of performance across a wide-ranging repertoire, characteristic of an international competition, culminating in the final rounds where emerging stars often distinguish themselves. The event provides an excellent opportunity to hear contemporary classical guitar playing at its finest, showcasing both established works and newer compositions.
Beyond the festival, Brussels, as a major European capital, boasts a rich and varied musical landscape. The renowned La Monnaie/De Munt opera house stages world-class productions, while numerous venues across the city host a spectrum of musical genres, from jazz to orchestral concerts. This international outlook ensures a constant flow of diverse musical talent, making Brussels a city where cultural experiences are plentiful, complementing the specific focus of the guitar festival.
If you play as well as listen, explore Django Reinhardt, born in Belgium in our repertoire finder, where you can hear each piece and find the sheet music.
The local table
Brussels is celebrated for its distinctive cuisine and gastronomic offerings. Essential local treats include the famous Belgian waffle, artisanal chocolates, and the ubiquitous French fries, often served with a wide array of sauces. The city is also renowned for its numerous types of beers, from traditional abbey brews to modern craft selections. Exploring the culinary scene means indulging in these iconic staples and discovering the diverse international flavors brought by its cosmopolitan population.
Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Brussels →
While you're there
Plenty of attractions await in Brussels between competition events, many of which are indoors, ideal for any rainy spells. The historic Grand-Place/Grote Markt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see, surrounded by opulent guildhalls. Other iconic landmarks include the Manneken Pis, the Atomium, and the comprehensive Museums of Art and History. Brussels is also celebrated as a 'capital of the comic strip,' with numerous murals and the Belgian Comic Strip Center. For those interested in broader Flemish heritage, well-preserved historic centers in nearby cities like Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent, and Leuven are easily accessible by train, offering rich day-trip opportunities.
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This map centers on Brussels in general, so the venue may be elsewhere in town. Check the competition's official website before booking.
More guitar events in Belgium: Antwerpen Gitaarfestival · Printemps de la Guitare
Also in November: Alhambra Junior International Guitar Competition (CIGAJ) · Certamen Internacional Andrés Segovia · Dani Klasične Gitare (Classical Guitar Days) · Hamburger Guitar Festival
Listing data is compiled from official sources and can change each edition. Always confirm dates, deadlines and requirements on the organizer's official website before applying or booking travel. Spotted an error? See our terms or let us know via the About page.