Brussels , Belgium

Brussels Private Historic Walking Tour

Active

2h - 3h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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About this experience

Not only the capital of Belgium and the County of Flanders, the unassuming Brussels is also the administrative center of the European Union! Needless to say, the historically and politically strategic city boasts a wealth of historical, architectural, and cultural legacy that can overwhelm any first-time visitor. Therefore, the first thing you need to capture most of the immense magnificence of the charming Brussels is an ideal tour that covers all the charms that must not be missed, including the Royal Palace of Brussels and its amazing blend of artistic brilliance and royal splendor, Grand Square - a familiar name in lists of the most beautiful town squares in the world - which also houses one of the most gorgeous town halls worldwide, and the extravagant Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert - the first shopping mall in all Europe.

Available options

Brussels Private Historic Walking Tour

What's included

Official Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start the tour with the Church of Our Lady of Victories (Sablon Church) and its mysterious legend which started the historical procession and medieval festival Ommegang, attracting thousands of local and international attendants. The stunning 15th-century church which kept the image of the Virgin Mary which is paraded around the street every July is a testament to Brussels' medieval past and its enduring faith.

Stop 2 Pass by

The next destination is the Royal Palace of Brussels, whose façade is a half bigger than that of Buckingham Palace considering the same splendid neoclassical style. Surrounded by a well-manicured garden and iron-wrought fence, the Belgian official setting of royal formalities looks like a protected precious pearl in the heart of Brussels.

Stop 3

Then, stop by the Mount of the Arts, ideally located between the Royal Quarter in the upper part of the city and the lower part housing the city’s trade center. The landscaped garden perfectly embraces the notable architecture of the Royal Library of Belgium and the National Archives of Belgium, but the highlight of all is the terrific views of the soaring Gothic tower of the Town Hall from here.

Stop 4

Continue to marvel at the flamboyant Gothic façade of Brussels Town Hall in all its glory: accurate proportions, ornate sculptural details, and its magnificent tower topped by the statue of the city's patron. Its splendor is elevated by the location on the Grand Square, one of the most beautiful squares worldwide.

Stop 5

Also dominating the square and adding to its magnificence is Brussels City Museum. More sober in style, its Neo-Gothic exterior gives tough competition to the opposite Town Hall. This is no surprise because its 16th-century owner was the Emperor Charles V of Spain, whose statue sits in the central tower welcoming visitors to marvel at the rich heritage of his glorious reign.

Stop 6

Next, browse through the 19th-century Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, one of Europe’s most beautiful and oldest shopping malls. Walking past exquisite window displays of jewelers, upscale brands, and exclusive boutiques feels like appreciating an art gallery as its name suggests.

Stop 7

Save the best for the last: St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, the most emblematic religious monument in Brussels. Similar in style to the Sablon church, the cathedral is even more mesmerizing inside out; so much so that the Neo-Gothic gem is not only the city’s religious hub but a beacon of beauty and history that embodies the essence of Brussels.

What's not included

Entrance fee: Brussels City Museum - 10 € per person

Refreshments

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN FR

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the Statue of Counts Egmont and Hoorn, your tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard.

About Brussels

Brussels, the heart of Europe, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine. As the de facto capital of the European Union, it's a melting pot of cultures and languages, offering a unique blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication.

Top Attractions

Grand Place

The Grand Place is the central square of Brussels and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's famous for its ornate guildhalls and the impressive Town Hall.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Atomium

The Atomium is a unique structure built for the 1958 World's Fair. It's a symbol of Brussels and offers panoramic views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours €16 (adults), €10 (children)

Manneken Pis

The Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue of a boy peeing, which has become one of Brussels' most famous landmarks. It's often dressed in costumes for special occasions.

Cultural 15-30 minutes Free

Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace is the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians. While the royal family does not reside here, it's used for official events and ceremonies.

Historical 1-2 hours €12.50 (for the Royal Greenhouses, open only in spring and autumn)

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Parc du Cinquantenaire is a large urban park with a triumphal arch, museums, and green spaces. It's a great place for a leisurely walk or picnic.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (museums have separate fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moules-frites

Mussels cooked in white wine, cream, or other sauces, served with a side of fries.

Main course Can be made vegetarian by omitting the mussels and using a vegetable-based sauce.

Waffles

Belgian waffles are a must-try, with various toppings like whipped cream, chocolate, and fruit.

Dessert/Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan by choosing appropriate toppings.

Fries

Belgian fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with various sauces.

Snack/Side Can be made vegetarian by choosing vegetable-based sauces.

Carbonade flamande

A traditional Flemish beef and beer stew, often served with fries or bread.

Main course Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Cycling tours Kayaking on the Senne River Escape rooms Spa days Picnics in parks Café hopping Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. The city is lively, but also more crowded and expensive.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch, French, German
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Brussels is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure and out of sight
• Be cautious with ATMs and avoid using them at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Brussels Airport • 11 km (7 miles) from city center

By train

Brussels-South Station, Brussels-Central Station

By bus

Brussels-North Station, Brussels-South Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient and covers most of the city. It's a great way to get around, especially during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Heetch

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Sablon Saint-Géry European Quarter

Day trips

Bruges

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

Bruges is a medieval city with a well-preserved historic center, canals, and cobblestone streets. It's often referred to as the 'Venice of the North'.

Ghent

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Ghent is a vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a lively student population. It's known for its medieval buildings, castles, and museums.

Antwerp

45 km (28 miles) • Full day

Antwerp is a dynamic city known for its fashion, diamond district, and vibrant cultural scene. It's home to numerous museums, galleries, and historic sites.

Festivals

Ommegang • Early July Flower Carpet • Every two years in August Christmas Market • Late November to early January

Pro tips

Visit the Grand Place early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the square's beauty in peace.
Try a Belgian waffle from a street vendor, but be cautious with toppings that may not be suitable for dietary restrictions.
Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local culture.
Learn a few basic phrases in French or Dutch to connect with locals and show respect for the language and culture.
Consider purchasing a Brussels Card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions.