How to Plan Your Brussels Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour

Are you planning a trip to Brussels and looking for the best way to explore the city’s top attractions and hidden gems? Look no further than the Brussels Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour. This private tour is tailored to your interests and provides commentary from a local guide who knows the city inside and out. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect tour.

Overview

The Brussels Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour is a private tour that allows you to explore the city at your own pace. The tour is perfect for travelers who are short on time but still want to see the top landmarks and hidden gems. Your local guide will take you to their favorite spots in the city, away from the crowded tourist paths. Plus, you’ll get to taste local cuisine and drinks through a local tasting included.

What’s Included

The Brussels Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour includes a private tour with a local guide, 1 local drink or tasting, and hotel pick up and drop off. Please note that entrance fees for attractions are not included in the tour, though you will visit them from the outside.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Rue du Marché aux Poulets 12, in front of Cafe A. Your guide will be waiting for you at the designated meeting point. The tour includes hotel pick up and drop off, so you don’t have to worry about transportation.

Tour Itinerary

The Brussels Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour covers the top landmarks and hidden gems in the city. Here’s a sample itinerary of what you can expect on your tour:

Grand Place

Your tour will start with a visit to the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Here, you’ll see the stunning architecture of the buildings that surround the square and learn about the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Manneken Pis

Your next stop will be the iconic Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue of a little boy peeing into a fountain. This statue has become a symbol of the city and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Brussels.

Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

Next, you’ll visit the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral dates back to the 9th century and is an important religious site in the city.

Sablon Neighborhood

After visiting the cathedral, you’ll explore the Sablon neighborhood, known for its high-end shops and art galleries. Here, you’ll have the chance to taste some of the city’s famous chocolate and learn about its history.

Place du Petit Sablon

Your tour will continue to Place du Petit Sablon, a beautiful park in the heart of the city. This park features over 48 statues of famous Brussels figures and is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Royal Palace of Brussels

Your final stop will be the Royal Palace of Brussels, the official residence of the King of Belgium. Here, you’ll learn about the history and architecture of the palace and its role in the monarchy.

How to Book

Booking your Brussels Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour is easy. Just head over to Viator’s website and book the tour with the following link: book the tour here. Multiple tour times are offered for your convenience.

Conclusion

The Brussels Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour is the perfect way to explore the best of Brussels with a local guide who knows the city inside and out. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brussels

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a multicultural, multilingual and vibrant European metropolis. Home to the headquarters of the European Union and NATO, Brussels is a popular destination for both business and leisure travelers. If you’re planning a trip to Brussels or are just curious about the city, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Brussels.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Brussels?

The best time to visit Brussels is during the spring and fall months. From April to June and September to October, the city experiences mild temperatures and fewer crowds than during the peak summer months. However, if you’re interested in visiting during the Christmas season, then November and December are the most magical months when the city is alive with festive markets and events.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Brussels?

One of the most iconic attractions in Brussels is the Atomium, an impressive building that resembles an atom and offers panoramic views of the city. Other popular attractions include Grand Place, the Royal Palace of Brussels, the Manneken Pis statue, and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. Don’t forget to also check out the famous chocolate shops and sample some Belgian waffles and fries, too!

3. Is it easy to get around Brussels?

Yes, it’s easy to get around Brussels thanks to its well-connected public transport system. There are two main metro lines, as well as trams, buses, and trains. The city also has a bike-sharing program, Villo!, which is a great way to explore the city on two wheels.

4. What is the official language spoken in Brussels?

The official languages in Brussels are French and Dutch, but many locals also speak English. This multilingual city adds to its cultural diversity and makes it easy for visitors to navigate their way around.

5. What is the currency used in Brussels?

Belgium’s official currency is the Euro, which is accepted throughout the city.

6. Can you drink tap water in Brussels?

Yes, tap water in Brussels is safe to drink and meets EU standards.

7. What is the food like in Brussels?

Belgian cuisine is known for its delicious chocolate, waffles, beer, and fries (which are traditionally served with mayo rather than ketchup!). Brussels is also home to a large number of seafood restaurants, as well as traditional Belgian brasseries.

8. What are some lesser-known attractions in Brussels?

While Grand Place and the Atomium are must-see attractions, there are also plenty of lesser-known things to see and do in Brussels. These include the Comic Strip Museum, the Magritte Museum, the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, and the hidden street art all around the city.

9. What is the nightlife like in Brussels?

The nightlife in Brussels is known for its variety, from trendy bars to traditional pubs and clubs. The city caters to all tastes and budgets, so you’re sure to find something that suits your style.

10. Is Brussels a safe city to visit?

Yes, Brussels is generally a safe city to visit. As with any big city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables close and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Conclusion

Brussels is a fascinating city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife. With a well-connected public transport system and friendly locals who speak several languages, it’s easy to navigate your way around the city and make the most of your visit. So why not add Brussels to your travel bucket list and discover its many charms for yourself?

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Brussels

Brussels, the heart of Europe, is a fascinating city that can offer you many things to see and do. From its stunning architecture and impressive museums to its vibrant nightlife and unique gastronomy, Brussels has something for everyone.To help you make the most out of your visit, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the top things to do and see in Brussels. Here are some of the things you should keep in mind as you plan your itinerary:

1. Explore the Historic Center of Brussels

No trip to Brussels is complete without a visit to its historic center. The city’s Grand Place, or Grote Markt, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. From here, you can admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings, which date back to the 17th century.Other must-see landmarks in the historic center include the Manneken Pis statue, the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, and the Atomium, which is a symbol of modern Brussels.

2. Indulge in Belgian chocolate and waffles

Belgium is famous for its chocolate and waffles, and Brussels is the perfect place to indulge in both. All over the city, you will find countless chocolate shops and waffle stalls, where you can sample the best of Belgian cuisine.Some of the most famous chocolate shops in Brussels are Neuhaus, Pierre Marcolini, and Godiva. As for waffles, the best places to try them are Maison Dandoy and Le Funambule.

3. Visit the Atomium

As mentioned before, the Atomium is a symbol of Brussels and a must-see attraction for any tourist. This massive structure was built for the 1958 World’s Fair and represents an iron atom magnified 165 billion times.Inside the Atomium, you can take the elevator to the top for stunning views of Brussels and its surroundings. You can also visit the exhibitions that are held on various floors of the building.

4. Discover the European Union Quarter

Brussels is also the unofficial capital of the European Union, and as such, it has its own quarter dedicated to EU institutions. In this area, you’ll find the European Commission, the European Parliament, and other important EU bodies.Visitors can take guided tours of these institutions, but you should book well in advance. Also, don’t miss the chance to visit the Parlamentarium, which is a museum dedicated to the history and workings of the European Parliament.

5. Experience the local nightlife

Brussels has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, pubs, and nightclubs to choose from. The city center is the best place to start, with the Rue des Bouchers and the Place Saint Géry being some of the most popular areas.For those who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, the bars and cafes around the Place du Sablon are an excellent choice. Here, you can sample some of the best Belgian beer and relax in a cozy setting.

6. Go on a street art tour

Finally, Brussels is also known for its vibrant street art scene, and going on a street art tour is a unique and exciting way to explore the city. There are several companies that offer guided tours, taking visitors around the city to discover some of the most impressive graffiti and murals.Some of the best areas to visit for street art are the Rue des Poissonniers and the Rue Blaes. The city also hosts an annual Street Art Festival, which is held in September and attracts artists from all over the world.

Conclusion

Brussels has many things to see and do, and it is impossible to cover them all in one visit. However, by following this guide, you can be sure to experience some of the most important landmarks and attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, food, or nightlife, Brussels has something for everyone, and it is definitely worth a visit.