Brussels tours

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Brussels: 1) Heart of Brussels Walking Tour 2) From Brussels to the Fields of Flanders, the Ypres Salient. History tour with local guide 3) Brussels' Chocolate Tour 4) Full Day - Battle of Waterloo Tour 5) Day Trip to Leuven starting from Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious culinary scene. Here are some must-do things in Brussels: Visit the Grand Place, the central square of Brussels, surrounded by opulent guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King's House. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of medieval architecture. See the famous Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue of a boy urinating. It's a symbol of Brussels' irreverent sense of humor. The statue has various costumes, and there are regular dressings and events. Explore the Atomium, an iconic structure and museum built for the 1958 World Expo. The interconnected spheres offer panoramic views of the city, and the exhibitions inside explore science and culture. Admire the Royal Palace of Brussels, the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians. While the interior is only open to the public in the summer, the exterior and surrounding park are worth a visit. Visit the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, a stunning Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 13th century. The interior features beautiful stained glass windows and impressive sculptures. Explore the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the renowned Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte. The museum houses the largest collection of his works, providing insight into his artistic evolution. Visit the Comic Strip Center, celebrating Belgium's rich comic book tradition. The museum is housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building and showcases the history of comics with exhibitions and original artwork. Relax in Parc du Cinquantenaire, a large public park with impressive arches and museums. It's a great place for a stroll, a picnic, or to visit the museums, including the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History. Car enthusiasts can visit Autoworld, an automobile museum located in Parc du Cinquantenaire. The museum displays a wide range of vintage and classic cars. Indulge in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles. Brussels is famous for its chocolate, and you'll find numerous chocolatiers offering a tempting array of treats. Explore the Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries, a beautiful shopping arcade lined with boutiques, theaters, and cafes. It's one of the oldest shopping galleries in Europe. Learn about the history of Brussels at the Brussels City Museum, housed in the King's House on the Grand Place. The museum covers the city's development from its medieval origins to the present. These are just a few highlights, and Brussels has much more to offer. Don't forget to savor the diverse cuisine, including moules frites (mussels with fries) and the renowned Belgian beers. Exploring different neighborhoods, each with its own character, will add depth to your experience in this vibrant European capital.

The cost of a private tour in Brussels can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Brussels typically ranges from around $250 - $600. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customizing a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Brussels, each highly rated with many 5 star reviews! 1) Brussels All-in-One Private Tour 2) Best of Brussels walking tour - Three hours 3) Brussels' Private Tailored Tour 4) Brussels in a Nutshell Private Tour 5) Bruges and Gent: Two amazing cities in a day

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Brussels from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. A local guide can help bridge the communication gap in areas where English is not widely spoken. If you have limited time in Brussels and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Brussels. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has over 15 local guides in Brussels who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Brussels is centrally located in Europe, making it easy to access various interesting destinations for day trips. Here are some recommendations: Bruges: Known as the "Venice of the North," Bruges is a picturesque medieval city with canals, historic architecture, and cobblestone streets. Ghent: Another charming Belgian city, Ghent boasts a well-preserved medieval architecture, including Gravensteen Castle and the Saint Bavo's Cathedral. Antwerp: Famous for its vibrant art scene and fashion, Antwerp is a lively city with a rich cultural heritage. Leuven: A university town with a lively atmosphere, Leuven is known for its historic buildings, including the University Library and the Town Hall. Waterloo: History enthusiasts may want to visit the site of the Battle of Waterloo, where Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated in 1815. Mechelen: A smaller city with a rich history, Mechelen offers attractions like the St. Rumbold's Cathedral and the Mechelen Toy Museum. Louvain-la-Neuve: If you're interested in a more modern setting, this city is home to the Université catholique de Louvain. Remember to plan accordingly based on your interests and the time you have available for your day trip. Each of these destinations has its unique charm and attractions, catering to various interests.

The ideal number of days to spend in Brussels can vary based on your interests, travel pace, and the attractions you want to explore. However, many visitors find that spending 2 to 3 days in Brussels allows for a good overview of the city's main attractions. Here's a suggested itinerary: Day 1: Explore the City Center Start your day with a visit to the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the central square of Brussels. Visit the iconic Manneken Pis statue nearby. Explore the historic architecture of the surrounding area, including the Town Hall and guild houses. Visit the Brussels City Museum or the Museum of the City of Brussels. Wander through the narrow streets, and don't forget to try some Belgian chocolates. Day 2: Art and Culture Spend the morning at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, which houses a vast collection of art, including works by Bruegel, Magritte, and other famous artists. Visit the nearby Magritte Museum if you're a fan of surrealist art. Explore the Mont des Arts area, which offers beautiful views of the city. Visit the Atomium, a unique architectural structure and museum. Day 3: Day Trip or Special Interests Consider taking a day trip to one of the nearby cities, such as Bruges, Ghent, or Antwerp. Alternatively, focus on specific interests like beer tasting, visiting Belgian breweries, or exploring the European Quarter and its institutions. Of course, this is just a general guideline, and you can customize your itinerary based on your preferences. If you have specific interests, such as cuisine, history, or architecture, you may want to allocate more time accordingly. Additionally, Brussels serves as a convenient hub for exploring other parts of Belgium, so consider adding extra days if you plan to take day trips to nearby cities.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Brussels from the United States can vary widely depending on various factors such as your departure city, travel dates, accommodation preferences, dining choices, and activities you plan to engage in. Here's a rough breakdown of potential expenses: Flights: The cost of round-trip flights from the US to Brussels can vary significantly based on the time of year, airline, and departure city. On average, you might expect to spend anywhere from $600 to $1,500 or more per person. Accommodation: Hotel prices in Brussels vary based on the location, quality, and time of year. Budget hotels may start around $80 per night, while more luxurious options can go well beyond $200 per night. Meals: Dining costs depend on your preferences. On average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost around $20 to $40 per person. Street food and casual dining options could be less expensive. Transportation: Public transportation within Brussels is relatively affordable. A 7-day transportation pass for buses and trams might cost around $25. Taxis and rideshare services will add to your transportation budget. Activities and Sightseeing: Entrance fees to museums, attractions and other activities can vary. Budgeting around $20 to $50 per day for sightseeing is a reasonable estimate. Considering these estimates, a rough budget for a 7-day trip to Brussels from the US could range from $1,500 to $3,500 or more per person, excluding international airfare. Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and actual costs may vary based on individual choices and circumstances. It's advisable to research and plan according to your specific preferences and travel style.

When choosing where to stay in Brussels, it's essential to consider your preferences, budget, and the type of experience you're looking for. Here are some recommended areas in Brussels, each offering a different atmosphere: City Center (Brussels-Central): Staying in the heart of the city allows easy access to major attractions like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and the Brussels City Museum. You'll find a mix of luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, and budget-friendly options. Ixelles: This trendy and lively district is known for its upscale shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. The Flagey Square is a focal point, and it's a great area for those who enjoy a vibrant neighborhood atmosphere. European Quarter (Brussels-Schuman): If you're interested in the European institutions and modern architecture, the European Quarter is a good choice. It's a more business-oriented area with a range of hotels and easy access to museums like the European Parliament. Sablon: This historic neighborhood is known for its antique shops, art galleries, and upscale boutiques. The Place du Grand Sablon is a charming square surrounded by cafes and chocolate shops. It's an elegant and quieter area. Saint-Gilles: A diverse and artsy district, Saint-Gilles offers a mix of cultures, trendy cafes, and unique boutiques. The Horta Museum, dedicated to the famous architect Victor Horta, is located here. Marolles: This bohemian neighborhood is famous for its flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle and the Magritte Museum. It's a lively area with a mix of vintage shops and quirky cafes. Remember to consider your budget, preferred atmosphere, and proximity to the attractions you want to visit when choosing accommodation. Brussels has a well-connected public transportation system, so even if you stay slightly outside the city center, you can easily reach key sites by tram or metro.

The best time to visit Brussels largely depends on your preferences for weather, events, and crowd levels. Here are some considerations for different seasons: Spring (April to June): This is generally considered one of the best times to visit Brussels. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Spring brings blooming flowers and greenery, making it a pleasant time to explore the city. Keep in mind that this is a popular tourist season, so some attractions may be busier. Summer (July to August): Summer in Brussels is warm, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C). This is also a peak tourist season, and the city hosts various festivals and events. If you enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, summer can be an excellent time to visit. Fall (September to November): Fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds compared to summer. The weather ranges from 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C). The fall foliage adds a touch of color to the city, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing. It's also a good time to experience local culture and cuisine. Winter (December to February): Winters in Brussels are cool, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C). While it may not be as crowded, the city is beautifully decorated during the holiday season. Christmas markets, festive lights, and seasonal events create a charming atmosphere. However, be prepared for colder weather. Consider the type of activities you plan to do and your tolerance for crowds and weather when deciding on the best time to visit. Each season has its own charm, and Brussels offers a variety of experiences throughout the year.