This tour covers all of Brussels' main attractions in 1 day—a mix of walking tours and using public transportation. We will start by giving a brief introduction to Brussels' history. Then we will walk around Brussels Pentagon while admiring medieval buildings at La Grand Place, the Royal Quarters, the Sablon area, and the Marolles. Then head to the European District and the iconic Atomium. This tour includes a few stops to taste Belgian specialties and many photo-shooting opportunities.
At your hotel or any train station in Brussels
I will pick you up either at your hotel or at any train station you want. Depending on your location, we will start by walking or by using public transportation while explaining to you a brief introduction to the history of Brussels and also what you could expect from this tour.
Our first stop will focus on the main attractions of Brussels City Center. While at La Grand Place, you will understand why Brussels has been nicknamed the "Heart of Europe". As we walk around, I will tell you about some fascinating stories behind the guild houses, the statues such as the pissing boy, and more. I will also show you the cradle of Brussels, the lace, and the tapestry. Then as we move around towards the Royal District where you can imagine how monarchs live, you will be amazed to see the stunning architectural buildings such as La Bourse, the Royal Opera, and Gallery Saint Hubert.
As we reach Mont des Arts, you have the opportunity to taste waffles like a local. Here you will see a few examples of Art Nouveau buildings and a glimpse of the remaining ruins of the Coudenberg Palace. Then we will head to the Sablon area where you can see a gothic cathedral, and of course, the world's largest building construction ever made from the 19th century - the Justice Palace of Brussels. After here, we will walk towards the Marolles District, where the real 'Bruxellois' used to live.
I will bring you to the place where you can taste the best fries in the world and explain the reason why it is different from the rest. (If you want to try other Belgian specialties, or you prefer to have an alternative meal, please let me know and I will try my best to find the best place to go).
After lunch, I will show you the different buildings of the European Parliament, the Berlaymont Building where all the European leaders meet. Here, you will also have the opportunity to see a few pieces of the Berlin Wall. Then we'll head next to the Cinquantenaire Square and then take a metro (subway) to see our final stop - the Atomium.
Finally, this is our last stop. Here, you will visit the symbol of Brussels and of the country itself. Aside from having a heritage value, the Atomium serves as a cultural center too. It has a museum that exhibits Belgium and its digital arts. It also has a panoramic restaurant on top. From here, you'll have the option to either stay outside and admire its beauty, or go up to one or more of its balls (with an entrance fee). Please check my FAQ section for pricing.
I can bring you back to your hotel by public transportation or leave you at the last stop or any place you wish.
At the last stop or I can bring you back to your hotel or any train station
Guide's fee, hotel pick-up & drop-off
Guests and guide's transportation fees, food & drink for lunch, and other food purchases and souvenirs. Gratuities/Tips.
My schedule is flexible. I can be available to do a half-day, a whole day, or even an evening tour. I can also guide you to different cities in Belgium and customize a multiple-day tour for you and your group.
If your group is more than 6 people, please let me know and I will be happy to adjust the pricing to accommodate your group.
*Dress in layers, with waterproof fabrics. Belgium is known to have a "four seasons in a day" kind of weather.
*Good sturdy walking shoes. This tour involves a lot of walking, and though most areas are flat, some streets are cobbled stones and up-hill.
*Bring some cash (in euros). Though most establishments accept cards, some only accept euros.
May was our guide in Brugge and Damme in mid September of this year. Our group are all seniors - all 65 years and older. We were able to cover all attractions in our itinerary. She coordinated the bus for our group on the tour date. There was a minor mechanical issue on the original assigned bus, however, she was able to coordinate the bus replacement. Flexibility on start times depending on our destinations. She made arrangements for a private boat tour in Brugge for our group.. May is very personable and has tremendous patience with our group. She, takes good care of her clients and tells stories about areas history. We can highly recommend May for your guided trip to Brugge and Damme.
Thank you so much Bert for taking the time to write a review about your experience. I enjoyed hosting your group and showing you the best of Bruges and Damme. Despite some challenges, the group's joyful and positive spirit made the trip memorable and enjoyable. I look forward to hosting you in the future and exploring other parts of Belgium!