Brussels Hidden Delights A Self Guided Epicurean Adventure

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. The Grand Place, Brussels' central square and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is surrounded by opulent guildhalls and the iconic Town Hall. Visitors can admire the intricate Gothic and Baroque architecture, learn about the square's rich history, and experience its vibrant atmosphere. The Grand Place hosts various events throughout the year, including the biennial Flower Carpet.

   1 h

2. Manneken Pis, a small bronze fountain sculpture depicting a urinating boy, is one of Brussels' most famous landmarks. Visitors can discover the various legends surrounding this cheeky statue and see its extensive wardrobe of costumes. The statue embodies the city's sense of humor and rebellious spirit.

   30 min

3. The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is an elegant 19th-century shopping arcade featuring a stunning glass roof and luxurious shops. Visitors can stroll through this architectural masterpiece, browse high-end boutiques, and enjoy Belgian chocolates at renowned chocolatiers. The galleries also house historic cafés and theaters, offering a glimpse into Brussels' refined culture.

   30 min

4. The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, a magnificent example of Brabantine Gothic architecture, dominates Brussels' skyline. Visitors can explore its impressive interior, admire the stunning stained glass windows, and learn about the cathedral's role in Belgian royal ceremonies. The crypt offers insights into the church's medieval foundations.

   Passes by

5. Mont des Arts, or "Hill of the Arts," offers panoramic views of Brussels' lower town and houses several important cultural institutions. Visitors can enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens, visit museums like the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, and appreciate the area's blend of architectural styles. The site is particularly stunning at sunset.

   1 h

6. The Royal Palace of Brussels, the official palace of the Belgian monarch, showcases neoclassical architecture and opulent interiors. Visitors can tour the state rooms during summer months, admiring lavish decorations and artworks. The palace's façade and the surrounding Royal Park offer year-round photo opportunities.

   Passes by

7. The Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site reveals the buried remains of Brussels' former ducal palace. Visitors can explore underground passages, see foundations of medieval structures, and learn about the city's rich history through interactive exhibits. This hidden gem offers a unique perspective on Brussels' past.

   Passes by

8. Place Royale, a neoclassical square, serves as a gateway to several important museums and institutions. Visitors can admire the uniform architecture, visit the Church of Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg, and access nearby attractions like the Magritte Museum. The square's elegant design reflects 18th-century urban planning ideals.

   30 min

9. The Magritte Museum, dedicated to surrealist artist René Magritte, houses the world's largest collection of his works. Visitors can explore over 200 paintings, drawings, and sculptures, gaining insights into Magritte's life and artistic evolution. The museum's innovative presentation enhances the surreal experience of Magritte's art.

   Passes by

10. Place du Petit Sablon, a charming square adjacent to Notre-Dame du Sablon, features a beautiful garden surrounded by statues of historical figures. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, admire the ornate fountain, and learn about Belgian crafts and trades represented by the statues. This hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Brussels.

    30 min

11. Egmont Palace, a neoclassical mansion now used for government functions, boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Visitors can admire the palace's impressive exterior and manicured gardens. While the interior is not typically open to the public, the palace's façade and surroundings offer insights into Brussels' aristocratic past.

    Passes by

12. Parc de Bruxelles, the city's largest urban public park, offers a green oasis in the heart of the capital. Visitors can stroll along tree-lined paths, admire sculptures and fountains, and enjoy open-air concerts in summer. The park's symmetrical design reflects 18th-century landscape architecture trends.

    1 h

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 4 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

How it compares in Brussels

• Its from-price is 99% below the median of the 680 experiences we list in Brussels.
• It is longer than most of them.
• By number of reviews it ranks 169 of 680.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Brussels

Brussels, Belgium's capital and a seat of European institutions, pairs a gilded Grand-Place with comic-strip murals, Art Nouveau houses and waffle stalls.

The Grand-Place is the centre of old Brussels, a cobbled square ringed by gilded guildhalls and the Gothic town hall, whose spire rises over everything. A few streets away, the small bronze Manneken Pis draws a crowd. On the hill above, the Royal Palace and the Mont des Arts gardens look down on the lower town, while the Atomium, a giant model of an iron crystal built for the 1958 World Fair, stands on the northern edge.

Top-ranked sights in Brussels: Grand-Place (Grote Markt), Manneken Pis, Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert (Les Galeries St-Hubert).

See all 680 experiences in Brussels