A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels: From Medieval to Modern Times

3.8 (5 reviews) 1 h 30 min – 2 hours Private tour

out of 5

5 reviews

3.8

A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels: From Medieval to Modern Times — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels: From Medieval to Modern Times, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Embark on this self-guided tour in Brussels, exploring its rich history and diplomatic significance. Experience Brussels at your own pace with Isaac, an experienced producer eager to share the city's unique history and character.

Trace the Belgian Royal Family's lineage and wander through Brussels' historic centre, passing landmarks like Le Carillon du Mont des Arts and the UNESCO-listed Grand Place. Discover Coudenberg Palace's historical significance and explore the Musical Instruments Museum. Dive into cobblestone alleys resonating with history, witness the iconic Mannekin Pis statue, and ascend the Palais du Justice for stunning city views.

Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it. You can use the virtual tour option at home, too.

Once you have booked, you will receive instructions and a unique code to download the tour. The app displays directions to the starting point; when you’re in the right place, just tap start.

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At a glance

Duration: 1 h 30 min – 2 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Audio guide: English
Operated by: VoiceMap Audio Tours

Ages: Adults (6–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Lifetime access to this tour in English
Included: VoiceMap app for Android and iOS
Included: Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Not included

Not included: Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Not included: Smartphone and headphones
Not included: Transportation
Not included: Food and drink

Itinerary

Stop 1

Passing by

As you approach the Royal Palace of Brussels, you'll delve into the history of the Belgian Royal Family and their lineage, discovering the grandeur of their former residence.
Stop 2

Passing by

Walking through the Royal Square, you'll see the statue of Godfrey of Bouillon, offering a glimpse into Brussels' historical and cultural significance.
Grand Place

Passing by

Walking through the UNESCO-listed Grand Place, you'll be awed by the ornate guild houses and palaces encircling this historic town square, steeped in centuries of architectural grandeur.
Tintin Mural Painting

Passing by

Spotting the Tintin Comic Mural allows you to admire the city's artistic side, showcasing vibrant street art and celebrating Belgium's comic culture.
Palace of Justice

Passing by

Ascending the steps of the Palais du Justice offers the city's best panoramic view, allowing you to reflect on your journey through medieval Brussels' rich history.
Museu dels Instruments Musicals

Passing by

At the Musical Instruments Museum, you'll hear captivating stories about the evolution of music through the ages, while surrounded by an impressive collection of musical artifacts.
Mont des Arts

Passing by

Strolling through the Mont des Arts Garden, you'll enjoy a serene and picturesque landscape, providing a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city.
Stop 8

Passing by

Passing by the Klokkenspel van de Kunstberg, you'll experience the resonance of the impressive bells, adding a melodious touch to your Brussels journey.
Stop 9

Passing by

Discovering the Mary Magdalene Chapel offers insights into Brussels' religious heritage, showcasing its historical significance and architectural beauty.
Stop 10

Passing by

As you explore Agoraplein - Grasmarkt, you'll find remnants of Brussels' former harbor and traces of its medieval city walls, revealing the city's intriguing past.
La Belgique Gourmande - Galerie de la Reine

Passing by

Walking through the Galerie de la Reine, you'll experience the elegance of this historic shopping arcade, adorned with intricate architectural details.
Royal Theatre Toone

Passing by

At Toone, you'll encounter a unique puppet theater, steeped in tradition and offering entertainment rooted in Brussels' cultural folklore.
Jeanneke Pis

Passing by

Amidst the city's landmarks, you'll find the playful Jeanneke-Pis statue, echoing the quirky spirit of Belgians and adding a touch of whimsy to your tour.
Stop 14

Passing by

Discovering La Monnaie De Munt allows you to appreciate Brussels' cultural scene, exploring the renowned opera house and its historical significance.
Place De Brouckereplein

Passing by

Walking through De Brouckèreplein, you'll experience a bustling square bustling with activity, reflecting the vibrant energy of the city.
Black Tower

Passing by

Passing by the Black Tower, an ancient structure amidst modern buildings, you'll encounter a juxtaposition of old and new, showcasing Brussels' evolving architectural landscape.
Stop 17

Passing by

Exploring the Church of Saint Catherine unveils the city's religious heritage, providing a glimpse into its architectural and spiritual significance.
Stop 18

Passing by

Wandering through Sint-Katelijneplein, you'll discover a lively square filled with markets and a vibrant atmosphere, showcasing Brussels' dynamic culture.
Stop 19

Passing by

Encountering the Ancien Clocher Sainte Catherine presents a historical perspective, highlighting remnants of medieval Brussels' architecture.
Stop 20

Passing by

Passing by the Brussels Stock Exchange, you'll get a glimpse into the city's financial history and its role in the economic landscape of Brussels.
Stop 21

Passing by

Exploring the Brussels City Museum offers a deeper understanding of the city's past through its diverse collection of historical artifacts.
Stop 22

Passing by

Visiting the Brussels Town Hall, you'll marvel at its architectural splendor, a testament to the city's rich history and administrative significance.
Manneken Pis

Passing by

Prepare to chuckle as you encounter the iconic Manneken Pis statue, a whimsical symbol of Brussels' unique sense of humor and one of its most recognizable landmarks.
Stop 24

Passing by

Discovering the Anneessenstoren offers insights into Brussels' historical architecture and provides a picturesque view of the cityscape.
Stop 25

Passing by

Visiting the Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon allows you to appreciate the city's religious heritage and architectural beauty.
Stop 26

Passing by

Ascending The View Grande Roue Bruxelles offers a breathtaking panoramic view, allowing you to admire Brussels' skyline from a unique vantage point.
Stop 27

Passing by

Ascending the steps of the Palais de Justice offers the city's best panoramic view, allowing you to reflect on your journey through medieval Brussels' rich history.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

The tour begins directly outside the Royal Palace, on Place des Palais and next to Park Royale. There are two nearby metro stations - Arts-Loi and Park - less than a five-minute walk away from the starting point.

End point

The tour ends at Lookout des Marolles (Point de vue des Marolles).

Using your ticket

VOICEMAP CODE

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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

2. Create an account

3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE

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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

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For technical support and other queries, please email [email protected]