A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories

4.5 (2 reviews) 1 h 30 min – 2 hours Private tour

out of 5

2 reviews

4.5

A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience the hidden side of Brussels at your own pace with Derek, an experienced writer and journalist eager to share the city's unique history and character.

On this self-guided tour of Brussels, a city that seamlessly blends political importance with quirky tales, you will explore the Grand Place's Baroque marvels, encounter the famed Manneken Pis, and delve into hidden city walls. Stroll through the Sablon district's symbolic statues, reach the elegant Place Royale, and unveil the buried Renaissance palace ruins. Discover the city's secrets, from mispronounced names to unique statues, and immerse yourself in its rich history.

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, 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

5 min Admission not included

Begin your tour outside the beautifully restored Brussels Stock Exchange, a significant historical site. Take a moment to absorb the architectural grandeur before setting off on your exploration.
Stop 2

Passing by

As you venture into the trendy Dansaert district, catch a glimpse of the Beursschouwburg, a cultural hotspot with a quirky name. While you may not stop here, the area's cultural vibrancy adds to the city's charm.
Stop 3

5 min

Marvel at the Archangel comic mural, a vivid display of Brussels' association with comic art. This brief stop along the Comic Book Trail introduces you to the vibrant cultural thread woven into the city's urban fabric.
Zinneke Pis

Passing by

Encounter the Zinneke Pis statue, a whimsical sight reflecting the city's playful spirit. Though you may not linger, the statue contributes to Brussels' reputation for charming surprises.
Stop 5

Passing by

Pass by the Halles Saint-Géry, a historic marketplace near the vanished Senne River. While not a stopping point, this locale carries echoes of Brussels' early beginnings.
Stop 6

5 min

Pause to appreciate the Nero comic mural, a testament to the city's engagement with comic book art. Take in the creativity displayed on the walls as you absorb the vibrant surroundings.
Stop 7

Passing by

Pass by Doctor Vinyl, a haven for vinyl enthusiasts. Though not a stop, the record store adds a musical note to your urban ramble through Brussels.
Stop 8

Passing by

Pass Notre Dame aux Riches-Claires, a cultural touchpoint in the heart of the city. While you may not pause, the surroundings echo Brussels' commitment to preserving its architectural heritage.
Le Passage Mural

5 min

Take a moment to absorb the Le Passage comic mural, another gem along the Comic Book Trail. The dynamic scenes depicted here offer a glimpse into Brussels' rich artistic culture.
Grand Place

10 min Admission not included

Arrive at the magnificent Grand Place, one of Europe's most beautiful squares. Pause to admire the Baroque houses that rose from the ashes of the 1695 French artillery onslaught. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this iconic location.
Stop 11

Passing by

Pass by the Brussels Town Hall, a striking architectural landmark. While not a designated stop, the town hall contributes to the historical tapestry of the Grand Place.
Stop 12

5 min

Pause to observe the bronze figure of local hero Everard 't Serclaes, a key fixture in Brussels' historical narrative. Learn about the intriguing stories surrounding this statue as you absorb the atmosphere.
Stop 13

Passing by

Pass by Hotel Amigo, an elegant establishment that adds a touch of sophistication to the cityscape. Though not a stop, it exemplifies Brussels' historical charm and modern luxury blend.
Tintin Mural Painting

5 min

Engage with the Tintin comic mural, celebrating the beloved character's connection to Brussels. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry that pays homage to one of the city's cultural icons.
Manneken Pis

Passing by

Encounter the iconic Manneken Pis, Brussels' most visited statue. Marvel at its whimsical charm and learn about the peculiar traditions surrounding its occasional dressing in various costumes.
Stop 16

5 min

Pause to appreciate the Manneken Peace mural, adding artistic flair to your tour. Delve into the mural's significance as you soak in the creative expression along your route.
Stop 17

Passing by

Walk past Café La Fleur en Papier Doré, a historic meeting place for Surrealist artists. Though not a stopping point, it encapsulates Brussels' association with artistic movements.
Crosly Bowling

Passing by

Catch a glimpse of Crosly Bowling, a unique spot contributing to Brussels' urban landscape. While not a designated stop, it adds a touch of unconventional charm to the surroundings.
Stop 19

Passing by

Pass by Café Leffe, an establishment reflecting Brussels' beer culture. Though not a stop, it contributes to the city's reputation as a haven for beer enthusiasts.
Stop 20

Passing by

Pass by Chez Richard, adding to the culinary diversity of Brussels. While not a designated stop, it enhances the city's reputation as a gastronomic delight.
Stop 21

5 min

Pause at Petit Sablon square to peruse the 60 symbolic statues, immersing yourself in the artistry and history that this location offers.
Stop 22

Passing by

Pass by the Statue of Counts Egmont and Hoorn, a historical monument contributing to the city's cultural richness. Though not a designated stop, it adds to the narrative of Brussels' past.
Stop 23

Passing by

Walk past the Egmont Palace, an architectural gem enhancing the cityscape. While not a stop, it underscores Brussels' blend of historical splendour and contemporary life.
Place Royale

5 min

Arrive at Place Royale, an elegant square with buried ruins. Take a moment to uncover the hidden history beneath your feet and appreciate the grandeur of this lesser-known site.
Stop 25

Passing by

Pass by Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg, a historic church enriching Brussels' architectural heritage. While not a stop, it contributes to the city's religious and historical tapestry.
Palais du Coudenberg

5 min

Pause to explore the Coudenberg Palace ruins, unearthing remnants of a Renaissance palace. Immerse yourself in the archaeological discoveries that offer a glimpse into Brussels' regal past.
Stop 27

Passing by

Walk past the Magritte Museum, a cultural institution celebrating surrealist art. Though not a stop, it adds to Brussels' reputation as a hub for artistic expression.
Palace of Charles of Lorraine

5 min Admission not included

Arrive at the Palace of Charles de Lorraine, an architectural gem often overlooked. Take a moment to appreciate the elegance of this site.
Stop 29

Passing by

Catch a glimpse of The Whirling Ear, an artistic installation contributing to Brussels' contemporary art scene. While not a designated stop, it adds a modern touch to your tour.
Mont des Arts

5 min

Conclude your urban ramble with one of the best views of Brussels at Mont Des Arts. Marvel at the panoramic vista overlooking the garden and absorb the beauty that encapsulates the city.
Stop 31

Passing by

Pass by Château Moderne bar, adding a touch of local flavor to your route. While not a designated stop, it represents Brussels' diverse and welcoming social scene.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

The tour begins at the top of the steps in front of the Bourse, at Boulevard Anspach 80. The nearest metro station is Bourse/Grand-Place, just a few steps from the starting point. Use the exit signed Place de la Bourse.

End point

The tour ends at The Whirling Ear.

Using your ticket

VOICEMAP CODE

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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent 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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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

3. Create an account

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

5. 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]