Brussels’ historical tours cut right to the heart of European history. The essential Grand Place walking tour showcases the city’s medieval market square and guild houses in just 2 hours. I especially love the WWII resistance tour through the Sablon Quarter – it’s fascinating and well-researched, with stops at actual resistance hideouts.
The morning food tour combines history with Belgium’s best treats, from waffles to chocolate, while sharing stories of how these traditions developed. For a deeper look at Belgian history, the guided tour of the BELvue Museum offers excellent context and artifacts spanning medieval to modern times.
These are our favorite tours that bring Brussels’ past to life. Let’s explore the top historical walks worth your time and money.
Key Points
- The Historical Walking Tour and Enchanting Brussels Tour offer immersive experiences covering significant sites like Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and cathedrals.
- Specialized tours like the Battle of the Bulge Tour, Food and Heritage Tour, and Colonial Heritage Tour provide in-depth exploration of specific historical themes.
- The BELvue Belgium History Museum showcases over 200 objects across seven themes, accessible with a multilingual audio guide and wheelchair-friendly facilities.
- Culinary and cultural experiences often include tastings of Belgian delicacies and visits to renowned landmarks like the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula.
- Tours feature small group sizes, flexible cancellation policies, and professional guides to ensure personalized and enriching historical experiences.
Brussels: Historical Walking Tour With Chocolate & Waffle Tasting
This thrilling historical walking tour of Brussels offers an immersive experience that blends the city’s rich past with its renowned culinary delights.
Over 2.5 hours, you’ll explore key landmarks like the Grand Place and Manneken Pis, while enjoying tastings of Belgian chocolates and waffles.
With a maximum group size of 12, you’ll receive personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide, who’ll share insider tips and recommendations for further exploration.
The tour is accessible to those with a moderate fitness level, and it operates in all weather conditions.
Boasting a 4.9-star rating and 98% recommendation, this tour is an excellent way to discover the history and flavors of Brussels.
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Brussels: BELvue Belgium History Museum Entry Ticket
Stepping away from the immersive walking tour, the BELvue Belgium History Museum offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the country’s rich heritage.
Through seven thought-provoking themes, the museum showcases over 200 objects that bring Belgium’s past to life.
Tickets range from €10 to €5, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
The museum’s free audio guide, accessible on personal devices, is available in multiple languages.
Wheelchair accessibility and a visitor information booklet further enhance the experience.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 17 reviews, the BELvue is a must-visit for those seeking to explore Belgium’s captivating history.
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Historical Walking Tour: The Story of Brussels – by Legends
Legends’ Historical Walking Tour invites travelers on a captivating 2.5-hour exploration of Brussels’ rich past.
Rated 4.9/5 by 79 reviewers, the tour is recommended by 99% of travelers. Starting at the iconic Grand Place, the walking tour takes visitors through the city’s notable landmarks, providing in-depth historical context from a local and professional guide.
Accessible to all, the tour operates year-round, regardless of weather. With flexible booking options and competitive pricing, the tour offers an excellent value proposition for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts alike.
Travelers consistently praise the guide’s thorough knowledge and the tour’s ability to deliver an enjoyable and informative Brussels experience.
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Heritage and Food of Brussels Walking Tour
A captivating 2-hour walking tour, the Heritage and Food of Brussels Walking Tour invites visitors to enjoy the city’s rich history and vibrant culinary scene.
Priced at Kč 12,050 for up to 4 participants, the tour covers iconic landmarks like Manneken Pis, Grand-Place, and the Royal Palace. Guests can explore lively food markets, indulge in Belgian chocolates, and experience the Royal Puppet Theater Toone.
While the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, it promises an engaging exploration of Brussels’ heritage and flavors.
However, one customer review raises concerns about the tour’s food focus and overall experience.
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Historic Battle of the Bulge Sites Tour From Brussels
Immersing visitors in the history of World War II’s pivotal Battle of the Bulge, the Historic Battle of the Bulge Sites Tour from Brussels takes guests on a captivating journey through the key battlegrounds and memorials that defined this critical conflict.
Led by historian István, known as “The Wolf,” the private tour focuses on providing detailed insights into this last major Nazi offensive.
Guests will explore significant sites like the Bastogne War Museum and Sherman tank displays, accompanied by a delectable lunch at a local bakery.
With its customizable format and István’s engaging expertise, this tour is a must for history enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience of this momentous chapter in European history.
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Brussels: Private Historical Highlights Walking Tour
Uncovering the rich historical tapestry of Brussels, the Private Historical Highlights Walking Tour provides an engaging exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the 2.5-hour private excursion immerses guests in Brussels’ captivating past. Highlights include the grand Grand Place, the iconic Manneken Pis statue, and the stunning Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries.
Visitors will also discover lesser-known gems like Saint-Géry Island and the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula.
With flexible booking options and a wheelchair-accessible route, this tour caters to diverse travelers seeking a personalized dive into Brussels’ storied history and culture.
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600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven
Stepping away from the bustling streets of Brussels, the self-guided walking tour in Leuven invites travelers to uncover the city’s storied past.
“600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven” promises an enriching exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Available daily from 7/27/2022 to 6/30/2025, the tour can be experienced at one’s own pace through the VoiceMap app, offering offline access to audio, maps, and geodata.
Priced at $9.99 per person, the tour is a popular choice due to its informative narration, though a refund request has been noted due to a scheduling conflict.
Accessible by public transportation, the tour guides visitors from the Leuven Rector De Somerplein to the iconic Fonske fountain.
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Brussels – Private Historic Walking Tour
Amidst the bustling streets of Brussels, a private historical walking tour offers an enriching exploration of the city’s renowned landmarks and hidden gems.
Priced at $386.10 per group, this 2-hour guided experience takes visitors on a journey through Brussels’ storied past.
Marvel at the grandeur of the Royal Palace, explore the charming Grand Square, and admire the architectural beauty of the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert.
The tour also includes visits to the Neo-Gothic St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral and the city’s historic town hall.
With knowledgeable guides available in multiple languages, this private tour provides an immersive and personalized way to uncover the rich history and cultural essence of Brussels.
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Brussels: Historical Tour With Chocolate & Waffle Tasting
Discover the rich history and tantalizing flavors of Brussels on this 2.5-hour guided tour.
Explore the city’s iconic landmarks like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula.
Along the way, indulge in Belgian waffles and pralines from a royal supplier.
With a maximum group size of 12, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide.
The tour is offered in both French and English, and you can reserve your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether you’re a first-time or returning visitor, this historical tour with delicious tastings is the perfect way to learn about the rich culture of Brussels.
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Brussels in History and Legends
Brussels holds a wealth of historical tales and urban legends that offer a unique glimpse into the city’s captivating past.
On this 2-hour walking tour, you’ll explore the city’s lesser-known areas, from the canal to Molenbeek, and uncover intriguing anecdotes passed down through generations.
Marvel at the statue of T’Serclaes and the monument to the glory of pigeons as your guide regales you with stories of the Uilenspiegel legend and the sea dog.
For just $20.10 per person, you’ll discover Brussels’ rich history and folklore, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the heart of the city’s captivating past.
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Enchanting Brussels Tour: History & Culture Unveiled
Set out on a captivating journey through Brussels’ rich history and vibrant culture on this private walking tour.
Priced at $337.44 for up to 4 people, the 2-hour Enchanting Brussels Tour takes you to iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, Manneken Pis, and the Grand Place.
Led by a professional local guide, the tour offers insightful commentary on the city’s architecture, art, and historical narratives.
Explore hidden gems, learn about the artistic ambiance, and discover the significance behind Brussels’ most celebrated sites.
With a 5/5 rating from a satisfied reviewer, this flexible and cancellable tour promises an engaging and informative experience tailored to your interests.
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From Brussels: Full-Day Ypres WW1 History Tour
This captivating full-day tour from Brussels transports visitors to the historic battlegrounds of Ypres, providing an immersive exploration of World War I’s Western Front.
Led by expert guides, the tour features visits to poignant sites like the Hooge Crater Cemetery, Hill 62 Canadian Memorial, and the Menin Gate, honoring the 55,000 missing Commonwealth soldiers.
The itinerary also includes the In Flanders Fields Museum and Passchendaele Museum, offering profound insights into the war’s impact.
With a 1-hour lunch break in Ypres, the tour allows ample time to explore the city and shop for souvenirs.
Catering to small groups of up to 14 participants, this comprehensive experience delivers an unforgettable journey through Ypres’ haunting yet inspiring World War I history.
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Discover Brussels and Its Colonial Heritage (Diner Included)
Enjoy the complex colonial heritage of Belgium as you explore the capital city of Brussels.
This 5-hour private tour takes you through significant sites built with colonial profits, including the Cinquantenaire, Tervuren Park, and the Palace of Congresses.
Learn about the Belgian colonization of Congo and the impact of Belgian companies that exploited the region during the colonial era.
Visit the Matonge district and enjoy a traditional Congolese meal.
With an experienced guide, you’ll gain valuable historical insights and understand the independence process of Congo.
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and comfortable shoes are recommended.
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Brussels: Private Exclusive History Tour With a Local Expert
Exploring Brussels’ storied past, this private exclusive history tour offers an immersive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Led by a Local Expert, the 2-hour tour delves into how Brussels evolved from a small settlement to the EU capital. Discover the influence of the city’s complex history on its architecture, culture, and bilingual character.
Highlights include the St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral and the Palais de Justice.
With a tailored itinerary and flexible pace, the tour caters to your interests. Priced at $633.62 per group (up to 8 participants), the experience features free cancellation and reserve-now-pay-later options.
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Sum Up
Brussels offers a rich historical experience with a variety of walking tours, museum visits, and specialized excursions. From exploring the city’s colonial heritage to delving into World War I history, there’s something for every traveler interested in the vibrant past of this European capital. Whether you prefer a private tour or a group experience, Brussels provides ample opportunities to uncover its fascinating stories and cultural treasures.