What to do and see in Brussels, Belgium: The Best Historical & Heritage Tours

December 23, 2021 Malia Yoakum

Unassuming Brussels is the capital of Belgium, Flanders and Europe. Medieval Grand-Place, is indeed grand, with many 17th-century buildings and daily flower markets. Reopened in 2006, the Atomium, Brussels' Eiffel Tower, provides great views, inside and out. Architecture fans should visit Musee Horta, home of Belgian master architect Victor Horta. St. Gery's clubs and bars are packed year-round. Seafood eateries abound in Ste. Catherine. Walk, rather than get snarled up in traffic, in the narrow streets.
Restaurants in Brussels

1. Discover Brussels beer world with a chocolate pairing by a young local

Rue des Chapeliers, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium BeerSecret
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5.0 based on 15 reviews

Meet other people that share the same interest for beers. Get the best customised high-quality beer selection. Listen to stories from our young, local, passionate guide that launched one of Ghent’s 1st craft beers. Enjoy our chocolate beer pairing. Discover some hidden gems. Learn about the traditional beer histories & the origin of the ale, lager, triples, trappists, etc… Participate in our original beer game that will guarantee a great time. Taste our high-quality, delicious Belgian beers, based on your current knowledge. For sure a good variety of styles. Discover the real taste of hops and malts.

Inclusions: 5 x 15cl tasters of high- quality Belgian beers, each a different style. This is so important for us! (no restrictions because of brewery contracts), A visit of three different locations, like hidden gems and new trendy venues., Professional, passionate, local, young AND multilingual guide. , A taste of local delicacies & multiple chocolate pairing., Discover Belgium's beer world: Learn about the traditional beer histories & the origin of ales, etc., Original beer game that will guarantee a great & interactive time.

Exclusions: Hotel pick up or drop off . If required: choose for a private tour. Also available on our website., For our shared tours: we offer an English tour. Dutch & French available as private tours. , For customised tours like visiting an extra bar or chocolaterie, book a private tour.

Reviewed By dieterm893

Even I live in city Gent it was a new and fun experience. I had a good time and I discover new beers that I like drinking now. Also we went to a few places what I didn't know yet. It's fun to discover your own city on a different way. I certainly recommend this tour or any other one that's available.

2. Waterloo Battlefield

Mike Eyns Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Waterloo is the site of one of the most significant battles in European history. Your five-hour guided tour of Waterloo will become a day in your memories that you will treasure. Your private tour of Waterloo begins as you climb the Butte de Leon, (Lion's Mount), the hill that marks the battlefield where over 300,000 soldiers clashed in a momentous confrontation. At this site in June of 1815, the Duke of Wellington led the allied English, Dutch and Prussian forces in Napolean's final defeat. Along your private guided tour of Waterloo you will also have the chance to see the magnificent Panorama , which is a fascinating fresco of the battle with exciting sound effects. We'll also visit the inn that became the headquarters for the Duke of Wellington, and the old farm, Le Caillou, that was Napolean's headquarters. If you wish your tour can be extended to include a private tour of Le Quatre Bras, and Ligny, the site of Napolean's last victory.

Inclusions: Private transportation

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Reviewed By FellowTraveler819104

I wanted to go to some sights and museums that were not on any tour I could find, so I contacted Michael and ask if he would do a custom day tour from Brussels to Bastogne. After I told him where I wanted to go, we agreed on a price. He picked me up promptly at 8 AM, drove me to Bastogne and spent the day taking me from one museum to another. At the Bastogne Barrack’s museum, part of the exhibit was outside. The weather had turned cold (28*) and I did not have a heavy coat. Michael insisted that I wear his heavy coat while he remained in the car. This is the most accommodating man I have ever dealt with and he exceeded my expectations. I cannot recommend him highly enough.

3. Belgium Beer Tour

Grand-Place, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium Buendia Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

You can now get to know the exciting world of Belgian beer with Nice Day Tours Meet: the culture and history of this beverage and its production method. Discover the different types of beer in the best locations: Belgium, a small country in size with 1,132 beer brands. Every day more and more people are interested in discovering and enjoying the variety of beers offered by this country. Be sure to discover the reasons for this fame, the Lambic beers exclusive from Brussels and beers made by Trappist monks.

Inclusions: Alcoholic Beverages, Professional English-speaking guide, City tips, Discounts (discounts at restaurants, chocolate shops, museums etc.), 4 beers

Exclusions: SNAKS, Gratuities

Reviewed By Levesqme

As a family with teenagers, it is always a challenge to find an activity that will be entertaining for all. Although they are not history enthusiasts, my kids said that this tour was the best day of our stay in Belgium (1 week). They especially liked the tour guide, Jamal and his dry sense of humour. Jamal was able to point out funny historical details, do little games with the group and make recommendations on restaurants and activities. He made all the difference. Thanks Jamal for this wonderful (rainy) day! Things to be improved: we should have taken a tour for only 1 city. If you like to stroll in leisurely in the city, visit museums, etc., the tour is a bit fast paced and won't allow you to shop, visit independently museums and historic buildings. Also, you'll be paired with Spanish groups going on the bus. Not the best logistical arrangements. However, the price is well worth it. 10/10 would do again.

4. Discover our Brussels craft breweries with a local, passionate, young guide

Moeder Lambic Fontainas, Place Fontainas 8, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium BeerSecret
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

- Meet the brewer - Listen to stories from our young, local guide that launched one of the Belgian 1st craft beers - Learn more details about the brewing process, from mashing to double- fermenting - Taste limited editions from black porters to strong IPA’s or even barley wines - Found out how hops & malts taste - Discover projects of Brussels' future brewery / breweries - Explore the secret varieties of every local craft brewery - Receive tailor-made recommendations on where to go and what to drink after

Inclusions: Taste 6 unusual local beers of high quality, Private transportation, 1 craft brewery, which is not open to the public, Brewery Cantillon, the oldest Lambic brewery (not available during post-covid), 2 renowned beer lovers’ spots

Exclusions: Hotel pick up or drop off . If required, then choose for a custom tour on our website., For international groups, we offer an English tour. More languages available on website. , For customised tours like visiting an extra bar or chocolaterie, book a custom tour on our website.

Reviewed By Maarten V

A great beer tour in Brussels with Liselot, who has a lot of expertise in the beer brewing process and the different types of Belgian beers. We tried a few special and different type of beers, in some nice and traditional bars, all in a fun and comfortable atmosphere! I had a great evening :)

5. Bright Brussels Highlights BikeTour ENGLISH

Boulevard Adolphe Max 3, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium Cities By Bike
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

See more in 3,5 hours by bike than in 3 days on foot! No boring explication - fun facts - short stops - pleasure and experience. See the 10 different views of Brussels just like your are visiting 10 different cities ;-)

Inclusions: Use of bicycle, Snacks, Bottled water

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Reviewed By 365fransv

We had a lovely cycling tour last sunday. Leuven has a lot to offer and Robin clearly loves his city. Very well spend afternoon and I can highly reccomand it.

6. Private Tour Guide Brussels with a Local: Kickstart your Trip, Personalized

Brussels, Belgium CityUnscripted
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4.9 based on 26 reviews

Get acquainted with Brussels, its food, culture, activities and of course, its people with one of our hosts. You’ll explore a pocket of the city that’ll suit your vibe. You could visit a few sights then relax with a Belgian brew and frites, or a coffee and cinnamon bun and pick your host’s brain on the best place to visit, where to eat and how to get around the city. You will be feeling like a local in no time! Let them kickstart your trip the best way possible! Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do

Inclusions: Private and personalised experience, 3 hours with a Local Host, Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options), Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Tickets to any attractions, Transportation costs, Gratuities

Reviewed By Swedishfish426

Teresa was extremely knowledgeable and provided us with a great introduction to the city! We would definitely recommend this tour.

7. Bus day trip to Antwerp & Mechelen from Brussels + Atomium stop

Brussel-Centraal, Carrefour de l'Europe, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium Buendia Tours
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4.9 based on 8 reviews

Make the most of your time in Belgium during this full-day excursion to Antwerp and Mechelen + Atomium from Brussels. Don’t worry about time-consuming public transit; instead, benefit from round-trip transfers, as well as the insight of a local guide who can share context you might not have discovered alone, before exploring independently at your own pace.

Inclusions: Professional English-speaking guide, Round-trip with A/C, City tips, Discounts (discounts at restaurants, chocolate shops, museums etc.), We keep your suitcases on the bus

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Museum entrance, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By Levesqme

As a family with teenagers, it is always a challenge to find an activity that will be entertaining for all. Although they are not history enthusiasts, my kids said that this tour was the best day of our stay in Belgium (1 week). They especially liked the tour guide, Jamal and his dry sense of humour. Jamal was able to point out funny historical details, do little games with the group and make recommendations on restaurants and activities. He made all the difference. Thanks Jamal for this wonderful (rainy) day! Things to be improved: we should have taken a tour for only 1 city. If you like to stroll in leisurely in the city, visit museums, etc., the tour is a bit fast paced and won't allow you to shop, visit independently museums and historic buildings. Also, you'll be paired with Spanish groups going on the bus. Not the best logistical arrangements. However, the price is well worth it. 10/10 would do again.

8. Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Brussels Private Tour

Rue du Marché aux Poulets 12, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium Withlocals
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4.7 based on 19 reviews

This is not just another city tour; this is the best of Brussels from a unique perspective! Get to know Brussels on a city tour that gives you the perfect overview, with city highlights, hidden gems, storytelling, and a local treat - this tour has it all! Forget about big touristy groups and the crowds; it's time to see Brussels at its best but from the eyes of a local. Check out main landmarks like Grand Place, Royal Palace, St Nicholas Church and uncover hidden gems and city secrets with the help of a knowledgeable local guide. And the cherry on top, a local treat is included. Withlocals Highlights & Hidden Gems Private City Tour™ is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local produce and prevent over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.

Inclusions: Private Tour, Small-group tour option available, Local Guide, 1 local drink/tasting

Exclusions: Food & Beverages not mentioned in the inclusions, Hotel pick up & drop off

Reviewed By rpinkett

This experience was a gift and it was an absolute pleasure working with Shanthuru to organize it. He was attentive, professional, timely, and flexible. He checked in both prior to the experience to make certain everything arranged properly and checking in after to make certain everything went according to plan. I highly recommend him as someone who provides excellence customer service.

9. Express bus day trip to Bruges from Brussels at 10h30

Brussel-Centraal, Carrefour de l'Europe, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium Buendia Tours
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4.5 based on 4 reviews

Do you hate to wake up early when you travel? Depart at 10:30 AM, and transfer to the charming town of Bruges. Enjoy one of the most fascinating medieval cities in Europe with an English-speaking guide, and discover why the entire historic centre of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy 2 free hours for lunch and explore the city as you please. Taste some of the exclusive chocolates of Bruges and pop into some of the legendary lace shops

Inclusions: Professional English-speaking guide, City tips, Round-trip with A/C, Discounts (discounts at restaurants, chocolate shops, museums etc.), We keep your suitcases on the bus, Chocolate Tasting

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Head Phones, Museum entrance

Reviewed By Levesqme

As a family with teenagers, it is always a challenge to find an activity that will be entertaining for all. Although they are not history enthusiasts, my kids said that this tour was the best day of our stay in Belgium (1 week). They especially liked the tour guide, Jamal and his dry sense of humour. Jamal was able to point out funny historical details, do little games with the group and make recommendations on restaurants and activities. He made all the difference. Thanks Jamal for this wonderful (rainy) day! Things to be improved: we should have taken a tour for only 1 city. If you like to stroll in leisurely in the city, visit museums, etc., the tour is a bit fast paced and won't allow you to shop, visit independently museums and historic buildings. Also, you'll be paired with Spanish groups going on the bus. Not the best logistical arrangements. However, the price is well worth it. 10/10 would do again.

10. Private City Kickstart Tour: Brussels

Les Brasseurs, Boulevard Anspach 77, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium Withlocals
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4.4 based on 18 reviews

Receive a warm welcome to Brussels on a private tour that will kick off your time in the city in the best way possible! In only 90 minutes, a local guide will get you acquainted with Brussels to help you enjoy the rest of your stay to the fullest. Discover where to find Maison Dandoy and Manneken Pis, and how to explore them away from the crowds. And what about that unique family owned restaurant or that amazing local hotspot? We got you covered; the local guides are experts in the subject! Forget about touristy traps; on this city kickstart tour, your guide will point you in the right direction. Private City Kickstart Tour: Brussels is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local produce and prevent over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.

Inclusions: Private Tour, Small-group tour option available, Local Guide, Local Tips and Tricks, City Orientation

Exclusions: Hotel pick up & drop off, Food & Beverages not mentioned in the inclusions

Reviewed By rpinkett

This experience was a gift and it was an absolute pleasure working with Shanthuru to organize it. He was attentive, professional, timely, and flexible. He checked in both prior to the experience to make certain everything arranged properly and checking in after to make certain everything went according to plan. I highly recommend him as someone who provides excellence customer service.

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