Brussels tours

Things to do in Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, offers more than its political reputation. Walking through its cobblestone streets, you're surrounded by Art Nouveau architecture that speaks of bygone eras, while the enticing scent of waffles seems to follow you everywhere. In the company of a local guide, you explore corners of Brussels that aren't in the guidebooks, gaining insights into its unique culture beyond the Grand Place. Whether you're tasting your way through the Marolles district on a food and wine tour or bypassing the crowds at the Atomium during a leisurely walk, your experience becomes a personal narrative, not just a list of landmarks. With private tours, you uncover the essence of Brussels in a way only locals can reveal. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Brussels. Explore Brussels your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Brussels tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Brussels for every interest, including: History tours: Walk Grand-Place with your guide to read the guildhall symbols, step inside the Town Hall when it’s open, and compare royal power at the Maison du Roi and the nearby Royal Palace. If you want a bigger story, add a short trip to the Waterloo battlefield to climb the Lion’s Mound and explore the panorama. Architecture tours: Trace Art Nouveau in Ixelles and Saint-Gilles, touring the Horta Museum and admiring façades like Hôtel Tassel and Maison Cauchie, then contrast it with Art Deco at Flagey. For mid-century spectacle, include the Atomium and 1958 Expo site in your private tour. Food and Drink tours: Taste pralines at Pierre Marcolini and Laurent Gerbaud, sample waffles at Maison Dandoy, and compare frites at Frit Flagey and a classic friterie near Sainte-Catherine. Beer lovers can tour Cantillon to learn how lambic is made, then try gueuze and kriek at Moeder Lambic or Delirium as part of your food and drink tours. The city centre is easy to explore on foot, and metro, trams, and buses connect the rest efficiently. If you prefer fewer transfers, ask your local guide about a chauffeured tour or private transportation between neighbourhoods. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Brussels inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Consider taking a private walking tour to explore Brussels and include some popular neighborhoods in your itinerary with a local guide. There's no better way to know a neighborhood than having someone who truly knows Brussels by your side. - Sablon: Perfect for art and antique lovers, Sablon is dotted with galleries and antique shops. Families and groups will enjoy the many chocolate shops and cozy cafes, while cultural tourists can explore the historic Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon. - Marolles: Known for its vibrant flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle, Marolles offers a lively atmosphere that will interest those seeking meaningful connections with locals. It’s also an excellent spot for families to browse unique shops and enjoy local street food. - Ixelles: This diverse neighborhood caters well to multi-generational groups with its mix of trendy boutiques, multicultural restaurants, and peaceful parks. Cultural tourists will appreciate the Art Nouveau architecture and the lively atmosphere of Flagey Square. - Saint-Gilles: A melting pot of cultures, Saint-Gilles is ideal for those looking to experience Brussels’ multicultural vibe. The area is filled with art studios, eclectic shops, and offers a relaxed environment for families and groups to explore together. - European Quarter: Offering a glimpse into modern Brussels, the European Quarter is perfect for those interested in politics and international affairs. The wide boulevards and green spaces provide a pleasant backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Day trip ideas from Brussels After you’ve walked the Grand-Place and sampled a cone of frites, look outward to canal cities and art-filled hubs that work well as quick day trips by train or car with your tour planned around your interests. Bruges: Wander the Markt and Burg squares, follow quiet canals, and dip into chocolate shops between photo stops. If you like medieval streets, easy bike paths, and relaxed cafés, this compact city is a clear pick, and your tour can map a route that avoids the busiest lanes. Ghent: Trace the rivers to the old harbour, see the castle exterior, and check lively streets around Vrijdagmarkt for local bites. If you’re into street art, bold architecture, and a bit of history without crowds, Ghent balances it well on a single day. Antwerp: Walk the diamond district, explore fashion streets near Nationalestraat, and watch the Scheldt from the riverfront. If design, shopping, and big-station architecture appeal to you, Antwerp keeps the pace brisk, and your tour can stick to walkable neighbourhoods. Leuven: Step through the ornate town hall square, visit the university library, and try a tasting in a historic beer café. If lively student energy, Gothic façades, and compact lanes match your style, Leuven fits neatly into short tours from Brussels. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Brussels most travellers miss.