Brussels offers a surprising variety of ways to experience its sights, flavors, and stories. Whether you’re a history lover eager to walk through centuries of architecture, a foodie ready to sample the city’s renowned chocolates and waffles, or a curious traveler wanting personalized insights, Brussels has a lot to offer. The city’s compact size makes it ideal for small-group tours, like the Brussels: Historical Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting, which combines iconic sites with delicious treats, or the private Brussels Highlights & Hidden Gems Private Tour, offering a tailored experience with a local guide. These options give a taste of both the major landmarks and the city’s lesser-known corners.
From cycling through Brussels’ scenic streets to exploring its dark past on lantern-lit evenings, this list showcases the diversity of ways you can uncover the city’s charm. Whether you’re after an immersive food tour, a scenic bike ride, or a private tour with insider tips, there’s plenty to choose from. This guide will help you find the best fit for your interests, budget, and schedule.
Quick Overview
Brussels is well-suited for a wide range of tours. Food lovers can indulge in Belgian chocolates, waffles, and local dishes. History enthusiasts can explore the city’s dark side or walk its most famous sites. For a more personalized experience, private tours connect travelers with locals who craft custom itineraries. Active travelers can hop on a bike tour or explore Brussels’ hidden corners, while history buffs can visit WWII sites or the Battle of the Bulge battlefield.
Below, we detail each tour’s unique features and practical considerations, helping you decide which experience is best suited for your trip.
1. Brussels: Historical Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting
This 2.5-hour guided small-group tour is a delightful mix of sightseeing, history, and tasty indulgence. Covering major sites like Manneken Pis, the Grand Place, and Brussels Park, it’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced introduction to the city. What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of chocolate tasting from a Belgian Royal Warrant holder and the best waffle in Brussels—both delicious highlights.
The tour is designed for small groups (max 14), ensuring personalized attention. The itinerary includes stops at the Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries, Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, and the Royal Palace, with plenty of photo opportunities and insider tips on bars and restaurants. Visitors love the knowledgeable guide Lou, who is praised for her friendliness and expertise. A typical review states, “The tour was amazing and our guide Lou was very knowledgeable and kind.”
Bottom Line: A lively, engaging way to see Brussels’ highlights while enjoying some of Belgium’s signature flavors. Best suited for those who appreciate a mix of cultural sights and culinary treats.
2. Brussels by Bike: City Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour
For around $41, this 3.5-hour bike tour combines the thrill of outdoor exploration with the chance to see both famous landmarks and lesser-known spots. The guided ride takes you through Brussels’ most charming streets, passing sites like Grand Place, Saint-Géry, and the Atomium. The tour offers the flexibility of choosing your ideal bike from a wide selection, making it accessible for all fitness levels.
What makes this ride special is the mixture of well-known highlights and local favorites, plus a cozy café break to mingle with fellow travelers. The guide’s commentary brings Brussels’ stories alive, making it perfect for those who prefer an active, hands-on approach to sightseeing. The tour is rated 4.8/5 with many praising the guide’s friendliness and the variety of routes.
Bottom Line: An energetic, fun way to see Brussels at your own pace. Ideal for travelers who enjoy cycling and want to discover both the city’s highlights and hidden corners.
3. Brussels: Beer Tasting Tour with 7 Beers and Snacks
This 4-hour tour is a must for beer lovers. It features seven different Belgian beers, including Trappist and Lambic varieties, served in some of Brussels’ oldest taverns. The tour also pairs each beer with tasty snacks and chocolates, making it a true culinary experience.
Starting at Mary Grand Place, the tour explores historic alleys and hidden taverns, providing a laid-back, authentic beer journey. The guide’s knowledge about Belgian brewing traditions makes this tour stand out. One reviewer says, “David was a great tour guide. He made it a great day exploring back street bars.” This tour offers excellent value, especially considering the variety of beers and snacks included.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an immersive beer experience paired with local stories. Suitable for travelers 21+ who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere.
4. Brussels Highlights & Hidden Gems Private Tour with a Local Guide
This flexible, fully personalized tour lets you explore Brussels through the eyes of a local. You choose the focus—whether major landmarks like the Grand Place or tucked-away neighborhoods—and your vetted guide crafts a custom itinerary. Ranging from 3 to 8 hours, it’s ideal for travelers who want a tailored experience.
Your local host will share insider tips, lesser-known stories, and authentic spots you won’t find in guidebooks. The reviews consistently praise the personal touch, with one saying, “Patrick was a wonderful guide. Very knowledgeable and passionate about Brussels.” This tour offers the ultimate insider perspective, deepening your understanding of the city’s culture.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking an exclusive, flexible experience with personal insights. It’s more costly but offers unmatched customization.
5. Brussels: City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings
This 3-hour walking tour immerses you in Brussels’ food scene. Led by a friendly local guide, you’ll sample various savory and sweet treats, including Belgian waffles, herring, and local cheeses. All food is included, and vegetarians are well catered for.
The tour covers lively spots such as Place Poelaert and Rue des Eperonniers, with plenty of commentary on Belgian cuisine and culture. The guide Chloe earns high praise for her knowledge and warmth. One reviewer notes, “Her food choices were great and she gave us excellent recommendations for restaurants.” It’s a great way to combine cultural insights with delicious bites.
Bottom Line: A tasty, well-paced introduction to Brussels’ culinary scene. Ideal for travelers with limited time who want a mix of food and culture.
6. Brussels: Food Tour with Lunch, Chocolate, Beer, & Waffles
This 4-hour tour offers a hearty taste of Brussels. It features a full Belgian lunch—such as mussels or beef stew—plus chocolate tastings, waffles or mousse, and two beer tastings. You’ll also visit major sights like Grand Place and pass through vibrant neighborhoods.
The tour’s highlight is the comprehensive experience, combining local dishes, sweet treats, and drinks in one outing. The itinerary includes visits to top chocolatiers and scenic stops. The reviews highlight the quality of food and the friendly guides, making it a good value at about $112.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers looking for an all-in-one food and sightseeing tour with a substantial meal included.
7. Brussels Food Tour with Full Meal & Drinks by Do Eat Better
For about $115, this 3.5-hour guided walk provides a full meal experience without restaurant reservations. It covers neighborhoods like Place Poelaert and Quartier Marolles, with stops for Belgian fries, cheeses, and Belgian waffles. The focus is on authentic, local dishes.
The tour is praised for its thoughtful food selection and engaging storytelling. Travelers appreciate the opportunity to sample a variety of dishes while learning about Brussels’ culinary traditions. One reviewer remarks, “We left full and happy, with a great overview of Belgian cuisine.” It’s perfect for travelers who want a culinary deep dive without the fuss of planning.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a complete Belgian meal in a lively, informative tour setting.
8. Evening Tour: The Dark Side of Brussels
Experience Brussels from a different perspective on this lantern-lit, 2-hour evening tour. It uncovers the city’s darker stories, including revolts, executions, and forgotten heroes. Starting at the Place du Grand Sablon, you’ll explore the hidden, grittier side of this seemingly polished city.
This tour is highly rated for its storytelling and unique focus. Rahim, the guide, is praised for his humor and insight. If you’re interested in the more sinister chapters of Brussels’ past, this is a compelling choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers craving an atmospheric, less touristy exploration of Brussels’ darker tales.
9. Brussels: Chocolate Appreciation and Tasting Walking Tour
This 2-hour stroll takes you through Brussels’ best chocolate shops—five of them—where you’ll taste eight different chocolates. It’s a gentle, flavorful walk through the city’s chocolate scene, with commentary on Belgium’s historic chocolate-making traditions.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit highlights like Grand Place and the Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert. Reviewers mention the “delicious chocolate tastings” and “great explanations about Belgian chocolate history.” This tour is a sweet choice for chocolate lovers wanting an intimate, relaxed experience.
Bottom Line: A delightful, informative chocolate walk—great for sweet tooths and culture enthusiasts alike.
10. Brussels Old City’s Highlights Walking Tour
Covering 2.5 hours, this tour takes you from Grand Place to Mont des Arts, exploring the old city’s iconic landmarks. Led by local guides, it includes visits to Manneken Pis, Saint Nicholas Church, and La Monnaie opera house.
Rated 5/5, travelers praise the lively storytelling and easy pacing. It’s a solid overview for first-timers, with plenty of photo stops and historical anecdotes. If you’re short on time but want to see the essentials, this walk is a dependable choice.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded intro to Brussels’ historic center, suitable for travelers wanting a concise, guided overview.
11. Brussels Highlights: Walking & Bus Tour with Waffle Tasting
This 4-hour combo tour offers the best of both worlds: a bus scenic drive plus walks on foot, with a waffle tasting included. It visits major landmarks like Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and Atomium, with an emphasis on efficient sightseeing.
It’s perfect if you want to see a lot in one day, with reviews highlighting the friendly guide Jasmine and the tasty waffle. The tour balances transportation and walking, making it accessible for all ages and energy levels.
Bottom Line: An efficient, family-friendly way to experience Brussels’ main sights along with a sweet treat.
12. Brussels: Private Walking Tour with a Local
This personalized experience pairs you with a passionate local guide for 2-6 hours. You decide what to see—whether main attractions or hidden corners—and your guide shares authentic stories and tips. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, in-depth exploration.
Reviews reveal this as a “wonderful, customized experience,” especially valued for its personal touch. It’s ideal for those who prefer to shape their own itinerary rather than stick to a preset route.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers craving a bespoke tour with intimate knowledge and local insights.
13. Comic Book Tour in Brussels
For only $7, this 2.5-hour guide in Spanish explores Brussels’ significant comic book heritage. You’ll see murals, visit the house that inspired Tintin, and learn about the “clear line” style that made Belgian comics famous. It appeals equally to newcomers and comic aficionados, offering cultural context and street art insights.
Reviewers emphasize the guide’s lively storytelling and the tour’s accessibility. It’s a fun, affordable way to connect Belgian comics with the city’s streets.
Bottom Line: Perfect for comic fans and curious travelers wanting a playful cultural tour.
14. The Battle of The Bulge Tour
This full-day, private tour explores the WWII Battle of the Bulge, including the Bastogne War Museum, tanks, foxholes, and cemeteries. It’s highly personalized and ideal for military history buffs or family groups interested in learning about the sacrifices made during WWII.
With transportation included and options for hotel pickup, it offers a comprehensive, immersive experience. One reviewer says, “Levi made it unforgettable, with detailed stories tailored to our interests.”
Bottom Line: For serious history enthusiasts, this tour provides a detailed, respectful look at a pivotal WWII event.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Brussels, consider your interests first. Want culinary delights and historic landmarks? The Chocolate & Waffle Tasting or City Center Food Tour are excellent options. If you’re after personalized insights, the Private Tour or Custom Private Walk might suit you best.
For active travelers, the Bike Tour offers a dynamic way to cover ground, while history buffs should consider the Dark Side of Brussels or Battle of the Bulge. Budget-conscious options like the Comic Book Tour provide a fun twist without breaking the bank.
Finally, check availability and book early, especially for popular day tours or private experiences, as Brussels can fill up quickly. Tailor your choice based on how much time you have, your budget, and what kind of experience you’re craving.
Final Thoughts
Brussels’ variety of tours ensures there’s something for every traveler—whether you want to explore its historic core, indulge in Belgian chocolates, or uncover its secret stories. For a classic introduction, the Historical Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting strikes a great balance. If you prefer a customizable experience, the Private Highlight Tour is unbeatable.
Active explorers will appreciate the Bike Tour, and history buffs should not miss the Battle of the Bulge. No matter your preference, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable Belgian experiences.