City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours 5.0
(379)

Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Explore Brussels beyond the must-sees—uncover hidden details, soak in history, and enjoy local flavors at a relaxed, flexible pace.

Get one to access museums for free and enjoy discounts for selected attractions!

What makes this experience special

From the grandeur of Grand Place to secret bookstore corners, street art enclaves, and rooftop views, this flexible journey brings Brussels’ history, flavors, and culture to life—your way.

Key highlights

  • Admire the golden façades of Grand Place before the crowds arrive
  • Taste locally loved pralines inside a historic shopping arcade
  • Wander past street art and hidden Art Nouveau gems in Saint-Géry
  • Enjoy a panoramic view of Brussels from Mont des Arts
  • Sip coffee with skyline views at a rooftop café, no ticket needed
  • End with Belgian fries, waffles, or a local Half-en-Half at a 19th-century brasserie

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
Walking experience may use public transport for long distances
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences
A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems
Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s not included

Food, drinks and shopping expenses
Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

Grand Place, Grand-Place de Bruxelles, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials
  • Cash is not accepted on Brussels public transport. If needed, use a contactless payment method (Apple Pay, Google Pay, bank card) or a STIB/MIVB travel card for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Grand Place, Grand-Place de Bruxelles, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Grand Place – A Historic Square with 360° Views

One of Europe’s most breathtaking squares, steeped in centuries of history.

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Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Take in the full 360° view of this UNESCO-listed square, surrounded by ornate guild houses and the impressive Town Hall. Keep an eye out for hidden details, like the golden phoenix atop Maison du Cygne.

Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Galeries Royales – Chocolate & Timeless Elegance

Stroll through a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade with hidden gems.

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Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Step into a glass-roofed arcade with pralines, bookstores, and boutiques showcasing Brussels' elegance. If you fancy, enjoy a quick praline tasting—one of the city’s sweetest traditions.

Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Saint-Géry – Street Art, Local Vibes & Markets

A creative hub blending history, cafés, and colorful murals.

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Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Once an island in the Senne River, Saint-Géry is now a buzzing area filled with street art and Art Nouveau details. Duck into Halles Saint-Géry, a former market hall hosting cultural pop-ups.

Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Mont des Arts – The City’s Best Panoramic View

A breathtaking viewpoint framed by elegant gardens and grand architecture.

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Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Take a moment to soak in the sweeping view, where Brussels’ rooftops and the Town Hall tower meet the horizon. If you like, enjoy a quiet coffee at the MIM Rooftop Café—no museum ticket required!

Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Café Le Cirio – A Classic Brussels Food Stop

A historic 1886 brasserie, perfect for a relaxed Belgian treat.

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Brussels Uncovered: A First Look at the City

Step into old-world charm and try local favorites like crispy Belgian fries, light Brussels waffles, or the Half-en-Half—a unique blend of white wine and champagne, loved by those in the know.

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories
Sunlit Smiles in the Heart of Brussels

Sunlit Smiles in the Heart of Brussels

Brussels from Above: A Skyline Worth Climbing For

Brussels from Above: A Skyline Worth Climbing For

Sunshine & Street Views: A Perfect Afternoon at Mont des Arts

Sunshine & Street Views: A Perfect Afternoon at Mont des Arts

Green Strolls and Grand Stories in the Royal Quarter

Green Strolls and Grand Stories in the Royal Quarter

A Cultural Pause with the Grand Place as the Backdrop

A Cultural Pause with the Grand Place as the Backdrop

Moules-frites and Memories: A Family Feast in Brussels

Moules-frites and Memories: A Family Feast in Brussels

Drizzly Days, Warm Conversations: Brussels in the Rain

Drizzly Days, Warm Conversations: Brussels in the Rain

Neon Nights & Gothic Lights: Grand Place After Dark

Neon Nights & Gothic Lights: Grand Place After Dark

A Brussels Family Affair: Bright Smiles, Blue Skies

A Brussels Family Affair: Bright Smiles, Blue Skies

Wandering with Wonder: An Afternoon of Hidden Corners

Wandering with Wonder: An Afternoon of Hidden Corners

Shared Curiosity in Every Step: Faces of Discovery

Shared Curiosity in Every Step: Faces of Discovery

Stepping Back in Time in the Heart of Brussels

Stepping Back in Time in the Heart of Brussels

Skyline Conversations Above Brussels

Skyline Conversations Above Brussels

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

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Michele Oct 2025

Fabio was fantastic. Very knowledgeable and accommodating. Highly recommend his tour.

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Kathy Oct 2025

Great overview for first time Brussels visitors. You learn about current political events, history and architecture or whatever your interests are.

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Angie Oct 2025

He was an excellent guide with vast knowledge of the coty and its history

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Daralyn Oct 2025

Bruno was amazing! He was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about Brussels. We covered 7 miles and he gave us a walking history lesson. It was awesome.

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Lynn Oct 2025

Sebastian was a great tour. He offered a mix of tour sites based on our interests. He made recommendations for food. He was very accommodating. I Highly recommend.

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Riccardo Oct 2025

Patrick was warm, knowledgeable and flexible. We had a wonderful tour of Brussels and we were able to see so much. Thank you!

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour or something different?

This isn’t a traditional tour with a fixed script. It’s a fully personalized day shaped around your interests, whether it’s culture, history, neighborhoods, or hidden local spots. Your host is a knowledgeable local, more like a friend showing you their city. It’s flexible, one-on-one, and tailored entirely to you.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire where you can share your interests, travel style, and any must-see spots. Based on that, we’ll match you with a local host who’ll reach out to plan your personalized itinerary..

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

Can I mix different themes in one experience?

Yes! You can blend food, culture, history, neighborhoods, or even a bit of nightlife if time allows. Just share your interests in the questionnaire, and your host will build the day around them.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Can I adjust the plan on the day?

Absolutely. Your host can adjust the itinerary on the day based on your pace, energy, or any new ideas you have. It’s a flexible experience from start to finish.

Will we enter attractions, or just explore from the outside?

That’s up to you! Some experiences include visits inside attractions, while others focus on the city's culture and atmosphere, which can be hard to truly experience without someone who knows the city inside out.

How much walking is involved?

This depends on the experience, but your host can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Your experience will still go ahead, and your host will adapt the day to suit the conditions. One of the great things about City Unscripted is that no two experiences are the same, and your host knows the city well enough to find great “rainy day” alternatives.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.