City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours 5.0 (316)

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
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

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What travelers think of this experience

Roni Apr 2025

We enjoy private hosts sharing a city with us. We learn much more than in a big group, and it’s more fun

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Paula Apr 2025

Francis was an excellent guide. He figured out right away the pace we liked to go and the things we found most interesting. I would recommend him highly.

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David Apr 2025

Perfect tour covering major city center sites. Provided nice overview for quick stop in Brussels. Patrick is knowledgeable and easy-going and speaks a ton of languages

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Shannon Apr 2025

Thank you Paola! So enjoyed meeting you & spending the afternoon with you in Brussels!

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Kris Apr 2025

Patrick gave us a very informative two hour overview of Brussels. We had a great time learning about the city.

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Marsha Apr 2025

Our guide was knowledgeable and friendly and told us so much about the city we would never have discovered on our own. Highly recommend!

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour?

No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.

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?

Absolutely! Whether you want a blend of food, history, local culture, or nightlife, your host will seamlessly weave them together into one immersive experience.

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?

Of course! Your experience is flexible, so you can explore at your own pace and make changes along the way.

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 host can adjust the plan with indoor 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.