Brussels PRIVATE TOUR With Locals: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
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.
Available options
Best of Brussels Private Tour
Short Description: From the stunning Gran Place to the must-see Manneken Pis Statue and St. Nicholas Church in a private experience.
What's included
Experience without the crowds
PRIVATE multilingual local guide
Sustainable carbon neutral experience (B-Corp)
1 local drink or snack
PRIVATE tour - only you and your local
Detailed itinerary
1
See St Nicholas Church and other landmarks and must-sees of the city. Your local host will take you to the main spots in town so you can get the perfect overview of what makes Brussels so unique
2
Stop 2
Along the way, your local host will show you treasures hidden in plain sight that only the locals know about. Get to know the city through a different perspective, the local way, and discover places and stories that not many tourists experience
3
Stop 3
Behind every landmark and every stop, there’s a story, and your local host is ready to tell it all. Get ready to listen to incredible stories, one-of-a-kind insights, and fun facts only a knowledgeable local would know!
4
Stop 4
Follow your host to one of their favorite eateries for a snack or a drink beloved by the locals. Take a break and catch up with your new local friend and get the answers to all your travel questions
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Stop 7
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Stop 8
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Stop 9
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
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Stop 11
Pass by
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 12
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 13
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 14
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 15
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 16
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 17
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 18
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 19
Pass by
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 20
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 21
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 22
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 23
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 24
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 25
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 26
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 27
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 28
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 29
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 30
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 31
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 32
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 33
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 34
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Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
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Stop 35
Pass by
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
36
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
37
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
38
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
39
Stop 39
Pass by
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route. Please check with your host after your booking once you are put in touch with them.
What's not included
Hotel pickup / drop-off
Entrance to attractions - we will visit them from the outside
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
NL
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
86 reviews
5★
74
4★
7
3★
3
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.8
89 reviews
5★
77
4★
7
3★
2
2★
1
1★
2
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Private tour: only you & your local guide
CO2 Neutral: tour’s carbon emissions are offset
Meeting point
in front of Cafe Archipel, Marché aux poulets
About Brussels
Brussels, the heart of Europe, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine. As the de facto capital of the European Union, it's a melting pot of cultures and languages, offering a unique blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication.
Top Attractions
Grand Place
The Grand Place is the central square of Brussels and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's famous for its ornate guildhalls and the impressive Town Hall.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Atomium
The Atomium is a unique structure built for the 1958 World's Fair. It's a symbol of Brussels and offers panoramic views of the city.
Architecture
2-3 hours
€16 (adults), €10 (children)
Manneken Pis
The Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue of a boy peeing, which has become one of Brussels' most famous landmarks. It's often dressed in costumes for special occasions.
Cultural
15-30 minutes
Free
Royal Palace of Brussels
The Royal Palace is the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians. While the royal family does not reside here, it's used for official events and ceremonies.
Historical
1-2 hours
€12.50 (for the Royal Greenhouses, open only in spring and autumn)
Parc du Cinquantenaire
Parc du Cinquantenaire is a large urban park with a triumphal arch, museums, and green spaces. It's a great place for a leisurely walk or picnic.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (museums have separate fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Moules-frites
Mussels cooked in white wine, cream, or other sauces, served with a side of fries.
Main course
Can be made vegetarian by omitting the mussels and using a vegetable-based sauce.
Waffles
Belgian waffles are a must-try, with various toppings like whipped cream, chocolate, and fruit.
Dessert/Snack
Can be made vegetarian or vegan by choosing appropriate toppings.
Fries
Belgian fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with various sauces.
Snack/Side
Can be made vegetarian by choosing vegetable-based sauces.
Carbonade flamande
A traditional Flemish beef and beer stew, often served with fries or bread.
Main course
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Cycling tours
Kayaking on the Senne River
Escape rooms
Spa days
Picnics in parks
Café hopping
Museum visits
Art gallery tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. The city is lively, but also more crowded and expensive.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch, French, German
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Brussels is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious with ATMs and avoid using them at night
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Brussels Airport • 11 km (7 miles) from city center
By train
Brussels-South Station, Brussels-Central Station
By bus
Brussels-North Station, Brussels-South Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro is efficient and covers most of the city. It's a great way to get around, especially during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Heetch
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Sablon
Saint-Géry
European Quarter
Day trips
Bruges
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
Bruges is a medieval city with a well-preserved historic center, canals, and cobblestone streets. It's often referred to as the 'Venice of the North'.
Ghent
60 km (37 miles) • Full day
Ghent is a vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a lively student population. It's known for its medieval buildings, castles, and museums.
Antwerp
45 km (28 miles) • Full day
Antwerp is a dynamic city known for its fashion, diamond district, and vibrant cultural scene. It's home to numerous museums, galleries, and historic sites.
Festivals
Ommegang • Early July
Flower Carpet • Every two years in August
Christmas Market • Late November to early January
Pro tips
- Visit the Grand Place early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the square's beauty in peace.
- Try a Belgian waffle from a street vendor, but be cautious with toppings that may not be suitable for dietary restrictions.
- Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local culture.
- Learn a few basic phrases in French or Dutch to connect with locals and show respect for the language and culture.
- Consider purchasing a Brussels Card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
