Brussels Self-Guided Walking Tour and Scavenger Hunt

Brussels , Belgium

Brussels Self-Guided Walking Tour and Scavenger Hunt

Active

2h - 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

Looking for things to do in Brussels? Try our Scavenger Hunt. It is a 2-hour self-guided walking tour through the heart of the old town while discovering its monuments and frescoes, and learning its history!

Walk from the Central Station to the Grand Place, the Manneken Pis, the Parliament, and the Royal Palace. Solve challenges at each stop. Each challenge you solve will indicate your next destination, along with a bit of history and local tips.

Brussels is the capital of Belgium, with a population of approximately 1.2 million in the metropolitan area.

The Brussels Scavenger Hunt is a 3.3km / 1.9mi self-guided walking tour of the old city center. There are challenges at every stop. It will take you 2 hours to complete. It ends where it starts.
See all the sites! 56 points of interest
Fun for all ages
Pet-friendly throughout
Stroller accessible throughout
Not wheelchair friendly.
No set schedule – start on your phone when you’re ready
Take as much time as you want

Available options

Brussels Self-Guided Walking Tour and Scavenger Hunt

What's included

Scavenger hunt instructions on your smartphone (data required)

24/7 customer support

50+ challenges to solve

Detailed itinerary

Learn about Brussels' Central train station, opened in 1952, and why it is located here.
Solve 3 challenges here before moving on to your next stop.

Stop 2

From here, admire Brussels Central Station and learn about your surroundings before moving on.
Solve a few challenges here

Solve a challenge as you make your way here - 5 minutes.
In this small plaza, learn about Don Quixote and why this character is honored here in Brussels. Also, learn about a Hungarian composer, and discover a beautiful mural.
Solve 3 challenges here

Stop 4

Walk from last stop to here = 5min
Learn more about King Baudouin and solve a challenge here.

Stop 5

Approach this cathedral from the last stop, learn about its history, its royal significance, and solve a challenge.

Walk here from the Cathedral = 2 minutes
Solve a challenge to discover this location and learn about it. = 5 minutes
Then walk to the next destination = 5 minutes

Stop 7

Learn about this arcade-style high-end shopping mall as you solve 3 challenges walking through it.
Solve a 4th challenge as you exit it to your next destination.

Meet the Manneke Pis' lesser-known little sister. Discover which organisation go to the funds amassed in her fountain.
Solve a challenge here, then on your way to the next stop, solve a beer-related challenge.

Learn about his ancient puppet (marionette) theatre, where the plays tell the story of Brussels.
Solve a challenge while you're here.
10 minutes.

Stop 10 Pass by

Learn about this spooky basement bar, which opened at the same time as The Exorcist in 1974!
5 minutes

Stop 11

Admire and learn about Brussels' central plaza. Here you'll learn about the King's House, the Brabant Princes' House, the Brewers Museum, and City Hall while solving many challenges.

Learn about the former King's House here in Brussels' central plaza.
Solve a date-related challenge while you are here.
- 5 minutes

Stop 13 Pass by

Learn about the Dukes of Brabant's house, the rulers of Brussels for a time. Discover how this grand building was carved into individual guild houses as you solve a challenge.
5 minutes.

Stop 14 Pass by

Learn about the Brewer's house in where the Museum of Belgian Beer is located.
Solve a challenge while you are here, then another challenge around the corner
-10 minutes

Stop 15 Pass by

Admire and learn about Brussels' city hall.
Solve a challenge while you are here.
- 5 minutes

Stop 16 Pass by

Walk 2 minutes to reach this place from the Grand Place and learn about the De Witte Jewelry, solve a challenge about the small fountain out front, then learn about this church and solve another challenge.
5 minutes on site

Stop 17 Pass by

Admire and learn about Brussels' Stock Exchange building and what purpose it serves today.
Solve a challenge here before moving on to the next destination.
5 minutes on site.

Solve a cobbler-related challenge on your way here, then learn about this small drinking fountain. Solve another challenge here.

See a tall mural about the Tintin comic books that were created here in Brussels over 100 years ago!
Solve a challenge here.
Then learn about Choco-Story, Brussels' chocolate museum

Stop 20

Finally, see the world-famous Manneken Pis statue. If you're lucky, you will visit on any of 100+ festival days where he is costumed.
Learn about the statue, and solve 2 challenges about the surrounding buildings.

Stop 21 Pass by

Walk 2 minutes to reach the Royal Conservatory and learn about its history dating back to Napoleon's occupation of Belgium.
Solve 2 challenges here.
5 minutes on site.

Stop 22

Learn about Belgium's best-known French-language singer and solve a challenge here.

Learn about Queen Elisabeth as you solve a challenge in this semi-circular plaza.

Cross the street to learn about Elisabeth's husband, King Albert 1.
Solve a challenge here.

Stop 25

While you are here, you will learn about several museums, a library, see a large carillon, and solve several challenges.

See a statue of Charles de Lorraine, a former ruler of Brussels, and his Palace, which can be visited.
Solve a challenge while you are here.
Spend 5 minutes.

Stop 27 Pass by

Learn about the musical instruments museum and solve a challenge about it.
5 minutes here.

Stop 28 Pass by

Learn about, and see the Musée Magritte before walking to the Place Royal.
5 minutes here

Stop 29

In this large open square, learn about the museums around you, the grand central equestrian statue of Godfrey of Bouillon, and a large cathedral.
Solve 3 challenges while you are here.

See and learn about this large cathedral located on the Place Royale.
Solve a challenge here.
5 minutes on site.

Stop 31 Pass by

Walk 5 minutes to admire the very large royal palace in central Brussels.
Learn about he building's history and solve a challenge here.
Spend 10 minutes here.

Facing the Royal Palace is the Parc de Bruxelles, or Brussel's central park.
It is a large forested park with many monuments and fountains.
As you walk through it, you will learn about a few of these monuments and solve a challenge before making your way out to the west.

Stop 33

Learn about this French Revolutionary General's impact on the city of Brussels as it fought for its own independence from the Netherlands.
Solve a challenge here.
Then walk down a long staircase, solving another challenge.
Learn about a small triangular park and its controversial art installation, before returning to the start location.

What's not included

This tour is strictly exterior sightseeing, you need not enter any of the locations seen on it.

Admission is not included for any location, as you do not need to enter them for this activity.

Available languages

Written guide

EN FR

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Once you're standing in the Carrefour de l'Europe, outside Brussels Central train station, and have completed the transaction with our website, follow the start instructions in the "Order Complete" email.

Important notes

You must convert your voucher on our website before beginning the activity.
To do so, your TripAdvisor/Viator account Must Have your Real Email as we will email instructions to it. These will tell you how to convert your purchase on our website to complete the activity.
If you are ready to do the activity immediately, please call our customer support for immediate access: 514-949-5201

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.