Private tour: Brussels and the comics world

Brussels , Belgium

Private tour: Brussels and the comics world

Active

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

During our guided tour, you will learn about the true importance of Belgian comics on the international scene, and which schools and authors have made their fame possible. You will learn about the "clear line" essential in French-Belgian comics and discover many of the murals dedicated to the 9th Art in the heart of Belgium. This tour is designed for people who know nothing about comics and those who are more familiar with this art. In addition to the murals, you will see Tintin's house (before he moved to the castle of Moulinsart) and the statue of The Smurfs hidden in plain sight. You will also discover new places in the center of Brussels that are not included in other guided tours, along with some of the stores where you can buy Belgian comics in your native language.
Come and enjoy the national comic world with Curiositas Mundus!

Available options

Private tour: Brussels and the comics world

Pickup included

What's included

Pick up is possible from hotels in the center of Brussels.

If customers wish to make a personalized purchase they can stop at some comic books boutiques.

Private guide who will adapt to your available time up to 3 hours maximum.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We are at the entrance of the Brüssel showroom and comic book store, and you will discover why this name is important in Belgian comics, as well as learn about the origins of this kind of art in the country.

We will see several murals dedicated to the world of comics (among them, the first one created in the city in 1991), and we will discover who their authors are, how they relate to each other, what are the different schools of French-Belgian comics, etc. We pay special attention to the so-called "clear line". We will see examples such as Victor Sackville, Ric Hochet, Kinky & Cosy, and Thorgal.

Stop 3

After visiting several more murals, such as "Yoko Tsuno", we will arrive at the house that inspired Hergé to place his most famous reporter, Tintin. It is very close to the market where this character finds the famous "Unicorn".

Stop 4

We will continue walking to see various designs until we reach the street art version of the Manneken Pis, a large mural in his honor, next to his closet, where we will recount some of the incursions of this little boy in the world of French-Belgian comics. Prominent examples will be XIII, The Young Albert, and Olivier Rameau.

From here we will dedicate some time to Tintin, starting with the mural in which he appears and which takes us to "The Calculus Affair", very close to the center of the city.

We will see the entrance to the Tintin boutique, which is beautifully set in "The Blue Lotus", and where you can find various items related to the famous reporter.

Stop 7

Hergé did not earn his living from comics alone. We will talk about the incursions into the theater of the Tintin characters, which took place in these galleries.

Stop 8

After talking about the important Brussels Comics Museum, the statue of this huge Smurf will invite us to talk about him and his creator and the boutique that we can find next to him (we will not enter the museum).

The final point of the guided tour is under the mural dedicated to The Smurfs and the life and traditions of Brussels represented by these blue characters. Will you discover all the secrets that this mural hides?

What's not included

It does not include any type of food or beverage.

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide will be waiting for you in front of the door of the "Brüsel" comic book store and showroom.

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.