Brussels – The Capital of Belgium
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Grand Place, Brussels ©PT Wilding
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Atomium in Heysel Park, Brussels ©VisitBrussels - Global View - S. Schmitt
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Manneken Pis Souvenirs in Brussels ©VisitBrussels
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Christmas Market on Markt and Simon Stevin Square ©Visit Bruges, Toerisme Brugge, Jan Darthet
Undoubtedly one of Europe’s premier cities……………….
Swirling outwards from centre you’ll find a hodgepodge of art nouveau facades, elite museums, 1960’s concrete and medieval houses. Guild houses huddle around the edges of the Grand Place, the square at the heart of Brussels’ medieval core, as if jostling for a view of the exquisite town hall. Begin your Belgian adventure here, in one of the world’s prettiest square, which is sure to impress.
The Belgian capital is a whirl of beautiful architecture. From higgledy-piggledy guildhouses to colossal modern glass buildings, the city is a pleasure to wander through. Furthermore, visit the iconic Atomium – a mesmerising structure which has become synonymous with modern Brussels. Explore the museums inside and head to the top sphere to enjoy panoramic views over this remarkable city. Be sure to visit another icon of the city – Mannekin Pis. Far removed from Paris’ Eiffel Tower or Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, the amusing statue of a urinating boy has become a symbol of this capital. With regular costume changes, this little statue always draws a crowd. The legends surrounding the statue vary greatly, but ultimately he demonstrates the humour of the residents.
From Tin-Tin to cherry beer, this city is full of delights. Whether you want to admire artwork, delve into European politics or delight in chocolate creations – Brussels will deliver.
Dates
Dates throughout 2024 and 2025
Suggested itinerary by coach
Day 1
Travel to Brussels
Take the short sea crossing from Dover to Calais and continue to Brussels for 3 nights.
Day 2
Discover Brussels on foot
Meet up with a local guide for a walking tour to discover the sights. Undoubtedly, the highlight is the spectacular Grande Place which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the 1990’s. Admire the architecture of the stunning medieval buildings dominated by the imposing Gothic City Hall and opulent guildhalls.
Just a stone’s throw away from the Grand Place are the Royal Galleries, one of the oldest covered galleries in Europe, as beautiful by day as by night. A key aspect of any trip to Brussels is meeting Mannekin Pis. This amusing fountain of a little boy is the city’s mascot. On special occasions the flow of water may turn to beer and he is dressed in a variety of costumes!
Belgium is well renowned for its abundance of retail establishments including souvenir, designer and chocolate shops amongst others. It is also well known for it’s gastronomy and beer. We can arrange a group visit to a local brewery including a tasting, a chocolate making demonstration or a group dinner together in a local restaurant where you may like to try the local Mussels from Brussels!
Day 3
Brussels – further afield
Today, head out of the city to Laeken to visit the world famous Atomium, built for the 1958 World Fair. It is an international tourist attraction and the views from one of it’s nine spheres are superb. Each sphere represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times and are accessed by lift or elevator. (Allow about 1-2 hours)
Only a short walk away, you can embark on a tour of all of Europe’s wonders in miniature at Mini-Europe. Roughly 80 cities and 350 buildings are represented . Bonsai trees, flowery groves and dwarf trees embellish the 350 monuments together with thousands of lifelike figurines and animations! (Allow about 1.1/2 hours)
Before heading back into the city centre it’s worth taking at look at the Koekelberg Basilica, possibly the largest Art Deco church in the world, or the triumphal Cinquantinaire, the European Quarter, the Palace of Justice and Schonenberg Castle with its Royal Greenhouses and Crypt
Note: We can provide a local experienced guide to accompany the group on the coach if required
Day 4
Return to the UK
Drive to Calais for the short sea ferry crossing to the UK.
Optional extra day
Bruges, Antwerp or Ghent
Why not explore Belgium further with a day trip to one of the above, all easily accessible from Brussels. We can provide information, suggested excursions and visits and guide services if required.
Greatdays offer a selection of good quality 3* and 4* hotels in Brussels
| Date | Hotel | Half twin | Single supplement |
| Dates throughout 2024 and 2025 | Price on request | Price on request |
