Brussels: The comic book walls walking tour

If you’re a fan of comics, or even just curious about the artistic side of Brussels, this Comic Book Walls Walking Tour offers a unique way to see the city. We haven’t done this tour ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and descriptions, it looks like a well-structured, engaging experience that combines street art, history, and storytelling in a compact package.

One thing we love about this tour is how it digs into the importance of comics in Belgium, which is a huge part of the country’s cultural identity. Plus, you get to see some of the most famous murals that turn Brussels into an open-air comic book. On the flip side, a consideration might be that the tour’s in Spanish only (on certain days), which could be a limiting factor for non-Spanish speakers. Overall, it’s perfect for fans of comic art, families with children, or anyone interested in a different way of experiencing Brussels beyond the usual sights**.

Key takeaways:

• Focus on Belgian comic heritage: Learn about the origins and main schools of French-Belgian comics.
• Iconic murals and landmarks: See famous walls, including the first comic wall from 1991 and the house where Tintin once lived.
• Expert guides and multimedia info: Guides are praised for their knowledge, and multimedia content enhances the experience.
• Accessible for most: The tour is wheelchair accessible, with small group sizes making it personal.
• Cost-effective: At $17 per person, it offers a rich experience without breaking the bank.
• Family-friendly: Kids from 0-10 years are free, making it a good choice for families with young children.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Offers and Why It Matters

This walking tour is designed to celebrate Brussels’ vibrant comic scene—a crucial aspect of Belgian culture. As you stroll through the city, you’ll discover why Brussels has over 80 walls dedicated to comics, transforming the streets into a giant comic strip. It’s not just about viewing murals; it’s about understanding how comics influence and reflect the city’s identity.

One of the highlights is visiting the site of the original comic wall from 1991, giving a sense of the city’s pioneering role in street art. You’ll also learn about the main techniques of French-Belgian comics, which can be particularly interesting if you’re into art styles and storytelling methods. For many, the most exciting part is seeing Tintin’s house—a real highlight—before he moved to the Moulinsart castle. It’s fun to imagine the adventures of the beloved reporter as you stand in front of his former residence.

The Tour Itinerary

The tour begins at Rue du Marché au Charbon, near a mural by Brousaille, setting a lively tone right from the start. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through streets that extend beyond the central tourist areas, offering a glimpse into less-traveled neighborhoods where local murals and hidden gems await.

Expect to see the famous Statue of the Smurfs in the city center, which showcases how Belgian comic characters have become iconic symbols of the city. Along the way, you’ll hear about Belgium’s most influential comic artists and their impact on the art form worldwide. The guide explains main comic schools, giving you context about style and storytelling conventions that shape Belgian comics.

The Murals and Walls

One of the main attractions is the wall murals themselves—large, colorful works that seem to leap off the buildings. These murals are more than art; they are cultural statements, stories told on the streets. The guide will point out the most important walls, explaining their origins, techniques, and significance.

From the vibrant, well-known murals to the lesser-known but equally captivating hidden gems, you’ll see how street art and comics intertwine in Brussels. The city’s walls celebrate characters like Tintin, the Smurfs, and other Belgian icons, making it a visual feast for comic fans and art appreciators alike.

Why You’ll Love the Guides

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Ronald raves, “Best tour and guide we have encountered in years,” emphasizing how engaging and informative the guide was. Similarly, Lennart mentions how “highly competent and super nice” the guide was, bringing comics to life with interesting facts and stories. Their expertise helps make the experience richer and more personal.

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Multimedia and Accessibility

To enhance the experience, the tour includes complementary multimedia information accessible via an app, available in both Spanish and English. This means you’ll get visual and contextual details, boosting your understanding as you walk. Accessibility is also considered, with the tour being suitable for people with reduced mobility, wheelchairs, or strollers.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This tour is ideal for culture lovers, comic fans, families with children (0-10 are free), or anyone who enjoys street art and storytelling. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors to Brussels who want a fun, engaging introduction to the city’s artistic scene. However, since the tour is offered only in Spanish on certain days, language compatibility can be a factor—if you don’t speak Spanish or English, you might want to verify the schedule.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Let’s get into what you can expect at each stage of the tour. The meeting point on Rue du Marché au Charbon is a lively spot, recognizable by a mural by Brousaille, which sets the tone for the day. The guide will be holding a distinctive sign, making it easy to find your group.

From there, the walk takes you through streets that offer a mix of historic and modern murals. You’ll see why over 80 walls are dedicated to comics, and you’ll learn how these murals are created and maintained. The guide’s explanations about French-Belgian comic techniques are particularly illuminating, giving you insight into what makes Belgian comics distinctive.

One special stop is at the house where Tintin lived. Although Tintin no longer resides there, the house holds immense sentimental value for fans. The tour explains Tintin’s evolution from newspaper comic to global icon, and you’ll learn about Hergé’s influence on both Belgian and international comics.

The tour also highlights the first comic wall in Brussels, which was created back in 1991—an interesting piece of history that shows how the city embraced street art early on. This stop allows you to appreciate how street murals have evolved and become an integral part of Brussels’ cultural landscape.

The Artistic Side

As you explore, your guide will explain different techniques used in creating murals, such as spray painting, stenciling, and wheatpasting. This adds a layer of appreciation for the skill involved in street art, making the murals more than just colorful images—they are crafted works of art.

The Cultural Significance

Throughout, you’ll grasp how Belgian comics have played a role in shaping the city’s identity. The murals serve as visual stories, promoting characters like the Smurfs, Lucky Luke, and others, which have international appeal. Knowing the stories behind these murals makes the experience more meaningful—you might find yourself looking at each wall with new appreciation.

The End of the Tour

The tour concludes back at the starting point, where you can reflect on the murals you’ve seen and perhaps plan a future visit to explore more on your own. The small group size (max 25 people) ensures you get personal attention and can ask questions freely.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $17 per person, this experience offers a lot for what it costs. Including a knowledgeable guide and multimedia content, you’re paying for a curated, storytelling approach to street art—not just a walk around murals. Plus, children up to age 10 are free, making it a budget-friendly outing for families.

Some reviews mention how the guide’s expertise stood out, making the tour more engaging and educational than simply wandering around looking at murals. For fans of comics or street art, the tour’s focus on Belgian comic history and techniques adds depth that justifies the price.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those interested in comic art, street murals, or Belgian culture. It’s also a good pick if you’re after an active, outdoor activity that combines learning and sightseeing. Families with young children will appreciate the free entry for kids 0-10, and the accessible nature of the tour makes it manageable for most.

Since the tour is mostly in Spanish and on specific days, check availability and language options beforehand. If you’re a comic enthusiast or a street art lover, you’ll find this tour both fun and enlightening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children from 0 to 10 years old can join for free, making it a family-friendly activity, especially for young comic fans.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you a relaxed pace to enjoy the murals and learn about their stories.

What’s included in the price?
A professional guide, multimedia information in an app in your language, and the benefit of small group size.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible and suitable for people with reduced mobility, strollers, or wheelchairs.

What language is the tour in?
It’s primarily offered in Spanish, with specific days available. Confirm the language schedule before booking.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Rue du Marché au Charbon, 40, close to a mural by Brousaille.

Can I cancel if plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the tour price covers everything; you might want to purchase comics or souvenirs separately.

What if I want to do the tour in English?
Check availability; the tour is mainly in Spanish, but there may be English options on certain days.

Is this tour suitable for people with disabilities?
Yes, it’s accessible to those with reduced mobility, wheelchairs, or strollers.

Final Thoughts

The Brussels Comic Book Walls Walking Tour offers a fresh look at a city famous for its murals and comics. It’s a great way to see several key sights while enjoying Belgian comic culture. The guide’s expertise and multimedia tools make the stories behind the murals come alive, turning a simple walk into a journey through art and history.

If you’re keen on comics, street art, or just want a laid-back, culturally rich way to explore Brussels, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy learning about art techniques and cultural symbols in a relaxed, friendly environment.

For anyone wanting to see Brussels from a different angle—through the eyes of its comic artists—this tour could be a memorable part of your trip. Just keep in mind the language considerations and the pace of the walk, but overall, it looks like a solid, enjoyable experience that packs a punch in just a couple of hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: