Brussels offers more than just its famous chocolate and waffles. This city stands out for its mix of historic architecture, lively street scenes, and a knack for combining culture with culinary delights. I’ve taken a close look at some of the top tours available, and I have to say, the variety is impressive. Whether you’re interested in exploring nearby Flemish cities like Bruges and Ghent, or diving into its fascinating museums and landmarks, Brussels has a tour to match your style. A standout for many travelers is the From Brussels: Ghent and Bruges Day Tour, which is both comprehensive and well-reviewed for its in-depth visits to two of Belgium’s most picturesque cities.
What makes these experiences really shine is their balance of guided insight and free time, their focus on local culture and cuisine, and the ease of booking popular sights with skip-the-line options. Whether you’re after a full-day tour of historic towns, a quick hop-on-hop-off style exploration, or a deep dive into Belgian chocolate, beer, and architecture, Brussels’s tour scene is both lively and reliable. I’ve rounded up the 15 best options below, so you can pick the one that fits your interests and schedule.
The list covers day trips to nearby countries, iconic sightseeing experiences like the Atomium, and interactive workshops for chocolate lovers. There’s everything from walk-and-taste tours to full-on guided excursions with all the bells and whistles. Read on, and you’ll find detailed descriptions to help you choose the perfect adventure in Brussels.
1. From Brussels: Ghent and Bruges Day Tour
At number 1, this From Brussels: Ghent and Bruges Day Tour is a favorite for its value and in-depth experience. For just $54 per person, you’ll spend about 10.5 hours exploring two of Belgium’s most iconic cities. The guided tour takes you inside Saint Bavo Cathedral, where you’ll see Michelangelo’s Madonna, and offers visits to Earl’s Castle with its medieval vibes. Walking through Ghent’s relic of the Middle Ages, you’ll also enjoy a scenic stop at the Lake of Love and Beguinage, making it a rich culture.
The itinerary includes multiple guided walking stops, a boat trip (if you opt for it), and convenient drop-offs at central locations. Guests praise the guide’s storytelling, with comments like, “Very informative and funny,” and highlight how the large group setup still offers clarity through personal audio systems. For those who want this classic day trip, it’s a well-organized, well-reviewed choice that balances sightseeing, history, and Belgian charm.
Bottom Line: This tour offers great value, comprehensive visits, and lively guides — perfect if you want to see both cities without the hassle of planning.
2. From Brussels: Guided Day Trip to Bruges and Ghent
Coming in at number 2 is the From Brussels: Guided Day Trip to Bruges and Ghent. Slightly cheaper at $53, it also runs for about 10.5 hours. This tour emphasizes guided walking explorations of Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry of Bruges, and the Begijnhof. The itinerary offers a balance of guided commentary and free time—most travelers find it suits those who want a structured yet flexible day.
Guests appreciate the use of personal audio systems that let everyone hear the guide clearly, especially on busy days. The reviews mention the knowledgeable guide Peter, who made the trip memorable with stories and local tips. The stops allow enough time to absorb the atmosphere, take photos, and enjoy local coffee or snacks. This is ideal for travelers who prefer a guided experience but still want some leisure in each city.
Bottom Line: This tour packs the highlights into a day with expert guidance, great transportation, and positive reviews, making it a solid pick for first-time visitors.
3. Brussels: Atomium Entry Ticket with Design Museum Ticket
Number 3 on our list is the Atomium Entry Ticket with Design Museum. For just $19, this visit offers spectacular panoramic views over Brussels from the top of this iconic structure. Built for the 1958 World’s Fair, the Atomium is a must-see for architecture fans and history enthusiasts alike. Your ticket also includes access to the Design Museum‘s exhibitions, like RESTART and I have seen the Future, blending design, culture, and history in one quick visit.
Guests rave about the spectacular views and the unique experience of going inside this giant metal atom. While queues for the lift can occur, many find the experience worth the wait. The exhibitions inside add a contemporary touch to the visit, and the ticket’s affordability makes it accessible for most travelers. It’s a good option if your main goal is to see the brilliant architecture and capture memorable photos.
Bottom Line: For a low-cost, high-impact experience, the Atomium combined with the Design Museum makes for an engaging visit, especially if you’re short on time.
4. Brussels: Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting
Number 4 is the Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting. At just $40.55, this 2.5-hour tour offers a perfect introduction to Brussels’s main sights and sweet treats. Starting from Grand Place, your guide will walk you through symbolic facades of key buildings and the Manneken Pis—with a waffle in hand. The tour also includes a visit to Place De La Vieille Aux Bles and the statue of Gabrielle Petit, all with entertaining commentary.
The highlight? Sampling Belgian chocolates and learning about Brussels’ culinary culture along the way. Guests mention the guide Rett’s humor and knowledge, with comments like, “Very knowledgeable and funny,” making the experience enjoyable and relaxed. Since it’s a short walk, it suits travelers who want a quick, tasty overview with insider insights.
Bottom Line: This friendly, well-rated tour combines history, culture, and sweet bites, making it a delightful choice for first-timers.
5. Brussels Walking and Tasting Tour
Number 5 on the list is the Brussels Walking and Tasting Tour, which is highly rated at 5 stars. For $81.10, it offers 2 to 3 hours of exploration, focusing on food, drink, and architecture. You’ll stroll through Grand Place and Mont des Arts, tasting famous fries, waffles, chocolates, and local beer. The tour can be customized based on your preferences, making it flexible for food lovers.
Guests rave about the personalized experience and the chance to enjoy Belgian cuisine in a lively setting. The guide provides unique insights into local culture and history, making it more than just a taste test. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with culinary indulgence in a relaxed manner.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a food-focused exploration that covers landmarks and local flavors, this tour is a tasty way to experience Brussels.
6. Brussels: Entry Ticket to Mini-Europe
Mini-Europe is a miniature park showcasing Europe’s top monuments, and the Entry Ticket to Mini-Europe is perfect for families or architecture buffs. Costing $23, it features over 350 models, from Big Ben to the Acropolis, all set in a scenic park. It’s a compact way to see Europe’s highlights in one place.
Reviews mention how lifelike and detailed the models are, along with interactive elements. It’s a fun, educational spot that appeals to children and adults alike. The park is easy to navigate, making it a good stop if you’re looking for something less intense than a walking tour.
Bottom Line: Mini-Europe offers a quick, engaging way to get a visual overview of Europe’s landmarks, ideal for families or those short on time.
7. Brussels: Guided Walking Tour
The Guided Walking Tour is number 7, offering a 2.5-hour walk through Brussels’ main neighborhoods. Priced at just $23, it’s a budget-friendly way to see the Lower and Upper City with a friendly guide. You’ll visit spots like Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and the Royal Palace.
Guests praise guides like Liam and Edwin for their passion and storytelling, making the city’s landmarks come alive. The tour also includes a chocolate tasting, giving that extra flavor of Belgian tradition. It’s suited for travelers who want a casual, informative overview and a taste of Brussels’ vibrant streets.
Bottom Line: This accessible walking tour balances sights and stories, making it perfect for first visits or those short on time.
8. From Brussels: Luxembourg Tour with Dinant Visit
Number 8 is the Luxembourg Tour with Dinant Visit. For $75, this full-day trip explores Luxembourg City, its Grand Ducal Palace, and the scenic Belgian Ardennes. You also get to visit Dinant, a charming town on the Meuse River, famous for its rock formations and Caves of Han.
Guests find the scenic drive through forests and the guided city tour informative and relaxing. The small group size and flexible itinerary are big pluses. It suits travelers with a bit of time who want to see more than just Brussels.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you’re after a combination of nature, history, and architecture in Luxembourg and Dinant.
9. Tell Me About Brussels! | First Day Must-Do | Local Storytellers
This First Day Tour is number 9. It’s a 2.5-hour walking introduction to Brussels’ top sights, like Manneken Pis, Grand Place, and Royal Palace, led by a passionate local storyteller. The tour is pay-what-you-wish, making it an affordable and flexible way to get your bearings.
Guests mention the informative narration and friendly guide who makes history accessible. The small groups (max 20) keep it intimate, and the stops for stories and photos make it a fun, easy-start option.
Bottom Line: Ideal as a first overview for new visitors wanting a relaxed, personalized introduction.
10. Choco-Story Brussels: Chocolate Museum Entrance with Tasting
Number 10 is the Choco-Story Brussels. For just $16, this attraction immerses you in the history and culture of chocolate. It includes a chocolatier demonstration and tastings of various chocolates, making it perfect for sweet tooths and curious minds alike.
Visitors rave about the interactive displays and the informative demonstrations, which make learning about cocoa fun and tasty. The museum is centrally located, making it easy to combine with other sights or a chocolate shopping spree.
Bottom Line: A sweet, educational experience that’s both affordable and engaging, especially suited for anyone wanting to understand Belgium’s chocolate heritage.
11. Brussels Chocolate Beer Waffle and Belgian Whiskey All-in-One (Small Group)
Number 11 is the Chocolate, Beer, Waffle, and Whiskey Tour. At $161, it’s the priciest but offers a culinary adventure combining sightseeing with tasting sessions. The tour includes visits to main landmarks like Grand Place and Manneken Pis, paired with six Belgian beers, whiskey, and sweet treats like waffles and chocolates.
Guests describe the tour as well-paced, with plenty of delicious bites and informative commentary about Belgian gastronomy. It’s best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one indulgence with a small-group feel for more intimacy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies and drink lovers wanting a comprehensive, fun, and filling experience.
12. Brussels Chocolate Tasting Tour
The Chocolate Tasting Tour is number 12. For $34.76, it takes you through top chocolate shops and neighborhoods like Grand Place, Sablon, and the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. You’ll sample up to 6 chocolates and learn about Belgium’s rich chocolate-making tradition.
Guests love the variety of flavors and the friendly guide who shares insider tips. It’s a delightful way to combine local culture with sweet indulgence in just 1.5 hours.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for chocolate lovers who want a tasty, informative, and social experience.
13. Brussels: Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop with Tastings
Number 13 offers a hands-on experience at the Chocolate Making Workshop. For $64 per person, you’ll learn how to craft more than 30 chocolates with expert chocolatiers. This 1.5-hour workshop includes wrapping your chocolates and tastings.
Guests describe the fun, interactive environment and highly skilled instructors. It’s perfect for families or anyone who wants to bring home custom chocolates and learn professional techniques.
Bottom Line: An engaging, hands-on activity that combines learning and tasting—ideal if you want to leave with your own creations.
14. From Brussels: Bruges Day Trip with Boat Tour Option (ES)
Number 14 is the Bruges Day Trip with Boat Tour. Costing $49, it’s a 9.5-hour guided experience that covers major sights like Castle Square, Market Square, and Minnewaterpark. You can add a boat tour for a different perspective on Bruges’s canals.
Guests praise the smooth logistics and the informative guide Estela, noting how the free time allows leisurely exploration. It’s suitable for travelers who want to see Bruges’ highlights but prefer a relaxed schedule.
Bottom Line: A well-organized day trip offering flexibility and scenic views, perfect for history buffs and casual visitors.
15. Brussels: 2.5-Hour Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop
Our final pick, the Chocolate Making Workshop, is a hands-on class perfect for chocolate enthusiasts. At $67, in 2.5 hours, you’ll learn professional techniques to make praline and mendiant chocolates. Attendees rave about the fun atmosphere and the delicious final products they get to take home.
Guests mention how instructive and engaging the experience is, making it a memorable activity for families or couples. The workshop is ideal for those who want to create personalized chocolates and gain expert tips.
Bottom Line: A fun, creative experience that results in treats you made yourself—a sweet souvenir of Brussels.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting the best tour in Brussels, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. For history and architecture lovers, the guided walking tours and day trips to Bruges and Ghent are excellent options. If you want a culinary experience, look into tastings and workshops or chocolate workshops. Budget travelers might prefer entry tickets or pay-what-you-wish tours, while families and groups will appreciate interactive experiences like Mini-Europe.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular guided tours and workshops, to ensure availability. Also, check the duration and physical demands—most tours are manageable but some involve a fair amount of walking or standing.
Final Thoughts
Brussels offers a fantastic range of tours for every interest, from historic city explorations and day trips to Flemish cities, to delicious chocolate and beer experiences. For those seeking a quick overview, guided walks and mini-Europe are perfect. Food and drink enthusiasts will love tastings and workshops, while families or those with more time can enjoy full-day excursions or visits to Luxembourg.
Two standout options are the From Brussels: Ghent and Bruges Day Tour for a classic, immersive experience, or the interactive chocolate workshops for a memorable hands-on activity. Whatever your style, booking in advance will help you secure a spot on these popular experiences. Enjoy your trip to Brussels—there’s a tour for everyone in this compact, charming city.
