Gems of Brussels
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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………
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
On request 2025 and 2026
Suggested itinerary by coach
Day 1
Travel to Brussels
Take the short sea ferry crossing from Dover to Calais and continue to Brussels for 3 nights. After check in, the rest of the day and evening is at leisure.
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
Panoramic Brussels (half-day guided tour)
Head to Laeken on the outskirts of the city 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 – entrance optional and cost not included)
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 – entrance optional and cost not included)
Other attractions and sights include 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.
The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city further.
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.
Featured hotel
NH Collection Brussels Centre ****
Located within 800 meters of the Grand Place and the Manneken Pis Statue and a 12-minute walk from Brussels Central Train Station, the NH Collection Brussels Centre hotel offers a top-floor breakfast room and a summer roof-top terrace (Open in July and August) with a panoramic view of Brussels. Free WiFi is available. The air-conditioned rooms are decorated and furnished with parquet floors and blackout curtains. The rooms also include tea and coffee facilities.
NH Collection Brussels Centre ****
| Departure date | 4 days / 3 nights | Single supplement |
March 2025 |
From £465.00 per person | From £311.00 per person |
