How to Plan Your Brussels Tour with a City Card and STIB Public Transportation

Are you planning a trip to Brussels and want to make the most out of your time and budget? Then, you should consider getting a Brussels Card with access to STIB Public Transportation. In this blog post, we will guide you through the benefits of this tour and how to plan your visit to this beautiful city.

Experience

The Brussels Card offers a unique experience to explore the city’s rich history, culture, and attractions. With this card, you will have free access to 49 museums and attractions, along with exclusive discounts and offers in restaurants, bars, and shops. Moreover, you can use public transport (STIB) for free during the validity of your card.

Highlights

The highlights of the Brussels Card tour include:

• Free access to 49 museums and attractions, including temporary exhibitions.
• Discounts on various attractions and tours.
• Exclusive offers at shops, restaurants, and bars.
• Free use of the STIB public transportation system, including trams, buses, and metros.
• Easy validation and activation of your card at the ticket desk of any of the participating venues.

How to Plan Your Visit

Now that you know the benefits of the Brussels Card tour, here are some tips on how to plan your visit:

Choose the Right Card

The Brussels Card is available in three options: 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour. Choose the card that suits your itinerary and budget. The card is valid from the moment of first use.

Create Your Itinerary

Take advantage of the free access to 49 museums and attractions and plan your itinerary accordingly. Check the opening hours of the venues and plan your visits accordingly. The Brussels Card website offers a list of all participating venues along with their opening hours and location.

Avail of Discounts and Offers

The Brussels Card offers discounts on various attractions and tours, such as Atomium, Mini-Europe, and Brussels by Water tours. Moreover, you can avail of exclusive offers at shops, restaurants, and bars. Check the Brussels Card website for more information on the participating venues and their offers.

Use Public Transport

The STIB public transportation system is the best way to explore Brussels. It covers the entire city and is free during the validity of your card. You can use it as many times as you like. Check the STIB website for more information on the routes and schedules.

Get Your Card

You can purchase your Brussels Card online or at the ticket desk of any of the participating venues. You will receive an electronic card that will be electronically validated and activated on first use. Don’t forget to bring your ID with you. You can book your Brussels Card tour here using our partner link: book the tour here.

Conclusion

The Brussels Card tour with access to STIB public transportation offers a unique experience to explore Brussels without constraints. You can save time and money while enjoying the city’s rich history, culture, and attractions. Plan your itinerary, avail of discounts and offers, use public transport, and get your Brussels Card for an unforgettable journey to one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About Brussels

Are you planning to visit Brussels soon and want to know more about this charming city? In this blog post, we have compiled a list of the 10 most frequently asked questions about Brussels. From the best time to visit to the must-see attractions and local customs, we have got you covered.

1. What is the best time to visit Brussels?

Brussels is a year-round destination with something to offer in every season. However, if you are looking for the best weather and the most vibrant atmosphere, then the months of June to August are ideal. This is when the city is filled with music festivals, outdoor markets, and other events. Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are also a great time to visit, with fewer crowds and lower prices.

2. What is the currency used in Brussels?

The official currency of Brussels, Belgium, is the Euro (€). It is recommended to exchange your currency at banks or exchange bureaus, and not at airports or tourist areas, as the exchange rates are usually higher. Most shops, restaurants, and hotels in Brussels accept debit and credit cards, but it is advisable to carry some cash too, especially when visiting smaller markets and street vendors.

3. What is the official language spoken in Brussels?

The official languages of Brussels are French and Dutch. However, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas. It is always appreciated to know some basic phrases in French or Dutch, such as “Bonjour” (Hello) and “Dank u wel” (Thank you).

4. What are the must-see attractions in Brussels?

Brussels has a rich history and cultural heritage, with plenty of landmarks and monuments to visit. Some of the must-see attractions in Brussels include:

• The Grand Place, a magnificent square surrounded by elegant buildings
• The Atomium, a futuristic structure that offers panoramic views of the city
• The Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue of a boy peeing, which has become a symbol of Brussels
• The Royal Palace of Brussels, the official residence of the King of Belgium
• The Saint-Michel Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with stunning stained glass windows

5. What is the local food like in Brussels?

Brussels is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of local and international cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in Brussels include:

• Moules-Frites, a dish of mussels and fries that is a Belgian specialty
• Waffles, crispy and sweet waffles that come with various toppings such as chocolate and whipped cream
• Chocolate, Belgium is known for its high-quality chocolate, with many artisanal chocolatiers in Brussels
• Beer, Belgium is also known for its wide selection of beer, with over 2000 varieties to choose from

6. What is the public transportation system like in Brussels?

Brussels has an efficient and well-connected public transportation system, consisting of buses, trams, metros, and trains. The Brussels Airport is connected to the city center by a direct train that runs every 10 minutes. The public transportation system in Brussels operates from 6 am to midnight, with night buses available during the weekends. It is advisable to purchase a Brussels Card, which offers free access to public transportation and discounts for various attractions.

7. What is the tipping etiquette in Brussels?

Tipping in Brussels is not mandatory, but it is common to leave a small tip, especially in restaurants and cafes. A 10% tip is considered generous, but you can also round up the bill or leave some spare change. It is not necessary to tip for services such as taxis or hairdressers, but it is appreciated.

8. What is the shopping scene like in Brussels?

Brussels has a vibrant shopping scene, with many local and international brands to choose from. The main shopping district is located around the Rue Neuve, where you can find department stores, fashion boutiques, and souvenir shops. For high-end luxury shopping, head to the Avenue Louise, which is home to designer brands such as Chanel and Prada. Brussels is also known for its antique shops and flea markets, such as the Place du Jeu de Balle.

9. What are the local customs and traditions in Brussels?

Belgium is a multicultural country, with a diverse population and a rich cultural heritage. Some of the local customs and traditions in Brussels include:

• Respecting privacy, Belgians are generally reserved and prefer not to discuss personal matters
• Cultural events, such as music festivals and art exhibitions, are an integral part of Brussels’ social scene
• Food and drink, Belgians love their food and drink, and meals are often seen as a social occasion to be savored
• Etiquette, Belgians value good manners and politeness, and it is important to greet people properly and say “please” and “thank you”

10. What is the nightlife like in Brussels?

Brussels has a lively and eclectic nightlife scene, with something to offer for every taste. The main nightlife areas are located around the Saint-Gery and Place du Luxembourg, where you can find a mix of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. There are also many rooftop bars and outdoor terraces, which offer stunning views of the city. The legal drinking age in Brussels is 16, but some places may ask for ID.

Final Thoughts

Brussels is a charming and vibrant city that offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or a party goer, Brussels has something to offer for everyone. We hope this guide has answered some of your most pressing questions and inspired you to visit this beautiful city.