How to plan your Private Tour of the Upper and Lower City in Brussels

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is known for its fantastic architecture and rich cultural history. It’s the second most cosmopolitan city in the world, with a vast array of sights to see and things to do. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Brussels is to take a tour that explores both the Upper and Lower cities, with stops in some of the most historically significant areas of the city. This blog post will guide you on how to plan a private tour of the Upper and Lower City in Brussels and everything you need to know before heading there.

Experience

This tour is an excellent opportunity to discover the history, art, and architecture of Brussels. You will start your journey in the Lower City, home to the bustling central square of Brussels, the Grand Place. As you move on towards the Manneken Pis, a landmark bronze sculpture, you will discover the Saint-Géry island, once the largest island in the Senne river. From here, you will pass through the stunning De Brouckère and Monnaie squares while exploring the spectacular federal opera house of Belgium before ending at the Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries, an ensemble of glazed shopping areas, perfect for picking up souvenirs or indulging in some retail therapy.

The Upper City, on the other hand, will take you to the historic center of Brussels, where you will find some of the city’s most notable landmarks, including the Royal Palace, the Royal Park, and the law courts of Brussels. And when you should feel tired, there’s nothing better than taking a moment to relax and enjoy a glass of a Belgian beer or bite into some delicious chocolate.

Highlights

The highlights of this tour include the following:

– Visit the historical center of Brussels
– Discover the rich cultural life museums and architecture of the Belgian capital
– Learn more about Art Nouveau Belgian beers and chocolate

Full description

Your private tour begins with a pre-arranged pickup at your hotel or a designated central location in Brussels. You will embark on a fascinating journey of discovery that will take you to both the Upper and Lower City of Brussels. The Lower City, also known as the downtown area, is where many of the city’s most lively districts are located. The Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, is an excellent starting point for your tour. This square is home to the stunning City Hall and a range of artisan shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Your itinerary for the Lower City includes a visit to the Manneken Pis, a statue of a young boy relieving himself into a fountain. The sculpture is both amusing and historical and is a symbol of the city’s sense of humor and independence. You will then be taken to Saint-Géry island, one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the city, with beautiful old houses, quaint shops, and cafes. From there, you will move on to the St. Catherine square, a popular hangout spot for locals.

As you wander through the Lower City, you will also visit the De Brouckère and Monnaie squares, both popular areas for people watching, and home to the stunning federal opera house of Belgium. Your tour will end at the Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries, an arched shopping arcade so named after King Leopold I’s love for his queen, Princess Stéphanie. The area is famous for its luxury goods, including designer boutiques and artisan chocolate shops.

The Upper City, on the other hand, is the historic center of Brussels, home to many of the city’s most notable landmarks. Your tour of the Upper City will cover the Royal Palace and the Royal Park, home to vibrant gardens, stunning architecture, and excellent views of the city. You will also tour the Belgian law courts, one of the largest buildings in Belgium.

Your private tour is an excellent opportunity to learn more about ancient and modern Brussels. You will get to know about the famous Art Nouveau movement that originated in Belgium and sample some of the best Belgian beers and chocolates.

How to book your tour

If you’re interested in booking a private tour of the Upper and Lower City in Brussels, you can easily book it at GetYourGuide.com. With the booking process being straightforward and accessible, you can book a fully customizable tour from a professional and experienced tour guide with full insurance coverage. Book the tour here: Book here.

Conclusion

A private tour of the Upper and Lower City in Brussels is the perfect way to experience the city’s beauty, culture and architecture up close. With its stunning landmarks, vibrant cultural life, and fantastic cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Brussels. Don’t forget to book your tour in advance, and allow plenty of time to explore everything the city has to offer. Make the most of your trip to Brussels and immerse yourself in the city’s history and cultural riches.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a fascinating city with rich history, culture, and traditions. The city is famous for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and world-class museums. However, like any other city, Brussels has its fair share of questions that visitors often ask. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Brussels.

1. What is the best time to visit Brussels?

The best time to visit Brussels is from March to May or September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. However, if you’re interested in attending some of Brussels’ famous festivals, like the Christmas markets or the Ommegang Festival, then you’ll want to plan your trip accordingly.

2. What are the must-visit attractions in Brussels?

Brussels is a city that’s packed with attractions and experiences for all tastes. Some of the must-visit attractions in Brussels include:

• Grand Place: This UNESCO-listed square is the heart of Brussels, featuring stunning architecture and great cafes.
• Atomium: A striking piece of architecture, this 300-foot tall atom-shaped building has great views of the city from its observation deck.
• Museums: From the Royal Museums of Fine Arts to the Belgian Comic Strip Center, there are many great museums to explore in Brussels.
• Manneken Pis: A small bronze statue of a boy urinating that has become one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
• Jardin du Mont des Arts: A beautiful garden in the heart of Brussels, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline.

3. What is the currency in Brussels?

The currency used in Brussels is the Euro. This means that visitors from outside of the Eurozone will need to exchange their currency at a bank or exchange booth when they arrive in Brussels.

4. What are the best places to try Belgian cuisine?

Belgian cuisine is famous for its chocolates, waffles, and fries. However, Brussels is also home to amazing seafood, stews, and meat dishes. Some of the best places to try Belgian cuisine include:

• Le Pain Quotidien: A bakery chain that serves delicious pastries.
• Chez Leon: One of the best places to try traditional Belgian fries.
• Bonsoir Clara: A traditional Belgian restaurant known for its meat stews.
• Pierre Marcolini: One of the most famous chocolatiers in Brussels.
• Comme Chez Soi: A Michelin-starred restaurant that serves classic Belgian cuisine with a modern twist.

5. How do I get around in Brussels?

Brussels has an excellent public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, and a metro system that connects the city center with the suburbs. The metro is the easiest and most convenient way to get around the city. You can purchase tickets at ticket vending machines located at each station.

6. Is Brussels a safe city to visit?

Brussels is a safe city to visit, but like any other big city, it’s important to take some precautions. As a tourist, you should be aware of your surroundings and avoid areas that are known for pickpocketing and other crimes. It’s also a good idea to keep your valuables in a safe place and not to carry too much cash with you.

7. What is the language spoken in Brussels?

The official languages of Brussels are French and Dutch, but most people speak English as well. Signs and menus are usually in French and Flemish, but in tourist areas, they are also available in English.

8. What is the city’s dress code?

There is no specific dress code for Brussels. However, it’s a good idea to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, like the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula. In general, Brussels is a stylish city, so it’s worth making an effort to dress nicely, especially when visiting upmarket venues.

9. What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Brussels?

Brussels has many great neighborhoods to explore, and each offers something different. Some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Brussels include:

• The Grand Place: The heart of Brussels, featuring stunning architecture and great cafes.
• Sablon: A charming and affluent neighborhood full of art galleries and antique shops.
• St Gilles: A trendy, artistic neighborhood with great nightlife and a bohemian atmosphere.
• Ixelles: A hip and cosmopolitan neighborhood known for its great restaurants and cafes.

10. What are some of the best day trips from Brussels?

Brussels is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas, and there are many great day trips to take. Some of the best day trips from Brussels include:

• Bruges: A stunning medieval city full of canals and historic architecture.
• Ghent: Another historic city with beautiful architecture and a lively student scene.
• The Ardennes: A beautiful region known for its stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
• Antwerp: A vibrant and historic city known for its great shopping and beautiful architecture.

Conclusion

Brussels may not be the biggest city in Europe, but it’s certainly one of the most fascinating. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or just exploring beautiful neighborhoods, Brussels has something to offer. With this guide, you should have a good understanding of what to expect when visiting Brussels, and you’ll be well-equipped to make the most out of your time in the city.