Brussels & Waterloo: Highlights & Battlefields (w/ Atomium stop)

Brussels, BE
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (2 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Driver/guide
  • inclusion
    In-vehicle air conditioning
    Air-conditioned vehicle

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Other
    Drinks
  • exclusion
    Other
    Food and drinks

Meeting Point

Look for our guide outside of the Cathedral

Meeting point

Esp. de la Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Bruxelles , Belgium

End point

What to expect

1

St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral (Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule)

This will be the meeting point where your guide will wait for you. Standing on a hill, the twin towers in the Brabant Gothic style are visible from many points of the city. The cathedral is dedicated to the two patron saints of Brussels and has undergone various changes and expansions in history starting from the first church before the first millennium. Inside noteworthy are the beautiful wooden baroque pulpit and the stained glass windows of the sixteenth century side chapels.

Duration 10 minutes
2
Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Initiated by the architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer, the spectacular Galeries Royales project took shape in the 1830's. The works, begun in 1846, were almost completed in time for the official opening on 20 June 1847. The gallery included shops, auditoriums, cafés, restaurants and apartments. The place to be seen for the fashionable, right away, the Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert drew a wide audience, attracted by its luxury brands, elegant cafés and cultural spaces

Duration 10 minutes
3
Grand Place

The Grand-Place is considered as one of the most beautiful places of the world. The Grand-Place of Brussels was registered on the World Heritage List of the UNESCO in 1998. All over the world it is known for its decorative and aesthetic wealth. The Grand-Place is surrounded by the guild houses, the City Hall and the Maison du Roi.

Duration 30 minutes
4
Manneken Pis

The famous Manneken-Pis remains the emblem of the rebellious spirit of the City of Brussels. His wardrobe counts more than 900 suits.

Duration 10 minutes
5

Place De La Bourse

The building was finished in 1873. That 'Bourse Palace', as it was originally called, then grew into a centre of financial power. It was erected on the former Butter Market and the vault of the Senne river in an eclectic style, a combination of neo-Renaissance and Second Empire. Over the years, the Bourse lost its appearance and closed itself off from the outside world. In 2015, the last six Euronext traders left the building and it stood abandoned until its renovation in 2023.

Duration 10 minutes
6

Jeanneke Pis

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Jeanneke Pis is a modern fountain sculpture in central Brussels, Belgium. It was commissioned by Denis-Adrien Debouvrie in 1985 and erected in 1987 as a counterpoint to the city's famous Manneken Pis.

Duration 10 minutes
7

National Basilica of the Sacred Heart

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg is a masterpiece of Art Deco. It was the dream of our first kings to build at the plateau of Koekelberg a “Royal District” . At the end of the government of Leopold I, we already find plans and sketches for its construction. Between the first designs of the Basilica, dating from the end of the 19th century, and the completion of the building lies almost a century.

8
Atomium

The Atomium is a landmark modernist building in Brussels, Belgium, originally constructed as the centrepiece of the 1958 Brussels World's Fair. It is the city's most popular tourist attraction, and serves as a museum, an art centre and a cultural destination.

Duration 15 minutes
9

Domaine de la Bataille de Waterloo 1815

You can dive into a unique multi-sensorial experience of the battle itself. You will enjoy the underground museum & visitor center offering multimedia exhibits on the 1815 Battle of Waterloo.

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Included
10

Waterloo Tourisme

Your Visit ends on a lighter note. During the battle Saint John's Farm housed the allied hospital where 7000 wounded soldiers were treated. Now it is home to a microbrewery that brews Waterloo, the Beer of Bravery.

Duration 40 minutes
11

Brocante du Lion

You will marvel at the Panorama, an immense fresco measuring 110m in circumference that narrates the crucial phases of the battle. The Lion's Mound boasts unique views over the battlefield after a memorable ascension.

Duration 10 minutes
12

Dernier QG de Napoleon

Napoleon’s Last Headquarters or the Ferme du Caillou is located 5 km to the south of the Lion's Mound at Vieux-Genappe. Napoleon spent the night of 17 to 18 June 1815 there under the protection of the famous Imperial Guard battalion in the neighboring orchard and made his battle plans.

13
Arcades du Cinquantenaire

Construit en 1880 pour le 50e anniversaire de l’indépendance de la Belgique, le parc du Cinquantenaire est à la fois un ensemble de jardins « à la française » et un site historique où découvrir monuments, sculptures et musées.

14
Palace of Justice

It’s one of the most impressive monuments in Brussels, which also offers a breathtaking panoramic view of lower Brussels. Standing in front of this gigantic building leaves you (almost) dizzy. Everything is done to impress, both inside and out. It's a symbolic place with a long history, built on the (rather aptly named) Mont des Potences, meaning Gallows Hill, where condemned men were executed in the Middle Ages. 

15

Royal Palace Of Brussels

The Royal Palace was built on the site of the former Palace of the Dukes of Brabant which was destroyed by fire in 1731. Started in 1820 under the reign of King William, it was modified in 1904 under Leopold II, who had it rebuilt in Louis XVI style.

16

Mont des Arts

The Mont des Arts garden is located below place Royale and provides a green transition between the upper and lower parts of the city, between the Royal Quarter and the Grand-Place in the city's historical centre. Originally built for the 1910 Universal Exhibition, it was adapted in the 1950s to form part of the vast urban complex of the Mont des Arts.

17

Sablon Quarter

Coming from the upper part of the city, you can't miss the majestic Church of Our Lady of Sablon, one of three Gothic churches in the centre of Brussels, built in the 15th century. Close to the former court of Brussels (now Place Royale), and therefore to the seat of power in days gone by, it is also linked to the origins of the Ommegang, a deeply rooted Brussels tradition.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Brussels City Tours - Keolis Travel

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try local waffles at Maison Dandoy.
  • icon
    Visit nearby Parc du Cinquantenaire.
  • icon
    Check out microbrewery at Saint John's Farm.
  • icon
    Bring a camera for stunning Atomium views.
  • icon
    Explore the art galleries in Sablon Quarter.

More About this Experience

Brussels & Waterloo: Highlights & Battlefields (with Atomium stop) is an extraordinary journey designed for history buffs and curious travelers alike. This immersive 8-hour tour invites you to explore the enchanting city of Brussels, beginning at the stunning St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, a majestic structure that has stood for over 800 years. As you're guided through the cobbled streets of the historic center, you’ll marvel at iconic sights like the Grand-Place, the whimsical Manneken Pis, and the elegant Royal Galleries. After soaking in the rich architectural tapestry of Brussels, the tour transitions to a comfortable coach where you'll enjoy panoramic views of the city's vibrant urban landscape, including a stop at the striking Atomium—a true symbol of modern Brussels. The highlight of the day awaits at the historic Waterloo battlefield, where you’ll delve into pivotal moments that shaped European history. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises a captivating blend of culture, history, and unforgettable sights. What can you expect from this remarkable experience? Prepare for a delightful mix of guided walking tours and scenic coach rides, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of Brussels' unique character and its pivotal role in European history. The tour allows for an intimate exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, with insider insights into its architecture, culture, and daily life. After the city stroll, sit back and relax as the coach whisks you away through Brussels, providing a comfortable vantage point to absorb the sights. The Atomium stop offers a chance to capture stunning photos and appreciate its unique design. Then, as you journey to the Waterloo battlefield, you'll have the opportunity to understand the historical significance of the events that unfolded there in 1815. This experience is not just about sightseeing; it's about connecting with the past and appreciating the rich tapestry of history that defines Brussels and Waterloo. This tour caters to a diverse audience, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers. Whether you're a history enthusiast eager to learn about the Battle of Waterloo or a traveler seeking to experience the vibrant culture of Brussels, this tour has something for everyone. The family-friendly nature of the tour means even the little ones can enjoy the adventure, as children are welcome and strollers are accommodated. It’s also a fantastic option for those who may not have extensive mobility, as the tour is suitable for all fitness levels. With multilingual guides available, it ensures that language barriers are minimized, allowing everyone to fully engage with the experience. Overall, this tour is an inclusive opportunity for anyone looking to enrich their understanding of Belgium's capital and its historical significance. So, why should you book this tour? The unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to explore Brussels and Waterloo. Not only do you get to experience the iconic landmarks and learn their stories, but you also have the chance to engage with knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing their insights. The comfort of a private coach combined with the guided walking segments ensures a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of both the urban and historic landscapes. Adding to the allure, the tour promises to unveil lesser-known facts and stories that you wouldn't easily discover on your own, giving you a richer perspective of Brussels and Waterloo. With so much to see and learn, this is the kind of adventure that leaves you with cherished memories and newfound knowledge. For those considering this captivating tour, there are a few essential details to keep in mind. The tour lasts approximately eight hours, so be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. While food and drinks are not included, there are ample opportunities to grab a bite during the journey. The meeting point is conveniently located at the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, a beautiful landmark that's easy to find. Public transportation options are readily available for those needing assistance getting to the starting point. Families traveling with infants will find it accommodating as well, with provisions for strollers. Lastly, keep your camera ready! You'll want to capture the breathtaking sights, especially at the iconic Atomium and the dramatic Waterloo battlefield. Feedback from travelers who have experienced the Brussels & Waterloo tour speaks volumes about its quality and impact. Many have praised the knowledgeable guides, who bring history to life with their engaging storytelling and passion for the subject. Travelers have expressed appreciation for the seamless blend of walking and coach travel, providing a well-paced experience that keeps everyone engaged. The stunning sights, particularly the Grand-Place and the Atomium, have left lasting impressions, with participants often mentioning the breathtaking views and the sense of awe they felt standing at these iconic sites. Families have noted how the tour is well-structured, ensuring that even the younger participants had a great time. Overall, the reviews highlight a deep satisfaction with the experience, making it a highly recommended adventure for anyone seeking to explore the rich history and culture of Brussels and Waterloo.

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