Brussels and Bureaucracy: A Self-Guided Tour of the EU District

45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Discover the heart of the European Union on this self-guided walking tour of Brussels. Start at the stunning Parc du Cinquantenaire, where Belgium’s imperial ambitions come alive, and walk under the iconic Triumphal Arches. Explore the EU Quarter, home to striking architecture like the Berlaymont and Justus Lipsius buildings, and learn about the history of the European Parliament. Along the way, find hidden gems such as the House of European History, the "Future is Europe" mural, and secret meeting spots tied to EU diplomacy. This tour is perfect for travelers curious about the EU's culture and history or professionals needing a quick lay of the land. Uncover the stories that make Brussels the capital of Europe.

What's Included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The tour starts outside the Merode metro station and in front of Cinquantenaire Park, facing the arches. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End point

The tour ends at the entrance of the European Parliament complex, or the Espace Léopold.

Itinerary

Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes (approximately)
  • Parc del Cinquentenari (Pass by)

    Parc du Cinquantenaire is a sprawling green space filled with manicured gardens, majestic fountains, and historic museums, making it a highlight of Brussels. As you wander through the park, you’ll uncover its roots as a symbol of Belgian unity and imperial ambition.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The Triumphal Arch stands as a monumental gateway, with its intricate carvings and commanding presence at the heart of Parc du Cinquantenaire. Walking beneath its arches, you’ll hear stories of its creation and its role in celebrating Belgium’s independence.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    This imposing monument tells the story of the Belgian pioneers who played a role in the Congo’s colonial history. Passing by, you’ll hear about the controversial history it represents and the broader context of Belgium’s imperial ambitions.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The Berlaymont is a striking cruciform building and the headquarters of the European Commission, symbolizing the heart of EU decision-making. As you pass by, you’ll uncover its architectural significance and its transformative role in European policy.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    This modern extension of the European Parliament honors Altiero Spinelli, an architect of European integration. Passing by, you’ll hear about Spinelli’s life and his role in advocating for a united Europe.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The Europa Building, nicknamed the "Lantern," features a luminous glass façade crafted from recycled wooden windows sourced across Europe. As you pass by, you’ll admire its iconic egg-shaped chamber, where pivotal EU decisions come to life, embodying collaboration and innovation.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    This vibrant mural is a bold declaration of unity and progress, depicting a hopeful vision for the EU. As you pause to admire its vivid colors, you’ll feel the dynamic energy that drives the continent toward a shared future.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The House of European History offers a comprehensive journey through Europe’s tumultuous and diverse past with engaging multimedia exhibits. You’ll explore how the continent’s shared history has shaped the European Union today.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Nestled in the heart of the EU Quarter, Parc Léopold offers a serene escape with its tranquil lake and diverse flora. Wandering through this green oasis, you’ll discover its connection to the scientific communities of the Leopold era.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The Parlamentarium immerses visitors in the workings of the European Parliament through interactive exhibits and virtual experiences. Stepping inside, you’ll discover the challenges and triumphs of EU integration in an engaging and modern setting.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    This impressive complex serves as the legislative home of the EU, where key decisions impacting millions are made. As you stroll through its vicinity, you’ll gain insights into the parliamentary process and the lives of those who work here.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The Chapel for Europe blends spiritual reflection with European unity, offering a peaceful space amidst the bustling EU Quarter. Passing by, you’ll sense its role as a sanctuary for dialogue, prayer, and cross-cultural understanding.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Some parts of the route may be challenging for wheelchair users due to uneven pavements and stairs, so full accessibility cannot be guaranteed.
Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

Tags

Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Best Conversion
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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