A Historical Walk Through Brussels: Best Route & Sights

Welcome to Brussels, a city where history oozes from every cobblestone and where grandeur meets charm at every turn. This historical walk through Brussels is your passport to discovering the architectural wonders, royal heritage, and ecclesiastical gems of Belgium’s captivating capital. Lace up your most comfortable walking shoes, grab a map (or your phone), and prepare to be enchanted by a journey that feels like stepping back in time—without the inconvenience of medieval hygiene.

Why Take a Historical Walk Through Brussels?

Let’s start with why you’re here. Brussels is not just about waffles and chocolate (though, let’s be honest, those are a bonus). It’s a city that has served as a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and power plays for centuries. This walking tour is for those who want more than a fleeting glimpse of history—it’s for those who want to feel it in the cobblestones beneath their feet, see it in the ornate facades of grand palaces, and hear it in the echoes of church bells.

A Historical Walk Through Brussels: Most Iconic Stops

A walking tour allows you to uncover Brussels’ rich past in an immersive way, leading you through its majestic palaces, stately squares, and awe-inspiring churches.

This itinerary will take you through the city’s most iconic historic sites, with a route designed to be both practical and visually rewarding. By the end of it, you’ll have gained a deeper appreciation of Brussels’ royal and religious significance—and maybe clocked up enough steps to justify indulging in those waffles later.

Starting Point: The Grand Place

There’s no better way to begin this historical walk through Brussels than at the heart of the city: the Grand Place. This UNESCO World Heritage Site isn’t just a square; it’s a masterpiece.

Picture this: gilded guildhalls that seem to glow even under a grey sky, intricate gothic spires rising from the Brussels Town Hall, and flower markets adding a pop of colour to the scene. It’s hard not to feel like royalty as you stroll through this square.

Take a moment to admire the Town Hall, a gothic marvel that dates back to the 15th century. Its tall spire is topped with a statue of St Michael, the city’s patron saint. Fun fact: locals like to joke that the building’s asymmetry is because the architect threw himself off the tower in despair after realising his error. Whether it’s true or not, it makes for a good story to tell your mates.

The Manneken Pis: Brussels’ Quirky Mascot

Just a short walk from the Grand Place, you’ll find Manneken Pis, the city’s most famous (and smallest) statue. This cheeky little bronze boy, forever caught in the act of relieving himself, has been a symbol of Brussels since the 17th century.

While his origins remain debated—some say he saved the city from a fire, others claim he was a noble child caught mid-misdeed—the real fun lies in his ever-changing wardrobe. He owns hundreds of costumes, from regal outfits to football kits, making him one of the best-dressed statues in the world.

Next Stop: The Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert

A short stroll from the Grand Place leads you to the Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert, a 19th-century arcade that feels like stepping into a regal dream. Think high glass ceilings, intricate ironwork, and boutiques that look too posh to even window shop.

Though it’s tempting to linger, remember we’ve got a walk to finish. Take in the grandeur, snap a photo, and maybe indulge in a pastry (or three) as you imagine what it must have been like to promenade here in the 1800s.

Royal Glory at Place Royale

Your next destination is Place Royale, an elegant square that exudes royal charm. This is where Brussels’ love affair with neoclassicism shines brightest. In the centre stands a statue of Godfrey of Bouillon, a crusader who looks like he’s ready to charge into battle at any moment.

The square is also home to the Church of Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg, a neoclassical beauty with a striking white façade. Step inside for a moment of quiet reflection and marvel at its understated elegance.

A Stroll Through Parc de Bruxelles

From Place Royale, make your way to the Parc de Bruxelles, a serene green space that once served as a hunting ground for the Dukes of Brabant. Today, it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst fountains, statues, and manicured lawns.

Imagine carriages clattering along the paths, ladies in elaborate gowns, and the occasional royal scandal whispered under the shade of a tree. The park is flanked by two architectural treasures: the Royal Palace and the Belgian Parliament.

The Royal Palace of Brussels

If ever there was a building designed to make you feel like a mere mortal, it’s the Royal Palace of Brussels. This neoclassical wonder is still used for official ceremonies, though the royal family now resides elsewhere.

The interior is as opulent as you’d expect, with gilded ceilings, grand chandeliers, and more mirrors than a dance studio. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the summer, the palace is open to the public—so you can play at being a royal for a day.

The Cathedral of St Michael and St Gudula

No historical walk through Brussels would be complete without a visit to the Cathedral of St Michael and St Gudula. Perched on a hill, this gothic masterpiece looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.

Inside, you’ll find stunning stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and a crypt that dates back to the 11th century. Whether you’re religious or not, there’s something deeply moving about this sacred space.

Wind Down at Mont des Arts

Your journey wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Mont des Arts, a cultural hub with some of the best panoramic views of the city. The site was designed to impress visiting dignitaries—and impress it does.

From here, you can see the spire of the Town Hall rising above the rooftops, a fitting way to end your historical walk through Brussels.

The Halle Gate: A Medieval Fortress in the City

If you want a glimpse of medieval Brussels, the Halle Gate (Porte de Hal) is a must-see. It’s the last remaining city gate of the 14th-century fortifications that once surrounded Brussels. With its turrets and stone walls, it looks like something out of a fairy tale.

Today, it houses a museum showcasing Brussels’ medieval history, old weapons, and even knights’ armour. Plus, if you climb to the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city.

The Coudenberg Palace Ruins: Brussels’ Forgotten Royal Palace

Before the Royal Palace of Brussels, there was the Coudenberg Palace—a lavish medieval residence that was home to Charles V and other rulers. However, a fire in the 18th century destroyed it, and its ruins were buried under the city.

Today, you can explore the underground remains of the palace and even walk through its ancient corridors, hidden passageways, and wine cellars. It’s one of the most unique historical sites in Brussels!

The Beguinage Church of Brussels – A Hidden Religious Gem

The Church of Saint John the Baptist at the Béguinage is a stunning baroque church tucked away in the city centre. It was originally built for the Beguines—a religious community of laywomen who lived a semi-monastic life.

With its ornate façade and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a great place to take a quiet break while soaking in the city’s religious history.

The Palace of Charles of Lorraine – 18th-Century Elegance

If you’re a fan of elegant 18th-century architecture, the Palace of Charles of Lorraine is worth a visit. Once home to Charles Alexander of Lorraine, a former governor of the Austrian Netherlands, this grand residence now serves as part of the Royal Library of Belgium.

Its opulent staircase, intricate frescoes, and grand chandeliers give you a glimpse of how Brussels’ elite once lived.

The Martyrs’ Square (Place des Martyrs): A Revolutionary Landmark

One of Brussels’ most historically significant squares, Place des Martyrs is dedicated to those who lost their lives during the Belgian Revolution of 1830—the conflict that led to Belgium’s independence from the Netherlands.

It’s a peaceful, neoclassical square with a solemn atmosphere, as the names of the fallen are engraved on the central monument. A poignant stop for those interested in Belgium’s fight for independence.

The Church of Our Lady of Laeken: The Royal Burial Site

For a royal connection, visit the Church of Our Lady of Laeken, a neo-gothic church that serves as the final resting place of Belgium’s monarchs. Inside, you’ll find the Royal Crypt, where members of the Belgian royal family, including King Leopold I, are buried.

The church is also near Laeken Park, home to the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken—a stunning 19th-century glass palace open to the public only a few weeks each year.

The House of Erasmus: A Renaissance-Era Escape

For something truly unique, visit the Erasmus House, the former residence of Erasmus of Rotterdam, a famous 16th-century humanist and philosopher.

Inside, you’ll find antique furniture, rare manuscripts, and a beautiful Renaissance garden, making it a peaceful stop on your historical tour of Brussels.

The Mont des Arts Old England Building – A Belle Époque Landmark

If you love Art Nouveau architecture, the Old England Building is a must-see. Built in 1899, it’s now home to the Musical Instruments Museum, but its wrought-iron detailing and elegant curves make it one of Brussels’ most beautiful historic buildings.

Even if you don’t visit the museum, head to the rooftop café for an amazing view of Brussels!

The Cinquantenaire Park and the Triumphal Arch: A Grand Military Tribute

To wrap up your historical walk through Brussels, visit Cinquantenaire Park, created to celebrate Belgium’s 50 years of independence. At its centre, you’ll find the Triumphal Arch, a grand monument that rivals Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate or Paris’ Arc de Triomphe.

The park is also home to the Royal Military Museum, the Art & History Museum, and Autoworld, all housed in magnificent 19th-century buildings.

Bonus Stops for the Extra Enthusiastic

If you still have energy left, consider adding these stops:

• Église Notre-Dame du Sablon – A 15th-century Gothic church known for its intricate stained-glass windows.
• Palais de Justice – This monumental courthouse is an architectural marvel, with a dome that rivals St Paul’s Cathedral in London.

Tips for Your Historical Walk Through Brussels

• Timing is everything: Start early to avoid crowds and soak up the morning light.
• Comfortable shoes are a must: Cobblestones are charming but unforgiving on the feet.
• Take your time: This isn’t a race. Savour the details, listen to the stories, and let Brussels’ history unfold at its own pace.

Final Thoughts

Brussels is a city that rewards the curious. Every street, every square, and every building tells a story, and this historical walk through Brussels is your key to unlocking them. Whether it’s the grandeur of the Royal Palace, the serenity of Parc de Bruxelles, or the timeless beauty of its churches, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of what makes this city truly special.

So, what are you waiting for? Brussels’ history awaits, and trust us, it’s worth every step.