Brussels: The comic book walls walking tour

Brussels: The Comic Book Walls Walking Tour – A Colorful Journey into Belgium’s Comic Heritage

Exploring Brussels is a treat for anyone interested in art, history, and culture—and this comic book walls walking tour offers a playful yet profound peek into Belgium’s famous comic scene. Priced at just $17 per person and lasting around 2.5 hours, this guided walk is an engaging way to see a different side of the city, packed with vibrant street art, stories behind iconic characters like Tintin and the Smurfs, and insights into the techniques that define Franco-Belgian comic art.

One aspect we really appreciate is how this tour combines visual delight with educational content. You won’t just be admiring murals—you’ll learn about their history, the artists behind them, and how comics have influenced Brussels’s identity. A possible challenge? The tour being only in Spanish or English might limit some travelers, especially those seeking a multi-language experience. Still, it’s perfect for fans of comics, street art lovers, or anyone curious to see Brussels through a colorful, story-rich lens.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy accessible, laid-back outings with a cultural twist. It’s particularly ideal for those wanting to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, as it takes you through streets that extend outside the city center. If you love comics, street art, or quirky history, this tour will give you a fresh perspective on Brussels.

Key Points

• In-depth comic history: Learn about the origins of Belgian comics and key authors.
• Street art exploration: See over 80 comic-themed murals across Brussels, including the city’s first wall from 1991.
• Iconic locations: Visit the house where Tintin once lived and see Brussels’s famous Smurf statue.
• Educational insights: Discover the main techniques used in French-Belgian comics and where to find comics in multiple languages.
• Family-friendly: Free for children aged 0-10, making it suitable for families with young kids.
• Accessible: The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for people with reduced mobility.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The Brussels comic book walls walking tour is carefully curated to blend visual art, storytelling, and city exploration. Starting at Rue du Marché au Charbon, the tour begins near a striking mural by Brousaille, setting the tone for a colorful adventure. With a maximum group size of 25, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience guided by a bilingual guide who is both knowledgeable and engaging.

Discovering Belgian comic history is at the core of this experience. For instance, you’ll learn about the first comic wall created in Brussels back in 1991—an important milestone in street art history. As you stroll through streets that go beyond the main thoroughfares, you’ll pass notable murals and gain context about the techniques used by French-Belgian comic artists. This includes understanding the artistic styles, color palettes, and storytelling methods that have made Belgian comics world-famous.

A highlight is visiting the house where Tintin once lived, before he moved to Moulinsart Castle. The guide will share fascinating stories about Hergé, Tintin’s creator, and the enduring appeal of this beloved character. You’ll also see the large Smurf statue in the city center—an homage to Peyo, the Belgian artist who created the little blue figures loved worldwide.

Throughout the tour, you’ll have access to multimedia information via an app, enhancing the experience with images and additional context—perfect for those who want to dive deeper into the comic world. The guide, praised for their competence and friendliness, shares insights that are both fun and informative, making this an engaging activity for all ages.

Reviewers have particularly highlighted the guide’s expertise. One said, “Highly competent and super nice guide. We really enjoyed the tour,” emphasizing how much the knowledge and personality of the guide enhance the experience. Others appreciated the focus on both well-known characters and lesser-known comic art.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing or a relaxed day exploring Brussels’s vibrant neighborhoods.

The Value of This Tour for Travelers

For just $17, this tour offers a rich blend of art, history, and city exploration. Unlike typical walking tours that only skim the surface, this experience dives into Brussels’s comic roots, giving you a layered understanding of its cultural significance. The inclusion of multimedia tools is a thoughtful touch, helping you visualize the stories and techniques behind the murals.

It’s a highly family-friendly activity, with free entry for children up to age 10, which makes it accessible for parents wanting a creative, educational outing with their kids. The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer more intimate experiences.

While the tour is only available in Spanish or English, the focus on visuals and storytelling means language barriers shouldn’t dampen the enjoyment. Also, being wheelchair accessible broadens its inclusivity, allowing more visitors to enjoy Brussels’s vibrant comic art scene.

The tour’s duration of 2.5 hours strikes a good balance—it’s enough time to see a substantial amount of street art without feeling rushed. Plus, the price point compares favorably with other cultural activities in Brussels, especially given the quality of the guide and the richness of the content.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Rue du Marché au Charbon

Your adventure begins here, at the mural by Brousaille, setting a vibrantly artistic tone. This spot is easy to find as your guide will carry a distinctive sign from Curiositas Mundus.

The First Comic Wall: 1991

Your guide will point out Brussels’s first comic wall, a significant milestone in the city’s street art history. This helps you appreciate how comic murals have evolved from simple street art to celebrated cultural landmarks.

The House of Tintin

Next, you’ll visit the house where Tintin once lived, before the iconic character moved to Moulinsart Castle. It’s a fun tidbit that adds a personal touch to the story of Hergé, making the tour memorable for fans.

Murals and Main Techniques

As you stroll through streets beyond the main tourist zones, your guide will explain the main techniques used in French-Belgian comics—such as line work, coloring, and panel composition—giving you insight into how these murals are created and why they look the way they do.

Brussels’s Iconic Murals

Along the way, you’ll see murals featuring famous characters like the Smurfs and others. The large Smurf statue in the city center is a highlight, referencing Peyo’s creations and the city’s global comic reputation.

Ending the Tour

The walk concludes where it started, offering a chance to continue exploring nearby neighborhoods or revisit favorite murals. The multimedia app allows you to revisit the images and facts shared during the tour at your leisure.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer called it “the best tour and guide we have encountered in years,” praising the knowledge and engagement of the guide. Another highlighted the unique and interesting experience it offers, especially for first-time visitors keen to get a different perspective on Brussels. The guide’s ability to share interesting facts about comics known both within Belgium and internationally was a recurring compliment.

Many reviewers mentioned how the guide made the experience fun and educational, with one noting, “Made us realize there is more to discover in this multi-faceted city.” This reflects how the tour offers more than just murals—it connects the art to the city’s cultural fabric.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for comic enthusiasts, street art fans, and those who enjoy exploring cities through a creative lens. Families with children up to age 10 will find it a delightful outing, with free entry for young kids. If you’re a first-time visitor to Brussels, it provides a vibrant, accessible introduction that complements more traditional sightseeing.

It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a small-group, personalized experience and want to learn the stories behind the murals. Since the tour is only in Spanish or English, it works best for language speakers in those groups, though the visual nature of the murals makes it understandable across language barriers.

Final Thoughts

This Brussels comic book walls walking tour offers a fantastic mix of art, history, and city life. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable, engaging way to see a different side of Brussels—one filled with color, character, and stories. Its moderate price and family-friendly approach make it an excellent value for travelers looking for an authentic, fun experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned comic fan or simply curious about street art’s role in European culture, this tour provides a chance to see Brussels through a playful, artistic lens. The blend of educational insights and visual spectacle ensures you’ll leave with a new appreciation for this vibrant city’s creative spirit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children from 0 to 10 years old can join for free, making it a great family activity. Kids will enjoy the murals and the storytelling aspect.

In what languages is the tour offered?
The tour is available only in Spanish and English, so be sure to choose the correct day when booking.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the murals and learn about their stories without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
The starting point is Rue du Marché au Charbon, 40, near a mural by Brousaille. It ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for those with mobility challenges.

What is included with the tour?
You’ll have a professional guide and access to multimedia information via an app, enriching your experience with images and extra facts.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 25 participants ensures a more personalized and engaging experience.

What is the price and is it worth it?
At $17, the tour offers good value considering the insights, entertainment, and cultural exposure. It’s a unique way to see Brussels’s street art scene.

Are there any notable murals or locations I should look out for?
Yes, the first comic wall from 1991, the house of Tintin, and the large Smurf statue are must-see highlights during the tour.

This comic book walls walking tour in Brussels truly combines art, history, and city exploration into a fun, educational experience that reveals a colorful side of this vibrant European capital.