Brussels: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Ferris Wheel Combo

Explore Brussels at Your Own Pace with the Combo Tour

The Brussels: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Ferris Wheel Combo offers a convenient way to see the Belgian capital. For 1 or 2 days, visitors enjoy unlimited access to electric open-top double-decker buses that take you through the city’s most famous sights. The tour combines a seamless city exploration with a spectacular Ferris wheel ride — The View — standing 55 meters tall.

This experience is perfect for those wanting to maximize their time in Brussels, with the flexibility to hop off at key landmarks or relax on the bus. The combo includes immersive audio guides in 11 languages and a free self-guided walking tour via the Tootbus app, making it ideal for travelers who prefer to explore independently but with guided insights.

While the tour offers stunning panoramic views from the Ferris wheel, it is worth noting that wheelchair users are not accommodated. The 4.4-star rating from 37 reviews reflects its popularity among visitors seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure.

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Key Points

• Unlimited hop-on hop-off access over 1 or 2 days with 11 stops around Brussels
• Includes a 10-minute ride on the 55-meter-tall Ferris wheel with 360-degree city views
• Audio guides available in 11 languages provide engaging commentary on major landmarks
• Flexible itinerary allows you to visit attractions like the Grand Place, Atomium, and Magritte Museum
• Self-guided walking tour on the Tootbus app helps uncover hidden gems
• Departure times are every 30 minutes with buses running from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

The Route and Stops in Brussels’ City Center

The red route begins at Central Station, located at 33 rue Cardinal Mercier, making it easy for travelers arriving by train. From here, the route covers essential sites such as Place Royale and the Royal Palace, giving visitors a chance to admire Brussels’ regal architecture. The Luxembourg stop at 2 Place du Luxembourg leads to atmospheric parks and government buildings.

The Grand Place/Manneken-Pis stop at 68 rue du Lombard is a highlight, offering access to Brussels’ most iconic square — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and the cheeky statue of Manneken-Pis. The route also visits the Bourse at 16-18 rue des Poissonniers, the Atomium at Bld du Centenaire, and the Tour & Taxis/Maritime Station at 1 rue Picard, giving a balanced mix of historic and modern sights.

Each stop is an opportunity to disembark and explore at your own pace. The open-top buses ensure panoramic views and audio commentary enhances the experience with fun facts and stories about each location.

Discover Brussels’ Landmark Attractions on the Bus

The tour route is designed to cover Brussels’ most famous landmarks. The Grand Place shines as the city’s central hub, while the Manneken-Pis statue offers a playful photo opportunity. The Palace of Justice and Avenue Louise showcase the city’s impressive architecture, while districts like Ixelles, Flagey, and Marolles are perfect for exploring local neighborhoods.

The European Parliament stop is a must-visit for those interested in Brussels’ political significance. The Sablon Quarter exudes charm with its art galleries and cafés. The route also includes breathtaking sights such as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and bustling squares like Place de Brouckère and Sainte-Catherine.

Street art, vibrant murals, and artistic storefronts turn the city into an outdoor gallery, adding a colorful dimension to your sightseeing. The panoramic buses let you enjoy these views uninterrupted, complemented by the engaging audio guides.

The Ferris Wheel: A High-Altitude View of Brussels

The View Ferris Wheel at Place Poelaert is a key highlight. Standing 55 meters tall, it offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramas of Brussels’ skyline. The ride lasts about 10 minutes, providing ample time to take in the city’s rooftops, landmarks, and surrounding neighborhoods.

The Ferris wheel operates daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, making it accessible throughout the day and into the evening. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views whether during daylight or when Brussels sparkles under the city lights at night. The experience is suitable for all ages, offering a relaxing way to see the city from a new perspective.

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Tips for the Ferris Wheel Experience

It’s advisable to visit outside peak hours for fewer crowds, especially if you prefer a more relaxed ride. Bringing a camera is a must, as the panoramic vistas lend themselves well to memorable photos. Since each ride lasts about 10 minutes, it fits well into a day of sightseeing, offering a restful break from bus touring.

Self-Guided Walking Tour on Tootbus App

Beyond bus and Ferris wheel rides, the free self-guided walk available on the Tootbus app helps uncover Brussels’ hidden corners. The tour guides you through Sainte-Catherine Square, Manneken-Pis, and the Grand Place, providing additional context and local insights.

This extra activity is an excellent way for visitors to explore on foot after or between bus rides. It encourages a more intimate exploration of the city’s less touristy areas and off-the-beaten-path gems.

Practical Information and Logistics

The tour starts at any stop along the red route, offering maximum flexibility. The buses run every 30 minutes, with the first departure at 10:00 AM and the last at 5:00 PM. The Ferris wheel remains open every day from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so alternative options may be required for accessible travel.

Booking offers include the ability to reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility suits most travel plans, especially during uncertain times.

Strengths and Limitations of the Tour

The unlimited access to the buses over 1 or 2 days ensures travelers can spend as much time as desired at each stop, capturing the best of Brussels at their own pace. The audio guides in 11 languages appeal to international visitors, making the experience more engaging and informative.

The highlight of the tour is the spectacular Ferris wheel ride, offering stunning city views that are perfect for photos and memorable moments. The self-guided walking tour enhances the experience by allowing deeper exploration of the city’s hidden spots.

A noted limitation is that wheelchair access is not available, which could be a concern for some visitors. Also, some reviews mention difficulty locating the initial pickup point, emphasizing the importance of checking the instructions and contact details before starting.

Final Thoughts on the Brussels Combo Tour

The Brussels: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Ferris Wheel Combo provides an efficient and enjoyable way to see Brussels’ most iconic sights. The combination of flexible bus routes, panoramic city views from the Ferris wheel, and self-guided walking options makes it a well-rounded experience for different types of travelers.

While it may have some logistical hiccups, the overall value and stellar views make it worth considering for anyone wanting a rundown of Brussels in a relaxed, engaging manner. This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate outdoor sightseeing and self-paced exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the Ferris wheel ride is family-friendly, and the open-top buses are suitable for most age groups, but check with the provider for specific age or height restrictions.

Can I access the tour with a wheelchair?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so alternative arrangements may be necessary.

What languages are the audio guides available in?
Audio guides are available in 11 languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.

How long does the Ferris wheel ride last?
Each ride on The View Ferris wheel lasts about 10 minutes.

What are the opening hours of the Ferris wheel?
The Ferris wheel operates daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Is the hop-on hop-off bus route wheelchair accessible?
The provided information indicates it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

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

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for a pleasant experience.

Is there a way to explore Brussels on foot?
Yes, a free self-guided walking tour is available via the Tootbus app, leading you through key neighborhoods and hidden spots.

When should I book this tour?
Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, making it easy to fit into your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby