Brussels: The comic book walls walking tour

Discover the World of Belgian Comics with a Unique Walking Tour in Brussels

The Brussels: The comic book walls walking tour offers a fascinating look into Belgium’s vibrant comic culture. Priced at $17 per person and lasting 2.5 hours, this guided experience takes visitors beyond the city’s historic center to explore over 80 comic murals scattered across Brussels. Led by a professional guide, the tour emphasizes the importance of comics in Belgian culture, highlighting iconic characters like Tintin and the Smurfs, as well as the techniques that define French-Belgian comic art.

One of the tour’s strengths is its accessibility and family-friendly approach, with free admission for children from 0 to 10 years old. It’s particularly suitable for those interested in urban art, comic history, or simply wanting to see a different side of Brussels. Keep in mind that the tour is conducted only in Spanish on Thursdays and Sundays, so plan accordingly if you prefer another language.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price: $17 per person, with free entry for children aged 0-10.
• Duration: 2.5 hours, walking through Brussels’ streets and murals.
• Focus: Belgian comic history, techniques, and iconic characters.
• Highlights: Visit the house where Tintin once lived, see Brussels’ first comic wall, and learn about the city’s comic art techniques.
• Accessibility: Tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for those with reduced mobility.
• Group Size: Limited to 25 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Starting Point at Rue du Marché au Charbon: Meet the Guide Near the Brousaille Mural

The tour begins at Rue du Marché au Charbon, 40, right next to a prominent mural by Brousaille. The guide, identifiable by a distinctive Curiositas Mundus badge, meets guests here and leads them into Brussels’ comic art scene. The meeting point is easy to find, making the start smooth for visitors. The tour concludes back at this same location, allowing for easy continuation of your day in Brussels.

The Significance of Brussels’ Comic Murals in City Art and Culture

Brussels boasts over 80 walls dedicated to comic art, making it one of the most mural-rich cities for comics worldwide. The tour showcases some of the most important murals, including the first comic wall created in 1991, which marked the beginning of Brussels’ colorful street art movement. These murals celebrate Belgian comic legends and reflect the city’s long-standing connection to comic publishing.

The murals aren’t just decorative; they serve as storytelling pieces that connect the city’s architecture with its comic heritage. Visitors get a chance to see the large statue of the Smurfs in the city center, which exemplifies Belgium’s influence on animated characters and comic storytelling.

Visiting Tintin’s House and Exploring Belgian Comic Origins

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the house where Tintin lived, before the beloved character moved to the Moulinsart castle. This site offers insight into the origins of Hergé’s creation and the city’s role in nurturing comic talent. The guide explains the main schools of French-Belgian comics, giving context to the distinct styles and storytelling techniques used by Belgian artists.

This tour makes it easy to locate where you can buy comics in multiple languages, providing practical tips for comic fans eager to expand their collection. It provides a well-rounded picture of how Belgian comics influence both local and international culture.

More Great Tours Nearby

From the Streets to the Museums: Beyond the Murals

While the primary focus is on street murals, the tour naturally encourages exploration of other comic-related sites. The guide shares stories about famous comic authors, their work, and how their art has shaped Brussels’ urban landscape. Though the tour doesn’t include museum visits, it hints at nearby attractions like the Comic Book Museum, which is housed in an architecturally notable Art Nouveau building by Victor Horta.

Participants leave equipped with knowledge about where to find comics in their language and how to appreciate the artistic techniques behind these murals. The tour’s walking pace and route through streets outside the city center make it a lively and engaging way to see Brussels through a different lens.

Logistics and Practical Details for Visitors

The tour is organized by Curiositas Mundus and features a professional guide fluent in Spanish, with multimedia information accessible via a dedicated app. It’s designed to accommodate wheelchair users and strollers, making it inclusive for a wide range of visitors.

The activity offers full flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later caters to travelers planning ahead. The group size is capped at 25 people, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience, with plenty of time for questions and interaction.

Why This Tour Stands Out Among Brussels Activities

What makes this walking tour distinct is its focus on Belgian comic art, a genre deeply embedded in Brussels’ identity. The combination of street murals, stories about iconic characters like Tintin and the Smurfs, and insights into comic techniques makes it especially appealing for comic enthusiasts and urban art lovers alike.

The affordable price point and family-friendly approach add to its appeal, making it accessible for travelers with children. The tour is also praised for its knowledgeable guides, who bring comic stories to life with enthusiasm.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most?

This walking experience appeals most to those interested in urban art, comic history, and Belgian culture. Families with children up to 10 years old find it particularly suitable, given the free admission for young kids. Visitors seeking a short, engaging, and educational activity in Brussels will find it a worthwhile choice.

People who enjoy walking tours with cultural storytelling and appreciate street murals will leave with a deeper understanding of Brussels’ comic heritage, as well as practical tips on where to buy comics and explore related attractions.

Final Thoughts on the Brussels Comic Book Walls Tour

The Brussels: The comic book walls walking tour offers an enjoyable and informative exploration of the city’s comic art scene. Its 2.5-hour format makes it an accessible way to see a colorful side of Brussels that many visitors overlook. With friendly, knowledgeable guides and a focus on iconic characters and murals, it delivers both entertainment and education for comic fans and casual travelers alike.

While it doesn’t include museum visits, the tour’s focus on street art and local history provides a fresh perspective on Brussels’ creative landscape. Its affordable price, combined with the ability to cancel easily and reserve flexibly, makes it a practical choice for those seeking a memorable cultural experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 0 to 10 years can join for free, making the tour family-friendly.

In what language is the tour conducted?
The tour is only in Spanish on Thursdays and Sundays. Other days may feature English.

Does the tour involve a lot of walking?
Yes, it is a walking tour through streets outside the city center, lasting 2.5 hours.

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

What are some highlights of the tour?
Visitors see the house where Tintin lived, learn about the first comic wall from 1991, and view the large Smurfs statue.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Rue du Marché au Charbon, 40, near the Brousaille mural.

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

What other comic attractions are nearby?
The tour hints at the Comic Book Museum and other comic shops where you can buy comics in various languages.

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