viator tours brussels

THE 10 BEST Brussels Tours & Excursions

Brussels tours.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Bruges and Ghent - Belgium's Fairytale Cities - from Brussels

2. Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels

3. Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip from Brussels

4. Brussels Walking and Tasting Tour

5. Brussels: Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting

6. Private Brussels Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Custom

7. Brussels Chocolate Beer Waffle and Belgian Whiskey All-in-One (Small Group) Tour

8. From Amsterdam: Guided Tour to Brussels and Bruges

9. Bruges Day Trip from Brussels

10. The Most Complete Tour Of Brussels

11. Belgian Chocolate Making Class and Tasting in Brussels

12. Amsterdam Day Trip from Brussels

13. Brussels Discovery Tour: Belgian food, chocolate, waffles, beer, sightseeing

14. Brussels PRIVATE TOUR With Locals: Highlights & Hidden Gems

15. Belgian Beer Tasting in Brussels

16. Bruges and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels

17. Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

18. Brussels Chocolate Walking Tour and Workshop

19. Timed Entrance to Atomium in Brussels

20. Marc's Brussels Beer Tasting Tour

21. Bastogne Battle of the Bulge from Brussels (semi-private)

22. 2.5h Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Brussels

23. Antwerp and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels With Atomium Photo Stop

24. Historic Battle of the Bulge Sites Private Tour from Brussels

25. Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience

26. The 10 Tastings of Brussels With Locals: PRIVATE Food Tour (B-Corp certified)

27. Private Full-Day Trip to Bruges&Ghent from Brussels with tastings

28. Brussels Small-Group Chocolate Appreciation Tour

29. Flanders Fields Remembrance Tour from Brussels with Lunch

30. Bike tour Brussels highlights and hidden gems

What travelers are saying.

• Bruges and Ghent - Belgium's Fairytale Cities - from Brussels
• Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels
• The Most Complete Tour Of Brussels
• Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip from Brussels
• Brussels: Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting
• Tram Experience
• Sea of Clouds - Brussels
• Soda Entertainment
• Legends of Brussels
• SANDEMANs NEW Europe - Brussels
• A Zonzo Tour
• BEM BELGA - Seu guia na Bélgica
• Bravo Discovery
• Beer Experience in Brussels
• Hungry Mary - Food Tours
• Cactus Brussel à Vélo
• Atelier de Recherche et d'Action Urbaines - ARAU
• Brussels Photo Tour
• City Runs asbl
• Segway Brussels
• Belgium Limousine Services
• Brussels Pub Crawl
• Jaxsun Sports Kiteschool

Unmissable guided tours in Brussels

17 June 2022

Tours with passionate guides are the best way to really get to know Brussels.

Whether they’re original , gastronomic , heritage or are simply unmissable, here are the guided tours that you cannot miss under any circumstances if you’re looking to experience the best of our capital.

Brussels of yesteryear

Discover the richness of the historical heart of Brussels on foot with Claude and Dominique, two guides with a passion for art and history, who founded Discover-b . The walk, which lasts between 2 and 3 hours, can be adapted to suit your wishes. It will include a museum, other more upmarket or more popular districts, and the unmissable classics (Mont des Arts, Place Royale, the Sablon, the Manneken-Pis, the Grand-Place, the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries, etc.), which form the basis of these tours and give us a view of the past to better understand the city of today.

Bright Brussels

The Cities by Bike promise is a bold one: to show you more in a three-hour bicycle tour than you’d see in three days on foot! Lead by Robin, this team of dedicated guides make good on their promise: the Royal Palace, Matonge, the Atomium, the European Quarter, street art… but also parks and gardens, historical cobbled streets, vibrant squares, Art Nouveau masterpieces... And the cherry on the waffle, a delicious gourmet break is included in the price. In short, you’re treated to a little concentration of Brussels with every pedal stroke.

Sweet like chocolate

Another Belgian national treasure is chocolate. Gourmets and chocolate lovers alike cannot afford to miss the chocolate-themed guided tour devised by Brussels Walking Tour . Accompanied by a guide who has more than 15 years of experience, set off on a four-hour chocolate immersion tour, including a three-hour walk through the historic heart of Brussels, where the history of the city and that of chocolate are intricately intertwined. You'll learn all the secrets of the production process and which are the best shops in the city. Moreover, the walk is followed by a one-hour workshop where you can try your hand at making some chocolate and the famous Belgian praline. Warning, this tour is highly addictive.

Beer secrets

Interesting in the secrets behind Belgian beers?  Beer Secret  has made this its trademark, and offers two comprehensive packages for beer lovers. You can opt for the traditional tasting tour: an exploration, off the beaten track, of traditional beers, combined with other local delights and packed with anecdotes and discoveries of hidden locations. The second option includes a visit to a brewery and a meeting with a brewer. You'll learn everything, from production to distribution, with, of course, a look at the history of the first local beer, lambic. Fun and informative visits to be enjoyed in moderation.

Architectural mastery

Art Nouveau enthusiasts know that Brussels was the cradle of this movement, which spread rapidly throughout Europe, with its nature-inspired curves, noble woods, powerful wrought iron, rich colours and dazzling skylights. Bravo Discovery offers a comprehensive Art Nouveau tour that starts at the Grand-Place, before moving on to the Châtelain neighbourhood, where some of the movement's most stunning examples were built. This tour is an opportunity to see some of the most beautiful buildings designed by the great masters of the genre, including the legendary Victor Horta. An optional, bonus visit of the famous Horta House can be added to the end of the tour. Every Saturday, the visit is free of charge (tips welcome).

Let yourself be transported

Tired of walking around the city and having to plan your trips to make the most of your stay in Brussels? With TOOTbus you can sit back, relax and they’ll take care of the rest. This electric bus travels through the streets of the capital along two different routes, taking in historic buildings and new, designer constructions; symbols of the city and popular neighbourhoods; and all the capital's must-see attractions. The two routes offer a total of 26 stops, where you can hop on and off as you please. On board, audio explanations are available in numerous languages, and there's even a children's version, so everyone can enjoy the experience. Good to know: free walking tours are available on the TOOTbus app. 

The hidden side of the City of Brussels town hall

Built in the 15 th century, City of Brussels town hall is one of the most beautiful in the country. It proudly displays its facades dotted with countless sculptures, its perfect proportions and the incomparable beauty of its tower (whose spire is adorned with the archangel Saint Michael). This tour is your chance to visit the interior, admire the various rooms and galleries (Council Chamber, College Chamber, Wedding Hall, Gothic Hall, Portrait Gallery, Grangé Gallery, etc.) and, at the same time, all the decorations and works of art they contain. Visits are made on Wednesday afternoons and Sundays.

Other tours

Guided tours in the european quarter.

Follow the guide and explore the capital of Europe!

10 original guided tours for discovering Brussels

It is time to explore Brussels’ original sites. Follow the guides.

Guided tours that showcase Brussels’ heritage.

Discover Brussels' classics with a guide.

Gastronomic tours

Beer, chocolate, waffles, street food tours and more.

Top Tours in Brussels, Belgium

Brussels tours.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Bruges and Ghent - Belgium's Fairytale Cities - from Brussels

2. Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels

3. Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip from Brussels

4. Brussels Walking and Tasting Tour

5. Brussels: Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting

6. Private Brussels Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Custom

7. Brussels Chocolate Beer Waffle and Belgian Whiskey All-in-One (Small Group) Tour

8. Bruges Day Trip from Brussels

9. The Most Complete Tour Of Brussels

10. Timed Entrance to Atomium in Brussels

11. Belgian Chocolate Making Class and Tasting in Brussels

12. Amsterdam Day Trip from Brussels

13. Brussels Discovery Tour: Belgian food, chocolate, waffles, beer, sightseeing

14. Brussels PRIVATE TOUR With Locals: Highlights & Hidden Gems

15. Belgian Beer Tasting in Brussels

16. Bruges and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels

17. Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

18. Brussels Chocolate Walking Tour and Workshop

19. Marc's Brussels Beer Tasting Tour

20. A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels: From Medieval to Modern Times

21. Bastogne Battle of the Bulge from Brussels (semi-private)

22. 2.5h Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Brussels

23. Antwerp and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels With Atomium Photo Stop

24. Historic Battle of the Bulge Sites Private Tour from Brussels

25. Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience

26. The 10 Tastings of Brussels With Locals: PRIVATE Food Tour (B-Corp certified)

27. Private Full-Day Trip to Bruges&Ghent from Brussels with tastings

28. Brussels Small-Group Chocolate Appreciation Tour

29. Flanders Fields Remembrance Tour from Brussels with Lunch

30. Bike tour Brussels highlights and hidden gems

What travellers are saying.

• Bruges and Ghent - Belgium's Fairytale Cities - from Brussels
• Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels
• The Most Complete Tour Of Brussels
• Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip from Brussels
• Brussels: Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting
• Tram Experience
• Sea of Clouds - Brussels
• Soda Entertainment
• Legends of Brussels
• SANDEMANs NEW Europe - Brussels
• A Zonzo Tour
• BEM BELGA - Seu guia na Bélgica
• Bravo Discovery
• Beer Experience in Brussels
• Hungry Mary - Food Tours
• Cactus Brussel à Vélo
• Atelier de Recherche et d'Action Urbaines - ARAU
• Brussels Photo Tour
• City Runs asbl
• Segway Brussels
• Belgium Limousine Services
• Brussels Pub Crawl
• Jaxsun Sports Kiteschool

• Work With Me
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• About Start Here
• Destinations Where I’ve Been
• Categories What I’ve Done

• Resources Stuff I Love
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A Taste of Belgium: The Brussels Chocolate Tour

Brussels and I got off to a rough start . But I can never hold grudges for long — especially against a country as delicious as this one. Ask any traveler with a Belgian stamp in their passport about their experience and it’s likely they’ll get a hazy look in their eye as they dreamily recall waffles, beer, fries, and most ubiquitously — chocolate.

So when I was researching things to do in Brussels and I came across Viator’s Chocolate Walking Tour and Workshop , I knew it was a non-negotiable must.

On my first sunny day in the city — a good omen for a great tour if I’ve ever known one — our small group gathered in the stunning Grand Place, or Grote Markt. Our meeting point in the famous square was the world’s very first Godiva chocolate store, which opened its doors in 1926. I immediately fell just a little bit in love with our guide, Nadia, whose accent was as charming as her winking descriptions and bubbly insights into life in Brussels.

We didn’t linger long — there was chocolate to be eaten, after all.

Our first stop was at Corné , an old pharmacy turned chocolatier in one of Brussels’ grandest shopping arcades. To get there, we’d popped down a hidden alley I’d never have noticed had I’d been on my own, peeked in the window of the city’s oldest (and, according to Nadia, most expensive) bar, and ducked through an 80’s-tastic strip mall. In just a few minutes I felt I’d seen more of Brussels than I had in the several days I’d already been in the city.

So by the time we plucked our almond hazelnut pralines off the elegant tray that was presented to us at Corné, we’d worked up a proper appetite. ( Right? Right.)

While I adored window shopping around the elegant shops of the arcade, Corné wasn’t my favorite stop of the day. That was just fine though, as I was about to meet an unlikely but formidable contender. I raised an eyebrow when we paused outside Chocopolis . It didn’t seem to have much in common with the sophisticated chocolate stops I’d seen scattered around Brussels. But you know what they say, never judge a book candy shop by it’s cover ridiculous name,  so I braved on inside.

And what do you know? The mango passionfruit milk chocolate — yes, mango passionfruit — was one of my favorite treats of the day, and I would soon become somewhat of a regular around good ‘ol Chocopolis.

Next up was a pause from the choco-boutique browsing for a more hands on portion of the day — the mini chocolate making workshop. As we were ushered into the tour headquarters, it felt like we were arriving at the cozy apartment of a friend. We took our seats along an oversized wooden table and watched transfixed as Nadia’s colleague artfully demonstrated how to make pralines. Then, while a documentary on the production of cacao played in the background, we played with the treats on the table in front of us — chocolate, fruit, nuts, salts and spices, and more.

And soon we were back on the streets, pounding the pavement in search of the most irresistible chocolate Belgium has to offer. And from the gushing descriptions of our next stop, I was confident that at the very least, we were about to try our tour guide’s favorite.

Pierre Marcolini is the Lamborghini of luxury chocolates. (Sidenote: I literally had to Google “luxury car brands” in order to make that analogy. Wherever the loop is I am out of it.) It just smelled opulent in this place. I have to hand it to them, when it comes to branding, packaging, and creating a beautiful product, Pierre Marcolini was the winner of the day.

While our complimentary tasting was of a selection of the shop’s dark chocolate specialties, as soon as I saw the specialty macaroon counter I knew there was no way I was leaving without a rainbow-colored selection. And holy WOW — it was the first of three separate trips I’d make to that counter over the next week, each one as blissfully extravagant as the last.

Personally, thanks to a lifetime of training, my body can withstand amounts of sugar that would tranquilize a small child. However, I know others can be sensitive to so many sweets, which is why I found this tour to be the perfect balance of snacking and walking off the indulgence.

Unsurprisingly, our route brought us by Brussels’ bizarre mascot Mannequin Pis .

All too soon, it was our final stop of the day. And in many ways, we saved the best for last. I still get shivers just thinking about the champagne truffles we tasted at Mary’s — another item that quickly made it into my rotation of Brussels daily indulgences.

As we all started to hug goodbye — yes, hugs were given after just a few hours, that’s how awesome this group was — our creations from the workshop earlier in the day were hand delivered to the door.

I truly can’t describe how much I loved this tour , and how positively it colored by time in Brussels. I’ve taken Viator tours around the world, from swimming with manatees in Florida to white-water rafting in Bali, and this was by far the most outstanding of them all. Much of that credit goes to our fabulous guide Nadia, who is all the things any good tour guide should be — passionate about her subject, genuinely happy to be spending time with her clients, and madly in love with her city.

After this tour, I could start to see Brussels through that lens — quirky and delightfully delicious. And I don’t think it was just the sugar rush talking.

Are you booking a flight to Belgium yet?

This post was brought to you by the iPhone video editing app Together . I am a member of the Viator Ambassador initiative and participated in this tour as part of that program.

Inside My Bag: Packing For Europe

Gorgeous and Beautiful Ghent and Bruges

Once Upon a Time at Tomorrowland

Oh my god, you had me practically eating my phone as I gawked at the chocolates teasing me from the screen! I would have spent half my food budget at those amazing-looking shops!

Believe me… my wallet was not as happy as my stomach 🙂 My daily rounds to Pierre Marcolini, Mary’s and Chocopolis did not come cheap!

This looks like so much delicious goodness! Chocolate is my weakness…can’t get enough!

Any kind of sweets are mine! I have the biggest sugar addiction of anyone I know. I could eat candy for breakfast… and sometimes I do!

I will definitely take this tour if I’m ever in Brussels! Champagne truffels sound unreal.

They are TOO GOOD. And now I’m stuck fantasizing about them from half a world away… better for my waistline, though! 🙂

I should probably avoid Brussels, I would gain about 1000 pounds camping at chocolate shops for the extent of my stay. It looks like you had a great tour though.

Ah, yep. That would be exactly what happened to me 🙂 Luckily, I was heading straight off for a bikini-clad tour of the Greek islands right after! (Facepalm.)

I’m so glad I’m planning on going to Belgium in June next year. I’m adding this tour to my list of things to do! I have a feeling that I will leave Europe 10 pounds heavier than I left!

Definitely add this one to your to-do list! You’re going to love it. Tell Nadia I said hi 🙂

This looks AMAZING! I’m going to be honest, I never think about doing tours in new cities (sometimes that’s a time constraint, other times just a choice) but seeing all of your awesome Viator tours makes me really re-think that. !!

Thanks for another fab post!

I have learned a lot about what I like and don’t like when I travel, as I’m always open to trying new things. I find that tours like this, I LOVE — small, quirky, specialized, led by a passionate guide, etc. I love the local insight. The ones that I need to learn to take a pass on are the big group ones with a monotone guide barking at us to be back on the bus at X time. Those just don’t do it for me 🙂

A chocolate tour seems like the perfect way to discover Brussels! I didn’t really care so much for the city when I visited a few years back (I wasn’t as much of a chocolate addict back then, so that may be the reason), but now I’m longing to go back just to have some of these delicious goodies! 😉

I think this tour would make a visit worthwhile 🙂 I’ll definitely be back to Brussels some day to check out the museums I miss, probably as a short trip when I eventually visit Amsterdam or another nearby city. And I will absolutely be back to my favorite chocolate shops then!

OMG – LOVE chocolate – how did I not end up on this tour when I visited Brussels?! haha. Just another reason to visit again!!

Exactly 😉 I always like to leave a new city with a good reason to come back!

OH MY LORD. Everyone knows Belgium is know for their chocolate but it’s never really been at the top of my to-visit list until this post. Holy smokes. Everything has changed.

Ha! That’s what I like to hear 🙂 Peddling chocolate, changing lives!

Brussels, chocolates and Viator..you cannot go wrong with that. I was there this May and loved every moment of my stay and double fried french fries which i had were the best ever so far. Miss you Brussels and your post revoked memories of this beautiful place.

So glad you had a great experience in Brussels. Those fries are hard to beat!

All I did in Brussels was eat chocolate, drink beer, and load up on 1 euro waffles. This post makes me want to go back!

Sounds like the perfect Belgium itinerary 🙂 Glad you had a great trip!

Did you go elsewhere in Belgium? Because while Brussels is fine and all, I’ve never been a huge fan, but Antwerp and Brugge? FORGET ABOUT IT. Gorgeous.

My next post is about Bruges and Ghent! Didn’t spend nearly enough time in either. Must go back! They were stunners.

HAH! #literalLOLz at this: ‘Sidenote: I literally had to Google “luxury car brands” in order to make that analogy. Wherever the loop is I am out of it.’ — Right there with ya, sister! 😛

I work in a shared space with some friends so I asked them too, “What is a really nice car?!” And we were all totally clueless. I guess I was asking a group of people who drive broken down old mopeds 🙂 Ah, Thailand.

Ah, chocolate…

I’ve actually had a little more in the past week than we expected given the Mexican heat (thankfully there is the odd place we’ve found respite)

It all looks delicious, although if I could get Sarah to enjoy that Passionfruit & Mango treat (two flavours she’s never been friends with), that would be an achievement!! 😉

Ah, it is SO GOOD. I’m not usually a fan of mixing fruit and chocolate actually so I was pretty suspicious but… it defied all expectations!

Haha, “We didn’t linger long — there was chocolate to be eaten, after all.” I cracked up. Thanks for this! I’ll definitely have to add it to my list.

Ha, thanks Alexandria. Always great to know someone appreciates my valiant attempts at humor. 🙂

It’s nice to hear that you warmed up to Brussels. It sounds like the tour really did the trick! I love it when tours introduce you to parts of cities you wouldn’t have found otherwise. The city looks amazing. Oh, and so does the chocolate 🙂

Yeah, I hear a lot of mixed reviews on Brussels but I think had my box incident not occurred I would have had nothing negative to say! Ah well, you can’t win ’em all 🙂

Oh my gosh, this just makes me want to go back to Brussels and eat sweets all day! If your pictures and descriptions are this scrumptious, I can’t imagine how the actual reality is! (And I love that you made return trips back to a lot of these places while you were in Belgium!)

Ha! I actually did twice… maybe three times?! Yikes! I mean, I had to bring Heather once she arrived, right? I would have been a bad friend otherwise!

I so need to do that tour. I’m so going to do that tour. Give me the chocolate already!!!

When you do, let me know so we can compare notes 🙂

Wow! I love Belgium chocolate. Having lived all my childhood just around the corner from Belgium, I am now missing it a lot!!! Your post really reminded me that I have to go there again!!! Thanks and have a wonderful day!!!

You are so welcome for the sweet reminder, Jana 🙂

I’ve got a serious chocolate craving going on right now…not sure I can find anything as decadent here in Sri Lanka!

Thailand neither 🙁 Although that might be for the best, health-wise!

I need to kiss the feet of the person who invented the champagne truffle.

Hahahaha. I can relate!

It’s only 10 am here, but now I’m REALLY craving chocolate!

I didn’t do a chocolate tour when I was in Belgium, but I’m definitely adding it to the list for next time!!

Tomorrowland aside, it was the highlight for me!

Chocolate and Brussels what not to like. Next time I am in Brussels I will look out for the tour.

Let me know if you do! Hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I did.

Those chocolates look delicious! I am signing up for that chocolate tour.

Have a delicious time, Angelica! 🙂

Sounds like a great tour! I did some chocolate truffle making in London – so messy and so fun! We also did a bean to bar chocolate class at the Chocolate Museum in Antigua, Guatemala which was so interesting – taking us through the journey of the chocolate from bean form to becoming chocolate, we roasted and crushed the beans ourselves and tried the Mayan style hot chocolate. We took home a bag of chocolate too that we had set in moulds. Definitely recommend if you find yourself in Guatemala!

Sounds awesome! I had some amazing chocolate in Latin America, amazing in a different way. Less about the packaging and presentation and more about the production. Loved seeing both sides!

Wow, best Viator tour ever? That is saying a lot! Chances are I’ve mentioned the fact that chocolate-tasting in Belgium is on my bucket list (and beer tasting. and fries tasting…) but now when I go, I’ll know which tour to choose!

PS — love your admission that you googled around for the car analogy. i do that shit all the time!!

Ha. I shuffled through a few different luxury ideas but realized I don’t know luxury brands in ANY genre, except I suppose for travel 🙂

So much chocolate!! I need to go to Belgium. I’m loving the blog design also!! 🙂

Thanks so much Jasmine! It’s such an exciting change!

Sounds like a fantastic tour

It was indeed! Thanks for reading, Emma!

You had me at chocolate!! Hahaha. Those look just incredible – how on earth did you choose which ones to try and which ones to leave in those beautiful displays?? And Brussels looks charming too – I love the cobble stones and faded elegance of the buildings.

For the most part, I took Nadia’s suggestions — she was the professional, after all 🙂 I was not led astray!

Ah, sounds like a good strategy. Imagine that on a business card – “chocolate professional”. Nice!

I absolutely love Brussels and I ABSOLUTELY ADORE CHOCOLATE! This post is great and your photos are lovely! 🙂 x x

Thanks so much Aimee! Brussels won me over in the end, as well 🙂

yumm! I haven’t had good chocolate in a long time.. best you get here is cadbury brand and it’s ok! Wish Viator had more variety in tours in India- they’ll all the same in each city.

Maybe if you come across some great ones you could suggest them to Viator 🙂 They are always on the lookout for amazing tours!

I’m just catching up on your past posts and just been reading you’ve been to my home town! I love the pics, thanks for sharing, makes me miss home.

So happy I could give you a smile, Anton! You have a beautiful home.

Wow! Belgium chocolate is the best and this tour look perfect! I will defenately try it when in Belgium!

One of my favorite day tours ever! Let me know how you enjoy it!

I’m going to Belgium this June, and I definitely want to sign up for this tour after reading this post! As a Viator Ambassador, you don’t happen to have discounts for your readers, do you? Just thought I’d check!

Hey Kristina, unfortunately not at this time! I have requested on though and I’m working with Viator to make it happen at some point — fingers crossed!

Make note to self to add chocolate budget for Brussels trip omg. If I take the tour my husband will have to occupy himself elsewhere (he’s allergic to nuts and has to be careful around desserts especially in Europe). Maybe he can do a beer tour.

Oh bummer! But I do think that sounds like the perfect split day — beer and chocolate!

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The Perfect Day Trip to Luxembourg from Brussels

Would you like to visit Europe’s only Grand Duchy and spend a day exploring the stunning architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, and picturesque countryside? If so, we have just the itinerary for you. The perfect day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels will take you through Belgium’s capital city of Brussels before crossing into Luxembourg via its border with France.

Along the way, enjoy such highlights as visiting the Grand Ducal Palace, taking in panoramic views from atop the Casemates du Bock, or hopping on a scenic train ride that runs alongside the majestic Meuse River Valley.

We’ve also included everything you’ll need to know before starting your journey including the best time to visit Luxembourg, how much time you’ll need, practical tips for visiting Luxembourg City, some top-rated tours from Brussels, additional day tours from Luxembourg City, and even the best things to do in Luxembourg.

Use this guide to help plan your trip so you don’t miss out on an opportunity to explore one of Europe’s tiniest countries!

Happy Travels!

Get My FREE Ebook! ​ Transformed by Travel: the risks & rewards of backpacking Europe (a life-changing journey)

3 incredible day trips from brussels.

If I had known about these 3 incredible towns in Belgium, I would have spent WAAAY less time in Brussels…

And no, they aren’t Ghent or Antwerp!

Is Luxembourg Worth Visiting?

We found Luxembourg to be breathtaking with its cross between medieval architecture and sophisticated ambiance.

One minute you could be strolling along the Alzette River and the other you could be getting lost in the network of rooms in the Casemates du Bock!

The cuisine was a balance between Luxembourgish original dishes and those that had French, Dutch, and German influences, and we found Luxembourg not to be as expensive as you might expect.

It seemed like this city was a magical destination for travelers seeking a smaller-scale piece of Europe (with far fewer tourists), and it surely didn’t disappoint.

In our opinion, Luxembourg as a whole and Luxembourg City are absolutely worth visiting! We’re more of adventure travelers, but nevertheless, Luxembourg was worth visiting even if only for a short visit.

The Best Time to Visit Luxembourg

Luxembourg is similar to that of other Western European countries in that it has two main peak seasons: summer and winter .

During these peak seasons, you’ll find beautiful weather (respective: warm and sunny summer months and dark and snowy winter months), exciting activities, and even beautiful Christmas markets in the winter.

However, you’ll also find inflated prices for flights, trains, tours, food, and accommodations. You’ll also be sharing your experience with tens of thousands of other tourists… not exactly how you pictured your magical day trip to Luxembourg, I’m sure.

The best time to visit Luxembourg is in the spring and fall, otherwise known as the shoulder seasons . During these periods of March through early June and mid-September through mid-November, you’ll find comfortable, festive weather, but with far fewer tourists and none of the inflated prices.

These are the best times to visit Luxembourg since you’ll save money, spend less time waiting in line at major attractions, and you’ll have more opportunities to chat with the locals!

We visited in May and found it to be absolutely wonderful. On our next trip to Luxembourg, we will likely be visiting in the fall to see the stunning foliage!

Is One Day Enough for Luxembourg?

There are a few different ways to answer this, but, in short, not really .

If you like to take your time, stroll the cobblestone streets, visit the museums, and check out the big-hitting attractions when you visit a new European destination, then you’ll simply need more than one day in Luxembourg City.

In reality, three days would be the perfect amount of time to spend in Luxembourg.

Especially if you’re taking a day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels, there are some fun stops you could include on your journey such as Dinant, so more time will definitely benefit you.

Luxembourg is also home to four different regions outside of the capital! If you’re looking to spend some time hiking, then we highly suggest heading northeast to the Mullerthal Trail.

For a foodie’s day trip, start in the capital then make your way over to the surrounding rural towns such as Vianden.

It is possible to see and do a lot in one day in Luxembourg City, but you won’t get to see everything, you may end up feeling rushed, and you almost definitely won’t be able to explore outside of the capital.

So, if you’re able to swing taking a few extra days off of work, then we suggest spending at least two but preferably 3 days in Luxembourg!

Things to Know About Luxembourg

Whether you are visiting Luxembourg for the first time or this is your fourth or fifth time returning, there are a few good tips to keep in mind.

✔️ To start, people who live in Luxembourg are called Luxembourgers.

Luxembourg is sandwiched between Germany, Belgium , and France and is the 7 th tiniest country in Europe.

So, yes , you can expect the food and beer to be phenomenal with its interesting combination of both local specialties and international classics.

✔️ It’s the only Grand Duchy in the entire world!

So, don’t expect to see a king or queen strolling through the Grand Ducal Palace. Instead, you may see or hear of the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess making an appearance.

✔️ Most Luxembourgers know up to four or five languages!

From a very young age, the citizens of Luxembourg are taught German, French, and their native language, Luxembourgish . Some people also learn how to speak Dutch, and many people learn English later in life.

Since many locals will know at least some English, you won’t need to worry about getting around the city.

Though, if you happen to speak some French or German, that may speed things up a little. I speak French pretty well, and I just defaulted to speaking French while in Luxembourg for ease of communication.

✔️ If you plan on entering multiple museums, visiting the Grand Duchy, and seeing the castles, then I highly suggest purchasing the Visit Luxembourg Card .

It will save you time, the hassle of buying different tickets everywhere you go, and money since you’ll be getting free or reduced rates at all attractions.

✔️ Last, but definitely not least, be sure to pack comfortable, supportive walking shoes for your day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels.

Luxembourg is made up of cobblestone streets, brick sidewalks, and ancient medieval castles that have been deteriorating over time.

Needless to say, the walking conditions aren’t great and you’re going to be doing a lot of walking… good shoes are a must!

How Can I Spend a Day in Luxembourg?

If you only have one full day in Luxembourg, you have a few different options on how you could spend it.

✔️ If cities aren’t your personal favorite place to spend hours upon hours walking around, then I would recommend taking a train directly to the Mullerthal region.

Here, you’ll find enchanting forests full of toppling waterfalls and stunning scenery.

If nature is what you’re seeking, I would recommend taking a few photos of the Grand Palace and then heading straight to Mullerthal.

✔️ If cities seemingly frozen in medieval times are your thing, then spend the day exploring the Grund, the Bock Casemates, and walking over the aqueducts!

Luxembourg City is a unique and perplexing place to simply wander .

You can be in an upscale, sophisticated part of town one moment and deep in the Grund scouring cobblestone streets next to the world’s last Grand Duchy the next!

The city is full of history, so there’s a lot to keep you occupied for at least a couple of days.

✔️ If you don’t have much motivation to be on your feet (or on a train) all day, then have yourself a picnic in the park!

Practically anywhere you pick will be scenic and particularly beautiful in the summer months when the flowers have bloomed.

There are also plenty of small shops where you can pick up some local food, or you can get take-out (also called take-away) for a pre-made gourmet meal!

Best Luxembourg Tours

If you’re thinking about taking a day trip Luxembourg from Brussels and want to include Dinant like I suggested (this is a very popular travel combination), then there are a few ways you can do it.

First, you can opt to book your journey through train travel, you can rent a car, can take a bus, or you can join an organized tour.

If you aren’t too familiar with booking your own travel needs and organizing an itinerary to fit a schedule, then it may be easier for you to join one of the organized tours I have mentioned below.

Some of these tours include pick up and drop off in downtown Brussels as well as multi-lingual guides and safe transportation. While others may require you to get yourself to Luxembourg before beginning your tour.

Be sure to read the “What’s Included?” and “Additional Info” sections to answer any questions you may have before booking.

✔ Organized Tours

Luxembourg and dinant tour from brussels.

Offers an 11-hour tour to both Dinant and Luxembourg City including pick up and drop off in Brussels via an air-conditioned vehicle.

You will also be provided with a multi-lingual guide, the opportunity to see many of the major attractions in each city, and free time for exploring.

If you’re taking a few different Luxembourg tours from Brussels, this is a good one to consider.

The Best of Luxembourg City Guided E-bike Tour

This ultimate E-bike city tour provides you with a 2.5-hour guided tour around the city! You will meet your guide in Luxembourg City, so you will need to plan your own transportation from Brussels.

Unlike many city tours, this guided tour provides you with your bicycles and helmets and offers you a unique way of viewing the city with a guide.

They will bring you to all of the best spots in the city so you can just sit back and enjoy the ride!

Luxembourg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

This private two-hour tour of Luxembourg City offers you the inside scoop on experiencing the city with a local! You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions to your English-speaking tour guide, learn about the history of each major attraction, and buy food and souvenirs along the way.

When I visit new places, one of my favorite things to do is to start a conversation with a local.

You always learn about the best hidden gems and restaurants and can gain insight into what life is truly like for them. In my opinion, this is a great way to explore Luxembourg City.

✔ Self Guided Tours

Another great way of exploring the city on your day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels is to plan your very own self-guided tour! The best way to do this, in my opinion, is to buy a city guide.

Whenever I book a trip to a new destination, the first thing I do is purchase a full guide to the area. In this case, I would purchase this Luxembourg Travel Guide . If you want to save yourself a little bit of money, you can also purchase the DK Eyewitness Belgium and Luxembourg Travel Guide !

Once you have an idea of everything you want to include on your trip with the help of both this post and your handy travel guide, you can start planning your self-guided tour.

This is where Google Maps will become your best friend. You can simply type in everything you want to see into the directions tab, and organize your journey to be as time (and walking) efficient as possible.

I have provided a sample walking itinerary of Luxembourg City so you can see what I mean below.

Free Walking Tour of Luxembourg City

Having been all over Luxembourg City myself, this is the ideal walking tour that you could take, particularly if you only have one day to explore the city centre.

How to Get to Luxembourg from Brussels

When it comes to actually getting to Luxembourg from Brussels, regardless if you plan on joining an organized tour or not, you have several different options.

Personally, I love train travel in Europe and I truly believe this is the best way to travel from Brussels to Luxembourg. With nearly 30 different options for direct trains from Brussels to Luxembourg, this is easily the quickest and simplest method of taking this day trip.

It’s not only scenic and much more comfortable than flying or taking the bus, but it almost always saves you money. If you are planning on taking a day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels, then I would seriously consider taking the train.

I know it can be overwhelming trying to plan an entire itinerary on your own, so I would suggest booking train tickets to Luxembourg from Brussels (you’ll want to get off at the Gare Lëtzebuerg station in Luxembourg) then booking one of the day tours from Brussels I suggested above.

This will save you some money since you won’t be paying for private transportation, will give you the experience of riding Europe’s most famous railroad, and will allow you to be on your own schedule.

Buses are another good way of getting from Brussels to Luxembourg City. While not as scenic or comfortable as the train, they mainly provide affordable transportation for budget travelers.

Most buses run through companies such as Flixbus, Eurolines, Ouibus, and RegioJet. Journies from Brussels City to Luxembourg City typically cost around 20 euros and take about 3 hours each way.

If you want to compare schedules and pricing as well as be able to book your tickets all in one place, I suggest using Omio !

If you’re looking for the option that is going to give you the most freedom on your day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels, then I suggest renting a car.

It will cost you the most money, especially during the peak season months, but if you have a specific itinerary planned then it will be worth it.

This will give you the freedom to move at your own pace, include as many side trips as you would like (to Dinant, for example), and allow you to experience more of the rural neighborhoods of Luxembourg.

However, do keep in mind that some areas of Luxembourg are pedestrian-only, so you will still have to do some walking.

You’ll also want to take a look at Luxembourg’s driving requirements (i.e. international licenses, insurance policies, etc.) and you’ll need to make sure that you can drive your rental car over international borders as some agencies do not allow this.

✔️ Pro Tip: You also have the option of creating a Bruges to Luxembourg day trip itinerary! In my opinion, Bruges was far more beautiful and exciting than Brussels (you can read my full comparison of Bruges vs Brussels to help you decide), and it’s well worth the extra little bit of travel time.

The Best Things To Do in Luxembourg

No matter if you’re spending one week or one day in Luxembourg, these are some of the best things you should include on your itinerary!

Haute Ville

Known as the upper area of the city, Haute Ville is full of beautiful cobblestone streets, sophisticated museums, art galleries, and well-manicured gardens.

Visitors can enjoy shopping on the famous Grand Rue , strolling by the Grand Duchy, and photographing the beautiful rural neighborhoods of the city.

This is where the majority of tourists spend most of their time since it’s also where you’ll find most of the restaurants, bars, and streetside cafes.

This is the most “European” part of Luxembourg, so it’s going to look a little more like any common town in Europe, and a little less like… well, Luxembourg.

On any day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels, try to spend at least a couple of hours in Haute Ville before making your way down to the Grund.

The Grund is the lower half of the city that boasts incredible, medieval ruins intertwined with the Alzette River.

This is where many tourists go to escape the crowds of Haute Ville and find themselves immersed in gothic architecture and magical views overlooking the city.

This is also where you’ll find the most magical views of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Grand Ducal Palace, as well as perfect trails for an evening stroll.

In my opinion, this is the most romantic part of the city and is well-deserving of the majority of your time.

No day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels would be complete without a visit to the Grund, and no visit to the Grund would be complete with a visit to the Casemates du Bock!

Casemates du Bock

The Casemates du Bock are a spectacular sight to see when on a day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels.

These magnificent structures were built to protect the city from invaders during World War II and are made up of hundreds of different rooms, walkways, and levels.

The vast network of tunnels is a mysterious and impressive sentiment to how military personnel lived during these times of war, and it’s quite incredible to see for yourself.

From the southern side of the ruins, visitors can look out over the Alzette River and get exceptional views of Neimënster – the iconic public meeting place and concert hall that has represented Luxembourg City since the 17 th century!

The Casemates du Bock are my absolute favorite place to visit in Luxembourg City and you could easily spend several hours exploring these tunnels.

If you’re looking to learn about the history of the Casemates du Bock from a professional guide, I highly suggest joining one of these Guided Tours of Luxembourg City .

We happened to be walking through the tunnels when we spotted a walking tour and we just so happened to blend right in… hopefully you learn from us and book your tickets in advance!

Grand Ducal Palace & The Changing of the Guard

The Grand Ducal Palace is the official residence of the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Luxembourg and is a must-see for any architecture enthusiast.

The incredible building was built as an imperial residence during the German occupation and now serves mostly ceremonial functions, but it also houses some very interesting museums.

Every day, visitors can witness the Changing of the Guard outside of the Grand Ducal Palace. The palace is on 24-hour watch and requires a guard to be posted at all times.

Thus, the “changing of the guard” is describing the end of one guard’s shift, and the beginning of the oncoming guard’s shift.

The event is quite amazing to witness since Luxembourg is the last country in the world with a Grand Duchy!

Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral in Luxembourg City is a must-see for anyone who has an appreciation of architecture and religions.

It’s the main church located within this medieval city, which provides visitors with plenty to look at as they explore its intricately carved interior or admire views from up high on top floors that have been made accessible for public viewing.

The building is known for its soaring spires and beautiful stained glass windows that create the ultimate centerpiece to an already beautiful city center.

Explore the Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art

The Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art is located in the historic city center of Luxembourg and is a must-see on any day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels.

The museum’s collection includes paintings from several famous artists as well as photography by some of Europe’s best photographers – all on display inside 17 th -century guildhalls which have been beautifully restored into an elegant contemporary space.

While the museum is spectacular for anyone young and old, art enthusiasts travel to Luxembourg from far and wide to catch a glimpse at its everchanging collections and exhibits.

Even if you simply enjoy picking up a paintbrush every now and then, the Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art is sure to impress you.

You can learn more here !

Stroll the Place d’Armes

Place d’Armes is one of the most well-known, beautiful places to visit in Luxembourg City. It is a beautifully designed area that will bring you back to medieval times.

It features shops and cafes, perfect for people looking to grab lunch or spend some time people-watching while enjoying Luxembourg’s beautiful architecture!

While this is one of the more touristy areas of Luxembourg City, it is definitely worth at least a short visit on your day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels!

Luxembourg Viaduct

Also known as the Passerelle, this iconic Luxembourg Viaduct is a must for any architecture aficionado. It was built in 1861 and spans the gorgeously flowing river, with its mighty supports reaching up to nearly 150 feet into the air on either side of its steep falls below!

The road over this structure features fantastic views from every corner from the Haute Ville all the way down to the Grund of Luxembourg City.

This majestic structure carries vehicles over the beautiful Pétrusse Valley, offering exceptional views of the surrounding landscape and Haute Ville.

If you’re joining an organized tour from Brussels or are driving yourself, try to ensure that you get the chance to drive over this decades-old viaduct!

Adolphe Bridge

The Adolphe Bridge in Luxembourg City is an architectural marvel. This Gothic-style stone arch bridge was built in 1903 and has become a city landmark as well as one of Europe’s most famous bridges over the Moselle River!

Spend some time strolling this long bridge while taking in the pretty epic surrounding views of the railway and lush greenery below.

The bridge recently added a lower deck in 2018, so people can enjoy passing under the road from the Boulevard Royal in Haute Ville to the Avenue de la Liberté in Gare.

Brussels City Tours

Perhaps you don’t have as much time as you thought and a day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels simply isn’t in the cards on this trip to Europe. Well, you can still consider a Brussels city tour!

With everything from popular food and beer tours, private city walking tours, and even historical tours on offer, there is plenty to choose from in Brussels.

Just be sure to secure your travel dates in advance and know which date may work best for your tour since they tend to book up fast, particularly in the summer and winter months! Here are the two top-rated tours in Brussels that you should definitely take a look at if you’ll have at least one full day there.

Brussels Chocolate Beer Waffle and Belgian Whiskey All-in-One (Small Group) Tour

About 5.5 hours in length, you’ll have plenty of time to get a true taste of Belgian cuisine.

This is an all-inclusive tour, so be prepared for upwards of 6 beer tastings, a quality whiskey sampling, and the ultimate smorgasbord of waffles, sausages, cheese, chocolate, and even the iconic Speculoos (it makes for a fantastic Belgian souvenir ).

Having won Viator’s Badge of Excellence for its repeated successful and enjoyable tours, don’t skip this tour on your next trip to Brussels!

Legends of Brussels – Historical Walking Tour of Brussels

Have a history buff in your group? This Brussels city historical walking tour is 2.5 hours of pure information download time.

Your English-speaking guide will be there to walk you to many of Brussels iconic sites while providing lesser-known information that you may miss in the Brussels Art & History Museum .

At the end of the tour, you’ll also be provided with a local’s insight on what you should do next considering the amount of time you have, what you’ve already seen, and what you hope to do with the rest of your time in Brussels!

Day Trips to Luxembourg Outside of Brussels

Heading somewhere else in Europe but want to include a day trip to Luxembourg? Check out these day trips from other popular European destinations!

Day Trip to Luxembourg from Paris

Getting to Luxembourg from Paris is a cinch! Simply hop on the TGV train at Gare de l’Est in Paris and you’ll arrive in Luxembourg City about 2 hours and 12 minutes later.

There are 3 stops along this journey, but you’ll just be getting off at the very end.

A day trip to Luxembourg from Paris is a fantastic idea since you’ll be combining similar destinations in one trip! How are Paris and Luxembourg similar? Glad you asked.

They share the same language, similar cuisine due to France’s influences, and similar weather so you won’t need to pack for an array of seasons on your trip.

If you’re planning on combining two destinations in one trip, Paris and Luxembourg are a great combo!

Day Trip to Luxembourg from Amsterdam

A day trip to Luxembourg from Amsterdam can be a lot of fun, but I do suggest one thing… don’t spend just one day in Luxembourg if you’re coming from Amsterdam!

Especially if you’re traveling via train, the journey will take you between 6 and 7 hours and will include multiple stops and train changes. If you decide to fly, you’ll save a lot of time with a nonstop flight averaging around one hour, but it will cost you typically between $200-$300.

So, while Luxembourg and Amsterdam are another wonderful combo due to their vast differences (i.e. the nightlife of Amsterdam paired with the culture of Luxembourg makes for an awesome trip… I know, I did it!), I would highly recommend either flying if you can afford it or spending at least two days in Luxembourg before taking a return train.

Day Trip to Luxembourg from Frankfurt

Taking a day trip from Frankfurt to Luxembourg is another good trip idea. Frankfurt’s high class and European architecture combined with Luxembourg’s sophisticated culture and Grand Duchy makes for an exciting experience all around.

But, similar to Amsterdam, the trip will usually take you around 4 hours by train each way.

So, yes, it is possible to make this trip in one day, but 8 hours of traveling will only leave you with about 4 or 5 hours of sightseeing in the middle.

If you don’t mind long travel days, then I highly suggest taking a day trip to Luxembourg from Frankfurt!

But, if you like to take your time in a new city, then consider flying or including Luxembourg on a future trip.

Day Trips from Luxembourg City

Spending a few extra days in Luxembourg and want to explore outside of the capital? Check out these popular tours and destinations!

✔ Vianden Castle

Vianden Castle is one of the most popular day trips from Luxembourg available to visitors!

This tour, in particular, provides roundtrip public transportation with a small group (maximum of 10 people) and the entrance fee for the castle. They also bring you to the old town of Vianden where you will have free time for exploring!

The tour is a total of 5 hours and typically takes place in the middle of the day, so you’ll still have plenty of time for breakfast and will be returned to Luxembourg by mid-afternoon.

This is a wonderful day trip to the castle for people of all ages and also gives you the opportunity to experience another Luxembourgish town!

✔ Mullerthal Forest

The Mullerthal region of Luxembourg is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s easy to see why the area is also known as “little Switzerland” for its lush greenery, moss-covered forests, and tranquil, toppling waterfalls!

The area boasts incredible hiking trails of all difficulty levels and is home to the most beautiful scenery in Luxembourg, and even Europe according to some.

We were unable to make it out to the Mullerthal region on our last visit to Luxembourg, but we will surely be including it on our next visit!

Did you know that many people in Luxembourg can speak up to 4 or 5 different languages? It’s truly incredible and I am personally very jealous. Typically, people can speak Dutch, German, Luxembourgish, French, and English.

If you only know English before heading to Luxembourg, you’ll likely get along just fine. But, if you want to practice your French-speaking skills before you get there, check out these helpful French resources!

✔️ What Time Is It in French 11+ Ways: How to Ask and Tell Time in French ✔️ How to Say Nice to Meet You in French 15+ Ways ✔️ 33+ Ways to Say Thank You in French (with Audio) ✔️ Saying No in French 31+ Ways (& Audio Pronunciation) ✔️ Good Morning in French: 17 Helpful French Greetings ✔️ Good Night in French 17+ Ways (& Audio Pronunciation) ✔️ 1-10 in French: Learn to Count from 1-10+ in French (with Pronunciations)

If you’re looking for a day trip from Brussels, Luxembourg is the perfect destination.

With its beautiful architecture and rich history, it’s no wonder that this small country has been designated as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

We hope this article has shown you that Luxembourg is a great destination for day trips from Brussels , and we’ve given you some tips to make the most of your time. From the best tours to the best things to do in Luxembourg, we truly hope your experience is as magical as ours!

Cheers! Emily

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

How To Visit Luxembourg City In One Day From Brussels

Posted on Published: September 22, 2019  - Last updated: December 19, 2023

Categories Europe , Luxembourg , Travel

Luxembourg City is a small but mighty city – there’s a load of history to discover and out of this world views to check out!

I visited Luxembourg on a day trip from Brussels and had more than enough time to see everything in the city. So here’s everything you need to know about spending one day in Luxembourg City. I’ll go over how to get there (even give you some money saving hacks!), and what to do while you’re there.

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

What You Didn’t Know About Luxembourg

Luxembourg is both a very interesting city and country… Luxembourg City (in Luxembourg) is one of the only cities with the same name as its mother country! And did you know they’re the third wealthiest country in the world (and actually the wealthiest if you look at per capita)?

Most of its citizens aren’t even native Luxembourgers. 2/3 of the country are foreigners from Portugal, Spain … etc.

On top of that, there are an extra 200 000 people commuting to the city for work from other countries. They’ll live in Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, and France and commute to the city every day. That’s because there are a lot of employment opportunities in the city but it’s very expensive to live there.

Freebies In The City That Luxembourg Offers!

Unlike most European cities, Luxembourg offers quite a bit for free… like it’s completely free to use the public restrooms throughout the city.

They also offer free city Wifi everywhere, as long as you have a valid phone number to sign up for it. And as of 2020, all public transport is is free to use in the entire country! Don’t believe me? Read more about it here .

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Do They Speak English In Luxembourg?

You won’t have a problem speaking English while you’re visiting. But surprisingly, it’s the 4th or 5th language most locals will learn.

In school, Luxembourgers learn 3 languages: Luxembourgish, German, and French. English is only introduced much later.

And as I mentioned earlier, most families living there are foreigners, so this doesn’t include their mother tongue spoken at home.

How To Get From Brussels To Luxembourg

If you’re going on a day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels, you have a few travel options: you can rent a car, take a bus or train, or go on an organized tour. Brussels to Luxembourg is about a 3 hours away.

Although renting a car gives you the most flexibility and freedom, it also comes with its own sets of problems and risks (driving in a foreign city, finding parking, etc). Rent a car in Brussels here .

Your next option is to take the bus – which is usually the cheapest travel option. The main problem is that the bus doesn’t leave too often from Brussels to Luxembourg. Double check the travel time because it can vary depending on when you want to leave. The bus station in Luxembourg is also further outside the city (P+R Bouillon) so you’ll most like have to take public transit to the city centre. You can check the Flixbus schedule here .

So we opted to take the train from Brussels to Luxembourg…

The train trip is a bit over 3 hours each way (although you also have to watch out some are MUCH longer!). You can walk from the train station in Luxembourg to the city centre (Gare Centrale routière). To make the most out of your day, you’ll want to take the earliest train at 7 A.M. and the last train back at 8:00 P.M. Find train tickets from Brussels to Luxembourg here .

From the train station, it’s a 15-minute walk to the city centre. Or you can opt for one of the countless buses headed that way (remember they’re free!).

Day Trip To Luxembourg From Brussels Train Hack

We noticed it’s not always cheaper to buy a direct train ticket from Brussels to Luxembourg. If you’re under 26 (see discount tickets here ), or if you’re travelling on the weekend (see discount tickets here ), it’s might be cheaper for you to buy 2 separate train tickets. Let me explain…

Direct trains from Brussels to Luxembourg will always make a final stop in Arlon, Belgium before making it to Luxembourg. So buy one train ticket from Brussels to Arlon, which will give you the Belgian train discounts for youths or weekend travel. Then buy another ticket from Arlon to Luxembourg (about €7 each way).

Just double check that the train number is the same for Brussels to Luxembourg and Arlon to Luxembourg before you buy any ticket (you don’t have to switch trains in Arlon). We did this both ways and had no issues, we just showed a different ticket for each leg of the trip.

Final Option: Go On An Organized Tour From Brussels To Luxembourg

If taking the train from Brussels to Luxembourg sounds too hectic for a day trip, you can also go on an organized tour. Viator offers several organized tours that leave from Brussels and bring you to Luxembourg. They also plan the entire day in Luxembourg for you, taking you to all the main points of interest.

This is a totally stress free way of going on a day trip to Luxembourg from Brussels.

Brussels to Luxembourg Organized Tours

Understanding luxembourg city: haute ville & the grund.

If you haven’t already noticed, Luxembourg is built on a hill, which naturally creates a separation between two parts of the city, Haute Ville and the Grund.

Luxembourg City Haute Ville

This is the city centre, and where the bourgeoisie used to live. Nowadays, you’ll find all the main attractions here, like the Grand Duchy and the Notre Dame Cathedral .

It only takes 10 minutes to walk from side to side of Haute Ville in Luxembourg City – yup, it’s that small! The nicest part is that the centre is car-free. Several blocks surrounding Place d’Armes are pedestrian only streets, which are filled with shops and restaurants.

Luxembourg City The Grund

The Grund, a.k.a the lower village, used to be where the poor and servants of the bourgeoisie lived. Although today it’s equally as expensive as Haute Ville.

The Grund offers breathtaking views of Haute Ville. You’ll want to make sure to walk along the Alzette river and find the purple Mermaid statue across from Abbey Neimënster .

This statue represents Luxembourg’s Count Sigfried’s wife Melusina. After several years of marriage, Sigfried discovered she was actually a mermaid and was never seen again.

How To Get From Haute Ville To The Grund

To get from Haute Ville to the Grund in Luxembourg City you have a few options. The most picturesque is to walk along Rue de la Corniche (which I recommend doing either way!).

But if you need a break from walking, Luxembourg offers a free elevator you can take. You’ll find it near Luxembourg’s Parliament in Haute Ville, and off of Rue Schmëdo in the Grund.

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Luxembourg Things To Do In One Day

Because you’re here for such a limited time, I recommend doing a walking tour when you first arrive in Luxembourg City. The tour takes you to all the main sites in Haute Ville and the Grund, gives you a lowdown of Luxembourg’s history, and some local recommendations.

After your walking tour, you have a few options for how to spend your one day in Luxembourg…

You might also be interested in reading…

Why I Love Free Walking Tours On Vacation

Main Sites You Won’t Want to Miss

On the walking tour, you should make it to the following places: Place d’Armes, The Grand Ducal Palace, Bock and Casemates, St Michael’s Cathedral, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Golden Lady Memorial Statue.

There are a few different attractions you can pay to visit if you have some more time in Luxembourg.

Take The Pfaffenthal Lift

If you find yourself in the Pfaffenthal area of Luxembourg (in the lower valley) there’s a free glass elevator, (but don’t worry the floor is solid) so you get to experience going up with amazing views. Once you get to the top there’s a section with a glass floor that you can stand on.

Explore Bock Casemates

You’ll definitely want to make it to the Bock at one point during your day. These old castle ruins used to be connected to the fortress that surrounded the city, and it offers some of the best views of the city.

Underneath the Bock is where you’ll find the casemates. This is a network of underground tunnels where citizens used to hide during wartime and store food and supplies.

You can now visit part of the tunnels for €7 (see updated prices here ).

• 9 Easy Day Trips From Brussels You Have To Go On

Visit The City History Museum Luxembourg

This was one of my favourite historical museums I’ve ever visited. The museum itself is actually built into the side of the hill. When you go down the elevator, you’re surrounded by the rocks of the hill.

The content of the museum covered how the city was established and grew throughout the years up until present day.

But the best part was the price! We had free access because I’m a youth (under 26) and my boyfriend is a student. But if you don’t fit into either of those categories, it’s still only €5! They even give you a free audio guide (just make sure to bring earphones).

The tour is 45 minutes, taking you to the highlights of the museum. But there’s a lot more to peruse at your own pace.

Where To Eat In Luxembourg City

According to our tour guide, most restaurants open for lunch from 12:00 -2:00 P.M. then close their kitchens until supper time around 6:00 P.M.. This might be normal for you, but this isn’t the case for North America.  

This is important to be aware of – for example, we needed to eat earlier than 6:00 P.M. in order to catch our return train at 7:00 P.M. to Brussels. We ate at Bosso Brasserie – the kitchen opened at 5:30! We weren’t disappointed with our choice either, they served more local food, and was a bit cheaper than what we were seeing around us. 

For coffee, we found local Luxembourg chain, Knopes (and by chain, I mean there are only 3 of them in the city). We went to the one on Porte-Neuve, just off the main street in the city centre so it was a bit more quiet.

P.S. Apparently the night life in Luxembourg also isn’t much to boast about unless it’s Saturday.

Local Luxembourg Beer To Try

If you’re on a day trop to Luxembourg from Brussels, you’re probably already well versed in beer – we definitely were!

Since they’re sandwiched between Belgium and Germany it’s no surprise that Luxembourg has its own local beer as well. We were advised to try the Bofferding if we wanted a light beer and Battin for a dark option.

Build & Track Your Beer Journey

Refine your beer tasting palette with my digital and printable Beer Tasting Sheets to record and take notes on every new tea you try.

Luxembourg Hotel Recommendations

I didn’t stay overnight in Luxembourg as I had an apartment in Brussels, but if you want to extend your stay in Luxembourg and enjoy some of the nightlife here are some hotel recommendations.

A great option in the city centre is Grand Hotel Cravat . It’s right off the main shopping street in Luxembourg, you can’t get a better location than this! See room rates & availability .

If you’re willing to stay a bit further outside of the city centre (but still only a 15 minute walk away) you won’t be disappointed with Les Jardins d’Anaïs . No two rooms are the same at this country-style hotel in Old Town Luxembourg. You can also enjoy some time to relax on their beautiful terrace in the garden. See room rates & availability .

If you don’t mind staying further outside the city centre but would rather stay at a reputable hotel, stay at the Sofitel Luxembourg Europe . They live up to the Sofitel luxury standard! See room rates & availability .

For more hotel options in Luxembourg City, click here .  

My Belgium Day Trip Essentials

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Thursday 26th of September 2019

Luxembourg looks so beautiful. I love the glass elevator! I didn’t realize it was so close to Belgium or I would have perhaps taken a day trip when I was there.

Friday 27th of September 2019

It's surprising how close it is, and how easy it is to get to! Definitely worth a day trip there if you're ever back!

The architecture of the building and the location set into a hill is just breathtaking. Your article was very informative.

Interesting read! Loving all your photos. Luxembourg has been on my list for a while now. I hope I get to visit it this year :D

Thanks! I hope so too, it's unlike any city I'd visited before!

Your photos are beautiful! They show a rather different Luxembourg from the one we saw (we happened to visit on a really overcast day). The news about free public transit make me jealous 🙈

Thanks so much! Oh no thats too bad to hear, I hope you were still able to enjoy the city a bit. I know, I wish my city had free public transit!

One thing I love about traveling in Europe is how easy it is to get from one country to another! I still haven't visited either Belgium or Luxembourg, but they're both on my list. I actually had no idea that there was a "Luxembourgish" language!!

It's actually amazing! And now with the fast trains you can go so much further without the same amount of travel time. Definitely both are worth checking out!

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