Brussels: The comic book walls walking tour

Imagine wandering through the streets of Brussels and suddenly finding yourself face-to-face with vibrant comic murals that tell stories just as lively as the city itself. For a modest $17, this 2.5-hour guided tour offers a deep dive into the world of Belgian comics, covering everything from iconic characters like Tintin to the technical art forms that make these murals pop. Led by knowledgeable guides, mostly in Spanish (with English options noted), this tour brings Brussels’ comic culture vividly to life.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see the city’s walls transformed into open-air comic galleries—more than 80 murals decorate Brussels, and this tour unlocks their stories. Plus, the tour visits the house where Tintin once lived, adding a personal touch to the comic history. A second highlight is learning about the main techniques used in French-Belgian comics, giving us greater appreciation for this art form.

A potential drawback is that the tour is only in Spanish or English, which might limit accessibility for some travelers. Also, it’s a walking tour, so comfortable footwear and a bit of stamina are recommended. If you love street art, comic characters, or Belgian culture, this tour will resonate well with you and is perfect for those eager to explore beyond typical tourist sights.

This tour is especially well-suited for families with children (up to age 10 can go free), comic enthusiasts, and anyone interested in urban art scenes. If you’re intrigued by storytelling through murals or want a fun, engaging way to understand Brussels’ cultural fabric, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Focus on Comic Art: The tour centers on Brussels’ extensive comic wall murals and their stories.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Belgian comic legends like Tintin and the main techniques used in French-Belgian comics.
• Historical Landmarks: Visit the house of Tintin before he moved to Moulinsart castle.
• Accessible for Many: The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for those with reduced mobility.
• Family Friendly: Free for children aged 0-10, making it a nice outing for families.
• Small Group: Limited to 25 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers an uncommon perspective on Brussels, blending urban art with comic culture. For just $17, you get a guided walk that is both educational and visually stimulating. It lasts about two and a half hours, during which you’ll traverse parts of the city that go beyond the usual tourist routes, unveiling walls adorned with murals that celebrate Belgian comic heroes.

We particularly appreciated the multimedia info provided via an app, which enhances the storytelling with images and further details—helpful when spotting murals and recognizing characters. The meeting point is conveniently located at Rue du Marché au Charbon, right beside a mural, making it easy to find your guide, who will have some form of identifiable marker.

One of the standout features is the tour’s focus on the origins of Belgian comics. You’ll learn about the first comic wall created in Brussels in 1991, giving you a sense of the city’s long-standing tradition of street art. The guides are known for their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, making the experience both engaging and educational.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The Walls and Murals

Brussels boasts more than 80 comic murals, and the tour showcases the most important ones. Expect to see large, colorful murals featuring characters like the Smurfs and Tintin, and learn about the stories behind these artistic displays. For comic fans, recognizing these characters in their urban environment makes the city feel like a living comic book.

Tintin’s House and Belgian Comics

One of the tour’s emotional highlights is visiting the house where Tintin once lived, before he moved to Moulinsart castle. This personal connection to Hergé, the creator of Tintin, adds depth to the tour and invites fans to see Brussels as more than just a backdrop—it’s part of the narrative.

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Techniques and Schools of Belgian Comics

The guide explains the main techniques used in French-Belgian comics, such as line work, coloring, and panel layout. This insight helps travelers appreciate the artistic craftsmanship behind the murals, especially for those interested in comic creation or urban art.

Streets Beyond the Main Tourist Areas

Unlike typical city tours, this walk ventures into less touristy neighborhoods, offering a glimpse of everyday city life infused with pop culture. These areas show how comics are integrated into local identity and public spaces.

Practical Information

For families, the tour is free for children under 10—a bonus that makes it more accessible for parents traveling with kids. The small group size (max 25) ensures you won’t get lost in a crowd, and the wheelchair accessibility means that mobility issues won’t prevent you from enjoying the experience.

Authentic Reviews and What They Say

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the guides’ knowledge. Ronald describes it as “the best tour and guide we encountered in years,” emphasizing how engaging and interesting the commentary was. Carol highlights how the tour provides a “unique and interesting introduction to Brussels”—great for first-time visitors eager to uncover aspects of the city that aren’t found on standard itineraries.

Lennart notes that the guide was highly competent and super nice, making the experience both fun and educational. These reviews underscore that the guide’s expertise is integral to the tour’s success, turning simple murals into stories worth listening to.

Practical Details and Value

The tour’s cost of $17 per person is quite reasonable, especially given the depth of information and the small group setting. The inclusion of multimedia support in the app further enhances value, providing additional context after the walk. The timing is flexible, with availability notice required before booking.

Since the tour only runs in Spanish (Thursdays and Sundays) and English, plan accordingly. It’s also worth noting that the tour is not suitable for visually or hearing-impaired travelers, but it is accessible for those with mobility issues.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re a comic fan, this tour offers a rare opportunity to see Brussels through the lens of its street murals and legendary characters. It’s ideal for travelers who love street art, urban culture, or want a more local experience. Families with young children will appreciate the free entry for kids and the engaging, visual nature of murals.

It’s also perfect for those who enjoy learning about artistic techniques or are curious about the history of comics in Belgium. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides ensure you’re not just walking past murals but understanding their stories.

The Brussels: The Comic Book Walls Walking Tour is a lively, insightful way to explore the city’s urban art scene alongside its comic heritage. For an affordable price, you’ll see iconic murals, learn about Belgian comic legends, and walk through neighborhoods that breathe life into the characters you love. It’s a great choice for families, comic enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a different perspective on Brussels.

While it’s not tailored for those who don’t speak Spanish or have mobility issues, most travelers will find this tour a delightful and authentic experience that combines art, culture, and history into a colorful package.

If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and visually engaging way to spend a few hours in Brussels, this tour offers real value. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for how comics shape and reflect Belgian culture—plus, you’ll probably look at the city’s walls a little differently from now on.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children from 0 to 10 years old can attend for free, making it a family-friendly outing.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, covering several murals and key locations.

What languages are available?
The tour runs only in Spanish (Thursdays and Sundays), with an English option likely available. Be sure to check availability.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Rue du Marché au Charbon, 40, right next to a mural, and the guide will have a distinctive marker.

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

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since this is a walking tour that explores streets beyond the main tourist areas.

Are there any cancellations or refunds?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the price?
A professional guide and multimedia info in an app to enhance your experience.

What if I want to book but pay later?
You can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later, offering flexibility in your planning.

Are there any notable murals or landmarks I should look out for?
Yes, including the first comic wall in 1991, Tintin’s house, and the Smurfs statue in the city center.

Embark on this colorful journey through Brussels’ streets, and discover the city not just as a tourist destination but as a living canvas of comic history.

You can check availability for your dates here: