Self-Guided Walking Tour Along Brussels Comic Book Route

If you’re a comic art enthusiast or street art lover, a self-guided tour through Brussels’ famous comic murals might just be your perfect afternoon. This app-based experience promises to give you a quick, immersive look at some of the city’s most iconic comic art in around two hours, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

What we love about this tour is its affordability, flexibility, and the way it combines visual arts with interesting stories about the characters and inspirations. It’s an ideal way to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. One thing to consider is that not all murals may be accessible at all times, as one reviewer noted some closures, which could slightly impact your route. Still, this tour suits anyone eager to enjoy Brussels’ vibrant comic scene without the need for a large tour group or a hefty price tag.

In essence, this experience is best for comic fans, street art admirers, and travelers looking for a casual, independent way to see the city’s murals. If you prefer guided tours with a human guide or want transportation included, this might not be the perfect fit. But if you’re comfortable with a bit of self-navigation, it can be a rewarding and fun way to spend an afternoon.

Good To Know

• Affordable and flexible: Just $7 for a 2-hour tour, accessible on iOS and Android.
• Self-paced exploration: You can pause, take photos, or make detours as you wish.
• Rich multimedia content: Audio guides, images, and offline maps enhance the experience.
• Curated route: Covers 12 key murals, including Tintin, Asterix, and Victor Sackville.
• Potential closures: Some murals, like the Smurfs wall, might be temporarily unavailable.
• Suitable for: Comic enthusiasts, street art fans, and independent travelers.

A Deep Dive into the Brussels Comic Book Route Experience

The Essence of the Tour

This self-guided tour is designed as a compact introduction to Brussels’ famed comic murals, which number over 65 in total. The tour’s curated route takes you through the city’s center, highlighting 12 murals that are both visually striking and culturally significant. The aim is to give you a taste of Brussels’ comic heritage in just under 2 hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer to explore independently.

What You Get with the Tour

For just $7, you receive a mobile ticket that includes an AI-driven audio guide, written descriptions, and images to help identify each mural. The guide is accessible on both iOS and Android devices, with one-year access, allowing you to revisit the tour as often as you like. Once downloaded, the tour works offline, so no internet connection is needed while walking the streets—perfect for wandering without worry about connectivity.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Smurfs Passage in Infante Isabellastraat, a lively spot that instantly immerses you in Brussels’ comic culture. Unfortunately, one reviewer noted that the Smurfs mural was permanently closed at the time of their visit, highlighting the importance of flexible expectations. Despite this, the curated route ensures you still see some of the most recognizable murals in the city.

The route includes murals featuring Tintin, Asterix, Thorgal, Victor Sackville, and others—each with unique stories. As you walk, you’ll learn about the characters’ origins, the artists behind the murals, and what inspired these colorful works of art.

The walk concludes at Saint-Géry Island, close to the Grand Palace, with the Nero mural marking the end point. The entire experience spans roughly 2 hours, including time for pauses, photos, or a quick coffee break.

Walking Through the Murals

Expect to walk through central Brussels at a leisurely pace, with plenty of opportunities to stop and soak in the art. The offline map and interactive features help you navigate, even if you stray from the designated route. Since the tour is self-guided, you decide whether to spend extra time at certain murals or move on quickly.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer mentioned that the audio guide was clear and easy to understand, which is crucial when exploring on your own. However, another reviewer faced challenges when the first mural, the Smurfs wall, was unexpectedly closed, which disrupted their experience. They chose to abandon the tour early but acknowledged that others might have better luck.

On a positive note, a different reviewer recommended doing this tour early in your stay in Brussels, as it offers a nice overview of the city’s street art scene. They found it helpful for covering a lot of ground quickly, especially when combined with sightseeing beforehand.

Practical Considerations

This tour is not inclusive of transportation or physical devices, so you’ll need your own smartphone and headphones—though these are common travel essentials anyway. The maximum group size is 20, but since it’s self-guided, you’ll largely be exploring alone or with your travel companions, which can be a plus for those who value privacy and flexibility.

The flexible hours (9 AM to 6 PM) mean you can choose a time that suits your schedule. The ticket is fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Why it’s a Good Choice

This experience offers an affordable way to get up close with Brussels’ comic art scene without the need for a guided tour or additional transportation costs. Its self-guided nature allows you to take your time, revisit murals, and explore at your own pace—especially helpful if you’re someone who prefers wandering and discovering on your own.

On top of that, the curated route ensures you see the most iconic murals without getting overwhelmed by the city’s vast street art. The inclusion of audio and visual content enriches your understanding, making it more than just a visual stroll.

Who Will Love This Tour?

• Comic fans eager to see their favorite characters and learn about their origins.
• Street art enthusiasts wanting a quick overview of Brussels’ mural scene.
• Travelers on a budget seeking high value for a low price.
• Independent explorers who enjoy navigating with maps and apps.

Who Might Want More?

• Those looking for a guided experience with expert commentary.
• Visitors seeking transportation included or a more structured schedule.
• People interested in exploring all 65+ murals, not just 12.

Final Thoughts

This self-guided Brussels comic book mural tour provides a cost-effective, flexible, and engaging way to experience the city’s vibrant street art. While a few murals may be temporarily unavailable, the curated selection offers a snapshot of Brussels’ comic heritage that’s both fun and educational.

Its ease of use, offline access, and affordability make it particularly appealing to travelers who value independence and local culture. If you’re comfortable with navigating on your own and enjoy street art, this tour is a fantastic way to make your Brussels visit more colorful and memorable.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, if your children enjoy comics and street art, they’ll likely find this tour interesting. Just keep in mind that it involves walking and some reading or listening to guides.

Do I need my own device?
You’ll need your own smartphone with the app installed. The tour does not provide physical devices or headphones.

How long does the tour take?
It’s designed to take around 2 hours, but you can take longer if you stop for photos or explore additional murals on your own.

Can I do this tour at night?
The tour operates during daylight hours, from 9 AM to 6 PM. It’s best to enjoy murals in natural light for optimal viewing.

What if a mural is closed?
One reviewer mentioned the Smurfs mural was permanently closed, which affected their route. It’s wise to be flexible and use the offline map to customize your walk.

Is the tour accessible for people with disabilities?
While the tour is mainly walking-based, the accessibility depends on the streets and routes, which are not detailed here. Check local accessibility information if needed.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its affordable price, self-guided flexibility, and curated selection of iconic murals make it a unique way to appreciate Brussels’ comic art scene on your terms.