Nestled in the heart of the Grand Place, Brussels City Hall isn’t just a Gothic masterpiece for architecture aficionados – it is also a captivating playground for curious young minds. Thanks to innovative interactive video guides, children aged 6 to 12 can embark on a journey through centuries of history, transforming a traditional tour into an engaging kids-friendly activity.
Guided by animated characters Michel and Gudule, the kids parcours (family tour) offers a delightful blend of storytelling and discovery. As families navigate through 23 distinct stages – monumental staircase, ornate chambers, and hidden nooks, children collect puzzle pieces that culminate in a surprise reveal at the tour’s end. This immersive experience not only educates but also entertains, making history come alive in the most enchanting way.
Anyone wanting to discover this magnificent building will enjoy the video guides which contain entertaining anecdotes about the town hall, explanations of the various works of art and 360 images. The experience takes visitors on a journey from one era to another, thereby retracting nearly six centuries of history.
Michel and Gudule, two Brussels actors with a passion for the City Hall, serve as hosts of the video guides. Their warm voices and endless anecdotes add a modern touch to the historical discovery. In addition, audiovisual capsules highlight Brussels showcase such as Madame Chapeau, Brigitte Bocken, Alain Bossuyt, Cynthia Bolingo and Philippe Geluck, offering a contemporary perspective on this place which is so steeped in history.
In addition to the kids-focused “Family tour” visitors can also choose the “Adult tour” with a complete historical overview (even more extensive than the traditional guided tours), encompassing everything there is to know about the City Hall, its works, and an overview of Belgian and Brussels history.
Available in six languages, including French, Dutch, English, German, Italian, and Spanish, the tour ensures accessibility for both locals and international visitors. Whether you’re seeking a fresh perspective on Brussels’ rich heritage or simply looking for a pleasant summer activity, the City Hall’s family tour offers a memorable adventure that resonates with all ages.
Did you know?
The imposing silhouette of the City Hall on the Grand-Place is unmissible. This building is a jewel of Gothic architecture, built in the 15th century with a classical extension in the 18th century. It houses unique architectural and artistic treasures. Following the move of the aldermen’s and alderwomen’s offices to Brucity (the City of Brussels’ brand-new administrative building nearby), the guided tours of City Hall are becoming a true must-see for anyone who wants to immerse in this unique Brussels’ heritage.
The content of the video guides was developed in collaboration with Roel Jacobs, a historian specialising in the history of the City of Brussels, and the scientific departments of the City’s museums. For more intrepid visitors, the panoramic guided tours up to the tower will remain available at the weekends, which offers a 360-degree view of the city. It is a breathtaking experience which lets you admire the Brussels skyline.
For more details and to book your visit, check the official site: Discover Brussels City Hall.
