Comic Book Route (Murals) Brussels
Discover Brussels' vibrant streets adorned with over 50 giant murals celebrating iconic Belgian comic heroes. A free, open-air art gallery!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Comic Book Route (Murals) Brussels
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Brussels' vibrant streets adorned with over 50 giant murals celebrating iconic Belgian comic heroes. A free, open-air art gallery!
"A fun and unusual way to explore Brussels, filled with art and beloved characters! 
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to find these gems!
🗺️ Grab a Mural Map
Essential for navigating and finding all the hidden comic art.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tintin & Snowy
Various locations
Iconic murals featuring the adventurous reporter Tintin and his loyal dog Snowy, a must-see for any fan.
Asterix & Obelix
Various locations
Discover the Gaulish heroes in their epic battles, bringing a touch of Gallic charm to Brussels streets.
The Smurfs
Various locations
Spot these beloved blue characters in their whimsical village settings, adding a touch of magic to your walk.
Lucky Luke
Various locations
Encounter the lonesome cowboy and his horse Jolly Jumper, a classic Belgian comic character brought to life on walls.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Artful Wander
Navigate the Mural Maze
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to find these gems!
🗺️ Grab a Mural Map
Essential for navigating and finding all the hidden comic art.
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera or phone for vibrant street art photos.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Center
Some of the best murals are found in less touristy areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to find these gems!
🗺️ Grab a Mural Map
Essential for navigating and finding all the hidden comic art.
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera or phone for vibrant street art photos.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Center
Some of the best murals are found in less touristy areas.
💡 Look Up & Around
Murals can be on unexpected walls and building sides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Brussels Comic Book Route as a unique and engaging way to explore the city, blending art, culture, and urban discovery. While some find navigating the scattered murals a bit challenging without a clear route, the vibrant street art and beloved characters consistently delight travelers. It's a highly recommended free activity for all ages.
"One of many comic murals which can be found across Brussels. New ones appear at different locations fairly regularly, but this one is easily my favourite. It's just a shame that some graffiti has been scribbled on it ☹️."
Tintin
"Super cute Tin Tin mural on a wall next to Choco-Story and the Fry Museum. There are lots of murals around Belgium. This one really stands out. Short walk away from Grand Place and on the way to Mannekin Pis. Very hard to miss. Plenty of things to do around this area."
Rasikanand Harvind
"A very cool mural of the famous Tin Tin, together with his faithful companions, Snowy the dog and captain Haddock. The first comic book appeared in 1929 and it continues to be in popular print today. The mural in question is from The Calculus Affair during the Cold War.
Next to the mural, there's a Tin Tin shop. Perfect excuse for a souvenir. The street isn't busy at all, so you can admire it without wedging yourself through crowds."
Lucian Marin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Comic Book Route is spread throughout Brussels, so there's no single starting point. You can reach various mural locations using Brussels' extensive public transport system, including trams, buses, and the metro. Many visitors start their exploration from the city center and walk, using a map to guide them.
Yes, the Comic Book Route is primarily a walking tour. It's designed to be explored on foot, allowing you to discover the art at your own pace and stumble upon hidden gems. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended!
Absolutely! Public transport is a great way to hop between different mural clusters or if you're short on time. The STIB/MIVB network covers most areas where murals are located.
There isn't one official starting point. Many people begin their journey in the city center, near the Grand Place, and work their way outwards. A good map or app will help you plan your own route.
This depends on how many murals you want to see and how much you want to explore. Seeing a significant portion can take a full day, while a shorter exploration might cover a few key areas in a few hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Comic Book Route is an outdoor, public art installation. All the murals are free to view and accessible at any time.
Since it's an outdoor art project, there are no official opening or closing hours. You can visit the murals day or night, though daytime offers better visibility and safety.
There is no entrance fee. The murals are part of the city's urban landscape and are free for everyone to enjoy.
You can find maps online through the official Brussels tourism website or various travel blogs. Some visitors also recommend using apps that pinpoint mural locations.
While not as common as tours for other attractions, some local guides may offer specialized Comic Book Route tours. It's worth checking with local tour operators or tourist information centers.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photos. Golden hour can be particularly magical for capturing the vibrant colors.
Many murals are incredibly photogenic! The larger, more detailed ones featuring iconic characters like Tintin or the Smurfs are always popular choices.
Yes, absolutely! Photography is encouraged. It's a fantastic way to document your exploration and share the art with others.
A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing the vibrant colors and details. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can get even more creative with angles and lighting.
Generally, there are no restrictions on photographing public murals. However, always be mindful of private property and avoid disturbing residents or businesses.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
While 'must-see' is subjective, murals featuring Tintin, Asterix, the Smurfs, and Lucky Luke are highly recommended and widely recognized. The official Brussels tourism website often highlights key murals.
It can be challenging without a map, as they are scattered. However, keeping an eye out for large, colorful artworks on buildings is your best bet. You might also spot other tourists looking for them!
Most murals are well-maintained, but as with any outdoor art, some may show signs of wear and tear over time. The city generally keeps them in good condition.
The route takes you through various parts of Brussels, so you'll be near many other attractions like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and numerous cafes and shops.
Yes, children often love spotting their favorite comic characters! It's a fun and engaging way to introduce them to art and explore the city.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Focus on murals featuring well-known characters to maximize excitement. Bring along a printed map or use a phone app to help kids identify characters as you go. It's a great way to combine sightseeing with a playful adventure, making Brussels memorable for the whole family.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Photographers
+1Recommendations: Seek out murals by renowned artists and explore the less common characters for unique shots. Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic effects. Consider dedicating a full day to truly appreciate the artistry and capture high-quality images without the rush of crowds.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Tips: Utilize free public Wi-Fi to access maps and information. Combine mural hunting with exploring local markets or parks for affordable food options. It's an excellent way to experience the city's vibrant street art scene independently.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Purpose of the Comic Book Route
Over the years, the number of murals has grown significantly, now exceeding 50. Each mural is a tribute to a specific Belgian comic artist or a beloved character. From the adventures of Tintin and Snowy to the antics of the Smurfs and the Wild West tales of Lucky Luke, the route showcases a diverse range of artistic styles and storytelling. This initiative has not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of Brussels but also fostered a unique cultural identity, making the city a pilgrimage site for comic enthusiasts worldwide.
+1Many visitors find that following the Comic Book Route offers a more authentic way to experience Brussels, moving beyond the typical tourist hotspots. It encourages exploration of different neighborhoods, revealing the city's character through its art. The project continues to evolve, with new murals occasionally being added, ensuring the route remains a dynamic and engaging attraction for both locals and tourists.
Navigating and Experiencing the Route
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll likely cover a significant distance. The murals are scattered across various districts, from the city center to more residential areas. This spread means you'll get to see different facets of Brussels, from bustling squares to quieter streets. Some Redditors suggest that while a map is helpful, simply wandering and keeping an eye out for large, colorful artworks can also lead to delightful discoveries.
To make the most of your experience, consider downloading a map of the mural locations beforehand or using a dedicated app if available. This will help you efficiently locate the artworks and avoid missing out on key pieces. The joy of the Comic Book Route lies in its serendipitous nature – stumbling upon a beloved character unexpectedly can be a highlight of your visit.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit