By the twelfth century Brussels was a prosperous, fortified city within the Duchy of Brabant. In the succeeding centuries it became a noted centre for the production of luxury fabrics, dominated by seven prosperous families. During the fifteenth century, the splendid Town Hall was constructed, renowned for its tall steeple. The city fell briefly under Calvinist control during the Reformation before returning to the control of the Spanish Habsburgs and the Catholic Church in 1585.

In 1830 Belgium won its independence from the United Kingdom of the Netherlands, created after Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo in 1815.  The city was occupied by the Germans in 1914 and again in 1940. Fortunately, neither war resulted in significant damage to the city. The Nazis tried to exploit tensions between the Flemish and French speakers (Walloons) of Brussels and Belgium by supporting the claims of the Flemings to restrict the influence of the Walloons. These tensions have remained a feature of the city’s post-war political life.

Brussels has become much more of an international centre as NATO has located its headquarters there and the European Union has its parliament, Commission and other institutions in the city.

Our best value sample itinerary from £180

3 Days to Brussels by Coach

Day 1:
Depart from school to meet your channel crossing, arrive in Brussels early afternoon. In the afternoon enjoy a guided tour of Brussels.

Day 2:
Explore the Battlefields site at Waterloo. Visit Kasteel Berseel in the afternoon.

Day 3:
Check out of your accommodation and depart for the port stopping at the Choco-story chocolate museum in Bruges then onwards to connect with your return channel crossing.