ANTWERP, BELGIUM

We arrive in Brussels, where we will enjoy a panoramic drive through the city, passing King Boudewijn Stadium, Centenaire and the Atomium.

Following a drive of approximately 70 minutes, we arrive in Brussels, where we will enjoy a panoramic drive through the city, passing King Boudewijn Stadium, Centenaire and the Atomium. The Atomium is a lasting symbol of the 1958 Brussels World Fair and is Belgium’s answer to the Eiffel Tower. It stands 102 metres (332 feet) high and consists of nine spheres connected by tubes measuring 29 metres (94 feet) in length. Escalators connect the spheres, most of which contain science exhibits. We will have a short photo stop here. Continuing, we pass the Chinese Pavilion, Japanese Tower and the Royal Castle of Laeken.

At Central Station we disembark our coach and commence a guided city walk. We proceed through the Old Town area – around the Grand Place with its Baroque guild houses and Town Hall. This historic market square is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe. Our walk continues through St Hubert Arcades, down to Butchers Street with its plethora of restaurants and cafés. We arrive at the Manneken Pis Statue. Nobody actually knows why the Manneken is here. He is believed to be nothing more than a decoration on top of a fountain where people in the Middle Ages came to get fresh water. The statue is very often dressed, and has a wardrobe of more than 600 costumes.

We can then enjoy a little free time, in which we may choose to go shopping - lace and chocolates being the most well known souvenirs from Belgium. Meeting again at the Grand Place, we return to our bus and journey back to Antwerp, first passing the Royal Palace, the European Parliament and the Cinquantenaire. Further out of Brussels, on the highway, we will see the NATO building.

TOUR NOTES: There is a moderate amount of walking on this tour - approximately one hour during the walking tour and mainly over cobblestones. Therefore it is not recommended for passengers with limited mobility or wheelchair users. The amount of walking during the short period of free time is at the discretion of the individual. A bottle of mineral water will be supplied.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2010 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES