In Brussels, comic strip characters have escaped the page. You meet them several storeys above the pavement, on walls you might otherwise walk past without a second glance. This makes the city's comic strip trail a playful way to discover its streets — and a surprisingly good introduction to Belgian culture.
The first large murals appeared in 1991. There are now more than 80 throughout the region, featuring familiar names such as Tintin, the Smurfs, Gaston Lagaffe and Corto Maltese, alongside artists and characters that may be new to you. The murals are not concentrated in a single park or square.
Start with the old town
For a first walk, stay around the historic centre and nearby streets. You can combine the Grand-Place, the lanes near Manneken Pis, the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries and several painted walls. The official historical-centre comic route is a useful reference if you want a mapped itinerary.
Look closely at what changes as you move between murals: a story painted on a side wall can lead you into a small square or a neighbourhood you would otherwise miss. That, more than ticking off every character, is the pleasure of this route.
The murals also raise questions
Comic strips are an important part of Belgian popular culture, but some older works reflect attitudes of their time. The City of Brussels has taken steps to provide historical context for certain murals, including explanatory information accessible via QR codes. A good visit makes room both for nostalgia and critical curiosity.
Add a museum if you have the time
The Comic Art Museum is housed in a former department store designed by Victor Horta. It is a wonderful way to connect two important Brussels traditions, comic storytelling and Art Nouveau architecture. However, it takes time; with a short visit you may prefer the outdoor trail alone.
For a fuller overview of the frescoes and their locations, consult visit.brussels' comic strip guide. Plan a few highlights rather than trying to find them all in one afternoon.