Understrand Brussels to better defend it!
Since 1977, ARAU has been a pioneer of urban tourism in Brussels and has offered unconventional guided tours that raise awareness of urban democracy and the role of residents in the development of their city. Over the decades, ARAU has also developed an expert knowledge of the city’s architectural and planning history, which it has passed on through its programme of guided tours that continue to play an essential role in the defence of the heritage buildings of Brussels. To learn more about the city’s best features, while at the same time developing a critical view of past and planned developments, join us! Our programme of guided tours is divided into four main themes: “Must-sees”, “Architecture”, “The districts of Brussels” and “The city in transformation”.
On request, ARAU can tailor all of its guided tours to the particular requirements of your group, throughout the year.
ARAU is seeking for new guides !
For 45 years, ARAU has been organizing guided tours on urbansim and heritage in Brussels.
ARAU is seeking for new profiles to develop its guide’s team : urbansits, (art) historians, geographers, or simply passionate about Brussels, don’t hesitate !
Application open to all profiles : send your motivation letter as well as tour resume to info@arau.org
Next guided tours
The most beautiful Neo-Classical groups of buildings of the historic centre
In the eighteenth century, the urban fabric of Brussels inherited from the Middle Ages was profoundly changed by the construction of three major Neo-Classical groups of buildings
The Marolles
This tour shows some of the district’s hidden gems and tries to explain the issues confronting today’s residents.
Behind the walls: the prison
ARAU invites you on a journey through the history of the construction of these cellular prisons (of which some parts will soon become listed buildings) that accompanied the development of districts with particularly rich architecture and urban perspectives.
Urban action
The objective of ARAU is to make sure that Brussels remains a pleasant place to live for everyone, by improving the environment and strengthening the participation of residents in the urban planning process. ARAU’s main areas of action are urban planning and mobility and involve two main work areas: publications (analyses, studies, press releases) and activities (seminar cycles and residents’ workshops).