An Unforgettable Experience Awaits
Your Business Studies students will gain valuable insights into Belgian and European industry, finance and economics in this pivotal city that sits at the heart of the EU.
Compare and contrast various business models with visits across diverse industries, from large businesses to a pioneer of the circular economy, all within the context of an economically and politically strategic hub.
Business Studies school trips to Brussels also showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage through its many sightseeing and leisure opportunities.
Trip Highlights
Visits to local businesses including an auction and stadium
Walking Tour of the city to see the European institutions
European economics & banking at the National Bank of Belgium
See Brussels from above at the Atomium
Itinerary suggestion
1 Depart school in your coach
2 Channel crossing to Calais – journey time from Calais approx. 3.5 hours
3 Brussels Capital of Europe Walking Tour (ferry time permitting)
4 Check into accommodation and evening meal at a local restaurant
1 Breakfast at accommodation
2 Museum of the National Bank of Belgium
3 Concept Chocolate demo and PermaFungi cooperative tour
4 Evening meal at a local restaurant
1 Breakfast at accommodation
2 BelOrta Fruit and Vegetable Auction guided tour
3 King Baudouin Stadium Tour
4 Evening meal at a local restaurant and bowling or an escape room
1 Breakfast at accommodation
2 Visit the Atomium
3 Return to Calais for channel crossing
4 Arrive at school
Recommended excursions
Museum of the National Bank Of Belgium
For students of business and economics, a visit to this museum can help to explain more about the workings of the European Central Bank (ECB) the role of the Belgium Central Bank and the Euro. The museum has a large collection of coins and notes and is situated in a beautiful historic building near to the European Parliament and the European Commission.
King Baudouin Stadium
This 50,000 capacity stadium hosts games of the Red Devils, Belgium’s national football team, plus various cultural and sporting events from athletics and rugby to music concerts. On the ‘Discovery Trail’, students can visit the changing rooms, control tower and newsroom for different perspectives on the running of this state-of-the-art venue.
Concept Chocolate
Students learn about the time-honoured art of Belgian chocolate making at this specialist in personalised chocolates. All steps in the hand-production process are demonstrated, from tempering, preparing and filling the casts, to demoulding and packing. Students can then taste the mouth-watering pralines and caraques – solid chocolates in bespoke designs.
PermaFungi
Located in the historical building of Tour & Taxis, PermaFungi is a social cooperative. The aim is to recycle urban waste, such as coffee grounds, to grow organic oyster mushrooms. The cooperative partners with many restaurants and cafes around Brussels to collect the coffee grounds. Guided visits for groups are available in English, French and Dutch and take students through workshops to learn more about this innovative and environmentally-friendly agricultural technique.
Brussels Walking Tour
Discover Brussels, the “Capital of Europe”, on a walking tour that delves beneath the surface of a multicultural city constantly reinventing itself. You’ll uncover the network of institutions that call this city home, and gain insight into how these impact local people and businesses.
BelOrta Fruit and Vegetable Auction
Experience a lively guided tour of Europe’s busiest cooperative auction, just outside Brussels in Mechelen. An experienced guide will lead you through the fast-paced world of the auction system, uncovering the secrets of how produce travels from farm to supermarket.
Antwerp Port Guided Tour
Take a bus tour of the Port of Antwerp with a step-on guide who is an expert on the second-largest port in Europe. Learn about the history of the port, its role in Belgium’s (and Europe’s) economy, and see the container terminals, docks and some of the world’s largest ships. This tour offers a fantastic insight into the operations and technology of this hub of industry and commerce.
European Institutions
Brussels is home to European institutions including the European Parliament, European Council and European Commission, as well as various other agencies. Visitors can enjoy illuminating access to the Parlementarium, House of European History and European Commission Visitors Centre. Step into the shoes of a Member of European Parliament, delve into the shared history and cultural diversity of the European continent, and discover how the future of Europe is being forged.
Atomium
Designed and built for the World Fair in 1958, the Atomium is a landmark symbol of Brussels. The 102m tall sculpture of an atom hosts various exhibitions in each of its nine interconnected spheres and boasts arguably the best panoramic view of the city.
Waffle Workshop
Get hands-on with a Belgian classic. Join a fun and interactive workshop in the heart of Brussels where you’ll learn the secrets of making an authentic Belgian waffle. No prior experience is necessary, and you’ll work in small teams to create your own waffles with a variety of toppings to choose from.
Grand Place
The Grand Place is Brussels’ central square and is widely renowned for its beautiful architecture and majestic surroundings. The square is home to the City Hall and Maison du Roi and has been recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Grand Place plays host to numerous cultural, food and sporting events throughout the year.
Palais de Justice
The newly renovated and reopened Palais de Justice is one of the most impressive and historical buildings in Brussels. As the largest building in the world when it was first completed, the imposing building is visible from most parts of the city, and allows visitors a glimpse inside Belgium’s most important court building.
Learning outcomes
GCSE Curriculum Links
- Business in the real world
- Influences on business
- Business operations
- Globalisation
- The sales process and customer service
- The economic climate
A Level Curriculum Links
- What is business?
- Financial management
- Analysing the strategic position of a business
- The global environment of business
- External influences facing businesses
Typical accommodation
Bruegel Hostel
Why groups like it:
- Superb value for money and well located
- Situated in the old city, only a five-minute walk from Brussels Central Station and the Grand Palace
- Conference room equipped with audio-visual facilities
Facilities:
- Clean, comfortable rooms accommodating two to four students
- Various common rooms to use
- Free Wi-Fi
Meininger Hotel Brussels City Centre ★★★
Why groups like it:
- A unique hotel run on a carbon-neutral basis
- Situated directly next to the Canal Bruxelles-Charleroi
- Excellent local transport connections
Facilities:
- Rooms with shower/WC and hairdryer
- Free Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel
- Games area and lounge area
“
Would recommend Travelbound without hesitation to my colleagues and other schools, and I would definitely use them again. Thank you.
Surbiton High School
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