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Royal Palace of Brussels

Although it's been more than a century since the Belgian royal family lived in it, the Royal Palace of Brussels remains the headquarters of the Belgian constitutional monarchy : located on the south side of the Parc de Bruxelles (Brussels Park) 

The Royal Palace is where the King of Belgium exercises his authority as Head of State and is the official palace of the King and Queen of Belgium. It also houses rooms for the country’s special guests, most of which are Heads of State and the offices of certain ministries.

The palace has not been the official royal residence since 1831, when the King of Belgium decided to move to the Royal Palace of Laeken, in the outskirts of Brussels .

Architecture

The construction of the Palace began at the beginning of the nineteenth century commissioned by William I of the Netherlands. During the reign of King Leopold II the palace was remodelled and the façade was changed completely. These were the last restorations done to the Palace.

When to visit?

Since 1965 the Palais Royal de Bruxelles is open to the public normally from the 21 July (the national bank holiday) until the beginning of September. The Palace opens from Tuesday until Sunday at 10:30 am and closes at 5 pm. On Monday the Palace is closed.

If you are in Brussels for the summer, we recommend visiting this beautiful dwelling where you’ll be able to explore many of the building’s rooms.

Place des Palais

Metro : Parc , lines 1 and 5. Tram : Palais , líneas 92 and 94. Bus : Royale (lines 38 and 71) or Ducale (lines 21, 27, 71 and 95).

Nearby places

BELvue Museum (132 m) Coudenberg, Former Palace of Brussels (183 m) Musical Instruments Museum (252 m) Magritte Museum (260 m) Belgium Royal Museums of Fine Arts (300 m)

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Cinquantenaire

With a triumphal arch dominated by a bronze chariot reminiscent of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, the Cinquantenaire and its park are a too often overlooked tourist attraction,

Royal Palace (Palais Royal)

• Troon • 5 min walk
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Royal Palace (Palais Royal) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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The Royal Quarter: where art and history share centre stage

14 June 2022

When you hear the name, regal images immediately spring to mind: if you like stately streets and majestic squares, you'll love the Royal Quarter.

Here, prestigious palaces and neoclassical facades adorn government buildings and embassies. But what makes the district really stand out are its numerous world-class museums and the atmospheric Brussels Park.

A neighbourhood packed with tales of kings and queens

If you walk from the Grand-Place to Central Station, you'll feel it in your calves. It really starts to climb here! Names such as Mont des Arts , Montagne de la Cour , Mont des Larmes and the Coudenberg tell you what your legs already know, you've climbed up to the upper part of the city. For centuries, counts and dukes looked down on the working-class areas around the Grand-Place. 

Whole libraries have been written about the Royal Quarter, and with good reason: this is where Brussels shone as a European centre of power, especially during the Renaissance . None other than Emperor Charles V made the city his capital. 

The Royal Palace , the best known today, is in the distinguished company of the much older Coudenberg Palace and the Palace of Charles of Lorraine . That's right, only blue blood flows through this beating heart of the capital! 

If you are hoping to catch a glimpse of the Belgian royal couple in their dressing gowns, Then you're out of luck, the monarchs live in the Royal Castle of Laeken . For receptions and other ceremonies, however, you have come to the right place, provided you have the right connections. If you don't know the right people, however, you can always admire the glimmering and opulent palace rooms for free during the summer.

Museums galore

If only the stones could talk... History is made to be told! Fortunately, the Royal Quarter has several top-quality museums solution to tell it's stories. The Coudenberg invites you on an underground journey of discovery in the former palace of Charles V and the KBR museum in the Palace of Charles de Lorraine reveals the secrets of the Dukes of Burgundy. 

Looking for something more recent? The comparatively short history of Belgium is presented in easy-to-digest bite-sized chunks at the BELvue Museum . Do you have a question about Brussels? The  visit.brussels  staff will be delighted to help you at the ground floor reception office of BIP .

Yearning to travel to other worlds? You can, no visa or vaccine passport required!

The cultural calendar at art temple Bozar is consistently high-profile. Make sure you treat yourself to one or more of their events and, in the process, don't forget to admire the building itself, a masterpiece by famous Belgian belle époque architect Victor Horta.

Music lovers can’t get enough of the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) , which is housed in an impressive Art Nouveau building on the Montagne de la Cour.

Our top tip: explore the pinnacle of Belgian surrealism and lose yourself in the dreamy, outlandish scenes of René Magritte . The modern master, quite rightly, has his own museum, but make sure you book in advance, as you can imagine, it’s very popular.  

Old Flemish masters, turn of the century or modern art: take your pick. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium are an art-lover's paradise with more than 20,000 masterpieces from the 15th to the 21st century.

Sometimes you have to choose, sometimes you don't: make sure you have enough time and make the most of the Brussels Card, which is a great way to maximise your museum-hopping.

Time for some relaxation

Want to be spoiled like a royal in this regal district? Here, the customer is king. Great places to eat are generously scattered in and around rue de Namur . What's more, most of the neighbourhood's museums have excellent restaurants. 

Perhaps you're looking for something with a view? The panoramic view from Mont des Arts is truly enchanting, whatever the time of day. Bozar's roof terrace offers you another thrilling experience when it's open. Rooftop albert is a hidden 1960-style gem located at the fifth floor of KBR. Here you can enjoy the dishes of gourmet chef Filip Fransen and a magical view over Brussels

Would you rather just relax in a park? There's always room in Brussels Park . If you're feeling peckish, you'll also find a quick bite to eat and a fresh pint. As the sun sets, the atmospheric lights in the trees make it extra cosy. While you're here, be sure to stop by Kiosk Radio . This Brussels-based initiative continuously serves up top DJ talent. And if a party erupts there, your visit to the Royal Quarter really will be one to remember.

Neighbourhood activities

The tour of the belvue.

Due to the current health crisis, this activity cannot take place until further notice.

An interactive tour of the BELvue museum, including first a search for information in small groups and then a lively game of questions about Belgium. In small groups, the participants first discover a theme room in the museum and present the results of their visit to the rest of the group in the manner of a guide. Then the "BELvue Tour" begins! Divided into several teams, the participants play an original quiz and become real experts on Belgium and its history. The BELvue tour is a very interactive visit where everyone discovers the museum's contents in their own way. The dynamics of the game provoke exchange and fun within the group. TWO POSSIBILITIES FOR A VISIT: 1. Independently → The group leader must prepare the activity in advance and supervise it during the visit to the BELvue. An educational file is available on www.belvue.be - free of charge. 2. With an animator from the BELvue → dates on request - 50€. Several versions of the Tour of the BELvue have been developed, including a version for French language learners (FLE).

BELvue museum

Guided tour BELvue

As of 9 June, group visits and guided tours in the BELvue museum are possible again with reservation. To book, please contact the guide association of your choice.

Discover the BELvue museum with a guide. The BELvue works with several guide associations who all know the museum very well. The BELvue works with several guide associations who all know the museum very well. Each association has its own skills and specialties, and we recommend you pick the one that suits you best. You are also free to choose your own guide. The guide associations are: - AlterBrussels - Arkadia - Be.guided - Bruxelles Bavard - Cap Patrimoine pour tous - Discover-B - E-guides - GBB - Itinéraires - Korei Attention! Please book your guided tour directly by the organization of your choice. There is then no need to book also your visit by the museum.

Guided tours

I'm the Minister! : educational game (6-8 years old)

Put on your suit and become a minister for the duration of your visit to the museum. So many things to see and think about! Learn about Belgium and its history by carrying out your duties. Will you be able to rise to the challenge?

Children never get bored at BELvue! Visitors of all ages are able to enjoy the museum in their own way. No more long hours of trailing behind your parents without understanding a single word... Put on your suit and become a minister for the duration of your visit to the museum. So many things to see and think about! Learn about Belgium and its history by carrying out your duties. Will you be able to rise to the challenge? Practical information: • For children between 6 and 8 years old, accompanied by an adult. • To make a group reservation, please contact us at [email protected] or on 02 500 45 54. • Price: 1 €/child excl. entrance (free entrance for <18 year olds). • Reservation mandatory for groups. Please foresee minimum 1 adult for 5 children. - Max. 15 children.

Are you our superhero?

Did you know Belgium has loads of superheroes, like René Magritte, Sandra Kim and the Red Devils!

But today the superheroes are not feeling so super. Can you help these superheroes accomplish their superheroic duties? With some you’ll need to use your imagination and with others you’d better warm up your vocal cords. If you succeed you can earn a real medal just like them! Super cool, right?!

BELvue Museum

Brussels Beer Bus

Brussels and its beers with the Brussels Beer Bus

Go back in time by boarding an ambulance 1940-45 completely transformed into a rolling museum of the unusual and old Brussels. Let yourself be guided by a Brussels guide through the streets and monuments of our capital and have fun with his anecdotes. While visiting, taste Brussels beers "on board" or at a local brewery. An experience for those who want to discover unusual Brussels and off the beaten track. Bookings on our website www.brusselsbeerbus.com

Local guides

Mimi & Momo: educational games (3-5 years old)

Mimi & Momo need you! Help Mimi to find the objects hidden in the museum. As for Momo, he only recognises black, yellow and red. Can you show him all of the colours? An adventure through Belgium and its history with plenty of things to see and touch!

Children never get bored at BELvue! Visitors of all ages are able to enjoy the museum in their own way. No more long hours of trailing behind your parents without understanding a single word... Mimi & Momo need you! Help Mimi to find the objects hidden in the museum. As for Momo, he only recognises black, yellow and red. Can you show him all of the colours? An adventure through Belgium and its history with plenty of things to see and touch! Practical information: • For children between 3 and 5 years old, accompanied by an adult. • To reserve, please send an email to [email protected] or call 02 500 45 54! • When you reserve a group visit, please provide following information: - Name of the group - Contact person - Address - Phone number & email - Number of people - Date of the visit - Hour of the visit - Which exhibition: permanent exhibition or temporary exhibitions • Discover the safety measures for the BELvue museum on the website. • Price : 1 €/child excl. entrance (free entrance for <18 year olds). • Reservation mandatory for groups. Please foresee minimum 1 adult for 5 children. - Max. 15 children.

City Game Coudenberg

The Year 1615. As Brussels prepares for the celebrations of the Ommegang procession, a young architect named Joris presents himself to the court to enter the service of the Archdukes Albert and Isabella. But entering the service of the court is far from being a simple task: Joris will have to prove his competence!

Grab your smartphone and set off to discover the Royal Quarter in the company of our hero, meeting colourful notables who will put you to the test: observation, reflection, logic… Triumph and you will obtain the precious Golden Key that will open the doors of Coudenberg Palace! An adventure to be experienced, an exciting city game that will plunge you into the 17th century, at the court of the Archdukes. Practical information: How does it work: Download on Apple Store of Google Play. Enter the keyword “Coudenberg” - choose “City Game”. Fee: € 5.99. Haven't visited the archaeological ruins of the Coudenberg Palace yet? On presentation of proof of download, you will receive a discount on entry (1 paid entry = 1 free entry). Where: Coudenberg Palace, Place des Palais 7 1000 Brussels.

Coudenberg Palace

Ensor, Maestro

Kom op tegen Kanker charity concert

To accompany the unique exhibition James Ensor, Maestro at Bozar, Kom op tegen Kanker will present a special concert inspired by the exhibition on April 26th.  Ensor can be considered as a pioneer of the avant-garde style of the early 20th century. Besides being a painter, etcher and draughtsman, he was also an enthusiastic musician and composer. Composer/ conductor Dirk Brossé has been fascinated by the Ostend artist for years. In this concert, Brossé and the Flanders Festival Orchestra paint music over imposing video projections of Ensor’s work, and complemented by original video fragments. Ensor’s frivolous, theatrical, sometimes sad and wry art is full of faces hidden behind colourful masks. Brossé translated the unknown emotions behind this masquerade into surprising symphonic music choices. Lika a burlesque pageant, the program moves from classical to modern, from intimate to grotesque, with occasionally small excerpt from Ensor’s compositions. Ensor, Maestro promises to be an intriguing evening, a musical masquerade where painting and music get into a reinforcing and challenging dialogue. KOM OP TEGEN KANKER CHARITY CONCERT For many, art is a source of well-being and comforting in difficult times. Music can change our view of the world, gives us inner strength and improves the quality of life. At Kom op tegen Kanker we are proud to be charity partners of this concert.  More info at komoptegenkanker.be   

Centre for Fine Arts - Bozar

After a first highly successful edition, the Kora Days return in 2024! Bozar dedicates four days to West Africa’s flagship instrument, the kora.

Just this once, the festival takes on an extra dimension. Kora Days 2024 will explore the connection between the kora and another well-known stringed instrument: the guitar. In addition, on this occasion, the great Toumani Diabaté honours us with an exceptional concert that unites him with the Orchestre National de Lille: a meeting between the kora and symphonic music that Toumani himself explored with the late Ali Farka Touré on their legendary album Ali et Toumani (2010). The full Kora Days programme will be announced later, but already save the date!

6 Hands 1 Piano- Brahms, Ravel, Chopin, Schubert, Mozart

Julia Tavit, Damiën Heemskerk, Sterre Hond Welcome to our upcoming concert "6 hands | 1 piano" where we will be performing a unique program consisting of pieces for solo, four-handed and six-handed piano. In the solo pieces each pianist will showcase their virtuosity and individual expression. We will perform pieces ranging from classical to contemporary styles, even including some original pieces. Here we can truly showcase our individual backgrounds as pianists. The four handed and six-handed pieces is where those backgrounds will be brought together to create a celebration of teamwork, musicianship and creative synergy. With the four-handed pieces we are able to tell our stories together, ranging from folkdances to beautiful fairytales. The piano becomes very intimate when two pianists have a dialogue on the instrument. However, the six-handed pieces are what make this concert a must-see for everyone. Three pianist playing together behind the same instrument is something you don't get to see often. Together we will even premiere a new piece, written by us for six-handed piano. This form of performance will showcase our individual talents while working seamlessly together to produce a unique sound that will captivate your senses. The concert event promises to be an unforgettable experience, with each performance showcasing our different styles and skills. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the magic of piano music at its best. Join us for an evening of beautiful melodies and impeccable performances. https://www.instagram.com/damien_heemskerk?igsh=MWk0b3ZvMHQ2eWhrZw== https://www.instagram.com/sterrehond?igsh=MWs0cDc5emxmOGUyNQ== https://www.instagram.com/julia.tavit?igsh=MW5xOGR4ZnZoMHF3bw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Art Base, Friday 26/4/24 20h, 15E ( reduced 10E for students under 26 and jobseekers), 29 rue des Sables Zandstraat, 1000 Bruxelles. For reservations & more info to www.art-base.be

James Ensor,inspired by Brussels: rondleiding

Palace of Charles of Lorraine

Visite guidée pour personnes aveugles et malvoyantes

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

Expo en workshop: Maskers op of maskers af

Bozar - Entrance hall

Courses and workshops

From Despair to Hope: Children Beyond Armed Conflict

Through a collection of powerful portraits, the globally renowned humanitarian photojournalist and correspondent, Paddy Dowling, hopes to reflect the complexity of the lives of children amidst conflict, emphasizing both the tragedy of their stories, their strength and their faith in a better future.

Children are the most vulnerable in times of armed conflict. Wars and hostilities deprive them of their lives, families, friends, homes and rights - essentially of their very childhood and future. They become both targets and instruments of war. They are recruited and used by armed forces and armed groups, abducted, maimed or killed and sexually violated. Their schools and hospitals are attacked, and they are deprived of essential humanitarian aid. Through a collection of powerful portraits, the globally renowned humanitarian photojournalist and correspondent, Paddy Dowling, hopes to reflect the complexity of the lives of children amidst conflict, emphasizing both the tragedy of their stories, their strength and their faith in a better future. ​​​​​​​

In the framework of the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, organised by the Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Kingdom of Belgium, the Office of the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict and the European Commission.

Histoire de ne pas rire. Surrealism in Belgium

Bozar is celebrating 100 years of surrealism with an exhibition on Belgium’s famous avant-garde movement spanning no less than 60 years. 1924: as in Paris, surrealist activities also start in our country with bold pamphlets by artists including poet Paul Nougé, who guides this exhibition. Belgium’s quirky surrealists go beyond the purely aesthetic – they want to transform the world with their subversive art. In Histoire de ne pas rire, we pay extra attention to their international interactions, political-historical background, and important women artists. Includes works by Paul Nougé, René Magritte, Jane Graverol, Marcel Mariën, Rachel Baes, Leo Dohmen, Paul Delvaux, Max Ernst, Yves Tanguy, Salvador Dalí, Georgio de Chirico, and many others.

Weekend Tour in French - Histoire de ne pas rire. Surrealism in Belgium'

Follow our guides for a tour through our exhibitions on Saturday afternoon. In the space of 75 minutes a guide uncovers the highlights of the exhibition. 

Weekend Tour in Dutch - Histoire de ne pas rire. Surrealism in Belgium'

Guided tours FLE & NT2

Do you teach Dutch to pupils who are non-Dutch speakers or French to pupils who are non-French speakers? If so, you may be interested to learn that Bozar offers guided tours adapted to their language level! Thanks to guides specially trained for the purpose by Proforal ASBL (Bruxelles FLE www.bruxellesfle.be) and the Huis van het Nederlands Brussel, you can benefit from a fun, interactive and personalised visit. One that will be as rich in aesthetic discoveries as in language immersion, whatever the knowledge level of the participants.    Expo visit NT2 & FLE possible for Histoire de ne pas rire. Surrealism in Belgium

Discovery trail for school - Surrealism in Belgium

Jota Mombaça - 'You will know / the daughters of the driest rain'

Martins&Montero

Lunch Tour in French- 'James Ensor.Maestro'

Fancy a culture sandwich? Then come along to Bozar! Every Friday lunchtime we’re serving up an hour of culture. In the space of 45 minutes a guide uncovers a few highlights of the exhibition. The guide selects five key works which form an interesting introduction to the story of the exhibition. Do you work near Bozar and fancy getting your teeth stuck into a bite-sized chunk of culture with friends or colleagues during your lunch break? Then why not join the Lunch Tour where you will be transported to another world.

Lunch Tour in Dutch - James Ensor. Maestro

Lunch Tour in French- Histoire de ne pas rire. Surrealism in Belgium'

Lunch Tour in Dutch - Histoire de ne pas rire. Surrealism in Belgium'

James Ensor. Maestro

2024 is the year of Ensor. We will spend the year commemorating the 75th anniversary of the death of famous Belgian artist James Ensor. He is much more than the painter of masks and skeletons. He was not only a gifted writer, but also a great music lover and composer. Therefore, Bozar will be paying tribute to the artist with an exhibition highlighting all his facets in an anthology of some 100 works. You will discover his varied oeuvre, from his youthful works to his last creations: oil paintings, works on paper, prints, manuscripts, photographs, and handwritten scores. Particular attention will be paid to lesser-known works, his print graphics, and his musical compositions such as La Gamme d’Amour.  Art heals. Art connects. Part of the ticket proceeds will go to Stand up to Cancer. Everyone who buys a ticket is helping a little in the fight against cancer.  

Getting there

• Metro line 1, 5 - stops Gare Centrale - Centraal Station, Parc - Parc 
• Trams 92, 93 - stops Parc - Park, Palais - Paleizen, Royal - Koning
• Bus 71, 38, 95, 27

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9th Apr 2020 | 5 min read

A visit to the Royal Palace of Brussels

Note: This article is also available in French | Flemish

Situated on the Place des Palais, the Royal Palace is the king’s administrative center . The official residence of the king and the royal family is situated in Laeken, which is also famous for the Royal Greenhouses that open to the public once a year. The palace in the center of Brussels is where the King carries out his duties as Head of State, welcoming representatives of the political institutions, foreign visitors and other guests.

Built on the ruins of the former Coudenberg Palace

The palace was built on the foundations of the court of the dukes of Brabant and Emperor Charles V. This building was called the Coudenberg palace and was destroyed by a fire in 1731. The reconstruction of the new palace started in 1820 under king Willem I, and modifications in Louis XIV style were made in 1904 under Leopold II. There are two pavilions adjacent to the side wings. On the left that of the Civil List and on the right the Hotel Bellevue which is currently the BELvue museum documenting Belgian history.

Visit the Royal Palace

Every year in Summer, the royal palace opens up to the public (for free!) This is the occasion to walk through the palace and marvel at the grandeur of this fine sample of Neoclassical architecture. Try to plan your visit to Brussels according to its opening times.

You'll enter the palace via the Vestibule where you can store your backpack. Then you'll take the Main Stairway up and start your self-guided tour through the majestic halls of the palace.

The Large Anti-Chamber features portraits of Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg and his spouse Princess Charlotte of Wales. The Empire Room was the ballroom of the Austrian imperial representative, which explains why there are dancing angels in the gilding and the low reliefs. The Small and Large White Room with original 18th century decorations constituted the apartment of state of the Austrian Minister. The Goya Room and Coburg Room have a similar lay-out and are respectively characterized by large tapestries based on Goya's drawings and multiple paintings of the Coburg family.

The Louis XVI Room boasts some paintings from the private collection of king William I. The Pilaster Room was originally a waiting room turned into a dining room for high dignitaries. The Marshal's Room was the audience room of King William I of the Netherlands.

Next up is the impressive Throne Room with its high ceilings, mosaic floor and sumptuous chandeliers.

The Marble Room , the former dining room of King Leopold II, leads into the Large Gallery , an enormous gala room used for dinners and receptions.

The Thinker Room leads to another of the palace's highlights. In the Mirror Room , the ceiling and one of the chandeliers are covered with approximately one million and a half jewel-scarab wing cases. It's a work of art from the hand of Jan Fabre. The Mirror Room usually hosts a temporary science exhibition where kids can do various little experiments.

After visiting the Royal Palace, walk back to the city center or have a break in the Royal Park located right across the street. This park, shortlisted as one of the best parks to picnic in Brussels , is a beautiful park with several gems to explore.

Practical information The exact dates are announced on the website of the Belgian Monarchy . It's usually from the beginning of July to the end of August. Visiting the Royal Palace is completely free of charge. It's not allowed to enter the Royal Palace with backpacks or liquids. There is a storage room at the entrance where you can leave your backpack during your visit. Avoid the long security lines by not taking a backpack.

Do you have questions? Did you experience something similar? Did you notice a mistake? Please share!

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Visit the Royal Palace for free

Like every year, the Royal Palace of Brussels is opening its doors to the public until 28 August 2022.

During your visit, you will have the opportunity to visit the administrative residence and the main workplace of King Phillipe and Queen Mathilde. In this palace, with its remarkable architecture, you will stroll through the historic salons and ornately decorated reception rooms where the royal family holds various activities every year, and end your visit in the magnificent garden.

This year, you will also be able to discover three temporary exhibitions on the premises:

1. In the Throne Room , the Royal Dynasty and Cultural Heritage Association presents the key moments of Baudouin's reign through the Baudouin, being a king exhibition. You will discover images, archives and objects, some of which are being exhibited for the first time in public;

2. In the Hall of Mirrors , Technopolis, the technology education centre, is offering a playful approach to science through LEGO creations with the Science, just a stone’s throw away exhibition.

3. In the Grand Gallery , Belspo (Federal Science Policy) is presenting the Ensuring the Future exhibition on global warming, Earth observation, digitisation of collections, and maritime and polar research.

Access to the Royal Palace of Brussels is via the Place des Palais. It is open until 28 August,the visit lasts approximately 60 minutes and is free, but booking is required via this link . More info on the website .

Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels, located on the south side of the Parc de Bruxelles (Brussels Park), remains the headquarters of the Belgian constitutional monarchy, despite not being the official royal residence since 1831. Today, it is where the King of Belgium exercises his authority as Head of State, and is the official palace of the King and Queen of Belgium. It also houses rooms for the country’s special guests, most of which are Heads of State and the offices of certain ministries.

Commissioned by William I of the Netherlands at the beginning of the nineteenth century, the Palace was initially designed in a neoclassical style. During the reign of King Leopold II, the Palace was remodelled, and the façade was completely changed. These were the last restorations done to the Palace.

Visit during the summer months

Although the Belgian royal family has not lived in the Royal Palace of Brussels for over a century, visitors can still explore many of the building’s rooms during the summer months. The Palace is open to the public from the national bank holiday on July 21st until the beginning of September, from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 am to 5 pm, with the exception of Mondays when the Palace is closed. It is a must-see for visitors in Brussels during the summer.

Hours and Fees

the Palais Royal de Bruxelles is open to the public normally from the 21 July (the national bank holiday) until the beginning of September.

Tuesday – Sunday at 10:30 am – 5 pm

Links and Resources

You may also like.

Art & History Museum

Sewer Museum

Brussels City Hall (Town Hall)

Notre Dame du Sablon (Church of Our Lady at Sablon)

Musée Magritte Museum

• The History Of The Royal...

The History Of The Royal Palace Of Brussels In 1 Minute

Next to the Royal Park and strategically situated across from the Palace of the Nation stands the Royal Palace of Brussels . Representing part of Belgium’s constitutional monarchy, the Royal Palace of Brussels serves as the official palace where the king welcomes heads of state and government and conducts events.

Built on ruins.

The history of the Royal Palace in its current form is not very old; it was built in 1900 at the request of King Leopold II. However, the ruins under the palace, on which it was built, are centuries old. These ruins are remnants of Coudenberg Palace, a very old palatial complex dating back to the 11th century. It was a home of the Dukes of Brabant who together with other successors extended and improved the palace for many centuries. Unfortunately, this prestigious complex was destroyed by a fire in 1731. Almost 50 years after the disaster, there were four separate buildings built on the ruins. Two of them were connected by a colonnade from the initiative of King William II of the Netherlands . It was already built in the neoclassical style with a peristyle, under the supervision of Belgian architect Tilman-François Suys.

Grand Architecture

📅 The Royal Palace: Open to the public from 22nd July-6th September | Tues-Sun 10:30am-4:30pm Place des Palais, Brussels, Belgium , +32 25 51 20 20

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Unveil Belgium’s Majestic Crown Jewel: Brussels’ Royal Palace

• Post author: Henk Schrama
• Post published: August 5, 2023
• Post category: Brussels
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Step into the regal world of Belgian history as we traverse through the grandeur of the Royal Palace in Brussels, the epicenter of the Belgian monarchy. Situated in the bustling capital, this neoclassical marvel stands at the heart of Place des Palais, blending royal traditions, culture, and history into an unmissable attraction. This palace also features in our overview of Europe’s best palaces to visit . Unfortunately, the palace is closed until the summer of 2024.

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Why the palace is worth visiting? (When it opens again in 2024)

1️⃣🏰 Royal Splendor: The Royal Palace, locally known as Palais Royal, embodies regal elegance with its expansive façade and splendid neoclassical architecture, serving as the official residence of the Belgian king.

2️⃣🖼️ Artistic Showcase: Every summer, the palace transforms into an art gallery, showcasing the finest works by Belgian artists and introducing visitors to the nation’s rich artistic heritage.

3️⃣🕰️ Historical Journey: A tour of the Royal Palace is a fascinating excursion through the annals of Belgian royal history, tracing back to the reign of King William I of the Netherlands in the 19th century.

Read this easy-to-read history book. Enjoy Belgium even more!

Unveiling belgium's royal splendor at the palais royal.

From the grand façade to the elegant gardens, the Royal Palace of Brussels offers a tantalizing preview of the royal grandeur within. Prepare to be enthralled by opulent interiors adorned with exquisite artwork, lush carpets, and regal furnishings, epitomized by the mesmerizing Great Gallery.

Deciphering Belgian Royal History within the Palace Walls

A guided tour of the Royal Palace is a trip back in time, retracing the footsteps of several Belgian monarchs, from King Leopold I to the current king, King Philippe. While the palace remains the hub for state ceremonies and official functions, the royal family primarily resides at the Royal Castle of Laeken, situated on the outskirts of Brussels.

Encountering Belgian Art and Culture at the Palace

Beyond architectural admiration, the palace serves as a vibrant showcase for Belgian art and culture. Each summer, the palace hosts an exhibition featuring works by prominent Belgian artists, transforming the regal setting into a vibrant art hub. The Great Gallery is particularly noteworthy for its collection of paintings, including masterpieces by James Ensor, Peter Paul Rubens, and Pieter Bruegel the Elder.

A visit to the Royal Palace in Brussels is a royal treat, offering glimpses into Belgium’s regal history, vibrant art scene, and royal traditions. Remember to visit the palace’s official website for the latest information on opening hours and access days, usually during the summer months from July to early September. As you delve into this regal journey, don’t forget your camera to capture this royal adventure’s enchanting moments. Immerse yourself in the regal splendor of the Royal Palace in Brussels for an unforgettable Belgian experience!

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• Friday, April 26, 2024

CruiseToTravel

Inside the royal palace in brussels, a fairytale office.

Every young girl dreams of one day meeting her prince charming and living happily ever after in a beautiful palace. So it’s no surprise that every summer, when the King and Queen of Belgium open the gates of the Royal Palace in Brussels, everyday folk come pouring in for a peek at the gold and crystal that adorn the inside of the Belgian Royal Palace.

A FAIRYTALE OFFICE

Confusingly the Royal Palace of Brussels is not where the Royal Family lives, it’s the King’s administrative residence or office where he works and receives the representatives of political institutions, foreign guests (heads of state, ambassadors) and other guests.

Walking past the impressive Royal gates we cannot help but think that maybe we should have arrived on a white horse. Nevertheless as we set foot inside the Ceremonial Vestibule our eyes are immediately drawn to the lifesized portraits of His Majesty King Philippe, his wife Queen Mathilde and the busts of former Belgian Kings and Queens that fill the room.

The vestibule opens up to the majestic Grand Staircase , with its domed ceiling, which was designed for King Leopold II. The broad white marble staircase, with green marble balustrade and monumental  statue of Peace (in the form of the Roman goddess Minerva) leads up to the large Anti-chamber.

The Anti-chamber overlooks the Paleizenplein/Place des Palais and gives access to the official balcony from where the Royal Family greets the crowds on special occasions. The room dates from when the North and South of the Netherlands were united into one Kingdom (1815-1830), after the battle of Waterloo, a political history which is depicted by a frieze along the walls of the room. The room also features two large portraits of Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg (the future King Leopold I) and his wife Princess Charlotte of Wales.

The adjacent Empire Room is situated in the oldest part of the Palace and was originally the official ballroom of the Austrian imperial representative. The gilding and low reliefs on the walls show dancing angels making music and are a prime example of the taste and lifestyle of the upper class at the end of the Ancient Régime.

Nowadays newly accredited ambassadors come to this room to present their credentials to the King.

The  Small and Large White Drawing Room have often been the setting for official photographs taken to mark important events in the Royal Family’s life, such as the wedding of King Baudouin and Queen Fabiola in 1960 and King Philippe’s swearing-in ceremony in 2013. Two weeks before the assassination of President Kennedy, American Vice-President Lyndon B. Johnson and his wife were received here by King Baudouin and Queen Fabiola.

The Long Gallery was inspired by the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles and is the usual passageway along which the Royal Family proceeds to go to the Throne Room. The gallery is nowadays mostly used to host dinners and receptions.

Built under the reign of King Leopold II, the Throne Room is the largest and most magnificent room in the Palace. Its gold and white decoration and monumental chandeliers are inspired by the Tuileries Palace in Paris.

The room originally served as a ballroom and during the reigns of Leopold II and Albert I several balls took place every year. The last Court Ball was organized for the 1958 World Exhibition and hosted some 4,500 guests. But the richly decorated room also witnessed pain and hardship. During the First World War King Albert I and Queen Elisabeth made the Royal Palace available to the Red Cross for use as a hospital. Several thousand casualties were nursed in the gilded setting with concerts and theatrical performances being held to relieve the pain for a moment.

Two kings brought their reign to a close by signing their abdication act in the Throne Room. In 1951 King Leopold III abdicated in favour of his son Baudouin and on 21 July 2013, King Albert II signed his abdication act before driving to the Parliament with his son Philippe where the latter took the constitutional oath and was sworn in as the seventh King of the Belgians.

The Throne Room is also where gala banquets during state visits are held. On these occasions over 200 guests may sit at long tables decorated to perfection with some of the most beautiful tableware as a sign of style and excellence in honour of the visiting heads of state. Other traditions such as the King and Prime Minister’s New Year speeches to the country’s authorities and the traditional autumn and Christmas concerts are also held in the Throne Room.

Less glamorous, but definitely one of the most talked about rooms in the Royal Palace, is the Hall of Mirrors  . The construction of the room began under the reign of Leopold II and has walls decorated with marble and copper. King Albert I had the works completed with mirrors on the walls, which were originally intended to feature allegorical scenes evoking Africa.

In 2002, Belgian artist Jan Fabre was given the opportunity to create a work of art in this space by Queen Paola. His work, entitled “ Heaven of Delight “, covers the ceiling and one of the three chandeliers with 1.4 million wing cases of Thai jewel beetles and stirred up a lot of commotion at the time of the reveal with some people calling it a disgrace while others applauded the daring and modern interpretation of Royal interior design.

The Royal Palace in Brussels traditionally opens its doors to the public every summer after the National Holiday of 21 July until September. Entrance to the Palace is free.

The Palace can easily be reached by car and public transport:

• Train: Bruxelles-Central/Brussel-Centraal station
• Tram: 92 and 93, ‘Palais/Paleizen’ stop
• Metro: 1 and 5, ‘Parc/Park’ station – 2 and 6, Trône/Troon station
• Bus: 22, 27, 38, 54, 71 and 95, ‘Ducale/Hertog’ stop
• Villo! Bicycle rental network: ‘Palais Royal/Koninklijk Paleis’ station

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State visit to Belgium – programme

News item | 01-06-2023 | 16:00

His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and Her Majesty Queen Máxima will be paying a state visit to Belgium at the invitation of His Majesty the King of the Belgians. The visit will start in Brussels on the morning of Tuesday 20 June and end in Antwerp on the evening of Thursday 22 June. The King and Queen will be accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Wopke Hoekstra on the first and third days of their visit. Minister of Education, Culture and Science Robbert Dijkgraaf will accompany them on the second day. Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Liesje Schreinemacher, Minister of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality Piet Adema, Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management Mark Harbers, Minister of Defence Kajsa Ollongren, Minister of Social Affairs and Employment Karien van Gennip and Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy Micky Adriaansens will each be attending separate parts of the programme.

The state visit will reaffirm the excellent ties between the two neighbouring countries, which have strong historical, social and economic links. Key common themes during the visit will be improving social and physical liveability, combating climate change, maintaining and promoting a safe society and working towards a sustainable future in which energy is green and affordable. The visit will further deepen the close collaboration between the Netherlands and Belgium, as they both work towards a safer, cleaner and more sustainable future.

Tuesday 20 June – Brussels

Arrival at brussels midi train station.

The state visit will begin in Brussels, with the King and Queen arriving by royal train at Brussel Midi station where they will be welcomed by the Belgian foreign minister. 

Welcome ceremony

King Philippe and Queen Mathilde will receive King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima at a welcome ceremony at the Royal Palace. 

Wreath-laying ceremony

Following the welcome ceremony at the palace, the King and Queen of the Netherlands will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This monument commemorates all unidentified Belgian soldiers who fell during the First World War.

Federal Parliament

Following a lunch at the Royal Palace, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will visit the Federal Parliament of Belgium. They will speak with members of the Chamber of Representatives and the Senate before being given a tour of the building.

Meeting with the Prime Minister

The King and Queen will then meet with Prime Minister Alexander de Croo at Lambermont, his official residence.

Meeting with the mayor of Brussels and walkabout in Grand-Place

Later that afternoon both royal couples will be received by the mayor of Brussels, Philippe Close, at the town hall. During a walkabout in Grand-Place square the royal party will then have the opportunity to meet inhabitants of Brussels and tourists. 

State banquet

In the evening King Philippe will host a state banquet at the Castle of Laeken, at which both heads of state will give a speech. 

Wednesday 21 June – Brussels, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Waterloo and Charleroi

Climate tech forum.

The second day of the visit will begin at the Climate Tech Forum, part of the parallel economic mission headed by foreign trade minister Liesje Schreinemacher. The event will be attended by some 500 representatives of Belgian and Dutch knowledge institutions, businesses and public sector bodies. They will be exchanging knowledge and exploring opportunities for cooperation on green hydrogen, climate neutral construction, future-proof agriculture and horticulture, and smart, sustainable mobility. The royal party will also visit an innovation market highlighting Belgian-Dutch collaborations and attend part of the plenary programme. King Philippe and King Willem-Alexander will each give a short speech. 

Aerospacelab

King Philippe and King Willem-Alexander will visit Aerospacelab in Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve which specialises in satellite data, and in designing, testing and producing satellites. They will be given a tour, visit the cleanroom and meet members of staff. 

Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel

Queen Mathilde and Queen Máxima will visit the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel in Waterloo. Each year the institution hosts approximately 70 international young musicians, who follow a programme of lessons, concerts and recitals, work with orchestras and participate in festivals. Queen Mathilde and Queen Máxima will meet several of the musicians, attend performances and be given a tour. 

Lunch meeting on water management 

The royal party will attend a lunch in the orangery at the Castle of Seneffe, at which Belgian and Dutch experts will give presentations on addressing the risks of drought and flooding. 

BioPark Charleroi

In the afternoon the party will visit BioPark Charleroi, a biotech ecosystem where businesses and knowledge institutions conduct research on life sciences and develop solutions to challenges in healthcare. 

Unveiling of comic mural and comic strip workshop 

On arrival in Charleroi the royal party will walk to the Institut Saint-André school, while greeting the public. Outside the school they, and a number of pupils, will unveil a mural designed by the Dutch comic book artist Dido Drachman and Belgian graphic novel artist Christian Durieux. They will then participate in a comic strip workshop together with pupils from the school. The unveiling of the mural and the comic strip workshop will mark the end of a cultural festival involving Belgian and Dutch artists.

In the evening King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will host a concert by the Amsterdam Sinfonietta string orchestra at the Flagey culture house in Brussels to thank their hosts for their hospitality. 

Thursday 22 June – Leuven and Antwerp

The third day of the state visit will begin in Leuven, where King Philippe, Queen Mathilde, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will visit Imec, a research centre specialising in chip technology that supports companies developing digital applications. The royal party will attend a roundtable meeting with the CEOs of Imec’s Belgian and Dutch partners.

Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp

King Philippe, Queen Mathilde, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will start their visit to Antwerp with a walk to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts (KMSKA). They will have the opportunity to meet the people of Antwerp along the way. The royal party will be given a tour of the museum, which boasts a collection representing seven centuries of art. The museum’s recent renovation was overseen by Dutch architect Dikkie Scipio. Its collection includes highlights of Flemish Baroque as well as examples of primitivism and expressionism, and features works by Peter Paul Rubens, James Ensor and Rik Wouters.

Lunch meeting on early school leavers and youth unemployment

After the museum tour the royal party will attend a lunch meeting on the theme of tackling youth unemployment. Many young people in Antwerp leave school without a qualification, while at the same time there are a large number of unfilled job vacancies at secondary vocational level. At the lunch young people will be sharing their experiences and speaking with researchers about the role of educational institutions and employers in guiding vulnerable young people and their development.

Port Authority Building

After the lunch meeting the royal party will be given a short tour of the Port Authority Building and will speak with CEOs and participants of the Belgian-Dutch Port Open Day being held in the Port of Antwerp. They will look at how ports and their industrial clusters can work together to achieve shared ambitions relating to the energy transition, and the infrastructure this requires.

Belgian and Dutch frigates 

In the Port of Antwerp King Philippe and King Willem-Alexander will visit the Belgian frigate Louise-Marie, while Queen Mathilde and Queen Máxima visit the Dutch frigate HNLMS De Ruyter. There will be various demonstrations on board and on shore. This part of the programme will focus on the partnership between the Belgian and Dutch navies. The Royal Netherlands Navy and the Belgian Navy operate the same types of ships and helicopters, cooperate on maintenance and carry out joint exercises. Following the visit to the frigates, a farewell ceremony will be held on shore.

Reception for the Dutch community

At the end of the afternoon a reception for the Dutch community in Belgium will be held in the historic Handelsbeurs, Antwerp’s former stock exchange.

Government Information Service, no. 145

Allocution de Sa Majesté le roi Willem-Alexander pour l’ouverture du Forum sur les technologies climatiques, Gare Maritime, Bruxelles

Speech | 21-06-2023

Allocution de Sa Majesté le roi Willem-Alexander à l’occasion du dîner d’État dans le cadre de la visite d’État à l’invitation de Leurs Majestés le roi Philippe et la reine Mathilde des Belges, Bruxelles

Speech | 20-06-2023

Tischrede Seiner Majestät König Willem-Alexander beim Staatsbesuch bei Ihren Majestäten König Philippe und Königin Mathilde der Belgier, Brüssel

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The Royal Watcher

Details of the luxembourg state visit to belgium.

King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium will host Grand Duke Henri  and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg on their State Visit to Belgium from April 16-18 , following the Belgian State Visit to Luxembourg in 2019 . King Philippe and Grand Duke Henri are first cousins.

At the invitation of Their Majesties the King and Queen of the Belgians, Their Royal Highnesses the Grand Duke and the Grand Duchess will travel to the Kingdom of Belgium for a State Visit from April 16 to 18, 2024. During this State Visit, the Royal Couple and the Grand Ducal Couple will have the pleasure of visiting different projects and companies in three Belgian cities: Brussels, Ghent and Liège.

While the details have yet to be announced, the State Visit will no doubt begin with an Official Welcome Ceremony at the Royal Palace in Brussels.

At the invitation of Their Majesties the King and the Queen, Their Royal Highnesses the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Luxembourg are paying a state visit to Belgium. Belgium and Luxembourg are closely linked thanks to royal family ties, but also historically, economically, culturally and socially. This state visit shows that both countries want to continue investing and working together in areas such as sustainable economic development, e-health, space, defense and education.

In the evening, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde will host a State Banquet in honour of Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Theresa at the Royal Chateau of Laeken.

The program includes a ceremonial reception on the Place des Palais in Brussels on Tuesday, April 16, a visit to the Brussels City Hall, and a State Banquet in the Castle of Laeken.

Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Theresa will host a Return Dinner/Concert on the second evening of the State Visit.

On Wednesday morning, April 17, the King and the Grand Duke will open the Economic Forum in the Egmont Palace in Brussels. They meet a number of Belgian and Luxembourgish CEOs who present their successful collaboration and current projects. At the same time, the Queen and the Grand Duchess will visit the exhibition ‘Histoire de ne pas rire. Surrealism in Belgium’ at the Center for Fine Arts in Brussels. The official delegation will then travel to Ghent for a visit to  North Sea Port (external link) and the Belgian engine builder  Anglo Belgian Corporation (ABC) (external link) . The company, founded in 1912, has transformed itself into a successful modern international company in the production of high-performance hydrogen and multi-fuel marine engines, with an emphasis on renewable energy, circularity and sustainable entrepreneurship. After a lunch on labor market dynamics in the new Provincial House, the Queen, together with the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess, will visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the Mystic Lamb, the final restoration phase of which is currently underway. The day ends with a concert by the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra in Flagey in Brussels, presented by the Luxembourg duke couple.  Thursday, April 18, starts for the King and the Grand Duke at the air base of the 15th  Wing  in Melsbroek, where the Belgium-Luxembourg bi-national Air Transport Unit A400M is stationed. Belgium and Luxembourg have been working closely together in the field of defense for decades. At the end of 2023, both countries signed a cooperation agreement for the creation of a binational reconnaissance battalion and welcomed the arrival of the last A400M in the binational fleet. They will then go to the University of Liège for a seminar on cyber defense and space travel. The Queen and the Grand Duchess are now visiting  Child Focus (external link) In Brussels. The King, the Queen, the Grand Duke and the Grand Duchess will participate in a thematic lunch about Belgian-Luxembourg cross-border partnerships at the Prince-Bishop’s Palace in Liège at noon. They will then conclude the state visit with a meeting with the population on Sint-Lambertusplein in Liège. 

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The Belgian Royal Family and the Luxembourg Grand Ducal Family have a close family history, which was further cemented when Princess Charlotte of Belgium married Hereditary Grand Duke Jean of Luxembourg in 1953 .

State visit of Belgian King Baudouin to Luxembourg (1959). From left: Prince Charles, Hereditary Grand Duke Jean, Hereditary Grand Duchess Joséphine-Charlotte (born Princess of Belgium, sister of King Baudouin), King Baudouin, Grand Duchess Charlotte and Prince Félix. © Belga pic.twitter.com/IwbMbZUkT4 — RoyalArjan (@RoyalArjan) September 7, 2018 Embed from Getty Images window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'JzYAV3TSQ157LvpNJJnY9g',sig:'QQqLfB0Mt45nXrPLRoRBrVUyGsEyp644PZWfh0qLayY=',w:'452px',h:'594px',items:'558648249',caption: false ,tld:'com',is360: false })});

In 1959, Grand Duchess Charlotte and Prince Félix, along with Hereditary Grand Duke Jean and Hereditary Grand Duchess Joséphine-Charlotte, hosted King Baudouin of Belgium (brother of Grand Duchess Joséphine-Charlotte) on his State Visit to Luxembourg. In 1967, King Baudouin and Queen Fabiola hosted Grand Duke Jean and Grand Duchess Joséphine-Charlotte on their State Visit to Belgium .

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In the next reign, King Albert II (younger brother of the Grand Duchess) and Queen Paola were hosted by Grand Duke Jean and Grand Duchess Joséphine-Charlotte on their State Visit to Luxembourg in 1994, HERE , and in turn hosted the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess on their State Visit to Belgium in 1999, HERE .

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In 2007, Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Theresa of Luxembourg (wearing the Luxembourg Empire Tiara ) were hosted by his uncle and aunt, King Albert and Queen Paola (in the  Nine Provinces Tiara ). Other members of the family in attendance included Queen Fabiola, Prince Nikolaus of Liechtenstein and Princess Margaretha of Luxembourg, Crown Prince Philippe and Crown Princess Mathilde, The Archduke of Austria-Este and Princess Astrid.

The most recent State Visit between the two families was when King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium made State Visit to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in 2019, being hosted by their cousins, the Grand Ducal Family.

Nine Provinces Tiara

Laurel Wreath Tiara

Wolfers Necklace Tiara

Queen Elisabeth’s Diamond Bandeau

Diamond Fringe Earrings

Wedding Earrings

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Diamond waterfall brooch  .

Diamond Butterfly Brooch

Diamond Floral Bracelet  

Luxembourg Empire Tiara

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Royal Greenhouses in Laeken

This year, the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are open to the public from 26 April until 20 May (closed on Mondays, except on public holiday 20 May). The ticket sale will start on 11 April at www.koninklijke-serres-royales.be .

During the 19th century, progress in construction techniques, especially the use of metal and glass as construction materials, made a new type of building possible: the greenhouse.

In 1873, architect Alphonse Balat designed for King Leopold II a complex of greenhouses which complement the castle of Laeken, built in the classical style. The complex has the appearance of a glass city set in an undulating landscape.

The monumental pavilions, glass cupolas, wide arcades that cross the site like covered streets, are much more than an anecdote on the architectural applications of iron and glass or on little greenhouses of exotic plants. What the Royal Greenhouses express concerns architecture and, specifically, a major construction programme: the "Ideal Glass Palace".

They are the culmination of various meetings, letters, sketches and plans exchanged between architect Alphonse Balat and King Leopold II. But above all, they inspired the new Belgian architecture of the day, and their influence spread, with Art Nouveau, throughout the world.

The present-day plant collection at the Greenhouses in Laeken is valuable from three viewpoints : 

• Some of the plants belonging to King Leopold II's original collections still exist.
• The current collections still respect the spirit that prevailed when the original collections were planted.
• Finally, the Royal Greenhouses still contain an enormous number of rare and valuable plants.

Each year, in the spring, the Greenhouses of Laeken are opened to the public, during almost three weeks. This tradition has been carried on for a century.

Overall view

The staircase leads to the Winter Garden. At the ends of the Pier are two statues by Charles Van der Stappen, Dawn and Evening. Medinillas (a tropical plant from the Philippines) are laid out in Chinese vases brought back by King Leopold II from a trip to the Far East while he was still Duke of Brabant.

The Winter Garden

Designed by architect Alphonse Balat and built between 1874 and 1876, the Winter Garden was the first greenhouse in the imposing city of glass which would be built over thirty years on the Laeken estate. The dimensions of this greenhouse allowed tall palm trees, the majority of which date from the time of Leopold II. As soon as it was completed, this greenhouse was used for royal receptions.

13 Places To Visit In Britain If You Love The Royal Family

G reat Britain is known for its historic landmarks, beautiful gardens, and passionate sporting culture, yet no other icon is more closely associated with the country than the royal family. For centuries, the world has been fascinated by the lifestyles of kings and queens, from where they live to what they like to eat, but the British royal family remains one of the most recognizable monarchies in the world.

Along with the world's interest, the monarchy's appeal within the United Kingdom is also apparent. Throughout the U.K., there are museums, castles, landmarks, and gardens dedicated to the monarchy, which celebrate the royal family's history and legacy. 

While it may seem like royal residences and gilded carriages would be off-limits to the average tourist, it's perfectly possible to get a taste of royal life during your next visit to Britain. Whether you're looking for a history lesson or a spot of the Queen's favorite tea, there are plenty of places to visit if you love the royal family.

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is a working royal palace and the King's official residence. Built in 1825, Buckingham Palace was commissioned by King George IV who asked architect John Nash to design a grand palace fit for a king within the city of London.

The "palace fit for a king" has a total of 775 rooms, many of them filled with paintings by Old Masters and rare antiques. While the private living quarters are off-limits to visitors, a tour does include the 19 staterooms where the royal family entertains. The White Drawing Room is the grandest of all staterooms, with gilded ceilings and white pilasters; it is frequently the setting for pre-dinner gatherings. The largest is the Ball Room, completed in 1855 during Queen Victoria's reign. It is the setting for concerts and state banquets. The Throne Room holds the two coronation chairs originally commissioned for Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip, but they were most recently used for the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Buckingham Palace is only open for 10 weeks a year from late July through September while the King is at Balmoral in Scotland on summer holiday. Still, the palace often holds special events for ticket holders throughout the year.

Westminster Abbey

As one of the country's greatest landmarks, Westminster Abbey is a cathedral with 1,000 years of history, much of it tied to the royal family. Originally built as a Benedictine monastery, Westminster Abbey was rebuilt in 1065 by Edward the Confessor, and later rebuilt by King Henry III between 1220 and 1272. Designed in the Gothic style, the cathedral is recognized worldwide as an architectural masterpiece.

Westminster Abbey has been the site of every coronation since 1066, as well as the setting for numerous royal occasions. The Abbey held state funerals for both Queen Elizabeth II, as well as Princess Diana, and was the site of the 2011 wedding of Prince William of Wales and Princess Catherine. Westminster Abbey is also the burial site of more than 3,000 prominent Great Britons, including many royals. Queen Anne, Edward the Confessor, Mary Queen of Scots, and Queen Elizabeth I are all buried here.

St. Paul's Cathedral

Designed by famous architect Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul's Cathedral in London is a city icon that has been hosting cultural and religious events since 1665. The Baroque-style cathedral sits on Ludgate Hill, the highest point in the city of London. At 365 feet, its dome is one of the highest in the world, and the cathedral was the tallest building in London until 1963. The prominent dome and surrounding church spires are some of the most recognized landmarks in London.

St. Paul's Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral and serves as the seat of the Bishop of London. The cathedral has hosted many prominent religious services, including the state funerals of Margaret Thatcher and Sir Winston Churchill. Both Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II celebrated their Jubilee Services at the cathedral. The wedding of King Charles and Princess Diana was also celebrated at the cathedral in July 1981, which was one of the most-watched television events in history.

As a working cathedral, St. Paul's hosts daily Anglican services, but visitors can purchase tickets for private and self-guided tours. Highlights include The Grand Organ, which has operated since 1695, the throne of the Bishop in the Quire, and The American Memorial Chapel, dedicated to the 28,000 Americans who lost their lives in Britain during World War II.

Hampton Court Palace

Famous for its extensive gardens and maze, Hampton Court Palace is a Tudor masterpiece that has hosted royals since the early 16th century. Originally commissioned by Cardinal Wolsey, Hampton Court caught the attention of King Henry VIII, who eventually made it his home, bringing all six of his wives here.

Henry VIII used the palace as a place to entertain, and its grand design was considered both modern and ostentatious at the time. The centerpiece of the palace is The Great Hall, a towering space designed by Henry VIII that was meant to convey his power. Boasting a magnificent hammerbeam roof, the Great Hall contains artifacts like Anne Boleyn's coat of arms. Many historic events occurred at the palace, including the divorce of Henry VIII and Anne of Cleves. He also married his wife Catherine Howard at the palace. 

The palace also served as a working royal residence until the 19th century, when Queen Victoria decided to open it to the public in 1838. Today, visitors can tour the palace, its grounds, and its ornate chapel. One of the most popular sites of Hampton Court is the garden hedge maze. Originally commissioned in the early 1700s, it is the oldest surviving hedge maze in Great Britain.

Tower Of London

While Hampton Court Palace was the location of everyday life for Tudor-era royals, the Tower of London is where some Tudor royals met their end. Built in 1070 by William the Conquerer, the Tower of London was built as a fortress-like structure designed to defend London against its enemies. A mighty stone tower sits as its centerpiece and the structure took 20 years to build with stone imported from France. For the next two centuries, the Tower was expanded to include a defensive wall, an armory, and a national mint. The Tower of London was frequently used to house royals and their precious possessions during times of distress.

The Tower of London has been the site of many tragedies involving the royal family. It is where both Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey spent their final days before execution; it is also where two princes, the children of Edward IV, would perish during the War of the Roses.

Throughout history, the Tower of London has served as a fortress, palace, and prison. Today, it remains one of London's most popular attractions. Visitors can tour the Tower and view its collection of armor or meet one of the 37 Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, who guard the Tower. The most secure and highly protected wing of the Tower is the Jewel House, which contains more than 23,000 gemstones, including precious tiaras, necklaces, and other gems that make up the official Crown Jewels.

National Portrait Gallery

Established in 1856 by Lord Ellesmere, the National Portrait Gallery is located in the heart of London near Trafalgar Square. One of London's best museums for art-lovers, the gallery has more than 22,000 works and houses the most extensive portrait collection in the world. Recently reopened after a three-year refurbishment, it has thousands of portraits of prominent Britons, from historical leaders like Winston Churchill to contemporary figures like Elton John and David Bowie.

The National Portrait Gallery holds official portraits of every prominent member of the royal family and has extensive collections from the Tudor, Elizabethan, Edwardian, and Victorian reigns. The gallery also contains the official portraits of every modern royal, including King Charles, Kate Middleton, and Prince William. A popular site for tourists, visitors can take guided tours or view rotating exhibitions of British arts and culture. Most recently, the gallery hosted a collection of photography and a Beatles retrospective by Sir Paul McCartney.

London's most famous park was originally founded by the monks of Westminster Abbey until Henry VIII purchased it to use as his hunting grounds. It remained a private park until Charles I permitted the public to access it in 1637. Throughout the park, you can find monuments and statues dedicated to the royal family. The Diana Memorial Fountain, unveiled by Queen Elizabeth in 2004, is built of Cornish granite and is designed to reflect the ebb and flow of Princess Diana's life. The Queen Elizabeth Gates in Hyde Park was designed to honor Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. They were unveiled in 1993 and feature a whimsical design of a lion and a unicorn, representing England and Scotland.

The park's winding paths, lake, and gardens are a popular outing in central London any time of year. At Speakers Corner, visitors can see where radicals used to "get on their soapbox" and preach about everything from politics to religion. The centerpiece of the park is The Serpentine Lake, where visitors can rent paddle boats or dine at the boat house. In the winter, Hyde Park turns into a winter wonderland, with an ice rink, food stands, and a Santaland with carnival rides. Visiting the park is a must-do in London at Christmas . 

The Royal Mews

Ever dreamed of seeing a real gilded carriage fit for royalty? At The Royal Mews, a working stable and museum adjacent to Buckingham Palace, you can. The Royal Mews is responsible for all road travel for the King and the Royal Family, from horse and carriage ceremonies to official car processions. The organization has been around since the 14th century, and its headquarters was built in the gardens of Buckingham Palace in 1825.

A visit to the Mews might include seeing one of the stable's Cleveland Bay or Windsor Grey horses, or trying out a replica open carriage like the one Queen Victoria used. Visitors can also see the livery worn by the King's coachmen or learn how to tack a horse on a wooden pony. The real draw, however, is the fleet of carriages used to carry the royal family throughout history, including the 260-year-old Gold State Coach. The coach features gilded woodwork, intricately carved sculpture, and painted panels of Roman gods and goddesses. Weighing over four tons, the carriage has been used to transport the monarchy in every coronation since that of William IV. As a note, The Royal Mews is closed until March 1, 2024. 

Madame Tussaud's

It is possible to get close to members of the royal family -- wax versions, that is. The world-famous Madame Tussauds wax museum in London is home to 150 lifelike figures, including members of Britain's royal family. The museum's Royal Palace exhibit includes a throne room with wax figure renderings of every major royal, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, Queen Elizabeth, King Charles, and Queen Camilla.

Open since 1884 on Baker Street in London, Madame Tussauds is a London institution that not only offers a lighthearted look at the world's most famous faces, but the museum has the direct support of the monarchy. The museum's Queen Elizabeth figure is the 23rd incarnation the museum has created throughout her historic 70-year reign. During its creation, Madame Tussauds' sculptors collaborated with Buckingham Palace by providing images of the clay sculptures as they were in progress to create the most authentic and lifelike incarnation of "Her Majesty."

Fortnum And Mason

London's most famous tea shop, Fortnum and Mason , has had a long and storied relationship with the royal family since it was first established in 1707. Founder William Fortnum was originally a footman for Queen Anne. He later established his tea shop with Hugh Mason, and the two would go on to create a culinary empire that still provides tea to the royal family today. The flagship store in Picadilly sells everything from the Royal Blend tea to Sandringham coffee blend and has held a Royal Warrant (products approved by the monarchy) since 1910.

Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, was known to do her Christmas shopping annually in person at the store, and every modern royal has visited the shop in recent years. Queen Elizabeth, Queen Camilla, and Princess Catherine all visited together in 2012 for the opening of the store's Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon. Today, thousands of tourists and shoppers visit the store to purchase tea, coffee, and gourmet food as well as the shop's famous Christmas hampers. One can also enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in London  in the tea salon where treats like cucumber sandwiches, scones, and pastries are served on the store's iconic blue plates.

Windsor Castle

The oldest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle has been home to 40 monarchs. Built by William the Conquerer in the 11th century, Windsor Castle was built high on the River Thames at the edge of hunting grounds. It was designed to serve as a military fortification to guard the western approach to London. King Edward II began converting it into a royal residence in the 14th century.

Windsor Castle remained a preferred residence of royals for centuries and was the favored respite of Queen Victoria, who spent much of her reign here. Today, visitors can see the castle's state apartments or view attractions like Queen Mary's doll house. The Grand Reception Room contains real gold chandeliers and gilded ceilings; as the most luxurious room in the castle, it was Queen Elizabeth II's favorite room to entertain guests.

Another highlight of Windsor Castle is St. George's Chapel, located within the castle grounds. St. George's Chapel is the burial place of 11 monarchs, including Henry VIII, Charles II, and most recently, Queen Elizabeth II. The chapel has also been the site of several royal weddings, including the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, as well as The Earl and Countess of Wessex. A worthwhile day trip destination from London , Windsor Castle is located about an hour from the city. 

Kensington Palace

Originally built as a modest home known as Nottingham House, Kensington Palace started out as the country retreat of King William in 1687 and was gradually expanded over the years to become the palace that stands today. It was the birthplace of Queen Victoria, who spent most of her childhood here until she moved to Buckingham Palace. Kensington Palace has been home to many royals over the years, including Princess Margaret and Princess Diana. It currently serves as the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Wales and their three children.

Visitors to Kensington Palace can see the King's and Queen's State Rooms, as well as a permanent exhibition on the life of Queen Victoria. The exhibit offers a glimpse of her reimagined childhood rooms, as well as her collection of jewelry gifted to her by her beloved husband Albert. Kensington Palace is surrounded by expansive gardens, including the Sunken Garden, an all-white garden dedicated to the memory of Princess Diana. The garden features a statue of the late Princess with her sons, William and Harry. The statue was unveiled in 2017 on what would have been the Princess of Wales' 60th birthday.

The palace museum is open year-round and also hosts seasonal exhibits highlighting the fashion, decor, and history of the royal family. The Orangery at Kensington Palace serves traditional afternoon tea daily, and the palace shop sells an extensive collection of royal-inspired merchandise.

St. James Park

Similar to Hyde Park, Henry VIII originally acquired St. James Park in 1532 to serve as royal hunting grounds. St. James Park is London's oldest Royal Park and one of its most beautiful. The park is bordered on all sides by The Mall, Green Park, Buckingham Palace, and Whitehall. It is also adjacent to Birdcage Walk, the site of the Churchill War Rooms. Listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, the park is laid out in a series of gardens surrounding a small lake. The lake is home to various waterbirds, including the park's famous pelicans, which were introduced as a gift from a Russian ambassador to King Charles II in 1664. 

St. James Park's location near The Mall offers an ideal viewing site for royal processions and historical celebrations that occur along the route to Buckingham Palace. It also provides views of The Changing of the Guard from its northern entrance, and from the Blue Bridge, which spans the lake at the center of the park, you can enjoy picture-perfect views of the London Eye and Buckingham Palace.

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