Coudenberg Palace Brussels
Explore the excavated ruins of the former royal palace of Brussels, buried for centuries beneath Place Royale.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more atmosphere
Coudenberg Palace Brussels
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the excavated ruins of the former royal palace of Brussels, buried for centuries beneath Place Royale.
"A fascinating glimpse into Brussels' hidden history, walking through the ancient underground palace ruins."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and exploring underground passages. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Events
Special concerts and family days offer unique experiences. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Underground Ruins
Beneath Place Royale
Wander through the excavated passages and chambers of the former palace, a buried city frozen in time.
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The Old Street
Excavated section
Discover a preserved medieval street, offering a tangible connection to Brussels' past urban landscape.
Royal Chambers
Palace foundations
Imagine the grandeur of the past in the remnants of the palace's most important rooms, once home to royalty.
Planning Your Visit
Unearth Brussels' Royal Past
Book Ahead for Special Events
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and exploring underground passages. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Events
Special concerts and family days offer unique experiences. :calendar:
Not for Claustrophobes
The underground nature might be challenging for some. :warning:
Combine with City Sights
It's near Grand Place and other key Brussels attractions. :map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and exploring underground passages. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Events
Special concerts and family days offer unique experiences. :calendar:
Not for Claustrophobes
The underground nature might be challenging for some. :warning:
Combine with City Sights
It's near Grand Place and other key Brussels attractions. :map:
Kid-Friendly Treasure Hunt
Engage younger visitors with an underground treasure hunt. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the unique experience of exploring the underground ruins of Coudenberg Palace, calling it a fascinating glimpse into Brussels' hidden history. The well-preserved archaeological site and the atmospheric underground passages are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some visitors note that it's primarily an archaeological site with limited interactive exhibits beyond special events, and it might not be suitable for those with claustrophobia.
"I was blown away by how extensive the underground ruins, that are still intact, were. Amazing! The guide that goes with it is a little confusing to follow so I would absolutely suggest using the QR code to access the tour. So good, easy to follow if you are not going in order of the exhibit numbers. Great little videos. Oh and it is included in the ticket price even if you don’t access it. Well worth the visit, I recommend."
Wanita Mitchell
"Unfortunately, this was a stop not worth it on our agenda. While it is interesting, most of the rooms are completely empty and just brick/stone walls. There was only one projector working. For €10 per person it was not worth our time or money."
Maureen
"Very interesting underground structures with history going back to the X|| Century. Definitely worth including in your Brussels itinerary. Staff friendly and very welcoming."
P C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Coudenberg Palace is centrally located beneath Place Royale, making it easily accessible. You can reach it by metro to Parc station or by bus. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from the Grand Place. +1
Yes, Brussels public transport (metro, bus, tram) is efficient. You can pay directly with your bank card, phone, or smartwatch at validators, which is often cheaper than paper tickets.
Absolutely! Coudenberg Palace is very close to major sights like the Grand Place, Royal Palace, and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. It's a pleasant walk through the city center.
While there might be some street parking, it's often limited and expensive. Using public transport or walking is generally recommended for visiting the palace.
Many travelers recommend using public transport for its convenience and cost-effectiveness. Apps can help you plan your routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, especially for special events. It's always best to check the official Coudenberg Palace website for the most current ticket information and booking options.
Yes, Coudenberg Palace often offers free admission for children under 18 and special family days with activities. Check their website for specific details and event schedules.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak times or for special events, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and for special events. Always consult the official Coudenberg Palace website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
The Brussels Card often includes entry to many museums and attractions. It's advisable to check the current list of included sites on the Brussels Card official website to confirm if Coudenberg Palace is covered.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the excavated ruins of the medieval and Renaissance palace, including ancient streets, chambers, and passages, offering a unique underground historical experience.
Yes, Coudenberg Palace offers activities like an 'Underground Treasure Hunt' designed for children aged 5-8, making it an engaging experience for families.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or professional shoots within the museum.
This is a special event where live music concerts are held within the unique acoustics of the underground palace ruins, offering a memorable cultural experience.
Due to its nature as an archaeological site with underground passages, accessibility might be limited. It's recommended to contact the palace directly for specific information regarding accessibility.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, historical sites like Coudenberg Palace do not have extensive dining facilities within the ruins themselves. However, there are numerous cafes and restaurants in the surrounding Place Royale area.
The area around Place Royale and the Grand Place offers a wide variety of dining options, from traditional Belgian cuisine to international fare. You can find everything from quick bites to fine dining.
Many places in Brussels serve delicious Belgian waffles. Maison Dandoy is a popular and highly-rated spot mentioned by visitors for its authentic waffles.
For a high-end dining experience, 'Menssa restaurant' is mentioned as a very high-end option near Brussels.
When in Brussels, be sure to try Belgian fries (frites), mussels (moules), stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables), and of course, Belgian chocolate and beer.
📸 📸 Photography
The atmospheric underground ruins, with their ancient stone walls and passages, offer unique and dramatic photographic opportunities. The contrast between the old ruins and modern lighting can be striking.
Yes, the lighting within the excavated areas is often designed to highlight the historical features, making it possible to capture compelling images. Consider bringing a camera with good low-light performance.
While personal photography is generally permitted, it's always wise to check for specific rules regarding flash photography or commercial shoots to ensure you comply with museum policies.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a camera with a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for capturing the scale and atmosphere of the underground passages.
Photography rules might differ during special events. It's best to check the event's specific guidelines beforehand, as flash photography might be restricted during performances.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for Family Days which provide interactive programs to make history come alive for all ages. The site's underground nature can be exciting for kids, but ensure they have comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces. While the main site is an archaeological dig, the surrounding area of Place Royale offers open spaces for children to stretch their legs. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as extensive food services might not be available directly within the ruins. The palace's proximity to other family-friendly attractions in Brussels also makes it an easy addition to a day of exploration.
🏛️ History Buffs
+1 Imagine the lives of dukes, emperors, and governors as you explore the chambers and passages that have been preserved beneath modern Brussels. The site offers a tangible connection to the city's medieval and Renaissance periods, showcasing not just the palace but also a buried old street.
🎶 Music & Culture Enthusiasts
+2 This offers a truly unique cultural experience, blending historical ambiance with contemporary performances.Keep an eye on the palace's event calendar for other cultural happenings. These special events can provide a different perspective on the site and offer memorable evenings in Brussels. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended for these popular events.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Royal Residence Vanished Underground
+1 Its strategic location on the Coudenberg hill offered commanding views and a prestigious address. The palace complex was extensive, featuring grand halls, private apartments, chapels, and courtyards, reflecting the power and wealth of its inhabitants. After the devastating fire, the decision was made not to rebuild the palace but to level the ruins and construct new buildings on the site, including the current Place Royale. Over time, the remnants of the palace were buried and forgotten, becoming a lost chapter in Brussels' urban development. It wasn't until archaeological excavations in the 20th century that the impressive scale and preservation of the underground palace were rediscovered, revealing a fascinating glimpse into the city's medieval and Renaissance past.
+1Today, the Coudenberg Palace archaeological site allows visitors to walk through the excavated passages, chambers, and even a preserved medieval street. This immersive experience offers a tangible connection to the lives of those who lived and worked within its walls, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone curious about Brussels' hidden heritage.
Experiencing Coudenberg: Beyond the Ruins
+2 These events highlight the site's potential for cultural programming, blending history with contemporary arts.For families, Coudenberg Palace provides engaging ways to connect with history. An 'Underground Treasure Hunt' is specifically designed for younger visitors, turning their exploration into an exciting adventure.
This initiative makes the historical site more accessible and enjoyable for children, encouraging them to learn through play. The palace also hosts Family Days, offering a program of activities that allow the whole family to travel through time and discover the treasures of Brussels' history. Visitors often recommend combining a trip to Coudenberg Palace with other nearby attractions. Its central location makes it easy to incorporate into a broader sightseeing itinerary, allowing you to experience more of what Brussels has to offer without extensive travel.
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