Royal Palace of Brussels, Brussels - a large building with a clock on the front of it
1 / 10

Royal Palace of Brussels Brussels

4.5
·15k reviews·Bruxelles, Belgium

The official palace of the Belgian monarchy, showcasing opulent state rooms and historical grandeur, open to the public each summer.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Royal Palace of Brussels, Brussels - a large building with a clock on the front of it

Royal Palace of Brussels Brussels

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The official palace of the Belgian monarchy, showcasing opulent state rooms and historical grandeur, open to the public each summer.

4.5
(15k reviews)

"A free glimpse into royal life, but book your summer tickets well in advance!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📅 Book Summer Tickets Early

The palace is only open in summer & tickets are limited. Book ahead online to guarantee entry!

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

After your palace visit, stroll through the adjacent Parc de Bruxelles for beautiful views and a relaxing break.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Throne Room

Throne Room

Marvel at the opulent Throne Room, a symbol of Belgium's constitutional monarchy and a centerpiece of the palace's grandeur.

State Rooms

State Rooms

Explore the lavish state rooms, each showcasing unique architecture and historical significance, offering a glimpse into royal life.

Palace Exterior

Palace Exterior

Admire the impressive neoclassical facade of the Royal Palace, a stately landmark overlooking Brussels' Parc de Bruxelles.

Planning Your Visit

Summer Visit is Key

The Royal Palace of Brussels is only open to the public during the summer months. Plan your visit accordingly, as tickets are limited and booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot. Reddit

Free Admission, Book Ahead

Enjoy free entry to the Royal Palace of Brussels during its summer opening. However, tickets are limited, so make sure to reserve yours in advance to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the crowds and heat
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Less busy after lunch
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Five Things To Do In Brussels 🇧🇪 #visitbrussels #thingstodo #traveltips
@jyptravels
60.9K likes • 1.9M views

📅 Book Summer Tickets Early

The palace is only open in summer & tickets are limited. Book ahead online to guarantee entry! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

After your palace visit, stroll through the adjacent Parc de Bruxelles for beautiful views and a relaxing break. TikTok

This itinerary offers a perfect balance of cultural visits, culinary experiences, and relaxation in Brussels. To make your city trip easier, I recommend using public transport. You can pay directly with your bank card, phone, or smartwatch at the gray validator on any public transport (metro, bus, tramway). It's faster and cheaper than the paper ticket - it costs €2.10/trip instead of 2,60€ and yo...
@raimaa_brussels
37.6K likes • 896.7K views
Save for your next trip to Brussels 🧇🍫🍟🍺 #fyp #brussels #belgium #belgium🇧🇪 #european #travel #traveltiktok #thingstodo #itinerary #brusselsthingstodo #food #travelbucketlist #summer2022 #vacations
@wanderingpassports
25.5K likes • 791.6K views

🚇 Easy Public Transport

Use Brussels' public transport; tap your card/phone to pay for metro, bus, or tram. TikTok

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The palace exterior and surrounding park offer stunning photo opportunities. TikTok

5 things to do in Brussels 🤍 📌 save this for when you visit Belgium 🇧🇪 #brussels #brusselsfood #belgiumtiktok #visitbelgium #europetravel belgium travel, belgium things to do, belgium brussels, belgium itinerary, belgium food, belgium winter, belgian waffles, brussels belgium, brussels things to do
@helloangelia
14.3K likes • 420.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📅 Book Summer Tickets Early

The palace is only open in summer & tickets are limited. Book ahead online to guarantee entry! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

After your palace visit, stroll through the adjacent Parc de Bruxelles for beautiful views and a relaxing break. TikTok

🚇 Easy Public Transport

Use Brussels' public transport; tap your card/phone to pay for metro, bus, or tram. TikTok

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The palace exterior and surrounding park offer stunning photo opportunities. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(15k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Royal Palace of Brussels for its impressive state rooms and the opportunity to experience royal grandeur for free during the summer. The limited opening hours and the need for advance booking are frequently mentioned as key planning points. Some find the tour a bit brief, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile cultural experience in Brussels.

"Simply beautiful.
You can clearly see this royal family appreciates their heritage, ancestral lands, and culture. The layout is remarkable.
Some homeless around, but relatively safe to walk around. Financial district nearby.
Sablon also nearby."

Sally Moon

"While visiting Brussels, we had to see the Palace!! It was really nice to get up close to it WITHOUT large crowds like I’ve had at other historical palaces (like Buckingham in London!!) The building itself is stunning & had a beautiful landscaped hedge maze. We slowly walked around peacefully & took in the grandness & history! Totally worth a visit while in Brussels!"

Heather Boswick

"The Royal Palace of Brussels is one of the most iconic and historically significant landmarks in Belgium. Its magnificent neoclassical architecture immediately captures your attention, and the beautifully maintained gardens surrounding it add to the overall royal charm.

As the official palace of the Belgian monarchy, it represents the country’s heritage and plays a central role in state ceremonies and official events. Even though it’s not always open to the public, simply walking in front of the palace is an experience in itself—the sense of grandeur and sophistication is undeniable.

It’s a fantastic spot for photography, with its impressive facade and regal atmosphere, and also a great place to learn more about Belgium’s royal history and European architectural styles. I highly recommend visiting, especially if you’re interested in culture, history, or architecture."

Saba VK

What People Like

Free summer admission
Opulent state rooms
Central location

What People Dislike

Limited opening hours
Need to book ahead

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Royal Palace of Brussels is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the metro to Central Station or Parc station. Many bus and tram lines also stop nearby. Consider using the city's public transport system by tapping your bank card, phone, or smartwatch on the validators for a convenient and cost-effective journey. TikTok

Parking in central Brussels can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation to reach the Royal Palace. If you must drive, look for public parking garages in the vicinity, but be prepared for potential traffic and costs. TikTok

Yes, the Royal Palace of Brussels is a short and pleasant walk from the Grand Place. It's about a 10-15 minute stroll through the city center, allowing you to see other landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint Michael and Saint Gudula along the way. TikTok

For exploring Brussels, including the Royal Palace, public transport is the most efficient. The metro, trams, and buses are well-connected. You can pay fares by tapping your contactless card or device directly on the validators, which is often cheaper than buying paper tickets. TikTok

Absolutely! The Royal Palace is located next to the beautiful Parc de Bruxelles, perfect for a post-visit stroll. It's also within walking distance of the Grand Place, the Manneken Pis, and the Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Royal Palace of Brussels is free of charge when it is open to the public during the summer. However, tickets are limited and must be booked in advance. Reddit

The Royal Palace of Brussels is typically open to the public only during the summer months. It's crucial to check the official opening dates and times for the specific year you plan to visit, as these can vary. Reddit

Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during the summer opening period. Tickets are limited, and booking ahead ensures your entry. Reddit

Tickets for the Royal Palace of Brussels are usually available through its official website. It's best to check the official palace website for the most up-to-date information on booking procedures and availability. Reddit

No, the Royal Palace of Brussels is generally only open to the public during the summer. Unlike some other European palaces, it is not typically open year-round for tours. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you can explore the magnificent state rooms, including the Throne Room, the Mirror Room, and various reception halls. These rooms offer a glimpse into the history and grandeur of the Belgian monarchy. TikTok

Photography rules can vary, but generally, flash photography is prohibited inside the palace to protect the exhibits. It's always best to check for signage or ask staff upon arrival for the most current regulations. TikTok

A typical visit to the Royal Palace of Brussels can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and interest in exploring the various state rooms. TikTok

While self-guided tours are the norm, information panels and audio guides might be available. Check the official palace website for details on any available guided tour options or supplementary materials. Reddit

There is no strict dress code, but it's advisable to dress respectfully, as you are visiting a royal palace. Casual, neat attire is generally acceptable. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly inside the Royal Palace. However, the surrounding area, including the city center and near the Grand Place, offers a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and brasseries to enjoy Belgian cuisine. TikTok

Don't leave Brussels without trying its famous waffles, chocolates, and fries (frites). You can find these treats throughout the city, including near the Royal Palace. TikTok+1

Typically, food and drinks are not allowed inside the state rooms of historical buildings like the Royal Palace to preserve the interiors. It's best to consume them before entering or after your visit. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The grand neoclassical facade of the palace itself is a prime photo opportunity. The adjacent Parc de Bruxelles also offers beautiful perspectives with the palace in the background, especially during spring and summer. TikTok+1

Photography inside the Royal Palace is usually permitted for personal use, but flash is often prohibited to protect the artwork and furnishings. Always check for specific signage or ask staff for clarification. TikTok

Early mornings are ideal for capturing the palace exterior with fewer crowds and softer light. Late afternoons can also offer beautiful lighting, especially if you're photographing the palace from the park. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Royal Palace of Brussels during its summer opening can be an engaging experience for families. While the palace itself focuses on state rooms and history, the adjacent Parc de Bruxelles offers ample space for children to run around and enjoy the outdoors. TikTok

Keep in mind that the palace tour involves walking through many rooms, and younger children might find it less engaging than more interactive attractions. However, the sheer scale and opulence of the rooms can still capture their imagination. Consider making it part of a broader Brussels itinerary that includes more child-centric activities like the Manneken Pis or a waffle tasting. TikTok+1

💰 Budget Travelers

The Royal Palace of Brussels is a fantastic option for budget travelers as admission is free during its summer opening period. This allows you to experience a significant royal landmark without any cost. Reddit

To keep costs down further, utilize Brussels' efficient public transport system by tapping your contactless payment method for fares, which is cheaper than paper tickets. TikTok Pack a picnic to enjoy in the Parc de Bruxelles, saving money on expensive tourist-trap restaurants. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Royal Palace's Role

The Royal Palace of Brussels serves as the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians. It's not their primary residence, which is the Royal Domain of Laeken, but rather the site for official state functions, receptions, and the King's administrative work. This distinction is important for understanding its purpose and why it's open to the public only during specific periods. Reddit

During the summer months, when the King and his family are in residence at Laeken, the Brussels palace opens its doors to the public. This allows citizens and visitors to experience the grandeur of the state rooms and learn about the history of the Belgian monarchy. The palace showcases opulent decor, historical artifacts, and provides insight into the ceremonial aspects of the constitutional monarchy. Reddit

It's a fascinating contrast to the more private nature of the royal family's living quarters. The public opening is a unique opportunity to appreciate the architectural splendor and the symbolic importance of the palace within the heart of Brussels. Reddit

Planning Your Summer Visit

The most crucial aspect of visiting the Royal Palace of Brussels is understanding its limited opening hours. It is exclusively open to the public during the summer, typically from late July to early September. This means that outside of this window, you won't be able to tour the interior. Reddit

Because of the limited access and the popularity of Brussels as a tourist destination, booking your tickets in advance is essential. While admission is free, the number of visitors allowed each day is capped. Many travelers have noted that unexpected visits can lead to disappointment if tickets aren't secured beforehand. Reddit

When planning your visit, consider arriving early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. The palace is located centrally, making it easy to combine with other Brussels attractions like the Grand Place or a stroll through the Parc de Bruxelles. TikTok+1

You may also like

1 of 2