Royal Palace of Brussels
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Royal Palace of Brussels - by Pierre-Henry de Soria on Unsplash
Description
The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians; it is used for affairs of state but not as the royal residence. It was developed in phases during the 19th century, in particular under King Leopold II with the additions of rooms such as the Grand Gallery and the Throne Room; the current façade dates from the early 20th century. Highlights include the Empire Room (ambassadors are received there), the Throne Room, the Large Gallery, and the Mirror Room which evokes the Congo.
Access & Transport
The palace is situated between Brussels Park and the Place Royale. The Palais and Royale/Koning tram stations (92, 93) are both only 200m away from the building. Some bus services also stop on the eastern side, on Rue Ducale.
Instructions & Recommendations
Visits are only for 5 weeks in the summer (but not in 2023 and 2024 due to renovations). Bookings are limited to 5 persons (no large groups) and can be made at the following web address: https://www.koninklijk-paleis-palais-royal.be/en/reservations
Environmental & Social
Maintenance consumes energy but the main purpose is not for tourist visits. Part of the city and country's architectural and artistic heritages.
Conclusion
The Royal Palace of Brussels is one of the most striking buildings in Bruxelles and worth a detour to admire its façade even for those who have not managed to make a booking or are visiting outside of the summer window. The interior rooms are impressive but not the most spectacular among European palaces.
Key positive
Stunning, stately façade
Centrally located with other attractions nearby
Key negative
Seldom open to visitors
Suitability
There is a lift available for wheelchair users
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:1h 15m
Start of Season 1:Jul, 23
MONDAY10:30 - 17:00
TUESDAY10:30 - 17:00
WEDNESDAY10:30 - 17:00
THURSDAY10:30 - 17:00
FRIDAY10:30 - 17:00
SATURDAY10:30 - 17:00
SUNDAY10:30 - 17:00
Start of Season 2:Aug, 28
MONDAY -
TUESDAY -
WEDNESDAY -
THURSDAY -
FRIDAY -
SATURDAY -
SUNDAY -