MonarchieVisiting the Royal greenhouses of Laeken had been on my bucket list for quite some time. I couldn’t go the last years as it is not so easy to get in, not because it requires a certain VIP status, but it’s only open 3 weeks a year during spring!! As the greenhouses are a mix between astonishing architecture (of Alphonse Balat, Victor Horta’s mentor) and fauna and flora from all over the world it should be on everyones to do list, locals & tourist!
What to expect?
- A glimpse of the Beautiful Belgian Royal heritage: the King’s residential 194-hectare garden
- A walk through the most astonishing greenhouses of the world, covering 1,5 hectare
- The smell of fresh flowers from all over the world
- Plants over 200 years old
- Magnificent architecture filled with beautiful flowers
How to get there?
- driving: There is parking opportunity just across the Castle of Laeken.
- Uber: Don’t have a car in the city? Take Uber! Only available in Brussels.
- Public transport: The 232 bus stops in front of the Castle. Let Google maps help you to get there by public transport. Since it will depend on where you are.
Opening hours:
13th of May to the 6th of June 2021
- Open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (last slot at 4:30 p.m.).
On some days, the domain does not open until noon due to maintenance. - You must reserve your visit in advance. Book your visit here.
For more details go to the website of the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken.
Admission:
2,50 Euros per person or free if you are under 18. Furthermore, you are not able to buy the tickets in advance. And since it can get very busy, I suggest to arrive on time (half hour in advance at least) in order to avoid long queuing.
Tip:
- Tourist: go during the day
- Local: go in the evening. Arrive half an hour before opening time or 20min before closing time.
Other Royal events
Missed out on the royal greenhouses? Maybe you can visit the Royal Palace in Brussels which opens to the public during the summer. Traditionally the royal palace opens its doors after the Belgian National Holiday, which is on the 21st of July. In Fact, this has been the case since 1965. The Royal palace will open the doors on the 21st of July until September. Note: closed on Mondays.
Most noteworthy is the Mirror room with the “Heaven of Delight” by Jan Fabre. The ceiling and chandelier are covered with beetles. Something to look forward to this summer!
