Palace of Justice Brussels
A colossal 19th-century courthouse, one of the largest in the world, known for its imposing architecture and ongoing renovations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Palace of Justice Brussels
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal 19th-century courthouse, one of the largest in the world, known for its imposing architecture and ongoing renovations.
"Pictures don't do it justice; the sheer size is breathtaking in person."
Embrace the Scaffolding
Renovations are a constant feature; consider the scaffolding part of its unique charm! :construction_worker:
Scale is Deceptive
Pictures don't do it justice; the sheer size is breathtaking in person. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Hallway
Interior
An awe-inspiring, massive interior hallway that truly captures the scale of the building.
Architectural Marvel
Exterior
One of the largest 19th-century buildings in Europe, designed in an eclectic Greco-Roman style.
Panoramic City Views
Surrounding Area
The elevated location offers stunning views of Brussels, especially from the Sablon area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Grandeur
Beyond the Facade
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Embrace the Scaffolding
Renovations are a constant feature; consider the scaffolding part of its unique charm! :construction_worker:
Scale is Deceptive
Pictures don't do it justice; the sheer size is breathtaking in person. :camerawithflash:
Check Access
Verify public access to interior spaces as renovations can affect availability. :informationdeskperson:
Explore the Surroundings
The area around the Palace offers beautiful views and charming streets to discover. :cityscape:
Tips
from all over the internet
Embrace the Scaffolding
Renovations are a constant feature; consider the scaffolding part of its unique charm! :construction_worker:
Scale is Deceptive
Pictures don't do it justice; the sheer size is breathtaking in person. :camerawithflash:
Check Access
Verify public access to interior spaces as renovations can affect availability. :informationdeskperson:
Explore the Surroundings
The area around the Palace offers beautiful views and charming streets to discover. :cityscape:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer scale and architectural grandeur of the Palace of Justice, often describing it as awe-inspiring. The impressive interior hallway is a major highlight. However, the extensive and seemingly never-ending renovations are a recurring point, with some finding the scaffolding detracts from the experience, while others see it as part of the building's unique character.
"It’s a grand and impressive building, currently with some parts closed due to construction work. Entry is free, and there are very few people around, making it a calm spot to explore. Its striking architecture and quiet atmosphere make it a great place to take pictures."
Noor ul ain
"I was there in Feb 2025, it’s under renovation or some reconstruction work ( I am not sure). What I saw was the construction sites around the Palace of Justice. But I still can feel the power of the architecture. It’s huge and stunning. We didn’t go up since it’s evening and the sky was dark. Just besides the Palace of Justice there was an Belgium eye. I think it must be great if visiting there during the day time."
Gin C
"Near this palace is a very beautiful place from where you can see all of Brussels."
Daniel Naderi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palace of Justice is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the metro to stations like Louise or Porte de Namur, followed by a short walk. Trams and buses also serve the area. Many visitors find it a convenient starting point for exploring other Brussels landmarks.+1
Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transport or consider parking garages in the city center and walking or taking a short ride.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the Grand Place to the Palace of Justice, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. This route allows you to see other key attractions along the way.
The main train stations in Brussels (like Brussels-Midi, Brussels-Central, and Brussels-North) are well-connected to the city center via metro and tram. From these stations, you can easily reach the Palace of Justice.
Public transport is highly recommended. You can use your bank card, phone, or smartwatch to pay directly on metro, bus, and tram validators, which is often cheaper than paper tickets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, visiting the exterior and common areas of the Palace of Justice is free. However, access to specific courtrooms or during official proceedings may require special arrangements or may not be permitted for tourists. It's always best to check the official website for the most current information on public access.
Public access hours can vary, especially due to ongoing renovations. While the exterior is always visible, interior access is typically during business hours on weekdays. It's advisable to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
There is typically no entrance fee for general public access to the Palace of Justice. However, if there are any special exhibitions or guided tours, these might incur a charge.
Weekend access to the interior of the Palace of Justice might be limited or unavailable due to its function as a working courthouse. The exterior is always accessible, and the surrounding area is vibrant.
While official guided tours for tourists might not be consistently available due to its operational status, the sheer scale and architecture are often highlighted by visitors. Some local tour operators might include it in their city tours.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can marvel at the immense and impressive hallway, a key highlight for many visitors. The architecture is grand, reflecting its status as one of the largest courthouses in the world.
Yes, the Palace of Justice has been undergoing extensive renovations for many years, a fact that has become a notable characteristic of the building for locals and long-term visitors.
It is the most important court building in Belgium, housing the country's supreme court, the Court of Cassation, and other tribunals.
Photography policies can vary. While general areas might allow photos, it's always best to be discreet and respectful, especially if court proceedings are in session. Check for any signage regarding photography restrictions.
The Palace of Justice is visible from many parts of the city due to its elevated location.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior offers grand architectural shots, especially from Place Poelaert. The surrounding elevated areas provide panoramic views that include the Palace.
Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for interior shots and good natural light. For exterior shots, late afternoon can provide beautiful lighting on the facade. Drone shots offer a unique perspective, showcasing its immense size.
The sheer scale of the building and its ongoing renovations can create unique photographic narratives. Capturing the contrast between the historic architecture and the modern scaffolding can be striking.
A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the grandeur of the exterior and the expansive interior hallway. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions inside, but be mindful of crowds and potential restrictions.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in urban areas. While some impressive drone footage exists,
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the building is a working courthouse, so maintaining quiet and respectful behavior is important. The surrounding area offers open spaces where children can move around more freely. Visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, might make the experience more manageable for families.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't shy away from incorporating the scaffolding into your shots; it adds a layer of narrative and context to the building's story. The elevated location also provides opportunities for cityscapes that include the Palace. Remember to check for any photography restrictions inside and be mindful of the building's operational status.
🏛️ Architecture Buffs
+1 The intricate details, the imposing facade, and the sheer scale are all elements that architects and history enthusiasts will appreciate.Studying Poelaert's design and understanding the historical context of its construction adds depth to the visit. The ongoing renovations, while perhaps visually disruptive to some, also offer a unique perspective on the challenges and dedication involved in preserving such a colossal historical structure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Renovation Saga
While the scaffolding might detract from a pristine view for some, others find it adds a unique character to the building, making it a distinctive landmark. It’s a testament to the building's historical significance and the commitment to preserving such a grand structure. For travelers, it’s an interesting aspect to observe and perhaps even photograph, symbolizing the continuous life and evolution of the city's heritage.
It's worth noting that despite the renovations, the Palace of Justice remains a functional courthouse and a significant symbol of Belgian law. Visitors can still appreciate its imposing exterior and, when accessible, its magnificent interior spaces, even with the ongoing work.
Architectural Grandeur and Scale
Its construction, spanning from 1866 to 1883, aimed to create a courthouse that was not only functional but also a powerful symbol of justice and the state.The sheer size of the Palace of Justice is staggering. With a ground surface area of 26,006 m², it was reputedly the largest building constructed in the 19th century and remains one of the largest courthouses in the world.
+1 This immense scale is evident from its imposing facade and the vastness of its interior spaces, particularly the grand hallway that leaves many visitors in awe.Its elevated position on the 'high town' of Brussels further enhances its prominence, making it visible from many parts of the city.
The building's design, with its monumental columns, intricate detailing, and commanding presence, truly embodies a sense of gravitas and historical importance, making it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
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