Place Royale Brussels - two men walking in front of a large building
1 / 10

Place Royale Brussels

4.4
·539 reviews·Reims, France

A grand neoclassical square in Brussels, featuring a monument to Louis XV and adjacent to the Royal Palace.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Place Royale Brussels - two men walking in front of a large building

Place Royale Brussels

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A grand neoclassical square in Brussels, featuring a monument to Louis XV and adjacent to the Royal Palace.

4.4
(539 reviews)

"Elegant architecture and historical significance make this a peaceful, grand square."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The neoclassical architecture makes for stunning photos, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♂️ Stroll and Admire

Take your time to walk around the square and soak in the historical ambiance. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monument to Louis XV

Monument to Louis XV

Center of Place Royale

Admire the statue of King Louis XV, dressed as a Roman, symbolizing good governance and peace.

Architectural Ensemble

Architectural Ensemble

Surrounding Place Royale

Appreciate the neoclassical architecture of the buildings that frame the square, creating a grand atmosphere.

Proximity to Royal Palace

Proximity to Royal Palace

Adjacent to Place Royale

Experience the grandeur of Brussels' royal quarter, with the Royal Palace of Brussels just a stone's throw away.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Place Royale

While Place Royale itself is always accessible, the surrounding buildings and attractions have specific opening hours. Check these in advance to avoid disappointment, especially if you plan to visit the Royal Palace of Brussels. Consider visiting during weekdays to potentially avoid larger crowds.

Understanding the Royal Palace Context

Place Royale is a significant historical site, often associated with the Royal Palace of Brussels. While the square is free to access, tours of the palace require booking and have specific ticket requirements. Research 'royal palace brussels tickets' for the latest information.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on buildings
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Reims - must sees?

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The neoclassical architecture makes for stunning photos, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♂️ Stroll and Admire

Take your time to walk around the square and soak in the historical ambiance. :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

Visiting Reims for a day and night. Besides the cathedral any suggestions?

reddit.com

Reims day trip

👑 Royal Palace Access

Check 'royal palace brussels tickets' for tour availability and booking info. :ticket:

☕ Nearby Cafes

Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the surrounding brasseries for a relaxing break. :coffee:

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The neoclassical architecture makes for stunning photos, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♂️ Stroll and Admire

Take your time to walk around the square and soak in the historical ambiance. :athletic_shoe:

👑 Royal Palace Access

Check 'royal palace brussels tickets' for tour availability and booking info. :ticket:

☕ Nearby Cafes

Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the surrounding brasseries for a relaxing break. :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(539 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Place Royale is appreciated for its elegant neoclassical architecture and historical significance, offering a grand and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors enjoy its proximity to the Royal Palace and the central monument. However, some find it less lively than other city squares, with dining options sometimes being pricey or having limited English menus.

"A plaza in the french style where you can sit and admire the building surrounding but it’s mostly administrative. It’s not as lively as other plazas in the city"

Fadoua Sf

"Just toured the Reims Cathedral and had time for lunch. A short walk and they open at 11:00. They brew their own beer.

Nicely decorated inside and outside. Feels family owned. Menus are in French and they only speak French. So google translate it.

Great service, great food and very great service with a smile. Loved everything about this place was great. We had burgers, pizza and the best muscles over ramen.

A great choice if you are in Reims."

David Molner

"One of the mice squares in the city with a perfect view of the cathedral also. Statue in the middle dedicated to a former French king."

Paul Heller

What People Like

Elegant architecture
Historical significance
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Less lively
Pricey dining

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Place Royale is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the metro to Central Station (Gare Centrale) and it's a short walk. Trams and buses also serve the area. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from other central Brussels attractions. Reddit

Parking in central Brussels can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport. If you must drive, look for underground parking garages like 'Interparking Albertine' near the square. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant and relatively short walk (about 10-15 minutes) from Grand Place to Place Royale, allowing you to see more of the city center. Reddit

From Brussels Airport (BRU), take a direct train to Brussels Central Station (Gare Centrale). From there, Place Royale is a short walk. This is generally the most efficient and cost-effective method. Reddit

Absolutely! Place Royale is centrally located and close to many major attractions, including the Royal Palace, Mont des Arts, and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. It's an excellent hub for exploring the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Place Royale itself is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. The surrounding buildings, like the Royal Palace, may have separate admission requirements. Reddit

Place Royale is an open public square, so it is accessible 24/7. However, the hours for specific attractions or businesses around the square will vary. Reddit

Visiting Place Royale is completely free. There are no admission fees for the square itself. Reddit

Tickets for the Royal Palace of Brussels are typically available online through their official website or at the palace entrance during its open season. It's advisable to check 'royal palace brussels tickets' for current information and booking procedures. Reddit

While there aren't official guided tours specifically for Place Royale, many city walking tours of Brussels include a stop here. You can also explore independently or hire a private guide. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

At Place Royale, you can admire the neoclassical architecture, see the monument to Louis XV, and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic square. It's also a great spot to access the Royal Palace and other nearby museums. Reddit

Place Royale is more of a grand, administrative and historical square rather than a bustling commercial hub. While it has a certain elegance, it's generally less lively than other Brussels squares like Grand Place. Reddit

The central monument is dedicated to King Louis XV of France, depicted as a Roman emperor. It symbolizes good governance and peace, with allegorical figures representing justice and prosperity. Reddit

Public restrooms are not typically found directly on the square itself. You may find facilities in nearby cafes, restaurants, or museums. Reddit

Yes, Place Royale is very photogenic, especially with its symmetrical architecture and the central monument. The surrounding buildings and the proximity to the Royal Palace offer many great photo opportunities. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several cafes and brasseries located around Place Royale, offering various dining options from quick bites to more formal meals. Some reviews mention places brewing their own beer. Reddit

You can find a range of European cuisine, including Belgian specialties, burgers, and pizzas. Some establishments offer family-owned charm and menus primarily in French. Reddit

While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options by exploring slightly off the main square or looking for cafes offering simpler fare. Reddit

Options may vary, but many restaurants in Brussels are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's best to check menus or ask staff directly. Reddit

'Brasserie Royal Brussels' likely refers to a brasserie located in or near the Royal Palace area, offering classic brasserie fare and drinks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire square offers great vantage points. Try framing the Louis XV monument with the surrounding neoclassical buildings, or capture the grandeur of the Royal Palace from the square. Reddit

Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' provides beautiful warm light that enhances the architecture. Early mornings can also be good for fewer people and soft light. Reddit

Photography rules inside the Royal Palace can vary depending on the season and specific areas. It's best to check the palace's official guidelines before your visit. Reddit

Generally, there are no restrictions on photography in the public square itself. However, be mindful of private property and any specific rules for nearby attractions. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expanse of the square and its architecture. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Place Royale itself is a grand open space, perfect for kids to run around a bit, though supervision is key due to its historical significance. The central monument can be a point of interest for children imagining knights and kings. Nearby, the Royal Palace of Brussels offers summer tours that can be engaging for older children interested in history and opulence. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dedicated family facilities directly on the square are limited. Reddit

For a more interactive experience, combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Museum of Musical Instruments or the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, which are often more engaging for younger visitors. The walk from Grand Place to Place Royale is also manageable for families, offering a chance to see more of the city without extensive travel. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

Place Royale is a must-visit for anyone interested in Brussels' architectural and political history. Its neoclassical design and the monument to Louis XV offer a direct link to the Enlightenment era and the era of enlightened absolutism. The square's construction was a significant urban planning project of its time, reflecting the ambitions of the Austrian rulers. Reddit

Delving into the history of the Palace of the Coudenberg, which once stood on this site before being destroyed by fire, adds another layer of understanding. The adjacent Royal Palace of Brussels provides a tangible connection to Belgium's modern monarchy and its historical evolution. Exploring the surrounding streets and museums, such as the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, further enriches the historical context of this area. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Place Royale

Place Royale (Koningsplein in Dutch) was constructed between 1775 and 1780, designed in the neoclassical style. It was part of a larger urban development project initiated by the Austrian rulers of the Southern Netherlands. The square was intended to be a grand ceremonial space, connecting the former Palace of the Coudenberg (which burned down) with the newly planned areas. The central monument, erected in 1780, honors King Louis XV of France, reflecting the era's political influences and aspirations for enlightened rule. The allegorical figures on the monument, such as the Lady of France leading a lion and a lamb sleeping peacefully, were meant to convey ideals of justice, peace, and good governance. Reddit

The architecture surrounding Place Royale is characterized by its symmetry and classical proportions, featuring arcades and uniform facades. This design was influenced by French urban planning of the time, aiming to create a harmonious and imposing urban landscape. The square has witnessed significant historical events and served as a backdrop for royal ceremonies and public gatherings throughout its existence. Its strategic location also makes it a key point of reference for navigating the upper town of Brussels. Reddit

Today, Place Royale is a vital part of Brussels' historical and administrative heart. It houses important government buildings and is adjacent to the Royal Palace of Brussels, the official residence of the Belgian monarch. While it may not possess the bustling market atmosphere of other squares, its historical weight and architectural beauty make it a compelling destination for visitors interested in Brussels' past and its royal heritage. Reddit

Exploring the Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels (Palais Royal de Bruxelles) is the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians. Located just off Place Royale, it's a magnificent building that serves as the administrative headquarters of the monarchy. While the King and Queen do not reside here permanently, they use it for state functions, receiving foreign dignitaries, and as their office. The palace is a symbol of Belgium's constitutional monarchy and its rich history. Reddit

During the summer months, typically from late July to early September, the Royal Palace opens its doors to the public for free tours. Visitors can explore the opulent state rooms, including the Throne Room, the Grand Ballroom, and the impressive Hall of Mirrors. The tours offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Belgian royal family and the grandeur of state occasions. It's essential to check the official website for exact opening dates and times, as these can vary annually. Booking tickets in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Reddit

When visiting the Royal Palace, remember that photography rules may apply, and it's advisable to check these beforehand. The palace's location makes it a natural extension of a visit to Place Royale, allowing you to immerse yourself in the royal quarter of Brussels. The experience provides a fascinating insight into the workings of the Belgian monarchy and the country's historical ties to its royal lineage. Reddit

You may also like