Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, Brussels

The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are located just north of Brussels, next to the Royal Castle. These glass and iron structures date back to the late 1800s and are part of Belgium’s royal heritage.

They are only open to the public for three weeks every spring, making it one of the most unique seasonal visits in the country.

When can you visit the Royal Greenhouse of Laeken?

2025 Opening Period:

  • 18 April to 11 May 2025

Opening Hours

  • Open daily (except Mondays)

  • Day and evening visits available

Ticket Prices

Tickets for the 2025 Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are unfortunately sold out. Still want to enjoy a beautiful spring visit near Brussels? Head to Floralia at Groot-Bijgaarden Castle, blooming gardens, tulips, and colourful displays await!

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, Brussels

What Can You See at the Royal Greenhouses of Brussels?

The visit takes you through a walking route inside the massive greenhouses and surrounding royal gardens.

Highlights include:

  • The Winter Garden — a huge dome with tall palm trees

  • Rare flowers from Africa, Asia, and South America

  • Long iron-and-glass galleries built under King Leopold II

  • Views of the Royal Castle and private gardens

  • Evening visits include beautiful lighting along the path

Once on site, you will be able to choose between a 2 km or 3 km visit. During the nocturnes, it is only possible to do the 2km loop. The full walk takes around 1.5 hours and includes outdoor and indoor sections. 

Why Are the Royal Greenhouses Created?

The greenhouses were built between 1874 and 1895 under King Leopold II, who wanted to show the power and reach of Belgium’s empire. The structures house rare and exotic plants from former colonies and royal collections.

They are still used by the royal family today, which is why the public can only visit them for a few weeks each year. Opening the greenhouses is a way to share this royal heritage with the public.

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken at night

How to Get to the Royal Greenhouses in Brussels?

Address: Avenue du Parc Royal, 1020 Laeken

Car: Avenue du Parc Royal, 1020 Laeken
Paid parking nearby (can fill up quickly)

By Foot: Not walkable from central Brussels, best to go by public transport or car.

Bus: Bus 53, 83, or 230–241 – stop at De Wand or Serres Royales

Metro: Line 6 – stop at Bockstael, then a 15-minute walk

Tram: Tram 3 or 7 – stop at De Wand

Discover more with the Brussels Card

Planning to visit the Royal Greenhouses in Brussels? Combine it with other attractions and museums.

The card gives you free access to over 50 museums, including Autoworld, the Art & History Museum, and the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces—all located in Parc du Cinquantenaire.

You’ll also get discounts on guided tours, chocolate shops, restaurants, and top attractions across the city.

Choose a 24, 48, or 72-hour pass. You can also add public transport or hop-on hop-off bus access for more flexibility.

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F.A.Q’s about the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

When do the Royal Greenhouses open?

Only for 3 weeks between April and May. Dates change each year.

Can I visit without a ticket?

No. You must book a timed ticket online in advance.

Is the visit accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

Some areas are accessible, but parts of the route include cobblestones and steps. On Tuesday, 6 May, the Royal Greenhouse staff will be offering support for individuals with reduced mobility. On this day, only the modified course will be available to all visitors.

Can I take photos?

Yes, but tripods are not allowed.

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