You are probably reading this because you have seen images of the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken. But how can you visit these greenhouses? Here you will find all the information you need!
These impressive glass palaces, hidden behind the walls of the Royal Domain in Brussels, are one of our country’s best-kept secrets. Or almost. Because every spring – for just three weeks – thousands of visitors flock to Laeken to admire this unique piece of Belgian architecture and natural beauty with their own eyes.
Why the sudden rush? Simple: the greenhouses are only open for a few weeks a year, usually from mid-April to mid-May. And believe me, tickets fly out the door. This year, they were even completely sold out within 24 hours. And that’s not without reason. After this edition, the greenhouses will be closed for an indefinite period. The iconic winter garden is in urgent need of renovation, and the work will take several years. So when will you be able to visit again? That’s anyone’s guess.
Curious to know why so many people consider this a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Let me take you behind the scenes of my visit to the greenhouses, with practical information, tips and atmospheric images.
Practical information:
- When? The greenhouses are open annually from mid-April to mid-May. In 2025, they were open from 18 April to 11 May.
- Tickets: Ticket sales usually start in mid-March. Be quick, because this year they sold out within 24 hours!
- Price: € 7 per person (aged 13 and over). Children under 12 can enter for free, but must reserve a ticket.
- Address: Koninklijk Parklaan 61, 1020 Brussels
- Parking: There is a car park opposite the entrance, but it fills up quickly. So arrive early or consider alternatives.
- Public transport: Bus line 53 stops right in front of the entrance at the “Koninklijke Serres” stop.
The walk through the greenhouses and gardens
There are two walks available:
- long route of 3 km through the gardens of the Royal Domain and the greenhouses with the Winter Garden
- short route of 2 km only through the greenhouses with the Winter Garden
Your adventure begins in the impressive main building of the greenhouses, which you walk through and quickly emerge from, right in front of the Royal Palace. There you walk past the palace itself and enjoy a beautiful view of the iconic domes of the greenhouses. From there, you enter the gardens and begin your tour of the park.
You walk past a serene pond and through a varied landscape with an impressive collection of trees and plants. Some of the blossoms are in full bloom at this time of year, creating an enchanting spectacle. It is a true paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
During the walk, you will also pass the Japanese Tower, a striking five-storey pagoda originally built in 1904 on the orders of King Leopold II. This tower is a replica of a Buddhist pagoda that the king admired during the World’s Fair in Paris. Unfortunately, the tower is currently closed for renovation, but it is still an impressive sight from the outside.
You will then pass the former studio of Queen Elisabeth, which she had built in 1938. This charming cottage with a thatched roof offers a glimpse into her creative world. The studio is accessible during the tour, so you can experience where the queen created her sculptures.
The route takes you further to the first part of the greenhouses, where you walk through a hanging system of greenhouses filled with blooming flowers and plants. You will also pass larger domes, where you stand among palm trees and are surrounded by lush vegetation.
The highlight of the tour is the Winter Garden, a gigantic dome that is often the most photographed part of the garden. Here you can take fantastic photos of the impressive plants and architecture.
After this enchanting experience, your visit ends at the exit, where you will find the shop and a cosy café. Here you can enjoy a drink, a bite to eat and reminisce about your visit.
History of the Greenhouses
The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are not only a botanical masterpiece, but also a historical icon. They were built on the orders of King Leopold II at the end of the 19th century. The architect who brought this monumental project to life was Alphonse Balat, the teacher of Victor Horta – a name you may recognise from the Art Nouveau movement in Belgium.
The greenhouses form an impressive ensemble of glass pavilions, domes and galleries that blend in perfect harmony with the surrounding garden. Originally, they served not only as a place to nurture exotic plants, but also as a kind of calling card for the power and wealth of the Belgian monarchy.
The most iconic building in the complex is undoubtedly the Winter Garden, an enormous glass dome that was completed in 1874. The structure is a technical masterpiece for its time and still exudes the grandeur of yesteryear. To this day, the estate is partly used by the royal family, but once a year the general public is also allowed to come and enjoy this unique heritage site.
Stay informed about the next ticket sales
The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are only open to the public for three weeks each year. Would you like to know when they will reopen? Keep an eye on the official website or the Belgian Monarchy website.
