Discover the delicacies, high fashion and innovative designs that characterise Belgium in the Galeries Royales. This fine 19th-century arcade is the perfect place to while away the hours.
Built in 1847, the Galeries RoyalesSaint-Hubert was intended as a destination for Belgium’s wealthy upper class. Rich members of the Bourgeoisie were to shop here in order to avoid the city’s more roguish locations. These days, the arcade’s pretty halls welcome all comers. Walk halls filled with designer boutiques, stop at bars and restaurants and enjoy the opulent architecture.
Explore each of its three double-story arcades and find more than 50 independent boutiques. Traditional boutiques along the King’s Arcade sell handmade leather goods, classic Belgian chocolates, intricate jewels and glassware. Next door, the Queen’s Gallery hosts a number of designer shoe stores and inventive interior design destinations. For a less crowded experience, wander the Princes’ Gallery and enjoy quaint bookshops, gift shops and small women’s clothing boutiques.
Architecture buffs will notice the lavish decorations that create an atmosphere of wealth and beauty as you wander the arcades. Admire interlocking arches and windows flanked by ornamental columns.
As evening approaches, the visitor population shifts from shoppers to theatregoers who frequent the arcade’s two cinemas, after a meal and a drink at one of many restaurants and bars. The Vaudeville theatre hosts all manner of music, dance and performance, while the Royal theatre displays delightful play productions.
Despite the Galeries RoyalesSaint-Hubert’s upmarket demeanour, restaurants around the arcade serve delectable Belgian cuisine at affordable prices. Kick off the night with champagne or enjoy a caffeine aperitif at one of two corner cafés.
Find Galeries RoyalesSaint-Hubert in central Brussels. Get there on foot or use frequent train, tram and bus routes to the area. Paid parking can be found near the Grand Place. Though the arcade is open daily, stores have independent opening hours.
