Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Brussels, Belgium · Shopping
About Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is an exquisite 19th-century shopping arcade situated in the heart of Brussels. Inaugurated in 1847, it is celebrated as one of the earliest covered shopping arcades in Europe, preceding Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Today, it remains famous for its soaring glass ceilings, heritage luxury boutiques, and historic Belgian chocolate houses.
Don't miss
- Marvel at the stunning neoclassical facade and the luminous glass-and-cast-iron roof bridging the gallery.
- Sample world-famous pralines at historic chocolate boutiques, including the original Neuhaus shop where the treat was invented.
- Explore Tropismes Librairie, a breathtaking independent bookstore set inside a former gilded dance hall.
- Wander between the three interconnected sections: the King's Gallery, the Queen's Gallery, and the Prince's Gallery.
Plan your visit
Visit on a weekday morning to admire the architecture and photograph the arcade before the crowds arrive. It is also an ideal sanctuary on rainy days or during the winter holidays when festive lights illuminate the space.
Walking through the galleries is free and open to the public without reservations. You only need to pay for purchases made at individual shops, cafes, or the theater inside.
The arcade is located just a two-minute walk from the Grand-Place in central Brussels. Brussels Central Station (Gare Centrale) is also less than a five-minute walk away.
Tips for visiting
- Step inside Neuhaus to see where the filled chocolate praline was born in 1912.
- Remember to look upward to admire the intricate classical statues decorating the upper stories.
- Enjoy an espresso or Belgian waffle at one of the covered sidewalk cafe terraces.
- Catch an independent film or exhibition at Cinéma Galeries located along the arcade.
- Combine your visit with a meal on the nearby historic restaurant street, Rue des Bouchers.
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert FAQ
Are the shops in the galleries open on Sundays?
Yes, the gallery walkway is open daily, and most chocolate shops, tearooms, and souvenir boutiques remain open on Sundays. Some independent fashion boutiques and bookshops may observe shorter hours or close. It is best to check specific store hours in advance if you want to visit a particular shop.
Is Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the wide main corridors are flat, paved, and step-free, making navigation easy for wheelchairs and strollers. A few individual historic shops have a small raised threshold at their doorways that might require minor assistance. Overall, it is one of the most accessible historic sites in central Brussels.
Is photography allowed inside the arcade?
Personal photography is welcomed, and the natural lighting through the glass ceiling makes it a popular photo spot. Avoid setting up large tripods during busy hours to prevent blocking pedestrian traffic. It is also polite to ask before taking close-up pictures of individual storefront displays.
Why is the arcade divided into three galleries?
Architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer designed the complex into distinct sections named the King's, Queen's, and Prince's Galleries. The two main parallel sections honor the monarch and queen consort, while the smaller perpendicular branch honors the royal prince. This layout created an efficient, grand connection between different neighborhood streets.
More things to do in Brussels
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Delirium Café & Impasse de la Fidélité Nightlife
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: Walkerssk, dimitrisvetsikas1969 on Pixabay.