The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken stand in the Brussels district of Laeken, at Avenue du Parc Royal 61, in the Brussels-Capital Region of Belgium. They are a complex of glass and iron greenhouses dating from the 19th century, and they make a distinctive stop for anyone interested in architecture and plants.
What you will see
The greenhouses are built largely of glass set into iron frames, a construction style of the period that lets a great deal of light into the interior. Inside, the structures house exotic plants, so the visit is as much about the living collection as the buildings around it. The Art Nouveau design of the complex, with its flowing lines and decorative ironwork, adds a further layer of interest for visitors who enjoy the look of that era.
What kind of visit it makes
The greenhouses open to the public for only a few weeks each spring, so a visit is best treated as a seasonal outing rather than something to fit in at any time of year. Because the complex is compact, it suits a relaxed, unhurried walk. Many visitors combine it with a wider day in Laeken, one of the districts of the Brussels-Capital Region, and with the rest of the city.
Planning your trip
- Check whether the greenhouses are open on the dates you plan to travel, as access is limited to a few spring weeks.
- Allow time to enjoy the glasswork and ironwork as well as the plants.
- Plan the visit as part of a broader day in Brussels, since the surrounding area offers much to explore.
