Coudenberg (Former Palace of Brussels) Tours and Activities
Found at the southern end of the Parc de Bruxelles, Coudenberg marks the site of the original palace of the Belgian Royal Family, which was destroyed to make way for the present Palais Royal. In the 12th century a small, fortified castle stood on Coudenberg Hill, and this was gradually extended and reworked by successive monarchs until it reputedly became one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe and the main residence of King Charles V.
In 1731 this imposing palace was destroyed by fire but it was not until 40 years later that its ruins were pulled down and the site flattened in preparation for the building of today’s stately Palais Royal.
The cellars and chapel of the original palace can now be viewed underground as they stretch far underneath the present-day Rue Royale. Once open to the elements, the forgotten medieval cobbled Rue Isabelle is now below the Place Royale. It ran alongside the Coudenberg Palace up to the Cathedral of Sts-Michael-and-Gudula on nearby Place Ste-Gudule.
Artifacts recovered from 25 years of excavation on the site at Coudenberg are now displayed at Hoogstraeten House, which was one of many aristocratic mansions that bordered the grounds of Coudenberg Place. Exhibits include clay pipes, armor and Venetian glassware.
In 1731 this imposing palace was destroyed by fire but it was not until 40 years later that its ruins were pulled down and the site flattened in preparation for the building of today’s stately Palais Royal.
The cellars and chapel of the original palace can now be viewed underground as they stretch far underneath the present-day Rue Royale. Once open to the elements, the forgotten medieval cobbled Rue Isabelle is now below the Place Royale. It ran alongside the Coudenberg Palace up to the Cathedral of Sts-Michael-and-Gudula on nearby Place Ste-Gudule.
Artifacts recovered from 25 years of excavation on the site at Coudenberg are now displayed at Hoogstraeten House, which was one of many aristocratic mansions that bordered the grounds of Coudenberg Place. Exhibits include clay pipes, armor and Venetian glassware.
Practical Info
Entrance into the Coundenberg archaeological site is via the BELvue Museum in Place des Palais. Opening hours are Tuesday-Friday 10am-5pm; Saturday-Sunday 10am-6pm. Access is from metro stations Gare Centrale, Parc, Trône and Porte de Namur or trams 92 and 93. Most of the underground site is accessible by wheel chair. There is limited parking in Place des Palais.
Address: Place des Palais 7, Bruxelles 1000, Belgium
Hours: Tue-Fri 9:30am-5pm Sat-Sun 10am-6pm; Jul-Aug Daily 10am-6pm
Admission: Adult: €6; Senior: €5; Young Adult: €4; Child: Free
4 Tours and Activities to Experience Coudenberg (Former Palace of Brussels)
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Brussels Card
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Discover the spectacular city of Brussels with a Brussels Card to gain free admission to over 41 museums across the Belgian capital. Enjoy fantastic discounts at a selection of shops and restaurants and peruse the enthralling exhibitions of the city’s museums absolutely free. Select from either a 24-, 48-, or 72-hour card to suit your schedule and upgrade to add a public transportation ticket to your card.
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From
$35.57
From
$35.57
Small-Group Highlights of Brussels Bike Tour
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Experience the best of Brussels by bike on this half-day cycling tour. Learn about the city's background and culture from a guide as you pedal your way through the most charming and historic neighborhoods with a small group of no more than 14 people. See a dozen different landmarks including the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, the European Parliament, and Mont des Arts, stopping for delectable Belgian fries and a refreshing beer along the way.
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From
$42.93
From
$42.93
Mystical Brussels Tour With Tasting
Ticking through Brussels’ tourist sights is one thing, but experiencing its hidden corners—and local secrets—is quite another. Do both on this private walking tour, with a guide to introduce you to its signature attractions, tucked-away places, and food scene. See the old city walls, stroll the Grand Place, discover underground lanes, hear quirky legends, and sample the city’s celebrated chocolate and beer, all in one outing.
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From
$591.71
per group
From
$591.71
per group
Mystical Brussels Tour With Tasting
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Every city has its own secrets and mystical places. Discover a different and exciting face of Brussels! An experienced and charismatic guide will reveal secrets, which are hidden in Brussels' streets. The guide is local so you will easily find the special, unknown places in the city. Do you know where is the birthplace of the city?
Why the river is underground? You will see the old city walls, towers, churches, the Grand Place and Coudenburg Museum. The professional guide will take You to the mysterious underground streets. Did You hear the magical story about the rabbit? Do You know why Brussels people are called chicken eaters? You will hear all the answers on the tour. You will listen to funny stories and legends too.
u will learn about Belgium food history. Do You want to try the best chocolate in the city? The guide will lead You to the right place. What about the original Gueuze or Krieek beer? It is must try in Brussels! Chocolate and beer tasting is included in the tour.
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From
$556.91
per group
From
$556.91
per group
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