How to Visit Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Last Updated on 3rd June 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

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One of the top things that many visitors to Brussels make it a priority to see is Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a fantastic set of regal-covered passages dating back to the 19th century. The first of their kind in Europe, this ensemble of three Renaissance-style galleries were formally known as the Umbrella of Brussels and can be enjoyed come rain or shine! Here’s your guide on how to visit Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert.

If you’re planning a trip to Brussels, be sure to check out our guides on how to spend one day in Brussels, our top Belgium travel tips, and the best-kept secrets of Belgium.

History of the Covered Passages of Brussels

The history of the covered passages began in the 1830s when the project was initiated by a young architect, Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer, who wished to rehabilitate a poor area where the bourgeoisie scarcely ventured and turn it into a covered shopping arcade of high-end designer fashion boutiques and cultural spaces for visitors to stroll through.

However, the process of disentangling all the property rights took almost nine years, so it wasn’t until 1846 that construction on the elegant passageways commenced. Taking just thirteen months to build, the three arcades, two of which are 100 meters in length, and regal in design, were the first glazed shopping arcade in Europe.

The three sections were named the King’s Gallery, Queen’s Gallery and the Prince’s Gallery and displayed at the entrance was a plaque with the motto, Omnibus Omnia which translates to “Everything for everybody”. The design was inspired by 19th-century Italian palaces, and a glass-panelled roof would cover them so that they could be explored in whatever climate.

The galleries opened to the public in 1847 and were of immediate success, residents and tourists alike flocked to the brilliantly lit passageways to enjoy the outdoor cafés, browse the luxury retailers, and even watch a show or two in the theatres, indulging in the opulent ambience.

These monumental arcades put Brussels back on the map amongst other capital cities of Europe and remain a testament to the city’s commercial development. By 1986 The Royal Galleries were designated a historic monument and in 2008 they were submitted for World Heritage inscription and are on UNESCO’s “Tentative List” in the cultural heritage category.

Today, this beautiful space is a highlight of most people’s visit to Belgium’s capital, a stroll through history, art and luxury, it’s a cultural haven and an architectural wonder of Brussels, welcoming almost 6 million visitors per year!

The Royal Passages of Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

The Royal Galleries are made up of three inter-connected passages, but as an ensemble it is known as The Saint Hubert Passage.

While most people visit the galleries independently, you could opt to take a guided tour of the city and learn more in-depth about the Royal Galleries’ long and rich history, as well as hear tales and spy out specific shops of interest. Most guided tours of Brussels include a stop at Saint-Hubert, book a guided city tour like this one here.

King’s Passage (Galerie du Roi)

Lined with luxury, from boutique shops, cosy cafés and some of the best chocolatiers in the country! The King’s Passage runs parallel to the Queen’s Passage and is just over 100 meters in length.

A cultural hub, the most notable place that resides on the King’s Passage is the decadent Brussels theatre, Théâtre Royal des Galeries. Opened in 1847 at the same time as the passage, the theatre has continuously hosted theatrical activities ever since.

A legendary Italian-style theatre, adorned with a red and gold velvet appearance, this is easily one of the most beautiful theatres in Belgium and if you look up to the ceiling you can marvel at the magnificent Magritte fresco and monumental chandelier.

Queen’s Passage (Galerie de la Reine)

Along the Queen’s Passage are the same high-end displays of fashion, culture and delicious sweet treats. Home to the iconic Neuhaus chocolatier, who invented the praline, Delvaux, one of the oldest sellers of leather goods in the world and La Taverne du Passage, a restaurant that serves French and Belgian cuisine in an art deco-style dining setting.

Prince’s Passage (Galerie du Prince)

The smallest section of the glazed arcade is the Prince’s passage, which is located perpendicularly to the King’s Gallery as a side gallery. Home to the beloved bookshop Tropismes (read more about this below), this small passageway is elegantly decorated with statues, marble columns and rose-pink painted walls.

Other things to see

Tropismes

If you’re visiting the heart of Brussels (i.e. the capital of Belgium), then this is one bookshop you won’t want to miss. Nestled in the heart of one of Brussels’ covered galleries (The Prince Gallery to be precise), Tropismes bookstore was founded in 1984, is set over three floors, and sells everything from cookery books to travel tomes. The best view of the shop is from the first floor!

Chocolate shops

Of course, if you know anything about Belgium, then I’m sure that you’re aware that the city is pretty famous for its chocolates. As such, it should come as no surprise that there are several chocolate shops within the covered walkway. Some of the most prestigious include:

Corné Port-Royal – In the heart of the Queen’s Gallery, this prestigious chocolatier is best known for its famous “Manon sucre”, which is a praline made from crème fraîche, nougatine and walnut kernels and is a Belgian delicacy.

Mary Chocolatier – Handmade little gems presented in the cutest little cases, Maison Mary was founded in 1919 and has gained quite a reputation amongst chocolate lovers and. is unique in taste thanks to a secret recipe!

Neuhaus – Jean Neuhaus invented pralines and Neuhaus chocolatiers have been crafting and delighting people with their chocolate for over 160 years. Neuhaus is a Belgian Warrant holder.

How to visit

The Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert are located in the heart of the city, just a 4-minute walk away from Brussels Cathedral. Open 24 hours a day and free to stroll around, you’ll find most businesses here operate between 8 AM – 8 PM. The arcade is wheelchair accessible.

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