A Cultural Cornerstone: Royal Museums of Fine Arts
Discover over 20,000 artworks from the 15th-21st centuries at Brussels' Royal Museums of Fine Arts, encompassing Old Masters, Magritte, and Fin-de-Siècle masterpieces in a stunning neoclassical setting.
The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, located in the heart of Brussels, is a treasure trove of artistic heritage, showcasing over 20,000 works from the 15th to the 21st centuries. Housed within a stunning neoclassical building designed by Alphonse Balat, the museum complex comprises six distinct museums, each offering a unique perspective on art history. From the Flemish Primitives and Old Masters to modern and contemporary masterpieces, including the world's largest collection of René Magritte's surrealist works, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of Belgian and European art. Visitors can explore the evolution of artistic styles, techniques, and cultural contexts, making it a must-see destination for art enthusiasts and casual observers alike. With its rich collections and accessible location, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts offers an enriching and unforgettable experience for all who visit Brussels.
A brief summary to Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
- Rue de la Régence 3, Brussels, Brussel, 1000, BE
- +3225083211
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on the first Wednesday of the month after 1 PM for free admission to the Old Masters Museum, Modern Museum, and Fin-de-Siècle Museum.
- Download the museum's app for interactive maps, audio guides, and detailed information about key artworks to enhance your visit.
- Combine your visit with the nearby Magritte Museum for a comprehensive exploration of Belgian surrealist art.
- Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and events, which often offer unique perspectives on the permanent collection.
- Take advantage of the 'Made to Measure' program for tailored guided tours designed for visitors with specific needs, ensuring an accessible and enriching experience for everyone.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Brussels Central Station, a major transportation hub, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts are easily accessible. Exit the station following signs for the Mont des Arts (Kunstberg). Ascend the stairs or take the elevator to the top, offering a panoramic view of the city. Turn right and walk along Place Royale/Koningsplein; the museum entrance will be on your left. Alternatively, take Metro lines 1 or 5 to either 'Parc' or 'Gare Centrale' station, or tram lines 92 or 93 to the 'Royale' stop, all within a short walk of the museum. A single metro/tram fare is approximately €2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, etc.) are readily available throughout Brussels. Request a ride to Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Bruxelles. From the Grand Place, a taxi ride will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic. Note that taxi fares in Brussels start at €2.60, with a price per kilometer of approximately €2.30. During nighttime hours (10 PM - 6 AM), a surcharge of €2 may apply.
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Walking
From the Grand Place, walk southeast towards the Mont des Arts (Kunstberg). Ascend the stairs or take the elevator to the top. Continue along Place Royale/Koningsplein. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts will be on your left, approximately a 15-minute walk. This route offers scenic views of the city and passes by other notable landmarks.
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Driving
Driving to the Royal Museums of Fine Arts is possible, but parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging and expensive. Several paid parking garages are located nearby, including Parking Albertine-Square (Place de la Justice), Parking 2 Portes (Rue de Namur & Blvd de Waterloo), and Parking Poelaert (Place Poelaert). Expect to pay around €3-€5 per hour for parking. Two designated parking spaces for visitors with reduced mobility are available in front of 1A, rue de la Régence.
Discover more about Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
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