The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, housed in a complex of historical buildings in central Brussels, is a paradise for art enthusiasts. The museums feature an extensive collection of art, ranging from the Flemish Primitives to contemporary works, making it one of the most popular cultural attractions in Belgium.

History

Established in 1801 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the museums have since grown due to generous donations and acquisitions, today encompassing a total of six smaller museums. They collectively hold over 20,000 pieces of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings dating back from the 15th century to the present.

How to Get There

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts are centrally located near the Royal Palace. The closest metro stations are Gare Centrale and Parc, both within a 10-minute walk. Many buses and trams also stop close to the museum, including bus lines 38, 71, and 95 and tram lines 92 and 93.

List of Attractions

1. Old Masters Museum: Explore works of art by famous masters, such as Peter Paul Rubens, Hieronymus Bosch, and Pieter Bruegel the Elder.
2. Magritte Museum: Discover the world’s largest collection of works by renowned surrealist René Magritte.
3. Fin-de-Siècle Museum: Dive into the diverse world of fine arts from the late 19th to early 20th centuries.
4. Antoine Wiertz Museum and Constantin Meunier Museum: Visit these artist’s original home-studios to view their works.

Ticket Information

Individual tickets or cumulative tickets for multiple museums can be purchased, with reduced rates available for seniors, groups, students, and children. Entry is free on the first Wednesday of every month from 1 pm. Tickets can be bought either online or at the museum’s ticket counter.

List of Tips for Visiting

1. Plan Your Day: The museums house expansive collections, so plan to spend a few hours or even an entire day to fully appreciate the artwork.
2. Audio Guide: Rent an audio guide for more in-depth information about art pieces.
3. Children’s Activities: There are special activities and workshops for children, further reinforcing the family-friendly nature of the museum.
4. Visit the Bookshop and Café: The Museum complex includes a bookshop and a café. Remember to drop by for a break or to pick up some souvenirs.