Palais Coudenberg

Fascinating archeological site exploring the remains of the enormous medieval Coudenberg Palace that stood on Place Royale from the 11th to the late-18th centuries and was the seat of residence to Europe’s ruling powers for over six centuries, including Emperor Charles V. Following under-lit brick walkways, explore kitchens and larders and the vast vaulted ceiling of the Aula Magna — the lavish banquet hall built by Philip the Good in the 14th century, and which hosted meetings held by the knights of the Order of the Golden Fleece and where Emperor Charles V abdicated in 1555.

Above ground, the Royal Palace, which is only used for meetings nowadays, is unfortunately only open for a limited time in summer. However, you can visit the Musée BELvue (Place des Palais 7, 1020; tel: +32 2 545 08 00; www.belvue.be; open: Tues—Fri 10am—5pm, Sat—Sun 10am—6pm; adults 5 euros, under 18s free), which relates the history of Belgium and its monarchs via a super collection of photographs, historical documents, film clips, press cuttings and uniforms donated by the Royal Family.