Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert: Europe's Oldest Shopping Paradise

Hey everyone! Today, we're taking you to the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert in Brussels, Belgium! 🏛️💎 Built in 1847, this is the oldest shopping arcade in Europe, predating the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy by 30 years! 👑✨ Stepping inside is like traveling back to 19th-century Europe. The glass dome casts warm sunlight, the classical architecture exudes an aristocratic air, and upscale chocolate shops, fine jewelry boutiques, bookstores, and cafes line the arcade, creating an elegant and charming atmosphere! 💃🛍️ ⸻ ⛱️ Must-See Highlights 📍 Galerie du Roi & Galerie de la Reine 👑 The arcade is divided into three sections, the main two being the "King's Gallery" and the "Queen's Gallery." Both in name and ambiance, they embody royal elegance! 💎🏰 This shopping arcade is a favorite of the Belgian royal family, and strolling through it makes you feel like royalty yourself! ✨ 📍 Belgian Chocolate Heaven 🍫💖 This arcade houses Belgium's top chocolate brands, such as Neuhaus (inventor of the world's first praline), Pierre Marcolini (luxury handmade chocolates), and Leonidas (affordable classics). It's a chocolate lover's dream come true! 🤩🍬 📍 Tropismes Bookstore 📖📚 A French bookstore tucked away in the arcade, Tropismes features an ornate gold ceiling and walls lined with bookshelves, creating a scene straight out of a movie! 📖✨ It's a haven for literature lovers, and even if you don't buy anything, it's worth a visit just to soak in the atmosphere! 🎭 📍 Exquisite Cafes ☕🍰 The cafes in the arcade each have their own unique charm. Le Pain Quotidien and La Taverne du Passage are particularly recommended. Sit at an outdoor table, enjoy Belgian coffee and waffles while admiring the vintage arcade, and experience a moment of romance and leisure! 💛 ⸻ 🍜 Food Guide 🍫 Neuhaus Chocolate — This is Neuhaus' flagship store! As the "inventor of pralines," their pralines and liqueur chocolates are a must-buy! 🎁💝 🧇 Belgian Waffles — Grab a hot waffle from a nearby waffle shop, add some Belgian chocolate sauce, and indulge in pure bliss! 🤤🧇 ☕ La Taverne du Passage — A century-old establishment with a retro and elegant ambiance. Their rich and smooth Belgian hot chocolate is highly recommended – a heartwarming treat! 💛 ⸻ 🚄 Transportation Guide 🚇 Subway: The nearest subway station is Bruxelles-Central (Central Station), a 2-minute walk from the arcade! 🚶‍♂️ 🚶 Walking: The arcade is right next to the Grand Place, so you can easily walk over after visiting the square! 👟 🚕 Taxi/Uber: Uber is readily available in Brussels. 🚗💨 ⸻ 💗 Other Tips ✔ Opening Hours: Most shops are open from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, while some cafes and bookstores may close later! 🌙 ✔ Best Time to Visit: Daytime is ideal for shopping, while the arcade becomes incredibly romantic after dark, perfect for taking photos! 📸✨ ✔ Must-Buy Souvenirs: Belgian chocolate 🍫, handmade lace 🧵, European vintage bookmarks 📖 ⸻ 🤔 Is It Worth Visiting? ✅ If you enjoy a retro and elegant shopping experience, this is a must-visit! Unlike modern shopping malls, the arcade exudes a distinct 19th-century European aristocratic charm. Even casual snapshots taken here look like beautiful oil paintings! 🎨💎 ✅ A Chocolate Lover's Paradise! Almost all of the world's top Belgian chocolate brands can be found here, making it a one-stop shop for chocolate indulgence! 🍫🎁 ✅ Fantastic Location, Easy to Visit! Located right next to the Grand Place in Brussels, there's no need for a special trip. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and exploration! 🚶‍♀️💃 ⸻ 🌟 Summary: The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is Brussels' most elegant shopping landmark! Even if you're not shopping, simply experiencing the retro atmosphere, enjoying a cup of coffee, and savoring a piece of chocolate makes it a worthwhile visit! 💖 A must-see destination in Brussels, you'll regret missing it! 🇧🇪✨