The Central Station and its ‘Salon Royal’

The “Salon Royal” is a secret, discreet and elegant venue, originally intended for foreign delegations of the time who came to catch the train at Gare Centrale!

Gare Centrale, which was to form the link between the North and South, was designed by Victor Horta as early as 1912. Work did not begin until 1937, following the war and the stock market crash, and was overseen by Maxime Brunfaut, who took over from V. Horta in 1947.

At the heart of Brussels Central Station, just a few steps away from the hustle and bustle of travellers, lies a little-known spot: the Salon Royal. Inaugurated in 1952 by King Baudouin, at the same time as the station, this space was intended for the royal family and distinguished guests, to wait for their train or be received during official visits.

Behind a door adorned with the Belgian coat of arms, marble corridors lead to an elegant oval lounge. Sycamore furniture, seats upholstered in white leather by Delvaux and royal monograms combine to create a refined décor. With discreet access from the Cantersteen and a private lift, this little gem evokes an era when train travel was also part of diplomatic protocol.

The price of the tour includes the admission fee