Where to Stay in Brussels, Belgium
Creamy chocolate, crispy waffles, flavoursome French fries… You name it; it’s here. This gourmand’s delight is dowsed with all sorts of pursuits. And when you’re all foodie-d out, there's nothing better than recuperating from a food coma in a comfortable bed. So, here's a foolproof guide on Where to Stay in Brussels, Belgium.
Belgium’s capital city is crowned by its array of attractions, from the phenomenal architecture and myriad museums to the centuries-old bars and feast-worthy food scene.
Whether you want to get lost in the ancient alleyways or lock lips with a famous beer, Brussels is the perfect spot to slide into your Europe itinerary.
Peppered with a wealth of picturesque and playful pursuits, this character-packed city will surely appease your curiosity. But with so many things to do in Brussels, you're probably wondering where's the best area to stay so you can see it all.
Make the most of your trip with this comprehensive guide on the Best Places to Stay in Brussels, Belgium.
Where to Stay in Brussels: 11 Best Areas
From the historic centre's energy-packed atmosphere to the rustic neighbourhoods' rural charm, Brussels is brimming with charming accommodations.
Whether you want to stay near the lively ambience of Grand Place, the Art Nouveau architecture in Saint-Gilles or the high-class end of Sablon, there’s a dynamic depth of options. With everything from high-end hotels to laid-back bed and breakfasts, each Brussels area flaunts its unique flair.
Regarding architecture, restaurants, shops and transport, you’ll be spoiled for choices on your trip… Let’s uncover the best places to stay in Brussels, Belgium!
City Centre, Grand Place & Saint-Gery
Sablon
Schaerbeek
Ixelles
European Quarter
Avenue Louise
Saint Gilles
Gare du Midi
Marolles
Brussels Expo
Saint-Joose-ten-Noode
City Centre, Grand Place & Saint-Gery
Brussels city centre is carved with eye-catching architecture, notorious monuments and a collection of tempting chocolate shops.
The beating heart of Brussels stretches from Grand Place to the west-facing Saint-Gery neighbourhood. Considering its central location, this is one of the best places to stay in Brussels for first-timers.
With a wealth of opportunities sitting on your doorstep, you can tick off all the bucket list items.
The Saint-Gery neighbourhood is nestled with restaurants, bars and boutique stores. Situated just a few short blocks over, this is an ideal spot if you enjoy the hustle and bustle of city life.
Considering you’re in the heart of the action, accommodation prices tend to soar a little higher than average. If you’re a budget traveller or backpacker, there are other areas that you could think about.
Where to Stay in Brussels: City Centre
Things to do in the City Centre
Go for a beer in Grand Place
See the cheeky Mannekin Pis
Take a step back in time at the Brussels City Museum
Sablon
Framed by its flourishing fashion scene, Sablon is an upscale neighbourhood that’s nestled with all your high-end expectations. From the bedazzled boutique stores and scent-filled antique shops to the alluring art galleries and gourmet restaurants, this is as luxe as it gets in Brussels.
Locally referred to as Zavel, this elegant neighbourhood encompasses note-worthy highlights. Don’t miss the Notre-Dame du Sablon Church, the history-packed Jewish Museum, the lush gardens of Square du Petit Sablon and the art-filled Magritte Museum!
You can expect luxury accommodation with 5-star hotels and exquisite homestays. Aside from the ample elite apartments, you can also find a few low-cost bed and breakfasts.
Where to Stay in Brussels: Sablon
Things to do in Sablon
Sip on a hot chocolate in Egmont Park and Palace
Explore the Eglise Notre-Dame du Sablon
Go to a hidden cocktail bar
Schaerbeek
Hugging the northeast of the city centre, Schaerbeek is coined for its Art Deco architecture and green-graced Josaphat Park.
Highlights include the Cultural Center of Schaerbeek, the Beer Museum and Saint Mary’s Royal Church.
Woven with a wealth of hidden gems and a less intense vibe than the Grand Place, Schaerbeek is an ideal area to stay for wallet-conscious travellers.
With guesthouses, hostels and backpacker-friendly hotels, accommodation is significantly more affordable than in the inner city. If you’re searching for places to stay on a budget, this is your best bet.
Where to Stay in Brussels: Schaerbeek
Things to do in Schaerbeek
Chill out in Parc Josaphat
Admire the art at Maison des Arts de Schaerbeek
Take a Turkish bath at Saunaprive
Ixelles
Situated in the southeast of Brussels, Ixelles is split into two sectors by Avenue Louise. This multicultural melting pot is packed with a lively mix of cultures, creating a riveting social scene. Home to multiple universities, Ixelles encompasses a rather large student population too. Teeming with trendy bars, enjoyable nightlife and hip restaurants, Ixelles' ambience is balanced by the veritable verdant spaces.
If you need a break from all the sightseeing, you can bask in the beauty of Bois de la Cambre Park. As one of the best places to stay in Brussels, you’ll encounter an expanse of boutique hotels, backpacker-friendly hostels and guesthouses.
Where to Stay in Brussels: Ixelles
€: Wok Rooms
€€€: Hygge Hotel
Things to do in Ixelles
Appreciate European art at the Museum of Ixelles
Have a picnic by Ixelles Ponds
Get fascinated by the dinosaur skeletons in the Museum of Natural Sciences
European Quarter
Enclosed by the European Union headquarters and a handful of international organisations, this area embraces a buzzing blend of business travellers.
The European Quarter is contemporary and clean, with many apartments and hotels spread throughout.
This neighbourhood has lovely squares, contrasting green parks and myriad museums. If you’re looking to step outside the main city hub, the European Quarter is an ideal option for couples and families.
Where to Stay in Brussels: European Quarter
Things to do in the European Quarter
Go for a drink in Place Luxembourg
Check out the Musèe Wiertz
Watch a show at the Théâtre Varia
Avenue Louise
Lain with luxe at every corner, Avenue Louise is an upscale street that poses prestigious pursuits. Locally known as Louizalaan, this extravagant avenue is home to ample boutique stores, big-name brands and gourmet restaurants.
Flaunting the flourishing King’s Garden, Art Nouveau edifices and the Place du Chatelain, Avenue Louise is ideal for high-end travellers. You can expect luxury accommodation dotted all around, with a few cost-conscious guest-ins too. If you’re a big spender, Avenue Louise is the top place to stay in Brussels.
Where to Stay in Brussels: Avenue Louise
Things to do in Avenue Louise
See the UNESCO-listed Horta Museum
Get artsy at the Musee des Beaux-Arts d’Ixelles
Enjoy the vistas at King’s Garden
Saint-Gilles
Teeming with trendy finds, Art Nouveau architecture and scenic street art, Saint-Gilles boasts a getaway from godsend. Brimming with a bohemian atmosphere, this is a crowd-favourite among locals, ex-pats, and tourists.
Saint-Gilles can be easily reached from the Gare du Midi train station, home to the Horta Museum, Midi Market and various art-inspired cafes and social bars.
Sandwiched with a series of shops and international eats, Saint-Gilles is the ideal alternative for those looking for something away from the city centre. The accommodation scene is arrayed with a wide range of options, with everything from boutique apartments to pocket-friendly places to stay.
Where to Stay in Brussels: Saint Gilles
€€€: Hotel Manos Premier
Things to do in Saint Gilles
Spot Banksy's street art
Shop at the Saint-Gillois Market
Relax in the summertime in Parc Pierre Paulus
Gare du Midi
Gare du Midi, also known as Midi Station, is a common point for travellers. With a wealth of international and national train lines, this is ideal if you plan a short stay, multiple-day trips by train, or an early-morning departure.
A 15–20-minute walk from the city's historical heart, Gare du Midi can offer more affordable accommodation. This area can feel a little dismal by night, so it may not be a suitable option for solo female travellers.
Where to Stay in Brussels: Gare du Midi
Things to do in Gare du Midi
Swing by the Porte de Hal
Grab an authentic bite to eat
Jump on a train to the surrounding cities
Marolles
Situated just south of Sablon, the Marolles district is dowsed with a historic charm. Home to the famous flea market, Place du Jeu de Balle, this area harbours a more local vibe.
The Marolles neighbourhood offers an authentic experience, with some of the city’s oldest bar and antique stores. You can shop for antiques at the flea market, admire the sprawling street art and go wild in the vintage shopping scene. Across the accommodation scene, you’ll find bed and breakfasts and guesthouses aplenty. For a slice of local life, Marolles is one of the top places to stay in Brussels.
Where to Stay in Brussels: Marolles
Things to do in Marolles
Stand in awe at the Palais de Justice
Go vintage in the Place Jeu de Balle Market
Eat a stack of pancakes in Rue Haute
Brussels Expo
Woven into a world of whimsical attractions and intriguing museums, the Brussels Expo area is scenic, sprightly and steeped in opportunities.
Setting the scene for the 11th World Fair, this area is well known for the colossal-sized Atomium and the lush gardens of Ossegem Park.
Brussels Expo is a great place to stay for families and students and is home to a handful of eateries, hotels, guest houses, and bed and breakfasts.
Where to Stay in Brussels: Brussels Expo
Things to do at Brussels Expo
Take a tour of Mini Europe
See the Leopold I Memorial in the Royal Park
Watch a light show inside the Atomium
Saint-Joose-ten-Noode
Located in downtown Brussels, Saint-Joose-ten-Noode is not the first place visitors tend to think about when looking for places to stay in Brussels.
This multicultural, densely populated neighbourhood has time-carved streets and clashing contrasts. With everything from luxe-living to street-living, Saint-Joose-ten-Noode makes for an interesting foray. This is a neighbourhood where you’ll undoubtedly find the best and worst of both worlds… That being said, if you’re a solo female traveller or a young family, it's best to avoid Saint-Joose-ten Noode.
Where to Stay in Brussels: Saint-Joose-ten-Noode
Things to do in Saint-Joose-ten-Noode
Frolic around the Botanical Garden of Brussels
Take a yoga class in Studio Madou
Sightseeing in Brussels
If you plan on ticking off the attractions from your list, you’ll want to stick around to hear about this. Don't get me wrong, Brussels is a beautiful city. Prices can surely add up among the architectural gems, cultural hot spots and delectable cuisine.
Sightseeing in Brussels doesn't have to dent your wallet, especially if you know a few tricks. Whether you're a backpacker or budget traveller, the Brussels Card can really make a difference. With 24, 48 and 72-hour passes, you can enjoy discounts on all the dazzling pursuits. Plus, you’ll get free access to over 49 museums. Boo yeah!
Best Day Trips from Brussels, Belgium
Nestled in the heart of Europe, buzzing Belgium is brimming with delightful day trips. From smoke-friendly Amsterdam and ancient Bruges to fashionable Paris and raving Germany, there is a panoply of pursuits sitting right on your doorstep.
So why not spruce up your itinerary with a day trip from Brussels?
Whether you want to frolic in nature, marvel at the myriad museums or meander your way through millennia-old streets, there’s a plethora of possibilities lying just around the corner.
For a hassle-free holiday, save this Best Days Trips from Brussels, Belgium!
Best Time to Visit Brussels
The best time to visit Brussels mainly depends on your travel style, budget and preferences for weather, events, and crowds. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons:
Spring: From March to May, the capital of Belgium boasts pleasant weather and blooming flowers. The temperatures are mild, ranging from around 7°C (45°F ) to 17°C (63°F), making for a great time for sightseeing. Spring also showcases the famous Brussels Flower Carpet event in late August, displaying a stunning collection of flowers at the golden-hued Grand Place.
Summer: From June to August, the peak tourist season in Brussels. The weather is generally warm, with temperatures ranging from 13°C (55°F) to 23°C (73°F). Numerous festivals, outdoor events and open-air concerts occur during this time, making it the best time to visit for culture enthusiasts and festival fanatics. The capital city can get very crowded, so if you’re wondering where to stay in Brussels, make sure you book accommodations and attractions in advance.
Autumn: From September to November, the weather remains pleasant and the summer crowds calm down. The temperatures range from 7°C (45°F) to 17°C (63°F), making it an ideal time for sightseeing without the crowds. The autumn foliage ushers in a charming touch to the city's street life and the Brussels Beer Weekend, a festival celebrating Belgian beer culture, takes place in early September. Brussels is known for its world-famous chocolates and beers, 90 different museums and beautiful gardens, and autumn shows off all of the city’s splendour. September is one of the best months to visit Brussels, especially if you want to enjoy the popular restaurants, bars and nightlife scene.
Winter: From December to February, the off-peak season takes place in Brussels. The temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) to 7°C (44°F) and the weather can get very chilly and damp. During December, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with its festive markets, holiday decorations and ice-skating rinks. The Christmas market in the Grand Place is a major attraction, so if you’re interested in festive-themed activities, this is the best month to visit Brussels.
How to Get Around Brussels
The capital of Belgium is well-connected with public transport options. The city centre of Brussels is very walkable, and there are a handful of options to choose from. Before you can decide on where to stay in Brussels, it’s important to factor in how you’ll travel around the city. Here’s a basic breakdown of how to get around Brussels.
Public Transport in Brussels
The Brussels Intercommunal Transport Company (STIB/MIVB) operates the city's public transportation system, which includes trams, buses and the metro. The metro is convenient for traveling longer distances within the city, while trams and buses cover a wide network with access to various neighbourhoods and attractions.
The city boasts an abundance of guest accommodations options, visitors never need to be concerned about where to stay in Brussels. Especially when it’s well-connected with public transport!
Brussels has a four-line metro system that links many areas of the city, but if you plan to explore areas outside of Brussels, the Belgian Rail Network (SNCB/NMBS) is your best bet. This transport system connects the city to other Belgian gems like Bruges and Ghent, as well as neighbouring countries like France, Germany and the Netherlands.
Walking & Biking in Brussels
The capital of Belgium is a relatively compact city and many of the major attractions are within walking distance. Walking is an active option that allows you to soak up the bustling ambience, discover hidden gems and burn off a few calories after eating all those waffles and chocolates. Brussels is also deemed as a bike-friendly city, boasting dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. If you have only 1 or 2 days in Brussels, this is an ideal option to fasten things up (providing that the weather is pleasant).
Car Rental in Brussels
While renting a car is not necessary within the city, it can be useful if you plan to explore more remote areas. If you want to visit places outside of Brussels like Ghent or Bruges, a car allows you to travel at your own pace and create your own schedule. Plus, a Belgian road trip is one of the best things to do in the summer, autumn and spring seasons!
FAQS
What is the nicest part of Brussels?
The nicest area to stay in Brussels is the city centre, Sablon or Avenue Louise. These are particularly suitable for first-timers if you want to stay centrally located.
What is the main area of Brussels?
The main part of Brussels is the city centre, which revolves around the Grand Place (Grote Markt). The central square is surrounded by top attractions like City Hall and Maison du Roi.
Is Brussels a walkable city?
With many of the main tourist attractions close by, Brussels is a walkable city. Explore the pedestrianised streets, stop for waffles or chocolate and see highlights like the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert and Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.
What is the City Centre of Brussels called?
Brussels revolves around the city’s central square, La Grand Place or Grote Markt.
Why Visit Brussels, Belgium?
Belgium’s capital city is burrowed with baffling architecture, buzzing bars and an all-enticing culture. Whether you want to waltz around the whimsical monuments, experience life like a local, or eat your way through Brussels, this city offers so much.
This history-packed city encompasses contemporary concepts, European fashion and lifestyle, offering a fascinating fusion of experiences. Embracing an influence of international cultures and cuisine, alongside the traditionally typical Belgian style, this city is a culinary and cultural delight.
The diversity of neighbourhoods in Brussels boast many attractive hotels, Airbnbs and other guest accommodations. If you’re visiting Brussels, you’ll notice the wide variety of prices to suit all travellers’ budgets.
This is a bucket list destination in Europe, packed with picturesque scenery, dazzling day trips and top-rated places to stay. Before you jet-set off on your next getaway, save this in-depth guide on Where to Stay in Brussels, Belgium.
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