Although Brussels is commonly seen as a stopover destination, it is a great addition to any European travel itinerary. From delicious waffles to excellent beer and beautiful art nouveau architecture, Brussels has it all. It is an exhilarating city for any foodie, culture lover, or everything in between.
With so much to do and so many areas to choose from, deciding where to stay in Brussels can be tricky. Not only is it niggly to navigate but it takes time and effort which is why I’ve curated this guide on where to stay in Brussels. I’ve also included the best sightseeing activities in each area, so you can get a good idea of what to expect on your trip.
To help you out, I’ve divided this guide up by the best neighbourhoods in Brussels. So whether you’re looking for the coolest spot, the cheapest spot or somewhere to stay with your family, I’ve got something for everyone.
The fine arts scene in Brussels is UNREAL and if you like to spend time perusing art galleries or rummaging through antique shops, I’ve got you! I’ve got all bases covered, from a charming hostel to a bangin’ hostel.
So let’s dive in to Brussels!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Brussels?
- Brussels Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Brussels
- Brussels’ Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Brussels
- What To Pack For Brussels
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Brussels
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Brussels
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for somewhere fabulous for the Brussels leg of your Belgium trip? I’ve listed my top picks for the best places to stay in Brussels below! If you’re visiting Brussels for a brief one-night stopover or a weekend getaway, you’ll experience Art Nouveau architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and chocolate shops.
Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo | Best Hotel in Brussels
Treat yourself to a luxury hotel stay at the five-star Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo, and you’re sure to be pleased. It’s one of the highest-rated Brussels hotels. Each elegant room in this modern hotel has a private bathroom with luxurious touches, a sitting area with a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a desk.
For those interested in fine dining and keeping fit, the onsite facilities include a high-class restaurant and a fitness centre. This modern hotel sits right on the corner of the Grand Place so it’s pretty centrally located. Coming with that of course is being within walking distance of several top attractions, such as The Manneken Pis Statue and the Magritte Museum.
Meininger Bruxelles City Centre | Best Hostel in Brussels
Set in an old brewery, this comic-themed hostel is undoubtedly one of the coolest in Brussels. With plenty of spacious rooms and common areas– including a bar, terrace, and games room– you’re sure to meet some like-minded travellers. A fully equipped kitchen and Wifi are available, and the centrally located hostel is a short walk from top tourist attractions.
Maison Marguerite Brussels Centrum | Best Airbnb in Brussels
This sleek and modern Airbnb is, for those with luxurious taste, by far the best in Brussels! It has an ideal central location, and the home is simply stunning. Large enough to accommodate 13 guests, the townhouse is an early-1900s maison de maître, recently renovated while maintaining its authentic design.
Enjoy the spacious rooms, indoor fireplace, terrace, and massive kitchen, while mere steps away from Brussels City Centre. The family rooms are perfect for big groups, and the home is within walking distance from Central Station.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
City Centre
Brussels’ City Centre is a magnet for tourists, with dazzling architecture, interesting attractions, and a good choice of places to eat, drink, shop, and sleep.
The Marolles
The Marolles is one of the best neighbourhoods in Brussels for people looking for budget accommodation. Soak up the local vibe and discover the working class side of the Belgian capital.
Saint Gery
Saint Gery was previously an island in the River Senne. There’s no water crossing needed today, though; the river was covered up and Saint Gery joined with the rest of the city.
Saint Gilles
Our choice for the coolest place to stay in Brussels, Saint Gilles is a youthful, bohemian, trendy, multicultural, and lively part of the city.
Ixelles
Ixelles is an arty and trendy neighbourhood with a good selection of shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions. Lakes, parks, and forests are within easy reach and the area is well connected by public transport.
Brussels may be a fairly small capital city compared to other Western European capitals, but the diverse neighbourhoods have distinct atmospheres and character. Due to its small size, Brussels is great for walking, and you can travel from one side to the other on foot in around an hour.
The medieval City Centre is often high on the list of places for first-time visitors – it’s also where you’ll find some of Brussels’ best hostels! Famous for its large square surrounded by ornate buildings, the nearby streets are home to cafes, small shops, and restaurants. With so much to do, it’s the best place to stay to get to know the area.
Eclectic, hip, and funky, Saint Gilles is one of Brussels’ coolest and most vibrant neighbourhoods. Fans of Art Deco architecture and Art Nouveau buildings can admire some of the gems this neighbourhood has to offer. A neighbourhood that feels like a village, Saint Gilles contains plentiful art- and culture-focused spaces and events, varied eateries, and a relaxed ambience.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
If you’re looking for a historical city experience but are also travelling on a budget, the Marolles offers several accommodation options. Each of these is still pretty centrally located and within walking distance of top Brussels attractions. For those searching for local Belgian beers, you’ll also find some of Brussels’ oldest bars and historic brasseries in this neighbourhood.
If you’re looking for a good party, then Saint Gery is the best place to stay in Brussels for nightlife. The vibrant neighbourhood has many bars, restaurants, and cafes, and it’s one of the city’s best places to find live music.
The vibrant and multicultural centre, Ixelles, is my top pick for families, fashionistas and shopaholics. The birthplace of Audrey Hepburn, Ixelles is centred around the bustling Avenue Louise, which is lined with upscale shops, up-market restaurants and bars. It’s a great place to base yourself for a weekend in Brussels.
Brussels’ Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
The varied neighbourhoods in Brussels add plenty of flavour and life to the city, and it’s well worth travelling around the city to discover its many faces.
1. City Centre – Where to Stay in Brussels for Your First Time
Brussels’ City Centre is a magnet for visitors, with dazzling architecture, interesting attractions, and a good choice of places to eat, drink, and shop. The convenience and popularity make it my choice for the best neighbourhood in Brussels for first-timers.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The City Centre has several main areas to consider, but major tourist attractions typically include The Grand Place. Being centrally located has its perks like accessibility to the fine arts Brussels has to offer and being able to wander the streets. I love walking around the city centre looking at Art Deco architecture and the stunning art nouveau buildings looking for antique shops and art galleries.
Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place | Best Hotel in City Centre
Soak up great city views from the roof terrace and order something tasty from the on-site restaurant while in the middle of Brussels city centre. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms and feel luxurious. With amenities like a TV, kettle, coffee machine and free Wi-Fi, the world is your oyster – or at least Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place is!
Meininger Bruxelles City Centre | Best Hostel in City Centre
The comic book theme throughout this hostel makes this one of the quirkiest places to stay in the city centre. There are en-suite mixed dorms for six and ten, and everyone can start each day full of energy with the buffet breakfast (extra charge).
There’s an onsite bar for mingling and chilling, and other facilities include a kitchen, games room, and tour desk. Wi-Fi is free, and you can rent a bike to explore the city. The Grand Place is just 15 minutes away by foot.
Maison Marguerite Brussels Centrum | Best Airbnb in City Centre
This Airbnb is undoubtedly the best in Brussels City Centre it’s near tourist attractions such as Manneken Pis, the Cathedral of St Michael and St Gudula… Plus, the Royal Palace of Brussels and Mont des Arts, the home is simply stunning. Large enough to accommodate 13 guests, the space is an early-1900s Maison de maître updated with all modern amenities.
Enjoy the spacious rooms, indoor fireplace, terrace, and massive kitchen, all while being just steps away from Brussels City Centre. The family rooms are perfect for big groups, and the home is within walking distance from the Central Station.
Top Things to do in the City Centre
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Sample delicious Belgian cuisine
- Marvel at the gleaming guild hall buildings surrounding the Grand Place (make sure to return in the evening when the historical buildings are beautifully illuminated).
- Discover public art in the small streets and alleyways around the centre.
- For chocolate lovers, why not try your hand at chocolate making?
- Learn more about the city’s past and see an array of historical exhibits at Brussels City Museum, housed within the elegant King’s House.
- Check out one of Europe’s rudest statues, the iconic Manneken Pis, and find his newer female partner in crime, Jeanneke Pis.
- Watch an opera at the high-class Royal Theatre of the Mint.
- Window shop at the luxurious and lavish Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert; you’ll find chocolatiers, antique vendors, and boutiques that sell high-end and one-of-a-kind fashion.
- Satisfy your tastebuds and attend this delicious tasting tour, where you’ll try Belgian whisky, beer, waffles, chocolate and more.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. The Marolles – Best Place to Stay in Brussels on a Budget
The Marolles, a local area dating back to medieval times, is one of the best neighbourhoods for accommodation if you’re watching your budget in Brussels. Soak up the local vibe and discover a more authentic side of the Belgian capital by diving into one of Belgian’s oldest bars. In the Marolles you can visit one of the many cool art galleries or secure yourself a bargain at the flea market.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
An up-and-coming area, The Marolles is home to local artists, who have decorated the streets with murals and graffiti. Many cool eateries, vintage stores and bars are also dotted about this neighbourhood.
The Marolles is a great place to escape the tourist crowds and sleep cheaply while within easy reach of Brussels’ main tourist destinations. You can also check out the nearby Historic Grand Sablon Square in the Sablon neighbourhood, the famous Avenue Louise for aaaaaall the shopping.
Place du Grand Sablon | Best Hotel in Marolles
This place is where you wanna splash your cash if you’ve got cash to splash. The Place du Grand Sablon is so clean, and so well-appointed, that you’ll want to make this a permanent lodging! It’s nearer to Sablon which means you’re close to all the boujee bits of Brussels including the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Belgium.
HI Hostel Bruegel Brussels | Best Hostel in Marolles
Like all great things, this youth hostel comes complete with a bar, disco, and free breakfast. You can opt to stay in male or female-only dorms, but private rooms with ensuites are also available.
You’ll be a short walk from Brussels Park and several museums, so you won’t have to spend any money on public transport. But if you want to, the interesting European Quarter is a short train ride away.
Charming Studio | Best Airbnb in the Marolles
This stunning Marolles Airbnb is located in a historic area of Brussels and you’ll be close to all major attractions. This neighbourhood goes back to medieval times and you’ll be in the thick of history with places like the Brussels City Centre on your doorstep. Then there’s the Royal Palace, the Grand Place, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts and the famous Marolles flea market.
Given the wonderful centrally located nature of this Airbnb, first-time visitors may find it a little noisy but your lovely host has thought ahead… You’ll find earplugs waiting for you in case you’re a light sleeper.
Top Things to do in the Marolles, Brussels
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Hunt for bargains at the flea market of Vieux Marché, held every day at Jeu de Balle Place.
- Sink your teeth into global cuisine, including Syrian, Moroccan, Turkish, Spanish, French, and Flemish, a result of the multicultural population that calls this neighbourhood home.
- Visit one of the oldest churches in Brussels, Notre-Dame de la Chapelle, to admire its striking façade and interiors.
- Short on time? Take a day trip to Bruges and Ghent and get a wider understanding of the culture.
- Admire the impressive and imposing Palace of Justice.
- Shop for fresh produce at the organic market at Atelier des Tanneurs.
- Watch the sun go down from the large Poelaert Square.
- Wander down the longest street in Brussels: Rue Haute.
- Enjoy a contemporary show at the renovated chapel of Les Brigittines.
- Step back in time at Porte de Hal, a fairytale-like gate once part of the city’s fortifications and now home to a museum.
3. Saint Gery – Best Area to Stay in Brussels For Nightlife
Saint Gery was previously an island in the River Senne. No water crossing is needed today, though; the river was covered up, and Saint Gery joined the rest of the city.
Its former separation meant that it was a pretty quiet place in times gone by, but it has transformed over the years. Now it’s turned into one of Brussels’s hottest nightlife destinations. Saint Gery is the best place if you want to experience one of Europe’s best party cities.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The pavement cafes and bars are especially popular in the warmer months, though you’ll find a great range of places to eat, drink, and have fun here at any time of the year.
Atlas Hotel Brussels | Best Hotel in Saint Gery
Five minutes from Saint-Gery Square, this boutique hotel is just over the border in the bustling Dansaert area. Rooms come with minibars, free wifi and comfy beds, perfect for relaxing after a long day – or night – out. A buffet breakfast is also available each morning.
Latroupe Grand Place | Best Hostel in Saint Gery
In a perfect location, this hostel is clean and well appointed but do note there aren’t self-catering facilities. But for what this Brussels hostel lacks in a kitchen, it makes up for in epic staff and fun common areas. You can stay in a variety of rooms here, whether dorms or private rooms are your buzz, you’ll find it here.
If you’re looking for a fun free activity – check out Cinema Nova, an alternative movie theatre. More like a chill hang in your lounge with the homies, but you watch what the volunteers choose to put on. Maybe it’ll be the OG King Kong and maybe it’ll be a six hour documentary about the Commune of Paris in 1871.
Colourful Saint Gery Apartment | Best Airbnb in Saint Gery
This bright 4th-floor apartment is located right in the Saint Gery section of Brussels City Centre. This means all the top tourist attractions, antique shops, fine dining, and chocolate shops are close by. De Brouckere metro station is nearby, which makes even more of the city accessible.
The clean, modern space features a sunny living room with a Netflix-compatible TV. You’ll also have a comfy double bed, a well-designed kitchen, and two large windows overlooking Downtown Brussels!
Top Things to Do in Saint Gery
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Experience the local music scene at one of the live music venues.
- Take in some history with a historical walking tour.
- Stroll along Anspach Boulevard to see how Belgian’s rich upper class lived in the past.
- Tour the city on ya bike! Take this tour with a local guide and explore hidden gems.
- See the modern statue of Zinneke Pis, a urinating dog, to complete the peeing team along with Manneken Pis and Jeanneke Pis.
- Admire the handsome Renaissance-style building of Halles Saint Gery, an old covered market repurposed to include a café-bar and club.
- Admire the historic fountain inside Halles Saint Gery, built on the spot where a church once stood.
- Appreciate modern art at Chartreux Centre of Contemporary Art.
- Visit Sainte Catherine Cathedral.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Saint Gilles – Coolest Place to Stay in Brussels
Our choice for the coolest place to stay in Brussels, Saint Gilles is a bohemian, multicultural, and lively part of the city. There are so many funb and quirky things to do that should definitely be on your Brussels itinerary!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
It attracts creative and artistic souls, including painters, poets, actors, and writers. Not as loud at night as other areas in Brussels, Saint Gilles is more about the laid-back daytime fun than nighttime revelry.
Hotel Manos Premier | Best Hotel in Saint Gilles
Manos Premier is the best hotel option in Saint Gilles. This boutique-style accommodation is right near the famous Avenue Louise, and provides all the charm of a Brussels apartment.
The best feature of this hotel is the spa centre, which offers a sauna, steam bath, hot tub and fitness area. There’s also a large terrace and an onsite restaurant serving Belgian and French specialities. This boutique hotel even has a 2000 m² green garden haven to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
MEININGER Bruxelles Gare du Midi | Best Hostel in St. Gilles
Not technically in St. Gillies, this is another Bangin Meininger Hostel so I thought it could be a good option for my broke backpackers. It’s a 15-minute walk from the heart of St. Gillies which gives you lots of time to check out the antique shops en route. If you’re anything like me you can spend hours making your way to the city centre or wherever you’re going.
Incredible Duplex | Best Airbnb in St. Gilles
Undoubtedly, this stunning St. Gilles Duplex is one of the best places to stay in Brussels! The lofted design is second to none and features a 40-square-meter courtyard that would be seriously hard to find elsewhere!
The apartment is located in a lovely, safe neighbourhood with public transportation just minutes away. The hosts are friendly and responsive, and plenty of bars and restaurants are within walking distance!
Top Things to Do in Saint Gilles
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Be inspired at the Art Nouveau Horta Museum.
- Take a peek inside Horta pre-metro station to see architectural pieces signed by famous architects.
- Enjoy fresh air and greenery at Parc de Forest.
- Spot interesting street art by BONOM, the Belgian Banksy.
- Head to the colourful fruit and veg market at Gare du Midi each Sunday.
- If you’re a cool cat, get yourself to the ‘dam for the day. These guys will take you on a trip to Amsterdam.
- Purchase vintage fashions and unusual apparel in St. Gilles’ many unique boutiques.
- Get in touch with nature at Parc Pierre Paulus, a former private garden and a peaceful haven away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Admire the historic jail; as unusual as it may seem as an attraction, the jail is a Gothic Revival gem.
5. Ixelles – Best Neighborhood in Brussels for Families to Stay In
Ixelles is a trendy neighbourhood with a good selection of shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions. Lakes, parks, and forests are within easy reach, and public transport makes the area well-connected.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
It’s a safe area of Brussels and my winner when it comes to the best neighbourhood for families.
Jardin Secret | Best Hotel in Ixelles
Brussels accommodation doesn’t get much better than Jardin Secret! The garden-themed hotel features a heated swimming pool and also has an on-site restaurant and bar.
The beds are comfy, and the hotel is on a quiet, peaceful Ixelles street. Not far from public transit, restaurants and shops, this hotel is a true hidden find for your Brussels trip!
Chic Surya Loft | Best Airbnb in Ixelles
Not only is this one of the best Airbnbs in Brussels, but it might even be one of the best in Belgium! The incredibly unique design combines modern facilities with splashes of colour, contributing to its overall “zen” atmosphere.
Located in the Ixelles neighbourhood, the space is close to public transit and is perfect for everything from a romantic couple’s getaway to a family group trip.
Top Things to Do in Ixelles
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Enjoy nature at Tenbosch Park.
- Watch a movie in The Flagey building, also known as the paquebot jaune (yellow boat).
- Feed the ducks at the lakes of Étangs d’Ixelles.
- Stroll through the farmers’ market at Chatelain Square on Wednesdays.
- Admire art at the Musée d’Ixelles.
- See the house where Audrey Hepburn was born.
- Feel a sense of serenity at the glorious buildings and gardens of Abbaye de la Cambre.
- Wander through Matongé, the Congolese quarter.
- Pick up designer goods in Ixelles’ many high-class stores on Chaussée d’Ixelles.
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Hide Yo’ Money!Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Brussels and where to stay.
What To Pack For Brussels
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
What area of Brussels is best to stay in?
If you’re visiting Brussels for the first time and budget isn’t a concern, I suggest you stay in Brussels’s centre. For those on a budget or looking for something a little different, I recommend staying in the Marolles. It’s the best place to get your fix of street art, local bars and flea markets.
How many days do you need in Brussels?
A stay in Brussels should be about 2-3 days. Staying for three days will mean you also have some downtime to relax and wander around the city, explore neighbourhoods, and chat with locals. You could even squeeze in a trip to Bruges!
Is Brussels safe?
YES – Brussels is safe for tourists to visit. Brussels has a low crime rate and has a safe atmosphere to it. Despite this, it’s never a bad idea to keep an eye on your personal belongings while travelling and keep your wits about you.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Brussels
It’s always better to be safe than sorry when travelling. Getting insurance for your European travels can help put your mind at ease and protect you from any mishaps on your journey.
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Brussels – the European Union’s Capital – is a great city to explore. Even if it’s only for a weekend, there are many things to discover. I loved my stay in Brussels; I drank many delicious beers and ate one too many waffles while strolling through this fascinating city.
I recommend taking in Brussels’ art nouveau architecture enjoying its famous beer and chocolate, all while exploring a diverse range of neighbourhoods. Brussels is a great place to visit if you’re travelling across Europe by train, plane or automobile. You really should include this capital city in your Europe itinerary.
If you’re still unsure of where to stay, you can’t go wrong with Meininger Bruxelles City Centre, thanks to its central location. This palace is vibey and centrally located so you don’t have to faff with public transport. Unless you want to, in which case the Brussels North Station is just a 3km walk away.
For an iconic (and private) Airbnb stay, Maison Marguerite Brussels Centrum is the best in town! I love checking out peoples homes when I visit somewhere. I feel like it gives you a deeper insight into local life.
Wherever you decide to stay, I’m sure you’ll love Brussels, oui oui! Make sure you gorge yourself on all the culinary delights on offer and you can’t go far wrong.
Have you been to Brussels and think I’ve missed something off this list? I’d love to hear about it – hit me up in the comments!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Belgium.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Brussels.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Brussels instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Brussels to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Brussels is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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