Brussels is not a very big city, but choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference in your trip. Each neighborhood has its own atmosphere, from the tourist hustle and bustle of the Grand Place to the elegance of Louise or the alternative environment of Saint-Géry. The good news is that the city has options for all tastes and budgets, although prices can be high if you do not book in advance.
In this post we tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of each area so that you can find the perfect accommodation according to your travel style and what you want to see in Brussels.
🛏️Ghent or Brussels?
If you are still undecided, take a look at our article with the best cities in the world. Where to stay in Belgium.
Our lodging option ⭐
We decided to stay at this hotel after a lot of research. Brussels area as we were only staying for a couple of days and did not want to waste a lot of time on public transportation. From here you can walk to the main tourist sites except for the European quarter and the Atomium (which will always be far from any accommodation).
It is a recommended area 100% because it is very close to the center and at the same time it is quite quiet. In our case we also went there during the Christmas markets This area is very close to Plaza De Brouckère, where there is a small but very convenient one.
- Recommended apartment in this area: Stilias Apartment City Center.
Grand Place
If you want to be in the heart of Brussels, this is the place. The Grand Place and surroundings are the most touristic part of the city, with cobblestone streets, historic buildings and an enormous offer of restaurants, bars and stores.
✅ Advantages
- Unbeatable location You are just a few steps away from the main tourist attractions.
- Good transportation connection Near the central station and several streetcar and subway lines.
- Lively atmosphere There is always life, day and night.
❌ Disadvantages
- High prices Lodging here costs more than in other neighborhoods.
- A lot of tourism can be overwhelming, especially in high season.
- Noise The streets are lively until late, which can be a problem if you are looking for tranquility.
Average price: €€€
The price of a decent hotel is around 150-200€ per night Although you can find more affordable options if you book in advance. For more exclusive accommodations, prices can exceed the 250€.
Sablón Neighborhood
The Sablon neighborhood is an ideal option if you like a elegant and quiet environment but without going too far from the center. It is an area known for its chocolate shops, antique stores and the beautiful Place du Grand Sablon.
✅ Advantages
- Less touristy than downtown The hotel is still close to the Grand Place (a 10-15 minute walk), but without the constant bustle.
- Good atmosphere The streets are beautiful, the buildings are elegant and there are many quality cafes and pastry shops.
- Perfect for chocolate lovers Here are some of the best chocolate shops in Brussels, such as Pierre Marcolini and Neuhaus.
❌ Disadvantages.
- Less nightlife If you are looking for bars and parties, this neighborhood is not the liveliest.
- Limited accommodations There are fewer hotels and tourist apartments than in other areas.
Average price: €€
The prices here are similar to those in the center, with hotels around the 130-180 per night. The boutique accommodations may be a bit more expensive, but the area makes up for it with its tranquility and charm.
European Quarter
If you are looking for a modern and quiet area The European Quarter can be a good option. This is where the main institutions of the European Union are located, so it is a neighborhood full of offices It also has nice parks and some interesting bars and restaurants.
✅ Advantages.
- Lower prices than in the center hotels are usually more affordable and of good quality.
- Well communicated The city center is served by several subway and streetcar lines that take you quickly to the center.
- Green areas Brussels Park and Leopold Park are perfect for strolling.
❌ Disadvantages.
- More office environment During the week there is movement, but on weekends it can seem a bit empty.
- Less charm than other neighborhoods The area is functional, without the architecture or the lively atmosphere of the center.
Average price: €€
Hotels here are usually around 100-150 per night The city offers cheaper options in aparthotels or accommodations designed for business travelers.
Saint-Gilles (Near the train station)
Saint-Gilles is a neighborhood with a lot of personality, known for its artistic and multicultural environment. It is also a practical area if you are planning to take trains to other cities, since it is close to the Gare du Midi Brussels' main station.
✅ Advantages.
- Strategic location Perfect if you are traveling by train to other cities such as Bruges, Ghent or Antwerp.
- More affordable Accommodation prices are lower than in the center of the city.
- Alternative environment: a lot of cultural life, markets and interesting bars.
❌ Disadvantages.
- Surroundings of the station not very recommendable The area right next to the Gare du Midi is neither the safest nor the most pleasant, especially at night.
- Somewhat distant from the center It will take you about 20-30 minutes on foot to the Grand Place, although public transportation is available.
Average price: €
Here you can find hotels for 80-130€ per night The price is much cheaper than in the center. There are also many options of tourist apartments at competitive prices.
Ixelles neighborhood
Ixelles is one of the most interesting areas to stay in Brussels. It is a lively neighborhood It has a lot of gastronomic offer, bars with good atmosphere and a mixture of historical and modern buildings. It is especially popular with students and expatriates which gives it an international flair.
✅ Advantages.
- Young and lively atmosphere Many bars, cafes and restaurants with cuisine from all over the world.
- Beautiful walking areas The Avenue Louise, the ponds of Ixelles and the African neighborhood of Matongé give it a lot of personality.
- Good connection to the center15-20 minutes by public transportation or half an hour walking.
❌ Disadvantages.
- Away from the main tourist attractions It is not the most central neighborhood, although it is still well connected.
- Some neglected corners Some areas, such as Matongé, can seem a bit chaotic if you don't like the multicultural vibe.
Average price: €
Prices in Ixelles vary considerably depending on the area. A standard hotel costs between 100-160 per night There are cheaper options in hostels and tourist apartments.
Saint-Géry district
If you want to stay in an area with a lot of nightlife Saint-Géry is a great choice. This neighborhood, located very close to the center, is full of trendy bars, restaurants and cafes. It is one of the liveliest areas of Brussels, especially at night.
✅ Advantages.
- Central location The hotel is only a few minutes walk from the Grand Place.
- Perfect area to go out: many bars and locals with a good atmosphere.
- Modern style is a neighborhood with a more alternative and youthful feel, with designer stores and cool cafes.
❌ Disadvantages.
- Noise at night If you are looking for tranquility, this is not your neighborhood.
- Somewhat high prices The Grand Place: Although it is not as expensive as the Grand Place, it is not one of the cheapest areas.
Average price: €€
Hotels in this area usually cost between 120-180€ per night with some tourist apartments at similar prices.
Louise's Neighborhood
The Louise neighborhood is one of the most elegant areas of Brussels. Here you will find wide avenues, luxury stores and high-end hotels. It is a more residential and quiet area, but still well connected to the center.
✅ Advantages.
- Safe and elegant area ideal if you are looking for a more sophisticated accommodation.
- Good transport connections The tramway and the subway take you quickly to the center.
- Perfect for shopping The main street: many fashion boutiques and exclusive boutiques on Louise Avenue.
❌ Disadvantages.
- High prices is one of the most expensive areas to stay in.
- Less tourist environment There are not so many attractions nearby, so you will have to move around more.
Average price: €€€
Hotels here usually cost between 150-250€ per night with many luxury and boutique options.
Tips for finding good accommodation in Brussels
Staying in Brussels can be expensive, but with a little planning it is possible to find options that fit your budget and needs. Here are some useful tips:
Book in advance
Brussels is a city with a lot of demand, both for tourism and business. If you want to find decent prices, it is best to book several months in advance, especially in high season.
Look carefully at the location
Although the city is not very big, some neighborhoods may be more remote or less well connected. If your priority is sightseeing, the ideal is to stay in the center or in well-connected areas such as the European Quarter.
Check nearby public transportation
If you are staying outside the center, make sure there is a metro, streetcar or bus station nearby. Brussels has good public transportation, but some areas may be less well connected or less safe at night.
Read recent reviews
Before booking, check reviews on platforms such as Booking or Google Maps. Look for comments about cleanliness, noise and safety, as photos of accommodations can sometimes be misleading.
Consider apartments or Airbnb
If you are traveling in a group or want to save on meals, an apartment may be a more economical option than a hotel.
Avoid the immediate area around the Gare du Midi.
While it is tempting to stay near the station for excursions, the area around the Gare du Midi is not the best area to stay. It can be unsafe at night and doesn't have much appeal.
If you want to read other articles ideal for your trip that complement Where to sleep in Brussels you can visit our posts about Belgium.
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