Darija Stojanovic 
Looking for where to stay in Brussels? I’ve got you covered! I’ve spent weeks in this vibrant city over the years and know all the BEST places to stay for tourists!
The City Center is the best area to stay in Brussels for first-timers. This is where all the main attractions are located and where you can try the most delicious moules frites!
Read this post because not only will you learn everything about the most tourist-friendly areas in Brussels, but you will also be able to book your ideal accommodation in just a couple of minutes. How? Well, I went ahead and compared all hotels in the city and hand-picked the best of the best and sorted them by area and prices.
This way you can find YOUR ideal place fast, you are welcome!
Oh, and don’t forget to book your stay in advance to secure the best deals in Brussels! The city is the capital of the EU, and the hotels here can get fully booked depending on the season.
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Check out my list of the best hotels in the Brussels City Center, the best neighborhood for first-timers:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. City Center – where to stay in Brussels for first-timers
- 2. Ixelles – best area in Brussels for young travelers
- 3. Saint Gilles – the trendiest place to stay in Brussels
- 4. Sablon & Marolles – where to stay for foodies
- 5. Avenue Laouise – where to stay on a budget + shopping
- 6. EU District / Schuman – best for business
- BONUS: Best hotels near Brussels Airport (BRU)
- FAQs about best places to stay in Brussels
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a map of the best areas where you can stay in Brussels that I will cover in this post:
- Where to stay in Brussels for the first time – City Center
- Best neighborhood for nightlife – Sablon, Ixelles, City Center
- Where to stay in Brussels for shopping – Avenue Louise
- The trendiest place to stay – Saint Gilles
- Best neighborhood to stay on a budget – Avenue Louise
- The top area to stay for business – European quarter
1. City Center – where to stay in Brussels for first-timers
The City Center is the best area to stay for first-time visitors! It’s the historic center with the best of architecture, nightlife, tourist attractions, and restaurants!
The star of the historic center is Brussels Grand Place, which is now home to delicious restaurants, shops, and some of the most Insta-perfect locations!
La Grand-Place is referenced all the way back in the 12th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site! It is testimony to the success of Brussels throughout the ages, and it’s a real sight to see!
Don’t forget to take a pic of the stars of Brussels, Manneken Pis (Peeing Boy), and his female counterpart, the Jeanneke-Pis (Peeing girl)!
The City Center is also where you’ll find the gorgeous St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral dating from the 16th century! St Géry is a great spot to hang out at night, while Les Galeries Royales Saint-Huber is the perfect place for shopping!
Brussels City Center is perfect if you’re staying for one night or plan day trips. The Brussels Central Station is here, making it convenient to get around or visit other Belgian cities (check out my ultimate guide for where to stay in Bruges!).
And for the ultimate beer-tasting experience, head to the Delirium Café near Grand Place! I’ve been there, and I can tell you, this place is CRAZY! They have over 2,000 beers you can try (they even hold the Guinness Record for it!)
Presenting an elegant and unique 5-star hotel with a restaurant and family rooms. Enjoy the scenic view of the Belgian streets on the rooftop terrace, or head down to the bar for a glass of wine. The Bourse Metro is within walking distance.
Other accommodation options in the City Centre
ibis Hotel Brussels off Grand’Place
Modern hotel featuring cozy rooms and a bar situated just next to the Central Station, ideal if you’re staying for one night
A well-equipped hotel with modern amenities and a convenient location (9 minutes from the Central Station) perfect for budget travelers
This studio apartment is a lovely place to stay in the city center, and it offers a kitchen and paid parking spots
Things to do in the City Centre
- Dive into the history of chocolate at Choco-Story Brussels Museum
- Snap a pic in front of the Pissing Boy statue
- Climb the flowerful Mont des Arts and admire the landscape
- Learn about the city at the Brussels City Museum
- Feel like a kid again at the Royal Puppet Theater Toone
- Take a mini trip to the Atomium and Mini-Europe
2. Ixelles – best area in Brussels for young travelers
Located 3 km (2 miles) from the Brussels City Center and the Grand Place, this neighborhood is one of the best places to stay in Brussels for the balance of green spaces, tranquility, and nightlife.
Here, you can admire the Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture, go shopping, visit art galleries, and more. Popular attractions in the area include the medieval Abbaye de la Cambre, the Ixelles Museum, and the lovely Tenbosch Park.
This is also the birthplace of the famous actress Audrey Hepburn (Breakfast at Tiffany’s fans will love this)!
Ixelles attracts all kinds of travelers, from first time visitors to backpackers, to those visiting with families. It is also the home of 2 universities, meaning there are affordable bars and restaurants here.
Chatelain is a great place to eat out and explore the local night scene. Don’t miss out on the pancakes in the iconic POZ Chatelain brunch place!
If you’re in the mood for a trip, Brussels-Luxembourg Railway Station is right there too!
By the way, I highly recommend you visit Lille, a beautiful town with some of the best places to stay! You can learn more about the best accommodation options in Lille by reading my travel guide here.
NOTE: Ixelles is a HUGE area! If you plan on making frequent trips to the city center, you better avoid staying too far south in Ixelles!
The interior designer of one of the most expensive hotels in Ixelles went all in with this one! Enjoy fine dining at the restaurant and late summer nights on the terrace! There’s a fitness center on-site and parking spots for a fee. Most importantly, the hotel is centrally located!
Other accommodation options in Ixelles
Drink your coffee on the terrace of one of the best hotels in the area that offers breakfast
B&B Hotel Brussels Center Louise
I love the design of this centrally located hotel with family rooms, flat screen TVs, a beautiful garden view, and free Wi-Fi
A modern apartment suitable for couples featuring a fully-equipped kitchen and a terrace overlooking Brussels rooftops
Things to do in Ixelles
- Check out the Art Nouveau buildings like Hôtel Solvay
- Visit the medieval Abbaye de la Cambre
- Enjoy a relaxing walk by the Ixelles Ponds
- Pass by the birthplace of the famous Audrey Hepburn
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3. Saint Gilles – the trendiest place to stay in Brussels
Located 3 km (2 miles) southwest of the Brussels City Center and the Grand Place, this neighborhood is well known for its amazing Art Nouveau architecture (check out the Place Louis Morichar!), train station, and cool art galleries.
Porte de Halle is the most popular museum in the area, and it’s a super cool monument to the medieval city of Brussels!
The atmosphere is laid back and attractive to writers, painters, and actors. Staying here will feel like you’re in a village rather than a city!
La Gare du Midi (South Railway Station) here will help you easily reach other parts of the city and will take you places in Europe.
The Midi district has a bohemian vibe just like the rest of the neighborhood, and you can find many young people chilling around! Just be careful not to walk alone around the area at night.
Everyone raves about the multicultural cuisine of Brussels Saint Gilles! Fernand Obb Delicatessen makes the most legendary shrimp croquettes, so make sure to try them yourself!
If you’re wondering where to stay in Brussels for Louis XIV-style luxury, this hotel is it! The air conditioned rooms in Louise Sur Cour have a beautiful vintage design and large windows. You can chill in the lounge of your room before visiting Brussels attractions. The accommodation also offers air-conditioned rooms with deluxe bathrooms.
Other accommodation options in Saint Gilles
A boutique hotel with beautiful rooms and flat screen TVs just a short walk from Avenue Louise
This Saint Gilles hotel is well-equipped and has good prices; they offer a great breakfast, too
A cool place that has lots of space, a kitchen, and is near the train station
Things to do in Saint Gilles
- Check out the Horta Museum for art nouveau at its finest!
- Catch a Belgian sunset at the Forest Park in Brussels Saint Gilles
- Admire the architecture of the Church of Saint Gilles
- Explore Saint Gilles street art
- See the fabulous stained glass windows in the Horta pre-metro station
- Plan day trips from the Brussels South Station
4. Sablon & Marolles – where to stay for foodies
These 2 neighboring areas are located south of the Brussels City Center and Grand Place, just 2 km (1 mile) away. Sablon and Marolles (or Marollen) combine 2 of my favorite things: affordable hotels and chocolate!
Near the historic Grand Sablon Square (Place du Grand Sablon), you’ll find the Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon, also known as the Eglise Notre Dame du Sablon. It’s a beautiful piece of Gothic architecture well worth the visit!
You’ll also find the well-known flea market every Sunday, along with fine examples of street art.
Overall, the area has a local vibe and vibrant nightlife, especially along Rue Haute and around Notre Dame de la Chapelle! And when you’re tired from all the bar hopping, you can relax in Egmont Park and Palace’s gardens!
This area is also known as Zavel, and it’s a paradise for foodies visiting Brussels, as you’ll find cute waffle stands and delicious chocolate shops.
Belgium accounts for 11% of the worldwide export of chocolate! You’d better not miss Pierre Marcolini, the most popular chocolate shop around!
Other than chocolate, macarons and ice creams are their most popular desserts!
Sablon is one of the best places to stay in Brussels for Christmas, too! It’s packed with Christmas markets, and the atmosphere is just lovely!
A luxurious place to stay in Brussels with a unique view of the city right from your bed! Located in one of the tallest buildings in town, this hotel offers a gym and a bar. Enjoy a delicious meal at the restaurant and relax in the spa center all day!
Other accommodation options in Sablon & Marolles
Order room service and enjoy the city views at this mid-range hotel that has a bar, a restaurant, and tea-making facilities
Budget travelers will be happy about the prices of this hostel with a very central location and family rooms
A cozy and well-equipped apartment with 2 rooms, a kitchen, and paid parking spots
Things to do in Sablon & Marolles
- Buy cool souvenirs at great prices in the Marolles flea market
- Visit the Church of Our Lady of Victories near Grand Sablon Square
- Walk around the Royal Palace of Brussels
- Admire the art at the Musée Magritte
- Taste the delicious sweets at Passion Chocolat
- Visit Grand Sablon Square, the historic center of the area
5. Avenue Laouise – where to stay on a budget + shopping
Avenue Louise and the European Quarter are two of the most modern Brussels neighborhoods, but Avenue Louise is a great spot if you’re looking for affordable hotels! This major shopping street is located south of the Brussels City Center and Grand Place, just 3 km (2 miles) away.
This area is filled with all sorts of boutiques, including Chanel and Dior, eclectic restaurants, and beautiful examples of Art Nouveau buildings.
Don’t forget to visit Palais du Justice while you’re here!
One of the biggest attractions in the neighborhood is probably the Phoenix 44 bronze sculpture, made by Olivier Strebelle, which celebrates the commemoration of Brussels’ liberation.
Swim all day in the indoor pool in one of the most luxurious hotels where you can stay in Brussels! Perfect for a romantic getaway to Brussels, this accommodation has a restaurant and a bar! Enjoy a romantic breakfast in your room and admire the stunning city views!
Other accommodation options in Avenue Louise
Warm up by the fire pit and enjoy a delicious breakfast in the garden of this hotel which features a bar and modern rooms
This well-equipped hotel will make you feel like you’re at home; it offers breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and great prices
With lots of space and an incredible view of Brussels, this apartment offers 2 rooms and a kitchen
Things to do in Avenue Louise
- Eat at the luxurious Gazzetta Restaurant on Rue de la Longue Haie
- Go shopping in all the high-end stores on Avenue Louise
- Check the Art Nouveau architecture of the Hôtel Tassel
- Visit the Constantin Meunier Museum (entrance is free!)
6. EU District / Schuman – best for business
If you’re coming to town for a suit-and-tie experience, The EU District is the place to be! Home to the Le Berlaymont government building and the European Parliament, the European Quarter attracts business people, politicians, and journalists from across Europe.
You can visit the Parlamentarium for a better grasp of how the EU Parliament works or learn more about the Old Continent at the House of European History.
Place Lux or Place du Luxembourg is the perfect base to start exploring the European Quarter. Other popular spots for when you want to breathe in fresh air or relax include the Parc Leopold and Bois de la Cambre Park.
A luxurious 5-star hotel with all the modern amenities you could need for a comfortable stay: a sauna, a bar, a restaurant, and a 24-hour gym. Their parking has secured electric chargers. The rooms are spacious and have a royal feel.
Other accommodation in European Quarter
A fabulous hotel 400 meters from the EU Commission building; a fitness center, room service, and electric car chargers are available
A budget hotel with basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and cozy rooms
Things to do in the European Quarter
- Stroll down the Parc du Cinquantenaire
- Learn about the world in the Museum of Natural Sciences
- Grab a dessert at the iconic Meli Delicatessen
- Take a guided tour of the EU Parliament in Espace Léopold
| 👑 Luxury price: | €200 |
| 🏨 Mid-range: | €150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €90 |
| 📍Best area: | City Center |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | ibis Hotel Brussels off Grand’Place |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | easyHotel Brussels |
BONUS: Best hotels near Brussels Airport (BRU)
If you’re staying in Brussels for a short time or have an early/late flight, you can pick a hotel near Brussels Airport (BRU) to make your trip and commute easier!
I’ve cherry-picked 3 best hotels and sorted them by budget, so you can just grab your favorite and go:
- Luxury: Sheraton Brussels Airport Hotel – A luxury stay just next door to the main gate of the airport, you can literally walk from your room to the entrance! The rooms here are fabulous and soundproof, so you can have a good night’s sleep before or after your flight!
- Mid-range: Crowne Plaza Brussels Airport – This hotel has tons of room setups for all types of travelers, a free airport shuttle, and free wellness facilities – everything you need and more for a comfortable stay near the airport!
- Budget: Novotel Brussels Airport – This 3-star hotel has a reliable airport shuttle, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, and a buffet breakfast (surcharge). They also have fully refundable room rates in case you make changes to your trip!
FAQs about best places to stay in Brussels
🇧🇪 Which is the best area to stay in Brussels?
The City Center is among the best neighborhoods in Brussels, especially if you’re staying for one night. This is where you’ll find all the attractions, amazing nightlife, and the best Brussels hotels.
🙅 Where should I NOT stay in Brussels?
Areas to avoid in Brussels include Quartier Nord, Mantonge, Molenbeek, and Anneessens. These 4 areas are considered less safe overall, so I recommend you ignore them while searching for where to stay in Brussels.
📅 Is 2 days enough in Brussels?
Yes. However, I suggest adding one more day to experience the city to the fullest and explore its hidden gems.
🧐 Where is the main square in Brussels?
The main square (also known as Grand Place) is located in the City Center, one of Brussels’s best areas to stay for first timers. If you want to stay close to Grand Place, book a room at the Warwick Brussels.
🎄 Where is the best place to stay in Brussels for Christmas markets?
Place Sainte Catherine in the City Center is where to stay in Brussels for Christmas markets! Good luxury hotels nearby are Novotel and Hotel Le Dixseptième, while Citadines Sainte Catherine is the best budget choice.
🚶 Is Brussels a walkable city?
Absolutely! Brussels is one of the most walkable cities in the world! Most Brussels attractions are within walking distance, and you only have to climb the hilly routes on rare occasions.
🚖 Is Uber safe to use in Brussels?
Uber in Brussels is safe, but it’s not the most convenient way to get around. Bolt and TaxisVerts are better apps that have more drivers (therefore, fewer waiting times).
💲 What is the cheapest area to stay in Brussels?
The cheapest area to stay is Saint Gilles, but you can find cheap accommodation in Brussels everywhere, including the City Center! If you’re wondering where to stay in Brussels on a budget, Sleep Well Youth Hostel is a great choice.
Conclusion
You’ve made it to the end of my Brussels guide! Hopefully, you now have an idea about where to stay in Brussels!
I included only the best areas and the highest-rated hotels to make your trip planning easier and ensure you only see the best of Brussels!
There are many amazing hotels in this post! If you still don’t have your favorite, I’ll share 2 of mine that are located in the City Center, the best area to stay in Brussels:
- Rocco Forte Hotel – an elegant hotel with unique city views
- The Scott Hotel Brussels – a modern hotel located near Avenue Louise
Whether you’re using Brussels as a base for day trips or plan a longer stay, book your hotel in advance because rooms here can get fully booked throughout the year!
Leave me a comment if you have any questions or just want to talk about that weird Manneken Pis statue!
Have fun visiting Brussels!
Darija
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