A list of recommended hotels and accommodation to where to stay in Brussels.
Brussels, an often underrated city, is one of my top travel destinations. With its chic atmosphere, charming cafe culture, historic highlights, and art scene, what’s not to love?
Whenever I travel Belgium, I know that a good trip is ahead!
But…finding the right hotel that matches your affordability and unique needs can be tricky, and it’s probably the most essential thing to consider.
So, in this guide, I’ve done the work for you with a list of where to stay in Brussels.
I wanted to take the stressful part out of your travels and allow you to enjoy everything Brussels offers.
Read on whether you’re on a budget, need to stay somewhere central, or want to indulge in a luxury hotel.
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Overview: Best places to stay in Brussels
City Center – Where to stay in Brussels for Central Access
I often prefer to stay in the city center when I explore Brussels for many reasons.
Firstly, you’ll have all the sights on your doorstep, including the Grand Place, the central square that dates back to the 11th century.
It is also ideal for the best day trips from Brussels, as you will find plenty of tourist trip facilitators and it’s close to public transport links.
With its striking allure and UNESCO status, the city center is the perfect place to stay for on-foot exploration and taking in all of the sites!
It’s my number one choice for traditional Belgian food in Brussels. You’ll be inundated with restaurants and foodie gems on every corner.
Other sites you will be near include Manneken Pis and Brussels City Museum. Manneken Pis is a must-see, a small bronze fountain statue and an emblem of the rebellious spirit of Brussels.
If you’re exploring Brussels in 1 day, accommodation in the city is key! Here are my recommendations for where to stay in Brussels city centre.
Best Places to Stay in Brussels City Center
Budget
Vintage Hotel Brussels
Made in Louise
Motel One Brussels
Mid-Range
Thon Hotel Brussels City Center
NH Collection Brussels Center
The Dominican Brussels
Hotel Bloom
Luxury
Steigenberger Wiltcher’s
Sofitel Brussels Le Louise
The Hotel Brussels
OPO Hotel
Saint-Géry – Where to stay in Brussels for Nightlife and Art
For culture seekers, Saint-Géry will appeal to all of your senses; from trendy cafes and dive bars to eclectic art galleries and vibrant nightlife, there’s so much going on here.
I also enjoy meandering around the historical sites, such as the old halls, the square, and Place Sainte-Catherine – an area renowned for its seafood restaurants and church.
If you’re seeking the best neighborhoods in Brussels, Saint-Géry is top of the list.
It is home to some of the most excellent hotels in the city, such as Hotel Saint-Géry by Dandy, with its modern, industrial-style decor and sophisticated restaurant.
Where to stay in Saint-Géry, Brussels
Budget
Bedford Hotel & Congress Centre
Novotel Brussels City Centre
Hostel Bruegel
Urban Yard Hotel
Mid-Range
Hotel Chantecler
Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place
Appartement LA BOURSE
Craves
Something special
LATROUPE Grand Place Hostel
Hôtel La Pièce
Boutique Hotel Saint-Géry
Dansaert Hotel
Luxury
Atlas Hotel Brussels
Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo
L’Epicentre
Résidence-Hotel Le Quinze Grand Place Brussels
Ixelles/Elsene – Where to stay in Brussels for Bohemian Vibes
In my humble opinion, Ixelles is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Brussels. It’s brimming with bohemian charm, and everyone here appreciates the arts.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Brussels for Christmas markets, Ixelles is a good option.
Throughout December, the area has a magical air filled with the festive spirit of locals and tourists alike. There are concerts and other types of festivities to enjoy, too.
Ixelles is known for its beautiful Flagey Square, ponds and gardens, Horta Museum, and Avenue Louise – one of Brussels’s most upscale shopping streets.
There’s also an incredible choice for foodies; the culinary scene is outstanding, with Matongé offering a range of cultural spots reflecting the city’s diversity.
Ixelles is home to some of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Belgium, so there’s more fun when traveling during the festive period!
Where to Stay in Ixelles/Elsene, Brussels
Budget
ibis Brussels Centre Chatelain
Beverly Hills Hotel
Pentahotel Brussels City Centre
Le Berger Hotel
Mid-Range
B&B HOTEL Brussels Centre Louise
Hooome
Golden Dove Luxury Aparts
Zoom Hotel
Something special
Hotel Le Châtelain
Hotel Barsey by Warwick
The Loft
Radisson RED Brussels
Luxury
Chez Morgan
Maison Flagey Brussels
L-Avenue
European Quarter – Best area to stay in Brussels for Business and EU
As you probably already know, Brussels is also a big business hub that draws business people from all over the EU.
I couldn’t write this guide without mentioning that it is also one of the best areas to stay in Brussels as it is one of my favorite neighbourhoods in Brussels.
Take a guided tour of the EU parliament, enjoy the greenery at Parc Leopold, and explore the Residence Palace, which houses the EU’s press center.
There are plenty of non-EU-related things here, including dining out at various international restaurants.
I recommend Renaissance Brussels Hotel for its upscale vibe and spa amenities. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing in the EU quarter.
Best area to stay in European Quarter
Budget
Élégant appartement (quartier européen)
Diamant Suites Brussels EU
Hotel Du Parlement
Guesthouse Marie Therese
Mid-Range
NH Brussels EU Berlaymont
B&B A Côté du Cinquantenaire
De Mot B&B
Urban Suites Brussels Schuman
Something special
Martin’s Brussels EU
Thon Hotel EU
MAS Aparthotel EU
Courtyard by Marriott Brussels EU
Luxury
B&B Home & the City
Pillows City Hotel Brussels Centre
Urbanstay Suites Apartment In Charming Sablon
Marolles – Where to stay in Brussels for Hipsters
Hipsters unite in the quirky streets of Marolles, and it has to be my top pick of places to stay in Brussels.
It is the best area to stay in Brussels for many reasons, too many to fit into one guide in fact!
As a treasure seeker, I am always in my element, wandering the infamous Marolles Flea Market and antique shops along Rue Haute and Rue Blaes.
They are some of the most intriguing I’ve ever come across, and you’re guaranteed to find a genuine Belgian souvenir or two!
Marolles is an excellent place if you’re wondering where to stay in Brussels for tourists.
It has an old-world charm and notable buildings such as Place Poelaert, named after its architect Joseph Poelaert and Palais de Justice, an ex-courthouse.
This area is truly one of the best place to stay in Brussels.
Where to stay in Marolles, Brussels
Budget
ibis Hotel Brussels Centre Gare du Midi
Hotel Le Centenaire Brussels Expo
Hotel Expo
Mid-Range
Atomihotel
Smart Appart – Gare Du Midi
Aparthotel Midi Residence
MEININGER Hotels Bruxelles City Center
Luxury
Steigenberger Icon Wiltcher’s
Le Louise Hotel Brussels – MGallery
Résidence Palace Expo
Saint-Josse-ten-Noode – Best place to stay in Brussels for budget travelers
If your budget is limited, worry not. Brussels may seem flashy on its exterior, but plenty of affordable areas remain.
Saint-Josse-ten-Noode is my recommendation for a budget choice.
Aside from its value-for-money accommodation, the community here is vibrant and culturally diverse.
There is the Rogier Square, Parc Botanique, and many local markets. The area is one of the most exciting neighborhoods in Brussels!
Unraveling the layers of interest in this lovely neighborhood is so much fun. If you want to know where to stay in Brussels first time and on budget, you can choose below.
Where to Stay in Saint-Josse-ten-Noode
Budget
Hostel Van Gogh
Hotel Retro
Progress Hotel
Thon Hotel Brussels City Centre
Uccle/Ukkel – Best neighborhood to stay in Brussels for Upscale Vibes
Now, for upscale hotels in Brussels, you should stay in Uccle. This gorgeous area is residential, peaceful, and an eye treat.
First, this is the best area to stay in Brussels for parks and green spaces. In the summer, pack a picnic and head to Wolvendael Park, which also houses an old castle.
These are great accommodation as to where to stay in Brussels for one night.
It is also great for cultural events and galleries, so if you want to know more about Belgian ways of living, this is an excellent place to stay.
Where to Stay in Uccle/Ukkel
Luxury
LOFT BAHYA
Guest house La Maison Chantecler
Etterbeek – Where to stay in Brussels for families
Brussels has several suitable neighborhoods for families, including Etterbeek, a residential area.
Here, you’ll find the Autoworld Museum, great for keeping the kids entertained with its collection of vintage cars, and Parc du Cinquantenaire, an excellent public park.
Etterbeek is the perfect place if you’re thinking about where to stay in Brussels with family. It’s quiet has plenty of amenities and cultural attractions!
Where to Stay in Etterbeek
Budget
Studio Alicia
Cosy Apartment Merode 2
Mid-Range
Studios idéalement situés – EU
Best Western Plus Park Hotel Brussels
Holiday Inn Brussels Schuman, an IHG Hotel
Something special
House of Mima
Appartement Roi Vainqueur
B&B A Côté du Cinquantenaire
B&B Place Jourdan
Tips for Choosing Accommodation in Brussels
I hope you have found the list of recommendations for the best places to stay in Brussels helpful. In addition to your budget, there are a few other things to consider before your stay.
I’ve created a short checklist for you so that you can choose the right accommodation for your trip:
Public transportation
Getting around Brussels is relatively easy given its fantastic transport links. However, you might want to avoid walking too much on foot if you’ve got little ones.
Be sure to check out where the metro stations are near your accommodation and consider taxi fares if you’re staying in the suburbs.
Parking
If you’re hiring a car like I enjoy doing, you should check if parking comes with the accommodation.
If not, you might be in a tricky situation or face a penalty fare for parking somewhere unsuitable.
Amenities and sights
Research the area you’re thinking of staying in before committing to a booking.
You should ensure plenty of amenities around, including shops, places to eat, and sights, mainly if you’re staying in a serviced apartment and cooking some of your meals.
Budget
This is an obvious and probably the most important factor. Brussels has a rep for being quite an expensive city.
Therefore, I advise that you budget accordingly and choose an accommodation that aligns with what you can afford.
As you can see from my list, there are many options, and sometimes an apartment could be more suitable than a hotel or B&B.
Your decision about where to stay in Brussels depends on your budget, but this doesn’t mean you can’t find suitable accommodation for cheap!
Accommodation type
To expand on the point above, you should review the various types of accommodation and think ahead of practicalities.
There are options if you want to visit specific sights but want to self-cater. Likewise, if you want to not worry about cooking and prefer luxury, there are many luxury hotels.
My final thoughts on where to stay in Brussels
Brussels has so much to offer and is one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium. It also offers a range of diverse neighborhoods and excellent hiking trails near Brussels itself.
From the creative energy of Marollen to the upscale intrigue of the EU Quarter and, of course, the Brussels city center’s bustling cultural hotspot, the destination has something for all.
Before you pack your bags, use my guide for accommodation above. My curated list has been created with all types of travelers in mind.
And you can rest assured that all of the recommendations have been checked out by me so that you can simply enjoy the beauty of exploring!
Hola! I am Paulina, a fervent travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, you’ll find all the tips to make the most of your holiday. Get ready to enjoy outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling or sailing. Let’s hit the road together!
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