Brussels and I have a complicated relationship: I don’t mean to go back, but it just seems to keep drawing me back. As a result, I’ve stayed at various hostels and hotels all around Brussels. To cover a few other places, I’ve asked fellow travel bloggers on their picks for where to stay in Brussels.
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What to keep in mind about staying in Brussels
Brussels is a fairly large city and depending on your reason for visiting, you’ll want to be conscious of where you stay. If you’re only sightseeing, staying in the Centre might be better, however if you’re visiting for business or something that doesn’t require staying in the Brussels Centre, you’ll have more options.
Public transportation in Brussels is clean, easy, and simple to use. As a result, you don’t miss much by staying in the outer areas. We stayed in Brussels for nearly three weeks in between visas in the Jette area, a residential area on the outskirts. Simply, don’t be afraid to stay outside of the center as there’s some great neighborhoods in Brussels that you’ll want to stay in. I’ll be discussing them below.
If you’re traveling over a weekend, you’re likely to save money if you’re looking for a hotel with amenities as many business hotels reduce their rates over the weekend, which is how I ended up staying at a nice hotel on my recent trip to Brussels for a fraction of the normal rate!
Where to stay in Brussels for every budget
Sleep Well
This boutique hostel that I stayed at prior to an embassy appointment has a central location only ten minutes on foot from Grand Place. The hostel has a modern look and feel with a spacious lobby with ample room to sit out having a Belgian beer and/or playing board games.
Their reception is 24/7, so you don’t need to worry about locking yourself out as well as a nice bar with board games. For those traveling on a budget, this centrally located hotel/hostel is a great option if you’re looking for something clean yet basic.
Vintage Sweet Home Brussels Basilica
We stayed here for almost three weeks while waiting for our French visas. This spacious apartment was super cozy and felt like home almost instantly. Our host Flor was insanely kind and I loved the amenities from the lovely garden to the full kitchen.
This apartment is located in Jette, about twenty minutes by metro from the Center, with easy access to great supermarkets and shops. Our favorite supermarket was the Tatlim supermarket, which stocked a great selection of fruits and vegetables along with a great assortment of international food. Unlike staying in the Centre, we really felt like a local here–and this apartment was perfect for a longer stay.
Hotel Neufchatel
We stayed at Hotel Neufchatel, a 3* star hotel in Brussels, just outside of the trendy Ixelles neighborhood on one of my recent trips to Brussels. For a reasonable price, we had a clean spacious room, a delicious free buffet breakfast, and an easy walk (25 minutes) to Centre.
Just fifteen minutes from the hotel, we enjoyed delicious Belgian beers at supra bailly without the crowds of center. The whole Saint Gilles / Châtelain area was very picturesque to walk around.
Check prices at Hotel Neufchatel now!
9 Central
9 Central is a cozy hotel just footsteps from Brussels Centraal is located in a historic townhouse is modern and clean with thoughtful touches, including a coffee machine that you can use downstairs. If you don’t have long in Brussels–and intend to visit Antwerp (or another Belgian city) on a day trip, this hotel has an ideal location.
Check prices at 9 Central now!
The Dominican
The Dominican was recommended to me by a friend. This
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Martin’s Brussels EU
On my last trip to Brussels, I ended up getting a reduced rate for this 4* business-friendly hotel located around the corner from the European Commission as I traveled over a holiday weekend. (They offer discounts over the weekend as well!) My room even had a view of the EU commission–and it was very easy catching the metro into the city center.
I appreciated the modern touches, spacious bathtub, and the bar downstairs that allowed you take what you wanted and pay later with the honor system. The bed was very comfortable, most important of all.
Check prices at Martin’s Brussels EU now!
Novotel Brussels Off Grand Place
Hotel Novotel Brussels Off Grand Place also has a restaurant serving lunch and dinner, Gourmet Bar for those who are might want to stay in for food.
I’d highly recommend this hotel especially for those first timer to Brussels for its excellent location, as well as good value for money for a 4-star hotel right in the central of the city. Thanks to Alison.
Check prices at the Novotel now!
Hotel Manos Premier
This 5* star boutique family-run hotel has all the trappings of a luxury boutique hotel: a stunning spa inspired by the Alhambra, a stunning dining room, beautiful antique decorations, and a location just walking distance from the chic Avenue Louise where you’ll find Brussels most luxurious shopping.
Check prices at Manos Premier now!
Do you have a favorite place to stay in Brussels? Tell me in the comments?
Karen, your post was like walking down memory lane for me. It reminded me of my trip to the Grand Canyon last summer – your vivid descriptions brought those breathtaking views back to life. Just curious, have you ever tried rock climbing there? Also, I wonder how you’d compare it to Yellowstone? Adding a comparison could paint a broader picture for readers. And to those who are contemplating a visit, I can’t stress enough the importance of carrying the right gear. Being prepared made all the difference in my experience. Karen, thanks for this nostalgic ride, I can’t wait to read your take on other natural treasures!