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I’ll be honest. Brussels wasn’t always at the top of my travel list. It felt like one of those cities you pass through on the way to somewhere else. But the second I stepped onto its cobblestone streets and smelled warm waffles in the air, I knew I’d underestimated it. I also know that my accommodations played a big role in enjoying the city. Everything you need to know on where to stay in Brussels is below!
Brussels is a city of contradictions in the best way. It’s part elegant European capital, part quirky overachiever, where comic book murals share street corners with centuries-old cathedrals, and beer menus read longer than most novels. It’s a place that doesn’t try too hard, which makes discovering its charm all the more satisfying.
When to Visit Brussels
- Summer (June-August): Warmed weather of the year, and many festivals to attend. Beware of higher prices and larger crowds
- Fall (September-October): Fewer crowds, beautiful foliage, and there’s still plenty of festivals to attend.
- Winter (November-February): Snowy scenes, cozy vibes, and Brussels goes all out for Christmas if you want to check out the Christmas Markets.
- Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, longer daylight hours, and gardens and parks will be in full bloom.
What to know before you Visit
Local Language: Brussels is officially bilingual (French and Dutch), but English is widely spoken.
Transportation: The metro is clean and efficient, but the city is walkable and fun to explore on foot. You can easily grab a day pass or a MOBIB card. If you prefer biking, download the Villo app! It’s a bike-sharing system.
How to get to Brussels
Getting to Brussels is surprisingly easy—whether you’re coming from within Europe or flying in from abroad, it’s one of those well-connected cities that takes the travel stress down a notch.
Flying to Brussels (BRU) or (CRL)
Brussels Airport (BRU) is the main international hub and just 20 minutes from the city center by train. Once you land, follow the signs to the train station inside the airport—it’s super straightforward, and trains run frequently to Brussels Central, Midi, and Nord stations.
If you’re flying on a budget airline, you might land at Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) instead. It’s farther out (about an hour away), but shuttle buses to the city center are easy to book in advance.
Direct flights options direct from the United States:
- Year-round, daily flights from New Jersey (Newark) to Brussels (CRL) departing times vary by season but all are red-eye flights.
- Daily flights from New York (JFK) to Brussels (CRL) departing at 6:10pm ET and arrives 7:40am local time
- Daily flights from Washington D.C. (IAD) to Brussels (CRL) departing at 5:35pm ET and arrives 7:15am local time
- Daily flights from Chicago (ORD) to Brussels (CRL) departing around 5:50pm CT and arriving at 9am local time.
Traveling to Brussels By Train
If you’re already in Europe, take the train. Training is always my favorite option once I’m in Europe. It’s usually the best cost efficient option as well as time efficient. Brussels is a major stop on high-speed rail lines, meaning you can get there in under 2 hours from many major cities.
You’ll likely arrive at Brussels Midi Station (Bruxelles-Midi), the city’s main transit hub, but you can transfer easily to Central or Nord depending on where you’re staying.
Travel times from major cities:
- Paris: ~2 hours
- London: ~2 hours
- Amsterdam: ~2 hours
Where to Stay in Brussels
Brussels City Center (Historic Core)
Best for: First-time visitors, sightseeing ease
Right at the heart of the city”with landmarks like Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and major museums. This neighborhood is an effortless choice for easy walking and endless people watching.
Hotel recommendations for Brussels City Center:
- Budget: Dansaert Hotel – A hotel for under $100 within a city center is always a great deal.
- Solo: La Bourse Hotel – For under $100, this highly rated hotel has a 24-hour front desk, making it feel safe for any solo traveler.
- Hostel: Latroupe Grance Place Hostel – I was able to rent a locker to keep my belongings stored before check in, and you can check in online beforehand so the process is very quick in person. I stayed in an all female four-person dorm, which had one toilet and one shower to share. The bunks were comfy, I rented a towel for $1, and shampoo and body wash were provided. Events were happening each eve downstairs that were great options if you’re looking to connect with other travelers.
- Mid-range: ALMA Grand Place Hotel – Another great location in the heart of the city without compromising on comfort!
- Splurge: Residence-Hotel Le Quinze Grand Place – It would be extremely difficult to beat the view from this hotel. Although classified a splurge, it’s under $200 per night!
Sablon
Best for: Chic luxury, galleries, chocolate lovers
Elegant and tranquil, Sablon is high-end yet comfortably central. Known for antiques, art galleries, Gothic charm, and top-tier chocolatiers. Ideal if luxe meets culture is your travel mood.
Hotel recommendations for Sablon:
- Budget: Villa Sablon – The king bed room is under $100 a night and is perfect if you’re just wanting a place to have your belongings and sleep.
- Solo: Villa Sablon – I’d say that this price point is a great option for solo travelers as well.
- Hostel: Hostel Bruegel – On the cusp of a Sablon neighborhood, this is a great hostel location.
- Mid-range: Les Chambres de Martin – A Brussels apartment with a king bed and walking distance to popular points of interest.
- Splurge: Les Appartements du Sablon – A dreamy Brussels apartment that’s reasonably priced!
Ixelles
Best for: Urban foodies, art lovers, boutique stays
Eclectic, trendy, and multicultural with vibrant cafe culture, Art Nouveau architecture, and student friendly spots like Flagey and the Ixelles Ponds. A wonderful mix of character and convenience.
Hotel recommendations for Ixelles:
- Budget: B&B HOTEL Brussels Centre Louise – Depending on when you’re visiting, you can get a two-person room for under $100 a night.
- Solo: Moxy Brussels City Center – When traveling solo, it can be nice to go with a chain hotel that’s trusted around the world.
- Mid-range: Hotel Louise – highly rated and simple hotel, this could be ideal for staying on budget without compromising comfort or location.
- Splurge: Hotel Le Châtelain – a five-star luxurious hotel is a great way to treat yourself on your visit to Brussels.
If you’re arriving to Brussels by train, keep in mind that the sidewalks are nearly all cobblestone, which makes transporting luggage a little tricky. I recommend staying nearby the station.
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