Where to Stay in Brussels, Belgium

Before booking my first trip to Brussels I did a total deep dive on the best places to stay throughout the city. I was looking for places that were centrally located, easy to access and embraced a unique city vibe.

Brussels may seem like an unexpected choice for a trip in Europe but the city is teeming with museums, parks, nightlife and hidden gems. After traveling to Brussels solo in 2023, I can confidently say that it holds my favorite sight in all of Europe to date. The city is a perfect blend of old, new, gilded and green.

Below you’ll find:

My four top recommended stay options in Brussels, Belgium
Good things to know before you go.

9 Hotel Central - where I stayed and most recommend

9 Hotel Central is only two blocks from Bruxelles-Centraal Train station making it arguably the most desirably located hotel in the city. Not only is it convenient, it’s beautiful. I spent a wonderful stay in one of the prettiest hotel rooms I have ever had. There was a luxurious bed, a sunken tub & a spacious closet. The hotel also served breakfast every morning & has an elevator.

The Dominican

Luxury Option: If you are looking for a fancy stay in Brussels, go for the Dominican. Everything about this hotel screams ‘luxury’ and would make a very wonderful stay option if you are planning to travel in style or want a romantic room for your getaway.

La Grote Markt

Best Hostel: La Grote Markt is centrally located, clean and safe. If you are planning to stay in a hostel, I highly recommend La Grote Markt for your stay in Brussels.

Vintage Hotel Brussels

Artistic Option: If you want a comfortable stay in Brussels with flair but a smaller price tag, I recommend checking out Vintage Hotel Brussels. It will satisfy any craving for a unique stay but also won’t break the bank.

General Tips for Your Stay

Pack in a Carry Bag or Rolling Luggage with Sturdy Wheels

I wish someone had told me this before my visit. Pack less and save yourself in Brussels. The city is full of cobblestones that were laid over swampland making the ground incredibly uneven. It very challenging to roll luggage on the sidewalks.

Wear Thick Soled Shoes

I’m serious - it’s that bad. My feet ached after only a couple of hours walking on the cobblestones on the streets. They are uneven, have large gaps and do not make it sensible to wear anything other than flat boots or thick soled walking shoes. Forget your heels or ballet flats, I even had pairs of light tennis shoes that had to live in my suitcase after day one.

Take Public Transit

Cabs can be expensive in Brussels & there is truly no need to rent a car. The Belgian public transit system is very robust with buses, tram and the metro all in working order. I was able to take the train into Belgium, grab the metro and make it to my hotel with no problems. I also took the train all the way to Ghent and back for less than $10.

Saftey

Like anywhere else, keep a weather eye and you’ll be fine. I solo traveled here and encountered no issues. The only thing to be on guard for is pick pockets, especially in busy places or at the train stations - specifically Bruxelles Midi / Zuid. It has the highest crime rate in the city.

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Recommended Stay Options
Significant Sites & Churches
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Nightlife
Great Eats
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Where to Stay in Brussels, Belgium