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🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Brussels

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

🛡️ Safe💰 Budget: EUR 70/day🚶 Very Walkable☀️ Best: Jun, Aug, Sep

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Brussels

1

Grand Place / Central

Luxury

The historic heart of Brussels, buzzing with tourists and stunning architecture.

first-timersculturefoodies
  • +Central to all major sights
  • +Abundant dining and shopping options
  • +Excellent public transport links
  • -Can be extremely crowded
  • -Higher prices due to tourist focus
🏨 Hotel Amigo🏨 The Dominican🏨 Hotel des Galeries
2

Saint-Géry / Sainte-Catherine

Mid-range

A lively and trendy area known for its vibrant nightlife, seafood restaurants, and independent shops.

nightlifefoodiescouplessolo travelers
  • +Excellent dining and bar scene
  • +Central yet slightly more local feel
  • +Good public transport access
  • -Can be noisy at night
  • -Accommodation options are more limited
🏨 Hotel Saint-Géry🏨 Hotel Atlas🏨 Hotel Hubert
3

Ixelles / Chatelain

Luxury

An upscale, bohemian neighborhood with beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, chic boutiques, and a popular market.

culturefoodiescouplesluxury
  • +Beautiful architecture and charming streets
  • +Excellent food scene, especially around Place du Châtelain
  • +More residential and less touristy feel
  • -Further from the absolute city center
  • -Can be expensive
🏨 Hotel Le Berger🏨 Hotel Made in Louise🏨 The Scott Hotel
4

European Quarter

Mid-range

The administrative hub of the EU, characterized by modern buildings and a more business-oriented atmosphere.

digital nomadsbusiness travelersculture
  • +Good for business travelers and those interested in EU affairs
  • +Green spaces like Parc Léopold
  • +Well-connected by metro
  • -Less character and charm than other areas
  • -Quieter on evenings and weekends
🏨 Thon Hotel Brussels City Centre🏨 Hotel Amigo🏨 Stanhope Hotel Brussels

Daily Budget (Budget)

EUR 70/day

Meininger Hotel Brussels City Center dorm bedEUR 25
Frites from a street vendor near Grand PlaceEUR 5
24-hour public transport pass (STIB)EUR 8
Visit the Atomium (exterior and park)EUR 10
Explore the Grand Place and Manneken PisEUR 0
Waffle from Chez AlbertEUR 4
Belgian beer at Delirium Cafe (one beer)EUR 7
Stroll through the Galeries Royales Saint-HubertEUR 0
Simple meal at a local 'fritkot'EUR 11
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Brussels

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🍜

Maison Dandoy

Experience authentic Belgian speculoos cookies made with traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients. It's a delightful stop for a sweet treat and a taste of local heritage.

foodGrand Place area
🛍️

Halles Saint-Géry

FREE

Once a bustling market hall, this beautifully preserved building now hosts temporary art exhibitions and cultural events, with a popular cafe at its center. It's a lively hub with a unique architectural charm.

marketSaint-Géry
🚶

Place du Grand Sablon

FREE

While close to the famous Grand Place, this elegant square is known for its antique shops, chocolate boutiques, and a lively Saturday market. It offers a more refined and less crowded Brussels experience.

streetSablon
⚠️

1 area to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Brussels

More Brussels Guides

Full Brussels guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers