As the tourist hub, Brussels City Centre is, of course, the most expensive part of the city to stay in. However, you certainly get what you pay for because all of the city’s most covetable attractions and awe-inspiring architecture is all at your feet.
Luckily, if you walk just a few minutes from the city centre you’ll reach Marollen - Brussels’ most budget-friendly neighbourhood. This urban utopia is a hipster magnet with a plethora of trendy indie shops, bars, clubs, and galleries.
Saint Gilles, known for its stunning art nouveau architecture, is equally lively, bohemian, and trendy. Locals flock there for its cool flea markets and art galleries. From here, the city centre is just a few train stops away.
If it’s nightlife you’re after though, Saint Gery and Dansaertwill serve you best. No matter what your jam is, you’ll find it in one of the many electronic, house, latino, and rock clubs around here.
Upscale Ixelles, meanwhile, awaits to show families a more quiet and quaint side of Brussels. The leafy streets lead you to elegant boutiques, fancy restaurants, and the beautiful Bois de la Cambre park.
Although Brussels City Centre is populated with the city’s biggest attractions, it really only shows one side to the city. With fantastic train links throughout the inner city to rely on, why not branch out and stay in one of its alternative neighbourhoods?