Where to Stay in Brussels, Belgium: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

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Wondering how to pick the best neighborhood and hotel on your next trip to Brussels? You’re in the right spot. 

Brussels is undeniably beautiful, from the historic architecture and cobblestone streets on Grand-Place to trendy restaurants and high-end stores. Where you stay can turn a good trip into a great one, so how do you choose? 

After visiting for ourselves, we’ve rounded up the five best areas to stay in Brussels, plus hotel picks for every budget. Whether you want to walk out of your hotel and into the historic city, be surrounded by street art and local buzz, or enjoy something completely remote and quiet, this guide is here to help.

Where to Stay in Brussels Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Brussels

What we love about Brussels is that it’s a very walkable city, plus there’s a great public transit system with metros, trams, and buses to get around. This makes navigating the city a breeze, no matter where you make your home base. Still, choosing the right area is important, and in Brussels, each neighborhood packs a punch, though many visitors choose to stay in the central area.

Cycling here is one of the fastest and cheapest ways to get around. The Belgian capital is perfectly bikeable, with plenty of convenient rental services and well-marked cycling routes, making it super easy to get from point A to point B.  

Whether by bike or on foot, getting around Brussels is quick and easy. Now, let’s take a closer look at the neighborhoods.

• City Centre – Best for first-time visitors – With the majority of attractions, such as the Manneken Pis statue and the Royal Palace, this area is ideal for anyone visiting Brussels for the first time. Prices are higher in this central location, but for a comfortable stay, Hotel Novotel Brussels Off Grand Place is a great choice for those who prefer to be in the center of things without spending a fortune.

• Saint-Gilles – Best for lively and artistic travelers – A bohemian vibe flows through the streets of this hip neighborhood. If you are an art lover, don’t miss it! A stay in the Hilton Garden Inn Brussels City Centre will enchant you with unique art and décor. 

• European Quarter – Best for a quiet stay – This area is bustling during the day with office buildings, museums, and well-connected transport, but makes for a quieter evening. The Renaissance Brussels Hotel makes an excellent home away from home, far from the city buzz. 

• Ixelles – Best for a local & foodie scene – We love Ixelles and all it has to offer. It’s lively day and night, and there’s always something to see or do. The Beverly Hills Hotel is just a stone’s throw from cute cafes, restaurants, and bars — and won’t break the bank either. 

• Louise – Best for luxury travelers & shopping – There’s one thing that makes it hard to resist spending money in Brussels, and that’s staying in this chic, high-end district. If you’re planning to splurge on a new Louis Vuitton purse, at least you won’t have to walk far. Hotel Le Châtelain is located steps from Avenue Louise and is a great choice for serious shoppers.

Where to Stay in Brussels 

City Centre 

BEST FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS 

Pros 

• A pedestrian-friendly area 
• Easy access to major sights
• Lively atmosphere with cafes, restaurants, and events

Cons 

• Can be loud and crowded, especially in peak season
• Higher hotel and restaurant prices 

We can’t praise the central area enough. The City Center (Pentagon) gets its name from the pentagon-shaped wall that surrounds it. This is the historic district of Brussels, so naturally it’s filled with beautiful buildings everywhere you turn. With its 17th-century guildhalls and Town Hall dating from the 15th century, it makes you feel like you’re stepping back into medieval times — an experience we found unforgettable. 

This prime location is ideal if you’re a first-time traveller and want to be right where it all happens. Most major sights are within a short walking distance, and the frequent trains and buses make the City Centre an ideal base for exploring.

We loved staying in the area because it was hassle-free. The minute we walked out of the hotel, we got to see the best Brussels has to offer—not to mention the view from our balcony. A stay here keeps you close to many bakeries and cafés, so excellent coffee and freshly baked Belgian pastries are never far away. Hotel prices might be higher, but it’s well worth the money.

Juliana Hotel & Spa – $$$ 

Juliana Hotel & Spa is located in the heart of Brussels, surrounded by some of the best shops, sights, and cafés in the city. If you’re looking to splurge on a 5-star experience while visiting Brussels, this hotel fits the bill. 

Equipped with a spa, an indoor pool, a sauna, and a fitness center, you’ll be able to wind down after a long day exploring the Belgian capital.

The rooms are spacious and soundproofed, each with a private bathroom. But a stay in one of the gorgeous suites takes the experience to another level. The elegant hotel is ideal for couples and families who want to be where the action is while getting pampered at the same time. Rooms start at €350 per night during the summer months.

Check prices and availability, then book this 5-star stay here!

If Juliana Hotel & Spa is fully booked, Hotel Amigo, a Rocco Forte Hotel, is another luxury option right on the corner of Grand Place, where you truly feel part of the charming historic setting.

We also think that The Hotel Brussels is another great alternative, offering a relaxed, ultra-modern stay with beautiful views from one of the city’s tallest buildings.

Hotel Novotel Brussels Off Grand Place – $$ 

Located in the very heart of the historic center, Hotel Novotel Brussels Off Grand Place puts you steps from key sights and the real action without breaking the bank, ideal for first-time visitors, families, couples, and solo travelers. The rooms are sleek, bright, and spacious—and you can bring your furry friend along!

If you are like us and like exploring the city on two wheels, the hotel offers bicycle rentals. For longer trips, Brussels-Central railway station is just a few minutes’ walk away, making it super easy to tour other neighborhoods and nearby cities — something we really enjoy doing!

Rooms start at €250 per night during peak season, but we wouldn’t wait until the last minute to book.

Don’t miss out – reserve your stay at this centrally located hotel here!

If Hotel Novotel Brussels Off Grand Place is all booked up, we think that Pillows City Hotel Brussels Centre is an excellent mid-range alternative, with airy rooms and luxurious bathrooms.

We also recommend the warm and welcoming OPO Hotel, which, with its family rooms and cozy ambiance, makes an excellent home away from home.  

Citadines Sainte-Catherine Brussels – $

Citadines Sainte-Catherine Brussels is a lovely budget-friendly option with an indoor garden and a water fountain. Its minimalistic, newly renovated accommodations come with fully equipped kitchenettes, perfect for those who love to cook while traveling. 

A stay here puts you within a stone’s throw of the main city center action, yet just far enough to escape the late-night noise. All-day coffee and tea are a welcome touch when you want to take a break, which definitely sounds like us after a long day out and about.

Expect to pay around €140 per night for a studio and €260 for an apartment, with breakfast included during peak tourist season.

Reserve this budget-friendly, central stay here before it sells out.

If Citadines Sainte-Catherine Brussels is fully booked, the easyHotel Brussels City Centre is another solid pick for budget travelers, offering clean, simple, and spacious rooms with easy access to many top city attractions.

The charming Hotel Du Congres is also worth considering, especially for its tranquil garden courtyard and proximity to the botanic gardens, restaurants, and other top tourist sites. 

Saint-Gilles

BEST FOR LIVELY & ARTISTIC TRAVELERS

Pros 

• A bustling area with cafés and bars
• Central location close to top sights
• Well-connected to public transport

Cons 

• Limited parking availability
• Noisy and crowded, especially in the evenings

Saint-Gilles is known for its Art Nouveau architecture, making it one of the city’s most artistic and creative neighborhoods. It also has a lively, authentic nightlife scene with numerous live music venues and trendy bars, which makes it a great choice for solo travelers and visitors who enjoy a good night out. 

If you are the artsy type, this part of Brussels is definitely for you! Street murals, artists, and a strong community vibe are some of the first things you’ll notice in Saint-Gilles, which honestly feels more like a village than a central part of the city. Its convenient location also makes it a popular area for those who prefer exploring on foot.

If you’re curious about attractions and historical gems in the area, the Horta Museum and the Saint-Gilles prison, check all the boxes. One thing not to miss is the lively local market, Parvis de Saint-Gilles, where locals and tourists enjoy shopping for fresh produce. 

Harmon House – Hotel & Spa – $$$

Harmon House – Hotel & Spa is a relatively new property located near Horta Museum and Avenue Louise. Its convenient location means you’ll be out and about all day. But don’t worry— when it’s time to unwind, the spa is the place to be. With facilities like an indoor pool, a sauna, loungers, and a zen vibe, you’re sure to recharge your batteries for the next day. 

This modern hotel will wow you from the minute you set foot inside. Everything is done with great attention to detail, from the intricate ceiling design to the speakeasy bar, the mood lighting, and the overall atmosphere. Hotels in Saint-Gille can’t get any better than this. 

Rooms start at €200 per night, and paying just a little extra for a room with a balcony is a sure way to elevate your stay. This is a popular area, and it can be a challenge to find hotels with such great value for money, so it’s best to plan ahead and book on time.

Check your travel dates and book a stay at Harmon House here!

If the Harmon House – Hotel & Spa is unavailable for your dates, we recommend the Radisson Hotel Brussels Centre Midi as an alternative, offering bright, spacious, and comfortable rooms designed for functionality.

The JAM Brussels is another great option with a seasonal heated outdoor pool, sun terrace, and a rooftop bar, perfect for enjoying the cityscape with a cocktail in your hand. 

Hilton Garden Inn Brussels City Centre – $$

Nestled just steps from the buzzing Louise Shopping District, the Hilton Garden Inn Brussels City Centre welcomes travelers seeking comfort without the high price tag. Whether you want to unwind in the stylish bar, break a sweat in the gym, or simply relax in the beautiful courtyard garden, this hotel makes it all possible.

A stay here gives you easy access to the metro, as well as countless restaurants, bars, and stores—meaning you’ll probably only have time to sleep and shower at the hotel. But if you do spend more time on the property, you’ll find everything you need and more. It’s one of those hotels that exceeds expectations without costing the earth.

The rooms are bright and cozy, offering ample space and a minimalist design. Rates usually fall around €160-€200 per night, depending on the season.

Read the THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews and book this stay here!

If Hilton Garden Inn Brussels City Center is already booked up, Pullman Brussels Centre Midi on Victor Horta Square could be just what you need. The hotel is famous for its on-site restaurant serving traditional dishes with a twist, creating an exceptional culinary journey for its guests.

Another fantastic property in the area is the charming Hotel Manos Premier, filled with character and rooms decorated with period furniture. The highlight of this luxurious residence is its massive green garden, which provides a peaceful retreat right in the heart of the city.

ibis Hotel Brussels Centre Gare du Midi – $ 

If you’re traveling on a budget but don’t want to miss out on the city-center buzz, the ibis Hotel Brussels Centre Gare du Midi couldn’t be a better fit. Clean, bright, and airy rooms make you feel right at home, while the bistro-style restaurant might even make you feel like you’ve underpaid.

The hotel is located right next to the railway station, offering quick and easy access to other neighborhoods and nearby towns. While places like Grand-Place, Avenue Louise, and the Manneken Pis are about 2 km away, the walk never feels long or boring—you’ll pass through lively neighborhoods with plenty to see along the way.

Prices typically start at €100–€150 per night during the high season. It’s important to note that budget-friendly hotels like this one are almost always sold out, so be sure to make your reservation in advance.

Check availability and book the ibis Hotel Brussels here!

Citadines Toison d’Or Brussels is another of our favorite wallet-friendly hotels located right next to the high-end boutiques of Avenue Louise and Louise Metro Station. They offer self-catered studios and apartments with separate kitchens, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy home-cooked dishes.

Citybox Brussels Centre Louise is another fantastic, affordable hotel in an excellent location that welcomes pets, business travelers, and families looking for a comfortable and quiet stay. 

European Quarter

BEST FOR A QUIET STAY

Pros

• Central location with a lot of action during the workweek
• Proximity to large green spaces, cafés, and restaurants 
• Home to many museums and major sights

Cons 

• Prices tend to be higher 
• It feels more like a “corporate” area than a cozy neighborhood

A typical business district, the European Quarter is home to Brussels’ EU institutions, which keep the area alive from Monday to Friday. The buzz quiets down as the weekend approaches, so it might not be the best choice if you like to party till the wee hours. But if you like modern skyscrapers and want to feel like you’re part of a business hub, this is exactly where you want to be. 

We love that it’s surrounded by parks that allow you to escape the crowds. Don’t miss Parc du Cinquantenaire, European Parliament, House of European History, and Leopold Park – they’re all worth a stroll. 

The European Quarter might not have the cozy charm of other neighborhoods, but it’s super well-connected by public transport and just a short walk from many attractions and the city center. A stay here gives you some peace and quiet, plus easy access to the action.

Sofitel Brussels Europe – $$$

Sofitel Brussels Europe is our favorite pick for a luxury weekend getaway, thanks to its unbeatable location on Place Jourdan, which you can admire from the hotel’s lovely rooftop. Stylish design and modern touches catch your eye as soon as you walk in.

The rooms are bright and spacious with glass walls that allow you to wake up to fantastic views, whether you choose a room overlooking the garden, a landmark, a quiet street, or the city below. 

A stay in this gorgeous hotel offers facilities for both relaxation and workouts, which come in handy if you find the time. Suited with a Hamman and massage options, the spa area will quickly become your little piece of heaven. And if you’re a gourmand, the 1040 restaurant will have you licking your fingers—it’s hard to watch your waistline here. 

Rooms start at €270 per night during the summer months. 

Reserve a room at this luxury hotel here, before it fills up!

If Sofitel Brussels Europe is all booked up, the Stanhope Hotel by Thon Hotels is another luxurious alternative. Refurbished in 2019, this 5-star property has a tranquil courtyard terrace and is a great choice if you’re looking to splurge, with major sights like the European Parliament, Royal Palace, and lively Avenue Louise all just a pleasant walk away. 

We also recommend NH Brussels EU Berlaymont, a solid option that blends comfort with contemporary design and a convenient location, just a short walk to the city center. 

Renaissance Brussels Hotel – $$ 

Renaissance Brussels Hotel is a solid pick for all travelers looking for something quiet, comfortable, and luxurious without the high price tag. The central location is what attracts most visitors, and the surprise comes after. If you don’t want to walk or use public transport, you can rent a bike for free. 

Here you can dip in the indoor pool or get a workout in at the fitness center. The rooms have been recently upgraded with new plush bedding, turning a comfortable stay into a luxurious one. If you have a pet, they are welcome to stay in this hotel. 

This beautiful hotel is an excellent pick for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a convenient location and comfort without breaking the bank. Prices start at €215 per night in June but double in July, so plan your visit accordingly. 

Check your travel dates and book a stay at Renaissance Brussels Hotel here!

If you’re looking for another luxury experience minus the hefty price tag, Courtyard by Marriott Brussels EU is right in the neighborhood, with clean and airy rooms, comfortable beds and delicious waffles for breakfast.

Just a short walk from Schuman Metro is another fantastic property, the Holiday Inn Brussels Schuman by IHG, which offers al-fresco dining in the warmer months. Modern amenities, Belgian beer, and delicious meals are just a few of the perks that attract visitors from all over the world. 

Aparthotel Adagio Access Bruxelles Europe Aparthotel – $

Aparthotel Adagio Access Bruxelles Europe Aparthotel is exactly what you need when you’re keeping an eye on your budget. We get it—finding a pleasant spot near must-see sights can feel like Mission Impossible, especially when you’re traveling with the entire family, and every penny counts. 

But this isn’t just a budget-friendly hotel. Booking a stay here comes with bright and colorful spaces filled with positive energy and friendly staff who love going the extra mile. And the best part is that Parc de Bruxelles, the Royal Palace, and plenty more attractions are just a short stroll away. 

Accommodation is simple but cozy, with modern studios equipped with a seating area for added comfort. With prices starting at €185 per night in the summer months, this is the perfect budget stay you’ve been looking for. 

Check availability and book your stay in advance here!

If Aparthotel Adagio Access Bruxelles Europe Aparthotel is fully booked, check out Hotel Satellite. The rooms are bright and compact yet well-appointed, designed with convenience and functionality in mind.

With its luxurious studios and prime location near the European Commission, B-aparthotel Ambiorix offers a unique stay at a similar price point. 

Related Read: If you need some help planning your time in Brussels, follow our two-day Brussels itinerary that covers all the highlights and hidden gems!

Ixelles 

BEST FOR LOCAL & FOODIE SCENE

Pros 

• Young, trendy, and full of energy 
• Authentic local vibe
• Great public transport links

Cons 

• Can be really noisy, especially at night and on weekends
• Accommodation prices tend to be higher compared to other neighborhoods

Ixelles feels more local and residential, but has the best food scene, hands down. You’ll find a big mix of international cuisines, so it feels more culturally diverse. What we love most about this area is the infectious energy that flows throughout, thanks in part to the two Universities right at its core. 

There is so much to see and do in Ixelles that it’s hard to squeeze it all in one week. Think cute cafes, colorful markets, trendy restaurants, and cocktail bars all within easy reach. If you love to see how locals truly live, a stay in this neighborhood will help you get a taste of everyday life, even if just for a day or two. 

Don’t miss Place Flagey, the Ixelles Ponds (Étangs d’Ixelles), and the vibrant Matongé District—three of the neighborhood’s top sights. Just keep in mind, because it’s such a popular area, prices can run a little high, so finding budget-friendly places to stay might feel like a bit of a treasure hunt.

Le Louise Hotel Brussels – MGallery Collection – $$$ 

Le Louise Hotel Brussels – MGallery Collection is the perfect home away from home, capturing both the beauty and soul of this neighborhood. Your trendy stay in the heart of Brussels comes with elegant and modern rooms that truly elevate the experience. 

For entertainment and relaxation, the hotel offers a large garden ideal for chic al‑fresco dining in the summer months, a cozy coffee shop, and BBQ facilities where you can even grill your own meals.

Parents traveling with little ones will appreciate the family‑friendly policy, which welcomes children aged 0 to 3 free of charge. We like to remind you that with a location just around the corner from Avenue Louise, you may end up spending more than planned—but when in Brussels…

Let’s sum it up. With an average price of just €190, this stylish hotel offers great value for money, combining luxury with convenience and unbeatable location. 

Book Le Louise Hotel here, before the best rooms are gone!

If Le Louise Hotel Brussels – MGallery Collection isn’t available for your dates, Hygge Hotel is a close contender, located a short distance from Egmont Palace, Magritte Museum, and Film Museum. A lovely garden, a peaceful terrace, and colorful accommodation are just a few of the many things to love about this welcoming spot.

Moxy Brussels City Center – $$ 

Moxy Brussels City Center is a convenient choice located just steps from must-see attractions such as Egmont Palace and Notre-Dame du Sablon. Here, you’re welcomed with drinks the moment you arrive. 

Pet-friendly and welcoming, this unique hotel makes it easy to feel at home. It even has a cozy reading nook. It may not be flashy, but that’s exactly why we love it — it’s quiet, funky, and run by super friendly staff who serve up delicious breakfast. 

This friendly hotel is ideal for solo travelers, families, and couples—whether it’s your first time in Brussels or not—perfect for anyone who appreciates an urban, unique stay without the top‑tier prices.

Nightly rates typically range from €150 to €250, depending on the season.

Check out the raving reviews and book this eclectic stay in Ixelles here!

Another standout hotel in the mid-price range is Latroupe Hotel Jardin Secret near the Royal Palace and Metro station Porte de Namur, featuring a charming garden and a heated outdoor pool.

Beverly Hills Hotel – $

A weekend in Brussels can quickly drain your wallet, but hotels like the Beverly Hills Hotel make it easy to stay within budget. Ixelles isn’t exactly known for bargain hotel options, but this spot is a pleasant surprise. 

It may not have the big “wow” factor, but it certainly delivers when it comes to comfort, convenience, quality food, and excellent service. Rooms are clean, spacious, and bright, with small balconies overlooking the street or the inner courtyard.

Located just a 2-minute walk from Avenue Louise and Place Stephanie, you’re steps away from all the action. An overnight stay starts at around €150 for a double room in the summer months. 

Book your budget-friendly Ixelles stay here!

Avenue Louise

BEST FOR LUXURY TRAVELERS & SHOPPING

Pros 

• High-end shopping and dining & beautiful architecture
• Convenient public transport access
• Excellent location near the city center and many attractions

Cons 

• Expensive shopping, not ideal for budget-conscious shoppers
• Busy with traffic and limited parking 

Avenue Louise is Brussels’ most upscale shopping street. It’s often compared to the Champs-Élysées in Paris. With its refined feel, and designer stores like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton, it mainly attracts fashion enthusiasts, serious shoppers, and the occasional impulsive buyer who hadn’t planned on splurging. 

The area is dotted with high-end hotels, top-tier restaurants, and trendy bars. Unlike the historic City Center, Avenue Louise feels more modern and polished. But don’t get discouraged—you don’t have to drain your savings account to enjoy it. Just walking down the avenue is a highlight in itself — shopping, of course, can take second place. 

Nearby, Bois de la Cambre offers the perfect escape from the glitz and glam, whether to unwind or recover from that unexpected Louis Vuitton purchase. 

Steigenberger Icon Wiltcher’s – $$$ 

As befits its upscale neighborhood, Steigenberger Icon Wiltcher’s is the indulgence everyone deserves at least once in a lifetime. This isn’t just a hotel stay —it’s a treat to yourself, an unforgettable experience you will want to relive over and over again. 

The spa here doesn’t feel like a facility – it feels like your own private sanctuary. With a sparkling indoor pool, sauna, and jacuzzi – it’s a little piece of heaven, right in the heart of Brussels. 

Rooms are spacious, bright, and modern, with large bathrooms – offering a level of comfort that you might not find at home.

Rates typically range from €270–€450 per night, with the Presidential Suite priced at up to €6,500 per night for those seeking ultimate luxury.

Read the glowing reviews and book this luxury stay here!

For a stylish alternative, Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie checks all the boxes: an award‑winning restaurant, a prime location on Avenue Louise, and spacious, comfortable rooms, all without the hefty price tag.

Hotel Le Châtelain – $$ 

If you’re watching your wallet but don’t want to sacrifice luxury, Hotel Le Châtelain delivers. In fact, with so much to offer, you may even find yourself wondering if you’ve underpaid, or asking, “What’s the catch?”

Set in a historic house, this luxurious spot features a lovely garden courtyard and a grapevine‑shaded terrace. You can choose between two restaurants: La Maison du Châtelain for an exquisite gourmet experience and Bartist for a more casual atmosphere. If you’re visiting in summer, you can enjoy cakes and tea in the peaceful courtyard. 

To take it up a notch, the hotel has a private limousine ready to take you around, whether it’s a city tour, a ride to the airport, or whatever special requests you have in mind. 

Rooms start at €150 per night, but rates can triple in peak season, so we recommend you plan in advance. 

Secure the best rate when you book Hotel Le Châtelain here!

If Hotel Le Châtelain is booked out, Hotel Louise is a strong contender with a private bar and a tram stop right in front of the hotel.

Alternatively, Zoom Hotel, with its industrial-vintage style, offers a unique stay on the famous Avenue Louise. 

B&B HOTEL Brussels Centre Louise – $  

B&B HOTEL Brussels Centre Louise is an excellent budget‑friendly option on Avenue Louise, and we have to admit, a rare find, since there aren’t many affordable hotels in the area.

What we love most about this colorful, artsy spot is the garden, the perfect place to relax after a long day out, and the “cinema” lounge, where you can unwind with popcorn and your favorite person next to you. But above all, it’s the welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

The rooms are clean, spacious, and well-equipped with vibrant touches of color at every corner. Some overlook the city, while others face the garden, giving you a choice of views.

An overnight stay comes in at around €130 during the summer months, and for about €100 more, you can upgrade to a family suite with breakfast included.

Don’t miss out – book this budget-friendly stay in Louise here!

If you’re traveling on a budget, Hotel Avenue Louise Brussels Trademark Collection by Wyndham is our favorite pick that allows you to stay in the upscale neighborhood without spending a fortune. With a cozy English-style lounge with an open fireplace and large rooms overlooking a quiet street, it makes you forget you’re staying in one of Brussels’ busiest neighborhoods.

Top Activities to do in Brussels

Now that you’ve picked out your favorite neighborhood and hotel, you can start planning your itinerary! Brussels is full of historic buildings, tasty foods, friendly locals, and unique day trips just at your fingertips. Here are a few of our personal favorite things we did here, and think you should too!

• Explore the city with a local guide – The best way to get to know Brussels is this walking tour! Explore with a local and learn the history of the top sights, discover local favorite spots, and enjoy a day of exploring stress-free.

• Take a day trip to Bruges and Ghent – While Brussels is stunning, I was surprised to find Bruges and Ghent to be even more striking. On this organized tour, we saw castles, cathedrals, historic markets and squares, and the goregous Belgian countryside for a picturesque day out.

• Learn how to make chocolate – I have a major sweet tooth, so this chocolate and praline-making class was at the top of my list. We learned a great deal about chocolate and Belgium’s historic ties to it, and we enjoyed our creations at the end. Yum!

• Go on a bike tour – We’ve talked about just how bikable Brussels is, but this guided bike tour takes your experience to the next level. It really helped us get our bearings in the city, and we learned fun facts as we went.

• Try authentic Belgian beer – Trying different local beers was one of our main motivations for visiting Brussels! So naturally, we just had to book this beer and chocolate tasting tour, which was tasty, informative, and all around awesome.

Related Read: Check out our blog on the Best Things to do in Brussels for even more fun and memorable ways to spend your time!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Brussels is a relaxed city with a lot of history and charm, and choosing the right neighborhood is important! Whether you want to be in the heart of the city or enjoy a quieter stay, you can find it here. Be sure to reserve your hotel early, as the best ones get booked out a few months in advance (we learned this the hard way on our first trip!)

Before you go, see all of our Europe travel guides. We have more where to stay blogs, multi-day city itineraries, and lists of top things to do to make your trip planning a breeze. Here are a few related reads to get you started – cheers!

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