Top reasons to visit Brussels
- Cultural Fusion: Brussels boasts a vibrant blend of cultures, offering a rich tapestry of history, art, and cuisine.
- Architectural Wonders: Explore stunning architecture, from grand historical buildings to modern designs, throughout the city.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Wander through picturesque towns like Ghent and Bruges, each with unique character and attractions.
- Dynamic Markets: Experience lively public markets and delightful flea markets, perfect for immersing in local culture.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of hotels and charming B&Bs to suit every traveler's needs.
Find great hotels in Brussels
Discover an array of accommodation options in Brussels, from modern hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, catering to every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly stay, a family-friendly environment, or a base for business travel, Brussels has it all. Explore popular choices like Ibis Brussels and find the ideal hotel room to make your visit memorable in this vibrant capital of Belgium.
- Warwick Grand-Place Brussels: Situated in the heart of Brussels, the Warwick Grand-Place Brussels is a refined 4-star hotel that offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a touch of elegance. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, it is well-regarded for its amenities tailored for children, including babysitting services and child-friendly meals. The hotel's proximity to key attractions makes it an excellent choice for both family getaways and business trips, ensuring that guests can easily explore the rich culture and history of Brussels while enjoying a comfortable stay.
- Bedford Hotel & Congress Centre: The Bedford Hotel & Congress Centre is a practical 3-star option for business travellers, boasting a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. Located conveniently in Brussels, it serves as a solid base for those attending conferences or meetings. The hotel's well-equipped facilities cater specifically to business needs, ensuring a seamless experience for working professionals. With its focus on functionality and comfort, the Bedford Hotel allows guests to balance work with leisure while exploring the vibrant city.
- The Hotel: A standout 4-star accommodation, The Hotel is celebrated for its romantic and city-themed experience, receiving a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Nestled in the city centre, it features stunning garden views and offers exclusive romance packages, making it ideal for couples. Guests can indulge in luxurious amenities, including 24-hour room service and an onsite spa, which provides relaxation through various treatments. The combination of its central location and exceptional services makes The Hotel a delightful retreat for both romantic getaways and business stays.
Where to stay in Brussels
Brussels is a vibrant metropolis that offers a blend of culture and history, perfect for any traveller. Explore the charming city centre, where historical sites meet modern business vibes. Don't miss the stunning architecture and friendly locals as you wander through the capital region. Nearby, discover picturesque towns like Ghent and Bruges, each brimming with character and family-friendly attractions. Your Brussels adventure promises a delightful mix of experiences, from bustling streets to serene parks.
- Zaventem: Located conveniently near the heart of Brussels, Zaventem is a vibrant city known for its blend of cultural and family-friendly experiences. With a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, highlights include its shopping areas and entertainment facilities like arenas, making it an ideal stop for those seeking a lively atmosphere. Nearby attractions such as historic monuments and picturesque piazza squares offer a glimpse into the local heritage, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in the region's rich history while enjoying modern amenities.
- Machelen: Just a short distance from Brussels, Machelen is a charming city that combines business and cultural experiences, making it a versatile destination for visitors. The local shopping areas and music concerts cater to a variety of tastes, while the proximity to historic sites and monuments adds an enriching layer to your visit. With visitor numbers peaking in the early months and September, Machelen is alive with activities that appeal to both leisure and business travellers alike.
- Grand-Place: Nestled in the heart of Brussels, the Grand-Place neighbourhood is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. This bustling area attracts visitors year-round, with peaks during the summer months and autumn. Explore the lively markets and unique shopping spots while soaking in the historical significance of the piazza square and surrounding monuments. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, Grand-Place offers a dynamic experience that showcases the best of Brussels' cultural heritage.
Things to do in Brussels
Shopping
In Brussels, explore the iconic Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert for luxury chocolates and unique gifts. For a more local vibe, head to the Marolles district's flea market, where you can find antiques and handmade crafts. Don't miss out on the trendy shops at the City 2 shopping centre.
Recreation
Wellness Centre Brussels offers a tranquil atmosphere with holistic treatments, yoga classes, and meditation sessions. The serene environment promotes relaxation and rejuvenation, while nearby Parc du Cinquantenaire provides a lovely space for leisurely strolls amidst beautiful gardens and historic arches.
Adventure
In Brussels, explore the Atomium, an iconic structure offering panoramic views and fascinating exhibitions. Venture to the nearby Sonian Forest for hiking and biking trails amidst lush greenery, or try indoor skydiving at Airspace for an exhilarating rush that simulates free-fall in a safe environment.
Nightlife
In Brussels, Delirium Café is renowned for its vast beer selection and vibrant atmosphere, attracting lively crowds. For a more laid-back vibe, head to Café Maison du Peuple, where you can enjoy cocktails while soaking in the local culture. The nightlife scene offers a mix of energy and charm.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Brussels
Brussels offers numerous ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like La Grand Place and the Manneken Pis Statue, and consider travelling by metro, tram, or bike share for budget-friendly transport. The cheapest months to visit are January to February and August, with the best hotel deals often found one month in advance. For spontaneous travellers, check Expedia's last-minute offers, particularly on Saturdays, which are the least expensive days to stay. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings with Expedia package deals to maximise your budget.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Brussels are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Brussels is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Brussels is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Brussels is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results from the most affordable to the highest prices, ensuring you find the best deals on accommodation. Moreover, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll discover sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels ready for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay in Brussels with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Brussels
Brussels is an excellent choice for those seeking a cultural, city-themed, or business vacation. Visitors can explore a range of attractions, including museums, vibrant squares, and art galleries, making it a perfect destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you're delving into the rich history or simply enjoying the local atmosphere, Brussels offers a wealth of experiences that cater to diverse interests and preferences.
- NATO Headquarters: Explore the heart of international diplomacy at NATO Headquarters. This iconic building showcases the collaborative spirit of member nations. Visitors can appreciate its modern architecture and learn about its pivotal role in global security through guided tours.
- Place du Grand Sablon: Discover the vibrant Place du Grand Sablon, a picturesque square filled with charming cafés, boutiques, and art galleries. Its rich history and lively atmosphere make it an ideal spot to soak up Belgian culture while enjoying delicious chocolates and local delicacies.
- Mini-Europe: Experience a miniature wonderland at Mini-Europe, where you can stroll through replicas of Europe’s most famous landmarks. This family-friendly attraction offers an engaging way to explore the continent’s diversity while enjoying interactive displays and beautiful gardens.
Best time to go to Brussels
The best time to visit Brussels can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Brussels falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Brussels falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Brussels
Flying into BRUssels is convenient, with Brussels Airport (BRU) located 11.3km from the city centre. Nearby, you can find excellent accommodation options such as the 5-star Radisson Collection Grand Place Brussels and Le Châtelain, both around 6-11.3km from the airport, offering various transportation services including airport shuttles and transfers. Another option is Charleroi Airport (CRL), situated 43.5km away, with hotels like Van Der Valk Hotel Charleroi Airport just 3.2km from the airport. For those considering EINdhoven Airport (EIN), located 99.8km away, options like NH Collection Eindhoven are available within 6.4km, providing easy access to the airport.