Like Belgium, Brussels has many faces, most of which are underappreciated. Many tourists flit into Brussels for a quick photo of a famous statue and perhaps a stop at a chocolate shop. However, if you stay in Brussels for more than a moment, you’ll uncover a rich metropolis where street art dominates cityscapes, Art Nouveau plays with façades, and proud locals effortlessly switch between languages.
Central Brussels
Best Area for a Quick Visit
Brussels’ center and the nearby Saint-Gery neighborhood, featuring the gilded Grand Place, are great places to begin your exploration. Walking from the center in any direction guarantees that you will come across at least one museum, restaurant, or shop selling miniatures of the Manneken Pis in no time.
As with many European capitals, the city center of Brussels is a beautiful tourist trap. Though its streets can be crowded with selfie-snapping travelers and souvenir shops, the area remains undeniably picturesque and can offer a lively atmosphere in the evenings with its plethora of Belgian beer bars and live music options. If you only have one night in Brussels or want easy access to some popular attractions, the historic center is a prime location.
Ixelles
Best Area for Art and Restaurants
For a lively neighborhood to explore in Brussels, Ixelles is currently the place to be. Once a suburb, the city has embraced this district stretching south from the center to the green Bois de La Cambre. Artsy Ixelles hosts trendy restaurants of every cuisine along with classic venues, like Cafe Belga, where locals gather over beers. A stroll from the traditionally Congolese neighborhood of Matongé to the elegant Avenue Saint Louise showcases Ixelles’ rich diversity.
If you appreciate art and architecture, Ixelles is home to stunning 19th-century Art Nouveau designs. Consider staying in a boutique hotel in the central Châtelain neighborhood, placing you close to curling columns and flamboyant iron balconies designed by Victor Horta. The Musée Horta, situated in the architect’s home and studio, showcases his works along with several of his Unesco-listed townhouses in the area.
Sablon
Best Neighborhood for Luxury Living
Sablon exudes sophistication, with cobblestoned streets filled with art galleries, museums, and some of the country’s finest chocolatiers. Gothic Église Notre-Dame du Sablon looks over the fountains and sculptures of the Place du Petit Sablon gardens.
This neighborhood is one of the quietest in Brussels, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle. However, weekends bring a vibrant atmosphere as the Sablon Antiques Market fills the central square with vendors showcasing impressive antique artwork and furniture.
While Sablon’s luxury comes with a price, those willing to splurge will find it provides an excellent location to experience Brussels without the throngs of tourists.
Les Marolles
Best Neighborhood to Live Like a Local
Historically, Marolles was known as the hub of Brussels’ working class, maintaining a diverse atmosphere. While gentrification has begun to change the character of the area, local life flourishes with antique shops lining its streets and traditional brasseries coexisting with newer establishments.
If you want to experience a slice of life in Brussels, consider Marolles. While you will find modern hotels in historic buildings, the neighborhood remains authentic, attracting fewer tourists.
There is no shortage of entertainment in Marolles. The famous flea market on Place du Jeu de Balle is a daily occurrence, offering vintage treasures to thrifty shoppers. As night falls, the area transforms with lively bars and popular nightclubs like Fuse, making it an ideal spot for nightlife enthusiasts.
Saint-Gilles
Best Neighborhood for Budget Travelers
Saint-Gilles is an often-overlooked neighborhood that draws those in the know. Located southwest of the center but still connected by tram, Saint-Gilles boasts numerous affordable restaurants, vintage shops, and event venues, making it popular with a younger, artistic crowd.
Much like Ixelles, Saint-Gilles has a diverse and creative vibe, but at a more reasonable price. Here, you will find stunning examples of Art Nouveau architecture alongside colorful shops where you can indulge in Moroccan and Turkish cuisines.
Moreover, the location is convenient for travelers wishing to venture beyond the city. The southernmost train station, Gare du Midi, marks the western edge of Saint-Gilles, providing easy access for day trips.
