Brussels: best hotels and hostels for backpackers

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Travel Cheap, Sleep Comfortably: The Best Hostels and Hotels for Backpackers – Bruxelles 2025 / 2026

Bruxelles, the heart of Europe, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. As the capital of Belgium, this city offers a unique blend of Flemish and Walloon culture, making it an ideal destination for backpackers seeking adventure and new experiences. The narrow, cobbled streets, impressive squares such as the Grand Place, and diverse gastronomic offerings are just a few of the reasons to visit this charming city.

For travelers on a limited budget, Bruxelles offers a wide range of affordable yet comfortable accommodation options. From modern hostels to budget hotels, every traveler can find something that suits their needs and desires. Below, we present our recommendation for the best accommodations for backpackers in Bruxelles.

Our Recommendation for Your Ideal Accommodation

Generation Europe Youth Hostel

Located in a quiet part of the city, this hostel provides a relaxing atmosphere with modern amenities.
Location: Sint-Jans-Molenbeek, a 20-minute walk from the Grand Place
Reasons for Recommendation: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, social terrace
Amenities: Breakfast included, lockable lockers, wheelchair access
Stars: ★★★
According to the latest information, room rates start at €83 for a double room. Guests praise the cleanliness and friendly staff.

Sleep Well Youth Hostel

This hostel combines comfort and environmental awareness, located in the heart of the city.
Location: Bruxelles - Center, a 13-minute walk from the Grand Place
Reasons for Recommendation: Eco-certified, free breakfast, proximity to main attractions
Amenities: Private and shared rooms, free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen
Stars: ★★★★
The latest reviews highlight the excellent location and diverse breakfast. Room rates start at €92.40 for a double room.

The Legacy by 2GO4 City Center

A modern hostel with artistic design, ideal for young travelers.
Location: Bruxelles - Center, 200 meters from Rue Neuve
Reasons for Recommendation: Proximity to shopping areas, free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen
Amenities: Shared and private rooms, lockable lockers, common social spaces
Stars: ★★★
Guests appreciate the friendly staff and cleanliness. Room rates start at €156.57 for a double room.

Hostel Bruegel

A traditional hostel with a long history, favored among backpackers.
Location: Bruxelles - Center, 500 meters from Mont des Arts
Reasons for Recommendation: Proximity to cultural landmarks, free Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant
Amenities: Shared and private rooms, terrace, breakfast included
Stars: ★★★
According to reviews, guests praise the friendly staff and cleanliness. Room rates start at €92.90 for a double room.

Auberge des 3 Fontaines

Located on the edge of the Sonian forest, this hostel offers an escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Location: Oudergem / Auderghem, a quiet area near nature
Reasons for Recommendation: Natural surroundings, sports facilities, free Wi-Fi
Amenities: Tennis courts, shared kitchen, spacious rooms
Stars: ★★★
Guests highlight the spacious rooms and friendly staff. Room rates start at €78.10 for a double room.

Jacques Brel Youth Hostel

A lively hostel with a rich program for guests, located in the city center.
Location: Bruxelles - Center, a 15-minute walk from the Grand Place
Reasons for Recommendation: Free Wi-Fi, terrace, evening entertainment
Amenities: Restaurant, shared and private rooms, breakfast included
Stars: ***
Guests praise the cleanliness, friendly staff, and good atmosphere. Room rates start at €89.50 for a double room.

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MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles City Center

A modern hotel with an industrial design located by the Bruxelles canal.
Location: Bruxelles - Sint-Jans-Molenbeek, close to public transport
Reasons for Recommendation: Comfortable rooms, social spaces, an on-site restaurant
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, common areas, bar
Stars: ***
Guests emphasize the excellent location and friendly staff. Room rates start at €102.30 for a double room.

Urban City Centre Hostel

Popular among backpackers due to its affordable prices and good connectivity with the city.
Location: Bruxelles - Center, a 15-minute walk from the Grand Place
Reasons for Recommendation: Affordability, free Wi-Fi, proximity to public transport
Amenities: Shared and private rooms, lockers, 24-hour reception
Stars: **
Reviews highlight the friendly staff and good value for money. Room rates start at €67.80 for a double room.

Bruxelles - Great Preparation for a Perfect Backpacker Experience!

Traveling to Bruxelles as a backpacker can be an unforgettable experience, especially if you prepare well. The city is known for its affordable public transport, as well as pedestrian zones that allow exploration without high costs. The metro, trams, and buses cover most of the city, and tourists can use the Bruxelles Card, which offers free entry to many museums and unlimited public transport.

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One of the best ways to get to know Bruxelles is by walking through its neighborhoods. Marolles is known for its vintage shops and art galleries, while Sablon is ideal for chocolate lovers and elegant boutiques. Ixelles offers a diverse gastronomic scene and vibrant bars, and Saint-Gilles is popular among young people for its creative atmosphere and street art.

When to Visit Bruxelles?

Bruxelles is a city that can be visited year-round, but certain periods are more favorable for backpackers. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, while the winter months are interesting due to Christmas markets and festivals. Summer is a time when accommodation prices are often higher, but the city then teems with outdoor events.

Additional Accommodation Suggestions

Latroupe Grand Place

A modern hostel with excellent amenities near the main square.
Location: Bruxelles - Center, a 5-minute walk from the Grand Place
Reasons for Recommendation: Free breakfast, modern design, good atmosphere
Amenities: Private and shared rooms, bar, common areas
Stars: ***
Reviews praise the cleanliness and excellent location. Room rates start at €98.90 for a double room.

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Hygge Hotel

A charming boutique hotel emphasizing minimalist design and comfort.
Location: Bruxelles - Ixelles, close to shopping areas
Reasons for Recommendation: Modern Scandinavian design, peaceful atmosphere
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, spacious rooms, comfortable beds
Stars: ****
Guests highlight the pleasant ambiance and good value for money. Room rates start at €125.70 for a double room.

How to Best Explore Bruxelles on a Limited Budget?

Traveling as a backpacker in Bruxelles does not mean you have to spend a lot of money. The city offers many free and affordable activities that will enrich your experience while keeping you within budget.

One of the best things you can do is to explore the city on foot. The historic center is compact and easy to walk through, and a stroll will reveal attractions such as Manneken Pis, Grand Place, and Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. If you are a fan of street art, be sure to walk to Rue de Flandre, where you can find famous comic murals that are a symbol of Belgian culture.

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Museums are also a major attraction, and many offer free entry on certain days of the month. For example, the Museum of Belgian Comic Strip History and the Fine Arts Museum offer visitors free entry every first Wednesday of the month after 1 p.m.

Gastronomy – What and Where to Eat?

Bruxelles is known for its rich gastronomic offerings, and even backpackers on a limited budget can enjoy excellent specialties without spending too much money.

If you want to try authentic Belgian waffles, you can find them on almost every street corner at an affordable price. For the best experience, visit Maison Dandoy, which is known for its crispy and soft waffles.

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Another must-try specialty is Belgian fries, served with various sauces. A visit to Frit Flagey or Maison Antoine is recommended, where locals come for their serving of fries.

For those who want to try the famous moules-frites at affordable prices, local restaurants in the Ixelles district offer favorable deals outside of tourist areas.

Affordable Public Transport and Free Alternatives

Bruxelles has a developed public transport system that includes the metro, trams, and buses, and there are many affordable options for backpackers to get around the city.

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The Brussels Card is an excellent option for tourists as it offers unlimited public transport and free entry to more than 40 museums. Additionally, the Villo! bike system provides bike rentals for just a few euros per day, which is an excellent option for those who want to explore the city in an eco-friendly way.

For an even more affordable option, you can use free walking tours that are organized daily and guide you through the most important landmarks of Bruxelles with interesting local guide stories. These tours typically last 2 to 3 hours and are a perfect way to get to know the city.

Nightlife and Backpacker Socializing

Bruxelles is a city with a vibrant nightlife, and backpackers can enjoy numerous options without spending too much money. Popular neighborhoods such as Saint-Gilles and Ixelles offer affordable bars and clubs where you can enjoy Belgian beer and a great atmosphere.

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If you are a fan of craft beer, a visit to Delirium Café is recommended, known for its incredible collection of over 2000 types of beer. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, Le Coq and Goupil le Fol are ideal bars with authentic Bruxelles charm.

In addition to traditional bars, many hostels organize social evenings and pub crawl tours where you can meet other travelers and experience nightlife from a local perspective.

Additional Accommodation Recommendations for Backpackers

In addition to the hotels and hostels already mentioned, here are a few more accommodation options that are ideal for travelers looking for a comfortable yet affordable stay in Bruxelles:

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Hostel Van Gogh

A popular hostel with an artistic atmosphere and excellent location.
Location: Bruxelles - Center, close to the Botanique gardens
Reasons for Recommendation: Affordable prices, creative atmosphere
Amenities: Shared and private rooms, free Wi-Fi, bar
Stars: ***
Reviews praise the social atmosphere and excellent connectivity with the city. Room rates start at €75.60 for a double room.

Sleep Well Eco Hostel

A sustainable hostel that combines modern design with environmental responsibility.
Location: Bruxelles - Center, close to shopping areas
Reasons for Recommendation: Eco-friendly, free breakfast
Amenities: Private and shared rooms, common areas
Stars: ****
Guests praise the cleanliness and comfort. Room rates start at €98.20 for a double room.

Bruxelles offers an incredible experience for backpackers – from its rich cultural scene and fascinating architecture to excellent food and affordable accommodations. Whether you are a fan of history, art, or simply want to enjoy the atmosphere of a European capital, this city has everything you need for an unforgettable trip.

Author: AI Ana Vau

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