Where to Stay in Belgium in 2024 | Best Areas & Hotels

Like other European countries, Belgium is a blend of new and old. Tourists enjoy looking at castles, older sections of major cities dating back to the Renaissance, and important historical battlefields, including Waterloo, where Napolean’s forces were defeated.

But there are also modern elements that make Belgium worth seeing. It’s also considered the Diamond Capital of the World, where potentially you can score great deals on this popular gemstone and learn about the entire fascinating industry.

Beer is big everywhere too! Belgian beer has been designated by the United Nations as part of the “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.”

Today, there are around 200 breweries and more than 1,600 unique types of beer, including varieties that have been brewed by Trappist monks for centuries. But with so much rich history and culture to explore, how do you pick the right place to stay?

Don’t worry — we’re here to help. Well show you the best places to stay in Belgium, including why we love each area and the best hotels in each. Let us be your guide!

The Best Places to Stay in Belgium

A trip to this storied country provides an opportunity to learn all about this unique country that continues to play an important role in European affairs.

To see the most sights and experience the most culture, we think you should visit any of the below areas, all of which we think are the best places to visit in Belgium:

1. Brussels. The capital city provides a blend of well-designed municipal buildings plus all sorts of notable artwork, historic taverns, cathedrals and more.
2. Antwerp. Belgium’s largest city and an active port includes the centuries-old Diamond District.
3. Bruges. The capital of the West Flanders region acknowledges its medieval history but also enjoys promoting its current charm.
4. Ghent. This community has a general laid-back vibe and plenty of world-class scenery.

Where to Stay in Belgium: Best Areas & Hotels

Belgium stretches from the Atlantic coast and the border of the Netherlands to Luxembourg and Germany, with France towards the bottom.

There are more than 3,000 castles throughout the kingdom, a figure some say is the most per capita in Europe for this type of structure. There are larger cities, villages, farms and more, which present a good blend of scenery for driving or train travel.

Whether you’re exploring the country by itself or as part of a greater trip through Europe, there are many options to see a good sampling of the countryside.

It also is welcoming to many language speakers: French, German and English are all commonly heard, plus Flemish, a distinct local version of Dutch.

Travelers should also be advised that, similar to other Western European countries, some services may be limited in summer due to holidays, especially in smaller communities. Some workers may be out of the office for up to six weeks at a time.

When I last passed through Brussels, it was not only during the height of summer but during a series of national holidays. Although hotels remained open for tourists, many attractions for sightseeing, even some restaurants, were firmly closed.

1. Brussels

First up on our list is perhaps the very best place to stay in Belgium: Brussels. If you’ve been to Brussels in the past decade or so, it’s bigger now. The population is now just over 2.1 million, nearly double that of the 1.4 million recorded in 1951.

It also added about 12,000 residents in just the last year. The city attracts plenty of international visitors due to being the host capitol for NATO and the EU, a location for the World Trade Organization, and one of Belgium’s three regional administrative centers.

Although it focuses heavily on modern commerce and government today, Brussels also makes sure to recognize and preserve its roots, including a variety of museums and galleries.

Visitors are more likely to hear French in this part of the country than Flemish to the north or German to the east.

Editor’s tips:

• Getting around: Brussels has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro. You can also purchase a Brussels Card, which gives you unlimited access to public transportation and free admission to many of the city’s museums and attractions.
• Where to stay: Brussels has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying in the city center, where you’ll be close to all the main attractions. If you’re looking for a more relaxing stay, consider staying in one of the city’s outskirts, such as Ixelles or Saint-Gilles.
• What to eat and drink: Brussels is known for its delicious food and drink, including Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer. Be sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re in town!
• Things to do: Brussels has something to offer everyone, from history and culture buffs to foodies and shopaholics. Be sure to visit the Grand Place, the Manneken Pis, and the Atomium, just a few of the city’s many attractions.

Best Hotels in Brussels

Budget

• Au Coeur de Bruxelles. This private apartment is in the middle of downtown with one bedroom, two living rooms, and an equipped kitchen. Guests can access a terrace and a garden.
• Guest House BXL. A breakfast composed of local specialty foods is provided each morning. The location offers guests double or triple room options. They also receive access to a garden, lounge, and billiards table. Some rooms have balconies.

Mid-Range

• Hotel Dixseptieme. This hotel is an easy walk to the Grand Palace and the Margritte Museum, two popular tourist destinations. Guests can enjoy a mini bar in their room or a cozy bar in the lobby. A garden courtyard is also a popular feature. A variety of room sizes is available, from solo travelers to couples to families.
• Appart’City Confort Bruxelles Center Gare du Midi. Described as an “aparthotel,” this pet-friendly location blends both types of living options, including a lounge, kitchen, studio bedrooms, and private bathrooms. Hotel-style housekeeping is available, as well as a buffet breakfast.

Luxury

• Hygge Hotel. Comfort is part of the focus of this establishment near the Film Museum, Egmont Palace, Parliament, and other attractions in the Elsene/Ixelles District. A breakfast buffet is provided. Guests can also tour the garden or enjoy the view of downtown from their terrace room.
• Radisson Collection Grand Place Brussels. This newly-renovated hotel focuses on providing an amazing guest experience, including two restaurants and the Atrium Bar in the central interior courtyard area. There’s also a fitness center, business center, and concierge service. It’s easy to reach nearby attractions, including the Grand Palace and Rue Nueve shopping area.

2. Antwerp

Although diamonds are mined in Africa, Asia, or Russia, about 85 percent of them worldwide end up here for evaluation, processing, and trading.

It’s a complex, multinational industry that has been in operation since the 16th century. Because diamonds are such a vital part of the local economy, the stones have led to all sorts of affiliated businesses, including graders, insurers, and security companies.

The constant commerce and international interest adds a degree of vibrancy to the large city, which could make it appealing to tourists, especially those interested in gems or other luxury goods.

There are also plenty of non-diamond attractions, including galleries, museums, and interesting buildings, along with a strong Dutch influence.

Editor’s tips:

• Getting around: Antwerp has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro. You can also purchase a 10-ride ticket or a 24-hour ticket, which gives you unlimited access to public transportation.
• Where to stay: Antwerp has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying in the city center, where you’ll be close to all the main attractions. If you’re looking for a more relaxing stay, consider staying in one of the city’s outskirts, such as Berchem or Borgerhout.
• What to eat and drink: Antwerp is known for its delicious food and drink, including Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer. Be sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re in town!
• Things to do: Antwerp has something to offer everyone, from history and culture buffs to foodies and shopaholics. Be sure to visit the Diamond District, the Grote Markt, and the MAS Museum, just a few of the city’s many attractions.

Best Hotels in Antwerp

Budget

• Antwerp City Hostel. This location provides dormitory-style housing, including a room for women only. It’s near a variety of attractions, including the MAS Museum and the Rubens house. It includes an on-site lounge, bar, and nightclub, along with a continental breakfast.
• The Ash. A variety of rooms are available, including double, king, and dormitory style, plus private or shared bathrooms. It’s near the train station and other attractions, and includes a shared kitchen, garden, games room, and library. Tea and coffee are available.

Mid-Range

• The Greenhouse. This bed-and-breakfast focuses on plants and overall sustainability. It includes a sun terrace and plenty of indoor and outdoor foliage to enjoy. There’s private bathrooms, refrigerators and microbars in the rooms, and guests can also visit a coffee shop and lounge.
• Yays Antwerp Opera. A recently-renovated apartment complex provides a variety of guest rooms that include kitchens and dining rooms, plus linens. Breakfast is provided each morning and vegetarian/vegan choices can be provided. Bicycles can also be rented.

Luxury

• Goodnight Antwerp. Located in the Antwerp Center district, this location includes private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and a continental breakfast. It’s not far from many attractions, including the zoo, MAS Museum, and Astrid Square.
• The Old Beech. This well-decorated new bed-and-breakfast includes a scenic living room, garden, and room service. In addition to daily breakfast, guests are also provided with chocolate, cookies, fruit and their choice of champagne or wine. They also are offered packed lunches to take with them while they explore the city or countryside.

3. Bruges

Bruges has been called “the Venice of the North,” for a lot of reasons. Physically, it resembles Venice with a series of canals going through it. People also say the community has the same low-key creative vibe that they’ve encountered in northern Italy – but with fewer people.

Another nickname it has been given is “The Dead City.” This came about in the 1890s when a travel reviewer declared that Bruges was strange and mysterious, and perfect for someone lonely to come and wander around by themselves, thinking about lost love and life in general.

Today, Bruges has become a great travel destination for those interested in the city as well as the nearby sea. It still tends toward quirky, but there’s plenty to see and do, including a well-preserved medieval village, museums, art galleries, and more.

Editor’s tips:

• Getting around: Bruges is a very walkable city, so you can easily get around on foot. However, there is also a public transportation system that includes buses and water buses.
• Where to stay: Bruges has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying in one of the city’s outskirts, such as Sint-Andries or Sint-Kruis. If you’re looking for a more central location, consider staying in the city center, near the Markt Square.
• What to eat and drink: Bruges is known for its delicious food and drink, including Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer. Be sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re in town!
• Things to do: Bruges has something to offer everyone, from history and culture buffs to foodies and art lovers. Be sure to visit the Markt Square, the Belfry of Bruges, and the Church of Our Lady, just a few of the city’s many attractions.

Best Hotels in Bruges

Budget

• Charlie Rockets Youth Hostel. If you’re all about being social and traveling with other like-minded folks, this could be the perfect place to have a great time. Accommodations include double rooms or 6-bed dorms with shared bathrooms. Guests can visit the nearby bar and restaurant and enjoy billiards and darts.
• St. Christopher’s Inn Hostel at The Bauhaus. With double rooms or 16-bed dormitories, this location could be great for any sized party. The hostel is next to a bar and restaurant, so it’s easy to get food and drinks. Free hiking tours, bike rentals, and beer tastings are also available.

Mid-range

• Hotel Jan Brito. A former royal residence has been converted into a classy hotel, complete with a courtyard, library, a bar, garden pavilion and fitness center. A large breakfast is served in the library area. Bicycle rental is available.
• Hotel Botherhuis. Guests receive breakfast each morning as well as packed lunches for later in the day. The hotel has plenty of hardwood floors plus private rooms with terraces. It’s located near the train station and near the Jan Breydel Stadium.

Luxury

• The Notary. This bed-and-breakfast emphasizes comfort and sustainability. Guests can enjoy an infinity pool and hot tub plus in-room minibar. Breakfast can take place in the dining room or the guest room. There’s also an on-site bar. Windows allow guests to see the gardens plus the river.
• Grand Hotel Normandy. The classy hotel includes a classic Norman façade but the rooms are modern. There’s also an indoor heated pool and fitness area. The hotel bar offers liquor and beer, and a large breakfast each morning.

4. Ghent

Ghent doesn’t get as much international attention these days when compared to other Belgian cities. But at one time, several centuries ago, it was the largest city in Europe.

Today, it seems fine with the more subdued role: this ultimately means there’s great stuff here but fewer tourists trying to explore all of it at once.

The city has all sorts of beautiful scenery, many museums, community festivals, and a good deal of nightlife to enjoy. There’s also a university here, and the whole place has been designed to be very walkable.

Like Bruges, it has a series of canals and an older downtown core. Although food is a big focus of every Belgian city, Ghent wants to make sure its contributions are noted.

It believes it has more vegan and vegetarian restaurants than London or Paris, and has given itself the title of “veggie capital of Europe.”

Editor’s tips:

• Getting around: Ghent is a very walkable city, but there is also a public transportation system that includes buses and trams.
• Where to stay: Ghent has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying in one of the city’s outskirts, such as Sint-Denijs-Westrem or Sint-Amandsberg. If you’re looking for a more central location, consider staying in the city center, near the Korenmarkt.
• What to eat and drink: Ghent is known for its delicious food and drink, including Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer. Be sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re in town!
• Things to do: Ghent has something to offer everyone, from history and culture buffs to foodies and art lovers. Be sure to visit the Graslei and Korenlei canals, the St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the Gravensteen castle, the Museum of Fine Arts Ghent, and the Design Museum Gent, just a few of the city’s many attractions.

Best Hotels in Ghent

Budget

• Hotel ClassEco. This hotel offers triple rooms with shared bathrooms, which can be handy for families or groups. It’s near the train station. Guests can visit the garden and use the barbecue equipment and shared kitchen.
• Guestrooms Bij Het Station Van Drongen. Free bike use, a garden, and a sun terrace on a quiet street can help make a stay here peaceful and guests feel refreshed during their sightseeing. They can also access a kitchen and shared bathroom.

Mid-Range

• Snooz-Ap Holiday and Business Flats. These air-conditioned apartments could be useful for business or pleasure. They include fully-equipped kitchens, dishwashers and oven, plus a microwave and refrigerator.
• One Two Four Hotel and Spa. The comfort level is high here, with spacious rooms, concierge service, and a continental breakfast each morning. Guests can also enjoy walking in the garden, looking at the city from their balcony, or visiting the spa.

Luxury

• Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel. There’s plenty to love about these accommodations, including large rooms, soundproof walls, extra-long beds, great views of the city and river, and a breakfast. Some rooms have balconies.
• Gepettos. This bed-and-breakfast in the historic center of town has been in operation since 1947. Guests have private rooms and can even use a private entrance. Each room has a coffee machine. There’s also a picnic area and garden on-site.

So, Where Should You Stay in Belgium?

The overall charm of Belgium seems to be a constant, but each community offers something unique to travelers. The modern, dynamic kingdom is proud of its past and is also poised for great things in the future, whether on the political side or the food side.

To recap, the best places to visit in Belgium include:

🎉 Best for Nightlife	Brussels
💎 Best Area for Shopping	Antwerp
🖼️ Best for Museums	Bruges
💰 Most Budget-Friendly Area	Ghent

So, with so much to see and do, what are you waiting for — book your trip today and experience for yourself all that Belgium has to offer. Happy travels!