Travelling is all about exploring new places. If you are looking for a city that is rich in experiences but easy on your wallet, then Brussels is the place for you. As Brussels is a short flight away, booking a last-minute holiday means you can hop on a plane and head off on a whim.
Nestled in the heart of Belgium, this city began life as a small river settlement on the banks of the Senne. It has grown over the decades to become the bustling hub it is today. Brussels offers an eclectic mix of grand squares, street art and incredible food that feels more expensive than they are. Here are some tips for getting the most out of Brussels whilst sticking to a budget.
Places to stay without overspending
Brussels is full of different types of accommodation, so you can really focus on your budget. For the very basic options, you want somewhere to sleep and relax – hostels are great for this.
One of the main things to think about is location. Opting for a budget hotel in the centre of the city allows you to have easy access to most attractions. Not only that, but reduced costs leave you with more money to spend on exploring.
If you do want to splurge a bit more, head to a boutique hotel. Staying here is a bit more of an experience with stylish interiors and a higher level of service.
Free things to do around the city
When it comes to finding things to do, you are spoiled for choice in Brussels. One of the most beautiful things about Brussels is the abundance of art, and the Comic Strip Trail highlights that. This self-guided tour is roughly 3 miles long, so pack your comfy shoes!
An iconic symbol of Brussels is Manneken Pis, which is a must-see. The little boy depicted actually receives costumes and has an extensive wardrobe, which is on display as well.
Tasty food on a budget
You don’t often find Belgian restaurants back home, only the chocolate shops. Although the chocolate is incredible, there is so much more for you to taste.
If you are exploring the city, you will notice the abundance of street food dotted around. These are tasty meals whilst being fairly cheap. Fries and Belgian waffles are always available and delicious!
As with all major cities, exploring away from the city centre will result in beautiful brasseries that don’t have tourist prices.
Getting around efficiently
As Brussels is quite a compact city, it is really easy to get around on foot. Walking is a great way to explore a city, as you may stumble across some hidden gems around each corner.
Biking is a relatively inexpensive way to travel with hiring hubs across the city. You can rent for a day or a week and use the bike as much as you need. Just remember that traffic drives on the right, so be careful. For longer trips, public transport is readily available, too.
