We are going to be first time visitors to Brussels this fall. Trying to determine the best neighborhood for hotel selection. Seeking location, close to transportation, restaurants, etc. Have seen several "names" of neighborhoods, such as European Quarters, Grand Place, Midi Station, etc. Not sure where to locate.
Posted by
London, United Kingdom
4684 posts
Look at a map of central Brussels on Google or elsewhere. You will see that the centre is roughly shield-shaped with a ring road around it. Try to be within that area or fairly close around the edge.
As well as in the centre itself, there are quite a lot of hotels in the Saint-Gilles and Ixelles districts to the South. The area around Avenue Louise to the south has good transport links but is quite pricy. The areas around Gare du Nord and Gare du Midi, and the Molenbeek area to the immediate west of the centre, are both best avoided. The European Quarter is safe but extremely boring.
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Thanks so much; that is great information!!
Posted by
36 posts
We stayed in the St Catherine's area near a rail station. It is a 10 minute walk to the Grand Place and quite convenient. Personally I would spend more time in Brugges than Brussels.
Posted by
36 posts
PS the train trip to Brugges takes just an hour or so from Brussels. 2 nights with 1-2 full days in Brugges is enjoyable. If going I suggest that you watch "In Brugges" first.
Posted by
100 posts
You can't get more convenient, and fun and quirky, than where I was my one night in July -- Le Vaudeville. It is within, and looking down on the Galerie de la Reine, a block or so from Grand Place. 11,000,000 restaurants nearby. Read about it on Trip Advisor!
Posted by
OP
9 posts
We checked out Le Vaudeville and it looks really great, actually. I have bookmarked it for sure. Thanks for the tip!