We will be staying in Brussels for three nights in December. I have read that it can be challenging to access some areas due to the Christmas markets. I have also read that there are areas in the city to stay away from. This will be my first time in Belgium. For those that have been to Brussels, where are the best areas to stay for safety, walkability, restaurants l, etc. Also, any hotel recommendations are welcome and appreciated.
Thank you.
I stayed at a hotel that google maps says is permanently closed. I stayed at Maxhotel, on the street BD Adolphie Max, just southwest of Rogier metro station. There was a homeless lady sleeping on a mattress just outside the hotel entrance my first night. But there seem to be some ritsy retail stores near this location which could be a good sign. Check google maps and Rick Steves Belgium guidebook. The area enclosed between the roads BD du Jardin Botainque and R20 is probably an ok part of Brussels. I used the men's room at a decrepit-looking bar near Brussel Nordstation train station. Within about half a mile of this train station is probably bad neighborhoods.
The most convenient area would be the area near the central train station and the Grand Place. Lots of nice hotel, good restaurants, shops etc etc.
Zavel, Dansaert and around the "grand place" are probably the 3 best neighborhoods to stay in. I'd recommend the grand place for a first time visit.
From a tourist point of view, the advice of Dutch_traveler is the best. Stay away from either Nord or Midi railway stations, as some streets around them are quite seedy, although I would not call them unsafe. These stations are also further away from the Grand'Place.
Good (mainly fish) restaurants are also found around the so-called Fish Market (Place Sainte Cathérine and surrounding streets), but the best tend to be expensive. But that area may indeed be affected by the Christmas market.
Dansaert mentioned in another comment is in the area I refer to as Fish Market.
Thank you everyone. This is really helpful information.
