Waffling Around Brussels: A Budget-Friendly Guide

Discover Beer, Chocolate and History in Brussels without Spending a Fortune!

22 June 2023

Brussels, Belgium is a great destination for budget travelers who want to experience European culture without breaking the bank. By staying in affordable hotels and hostels and taking advantage of cheap public transportation, visitors can explore the city's iconic landmarks like the Grand Place and the Atomium, as well as enjoy the famous Belgian cuisine and beer. With a little planning and resourcefulness, a trip to Brussels is within reach for any budget-conscious traveler.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Brussels Basics

  • Start your day with a croissant and coffee at Pain Quotidien
  • Visit the Grand Place, a beautiful square that is the heart of the city
  • Try some Belgian chocolates at Neuhaus or Godiva
  • Visit the Manneken Pis statue, a quirky symbol of Brussels
  • Have a meal at Tonton Garby, a delicious sandwich shop with unique flavor combinations
  • End your day with a drink at Delirium Café, which holds the Guinness World Record for the most beer types available (over 2,000!)
  • Stay at: Hotel Saint Nicolas, a budget hotel with friendly staff, located near the Grand Place.
Day 2

Art and Waffles

  • Start your day at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, which houses a wide range of art from Flemish primitives to surrealist works
  • Take a stroll through the Sablon area, known for its antique shops and art galleries
  • Grab a warm, delicious Liege waffle from Maison Dandoy
  • Visit the Atomium, a giant steel structure that was built for the 1958 World Expo
  • Have a meal at Chez Léon, a traditional Belgian restaurant that serves great moules frites (mussels and fries)
  • End your day at the Cinquantenaire Park, a beautiful park with a triumphal arch and a diversity of trees
  • Stay at: Hotel ibis Brussels off Grand Place, a budget hotel with modern rooms and a central location.
  • Note: Don't forget to try some Belgian beer and frites while in Brussels! And if you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to Bruges or Ghent.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Brussels, Belgium by plane is to fly into Brussels Airport (BRU) which is located approximately 11km northeast of the city center. Many airlines offer flights to Brussels from major cities across the world.

Car

Driving to Brussels is easily achievable as the city is well-connected by road. The E40 and E19 are major highways running close to Brussels, making it easy to approach the city from Antwerp or Ghent, and from France, respectively.

Train

Taking the train to Brussels is a convenient option as Brussels is well-connected to many major European cities. Brussels Midi station is the main station in the city, with high-speed trains arriving from London, Paris, Amsterdam and Cologne amongst others.

Boat

Unfortunately, Brussels is not accessible by boat as it is not located near any major waterways. The closest water connection is the Port of Antwerp which is approximately 50km north of Brussels.

Bus

There are many bus companies offering connections to Brussels, making it an affordable option. Eurolines, Flixbus and Ouibus all offer affordable connections to Brussels from various European cities.

More travel plans

The Ultimate 3-Day Brussels Adventure on a Budget

Brussels, Belgium is a great destination for travelers on a limited budget. Affordable accommodations and a wide range of budget-friendly food options are available throughout the city. Visitors can view the stunning architecture of the Grand Place, explore unique museums, and enjoy the famous Belgian waffles and chocolate without breaking the bank.

Bite-Sized Brussels: A 4-Day Budget Adventure

A trip to Brussels, Belgium on a limited budget can still be a delightful experience. Explore the city's historic architecture, parks and museums through free walking tours or by renting a bike. Savor delicious local cuisine from the numerous street food stalls, taverns and markets at affordable prices.

Brussels Bliss: A 4-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Brussels, Belgium is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip with its vibrant culture and numerous attractions. Explore the enchanting Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and indulge in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles. Discover the wondrous Atomium, a giant steel structure that offers panoramic views of the city, and visit Mini-Europe, a delightful park featuring miniature replicas of famous European landmarks.

Brussels: A Cosy 3-Day Romantic Getaway

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, offers an ideal backdrop for a romantic trip, with its quaint cobbled streets, scenic canals and charming architecture. Take a stroll through Grand Place, considered one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Europe, and visit the Manneken Pis, a symbol of the city. Indulge in the local cuisine, including waffles, chocolates and beer, and end your day with a romantic dinner at one of the many candlelit restaurants that Brussels has to offer.