These best hostels in Brussels are perfect for travelers looking to explore the city on a budget. Brussels, the heart of Europe, is not only known for its delicious chocolates and historic architecture but also for its fun backpacker hostel scene. As someone who has been exploring European cities for years, I can assure you that Brussels has some of the best hostels that cater to budget-savvy explorers. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a digital nomad, or just looking to meet new friends, there’s a perfect place for you in this charming city.
Discover Brussels: A Backpacker’s Dream
Brussels offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. From the iconic Atomium to the bustling Grand Place, there’s always something to see and do. The city’s affordability and central location make it a popular destination for backpackers. Plus, its excellent public transportation system ensures you can explore every corner of the city with ease.
The best hostels in Brussels provide a cost-effective way to experience the city while offering a chance to meet like-minded travelers. They often come with a variety of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and social events. As someone who loves to discover specialty coffees, I’ve found that many hostels here are located near some of the best cafes and eateries, making it easy to indulge in local flavors.
General Info on Hostels in Brussels
Brussels is home to several major hostel chains, and you can find a wide range of prices depending on the season. During peak tourist months, prices tend to be higher, but you can still find affordable options year-round. Most hostels are centrally located or near public transport, ensuring easy access to the city’s main attractions.
Price: Expect to pay between €20-€40 per night, with higher rates during peak seasons.
Location: Ideal areas include the city center and near major public transportation hubs.
Amenities/Services: Common amenities include free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and communal kitchens.
Staff: Friendly and helpful staff are a staple, making your stay comfortable and welcoming.
Safety: Brussels is generally safe, but always check hostel reviews for staff friendliness and safety features.
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll be better prepared to choose a hostel that fits your style and budget, ensuring a fantastic stay in Brussels.
Best Hostels in Brussels – Quick Answers
Here’s an overview by category of the awesome hostels mentioned in this article. Scroll down to see a full description (and images) of each recommended hostel.
- Overall Best Hostel in Brussels: MEININGER Brussels City Center
- Best Hostel in Brussels for Female Traveler: Sleep Well Youth Hostel
- Best Hostel in Brussels for Solo Travellers: Generation Europe Youth Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Brussels: Sleep Well Youth Hostel
- Best Hostel in Brussels for Digital Nomads: Brxxl 5 City Centre Hostel
The Best Hostels in Brussels
Here’s my complete guide to the best hostels in Brussels:
1. MEININGER Brussels City Center
MEININGER Brussels City Center is a fantastic blend of style and comfort. Located on the banks of the Brussels Canal, this hostel is housed in a former brewery, giving it a unique industrial vibe. The colorful and modern interior design creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for socializing and meeting fellow travelers.
This hostel offers a range of accommodations from private rooms to mixed and female-only dorms. The dorms are spacious with comfortable beds and secure lockers. Each room is well-maintained and designed to cater to the needs of budget-savvy travelers. Female solo travelers will appreciate the safety features, including key card access and CCTV security. The private rooms are ideal for couples or friends seeking more privacy, equipped with en-suite bathrooms and flat-screen TVs.
The communal areas at MEININGER Brussels City Center are a highlight. There’s a large kitchen where guests can prepare their meals, a bar with a wide selection of drinks, and a game room featuring a pool table and other games. The hostel also offers bike rentals, which is a great way to explore the city. The friendly staff organizes various events, such as pub crawls and city tours, making it easy for guests to mingle and make new friends.
The location is perfect for exploring Brussels. It’s within walking distance of the city center and major attractions like the Grand Place, Atomium, and Manneken Pis. Public transport is also easily accessible, with tram and bus stops nearby. Overall, MEININGER Brussels City Center offers a comfortable and convenient stay with a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Key location features: Situated by the Brussels Canal, close to public transport and major attractions.
- Most attractive amenities: Free Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchen, game room, bar.
- Community and social event details: Regular social events and bike rentals for exploring the city.
Dorms from €21
2. Sleep Well Youth Hostel
Sleep Well Youth Hostel is an ideal choice for female solo travelers seeking a safe and friendly environment. Located in the city center, this hostel is within walking distance of major attractions like the Grand Place and Manneken Pis. The modern and eco-friendly design ensures a comfortable stay, with amenities that cater to the needs of solo travelers.
The hostel offers mixed, female-only, and private rooms, all equipped with en-suite bathrooms. The dorms are spacious and clean, with comfortable beds and secure lockers. Female solo travelers will feel especially safe with the key card access and 24-hour security. The private rooms are perfect for those who prefer a bit more privacy and comfort, featuring modern decor and all necessary amenities.
There’s a free breakfast served daily, which includes a variety of options to start your day right. The common areas are perfect for mingling with other guests, with a lounge area, a bar, and a game room. The hostel also emphasizes sustainability, with eco-friendly practices throughout, including energy-efficient lighting and recycling programs. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to help with recommendations and travel tips.
Sleep Well Youth Hostel is also committed to creating a vibrant community atmosphere. They organize regular events, such as movie nights and city tours, making it easy for guests to socialize and make new friends. The location is unbeatable, with easy access to public transport and the main sights of Brussels. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic sites or its trendy cafes, you’ll find this hostel to be a perfect base.
- Key location features: Central location, close to the Grand Place and other attractions.
- Most attractive amenities: Free breakfast, en-suite bathrooms, eco-friendly practices.
- Community and social event details: Regular events and common areas designed for socializing.
Dorms from €30
3. Generation Europe Youth Hostel
Generation Europe Youth Hostel is a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. Situated near the canal, it provides easy access to both the city center and the trendy Molenbeek area. The hostel’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring Brussels.
The hostel offers a variety of dorms and private rooms, all with comfortable beds and secure storage. The dorms are well-maintained, with each bed having its own reading light and power outlet. Female-only dorms are available, ensuring a safe and comfortable stay for solo female travelers. Private rooms come with en-suite bathrooms, ideal for those who need a bit more privacy.
Communal areas include a large garden, a bar, and a game room. The garden is a great spot to relax and enjoy some fresh air, while the bar offers a variety of drinks and a chance to socialize with other guests. The game room is equipped with a pool table, board games, and other entertainment options. The hostel also hosts regular events like BBQs and game nights, perfect for meeting new people.
Generation Europe Youth Hostel is located in a vibrant neighborhood, with plenty of cafes, shops, and restaurants nearby. The city center is just a short walk away, and public transport is easily accessible, making it convenient to explore all that Brussels has to offer. The hostel also provides free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour reception, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free stay.
- Key location features: Near the canal and Molenbeek area, close to public transport.
- Most attractive amenities: Large garden, bar, game room, free breakfast.
- Community and social event details: BBQs, game nights, and other social events.
Dorms from €24
4. Brussels 2GO4 Quality Hostel Grand Place
Brussels 2GO4 Quality Hostel Grand Place is the go-to spot for those looking to experience Brussels’ vibrant nightlife. Located just steps away from the Grand Place, this hostel is in the heart of the action. Its stylish and modern interior makes it a popular choice among young travelers.
The hostel offers mixed and female-only dorms, all featuring comfortable beds and secure lockers. Each dorm is designed with the traveler in mind, providing individual reading lights and power outlets for each bed. Female-only dorms provide an added level of comfort and security for solo female travelers. Private rooms are also available, offering more space and privacy with en-suite bathrooms.
The common areas are perfect for socializing, with a cozy lounge and a fully equipped kitchen. The lounge is a great place to relax and meet fellow travelers, while the kitchen allows guests to prepare their own meals. The staff organizes regular pub crawls and city tours, making it easy to discover Brussels’ nightlife and meet new people. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hostel, ensuring you stay connected during your travels.
Brussels 2GO4 Quality Hostel Grand Place is ideally located for exploring the city’s main attractions. The Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and a variety of museums and galleries are all within walking distance. Public transport is also readily available, making it easy to explore further afield. The hostel’s central location, combined with its modern amenities and vibrant atmosphere, makes it a top choice for young travelers looking to experience the best of Brussels.
- Key location features: Steps from the Grand Place, surrounded by nightlife.
- Most attractive amenities: Stylish design, cozy lounge, fully equipped kitchen.
- Community and social event details: Pub crawls, city tours, and social events.
- Safety features: Secure lockers, key card access.
- Room types: Mixed, female-only dorms, private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.
Dorms from €22
5. MEININGER Bruxelles Gare du Midi
MEININGER Bruxelles Gare du Midi is perfect for digital nomads and travelers looking for convenience and comfort. Located near the Gare du Midi station, it offers easy access to trains, buses, and the Eurostar terminal. The hostel combines modern amenities with a vibrant atmosphere, making it ideal for work and play.
The hostel features a variety of room types, including private rooms and dorms. Each room is equipped with comfortable beds, secure lockers, and modern facilities. The dorms are spacious and well-lit, with individual reading lights and power outlets for each bed. Female-only dorms are available, providing a safe and comfortable environment for solo female travelers. Private rooms come with en-suite bathrooms and flat-screen TVs, perfect for those who need more privacy.
Communal areas include a large kitchen, a bar, and a workspace with fast Wi-Fi, perfect for digital nomads. The kitchen is fully equipped, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. The bar offers a variety of drinks and snacks, making it a great place to unwind and socialize. The workspace is designed for productivity, with comfortable seating and high-speed internet. The hostel also offers bike rentals and city tours, making it easy to explore Brussels.
MEININGER Bruxelles Gare du Midi is located in a convenient area, with plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants nearby. The city center is just a short train ride away, and public transport is easily accessible. The hostel’s modern design, combined with its excellent facilities and vibrant community atmosphere, makes it a top choice for digital nomads and travelers seeking a comfortable and convenient stay.
- Key location features: Near Gare du Midi, easy access to transportation.
- Most attractive amenities: Large kitchen, bar, workspace with fast Wi-Fi.
- Community and social event details: Bike rentals, city tours, and social events.
- Safety features: Secure lockers, key card access.
- Room types: Mixed, female-only dorms, private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.
Dorms from €27, Privates from €112
6. Brxxl 5 City Centre Hostel
Brxxl 5 City Centre Hostel offers a stylish and comfortable stay in the heart of Brussels. Located close to the city’s main attractions, this hostel is perfect for travelers looking to explore Brussels on foot. The modern design and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular choice among young travelers.
The hostel offers a range of accommodations, including mixed and female-only dorms. Each dorm has comfortable beds and secure lockers, with individual reading lights and power outlets for each bed. Female-only dorms provide an added level of comfort and security for solo female travelers. Private rooms are also available, offering more space and privacy with en-suite bathrooms.
Common areas at Brxxl 5 City Centre Hostel include a lounge, a bar, and a terrace. The lounge is a great place to relax and meet fellow travelers, while the bar offers a variety of drinks and snacks. The terrace is perfect for enjoying some fresh air and socializing with other guests. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hostel, ensuring you stay connected during your travels. The staff is friendly and helpful, always ready to provide recommendations and assist with any needs.
The hostel organizes regular events, such as pub crawls and city tours, making it easy for guests to socialize and explore the city. Its central location means that major attractions like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and various museums are just a short walk away. Public transport is also readily accessible, making it easy to explore further afield. Brxxl 5 City Centre Hostel offers a stylish and comfortable base for your stay in Brussels, with modern amenities and a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Key location features: Central location, close to main attractions.
- Most attractive amenities: Modern design, lounge, bar, terrace.
- Community and social event details: Regular events and social gatherings.
- Safety features: Secure lockers, key card access.
- Room types: Mixed, female-only dorms, private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.
Dorms from €37, Privates from €90
Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Brussels
When looking for the best hostels in Brussels, it’s clear that this city offers a fantastic mix of affordability, comfort, and social opportunities. Hostels like MEININGER Brussels City Center and Sleep Well Youth Hostel stand out for their excellent amenities and vibrant atmospheres, making them perfect choices for different types of travelers. From the social buzz at Brussels 2GO4 Quality Hostel Grand Place to the convenience for digital nomads at MEININGER Bruxelles Gare du Midi, there’s a hostel here to suit everyone’s needs.
Brussels is a city that truly caters to the budget-savvy explorer. Whether you’re keen on meeting new friends, enjoying a good night’s sleep in a safe and friendly environment, or finding a perfect balance between work and leisure, the hostels in this list have you covered. Don’t forget to consider Generation Europe Youth Hostel for a more budget-friendly stay or Brxxl 5 City Centre Hostel for its stylish design and prime location.
Ultimately, choosing the right hostel can make your stay in Brussels even more memorable. Think about what you value most in your travel experience – be it social events, prime locations, or modern amenities – and you’re sure to find the perfect spot from our curated list of the best hostels in Brussels. Happy travels!