The capital city of Flanders, Belgium, and Europe (the EU), Belgium is a sought-after travel destination for its rich history, world famous beer, and stunning architecture.

But with high demand can come high cost – and traveling to Belgium is not cheap.

Which is the exact reason we put together this insider guide to the best hostels in Brussels.

If you want to travel to Belgium on a budget, you HAVE to cut down the cost of lodging, and one of the best ways to do this is by staying at some of the top hostels in Brussels.

While still pricey, the best hostels in Brussels offer incredible quality and great value for what you are paying. Expect well designed, modern hostels, that cater to social travelers (and even a few awesome freebies thrown in there). These are without a doubt, some of the coolest hostels in Europe.

We’ve organized this guide of the best hostels in Brussels by YOUR needs, so you can easily pick a hostel that fits your travel style, and travel Brussels and Belgium like a boss.

Read on to find out how we picked the hostels for this list, and to see which made our list of the best hostels in Belgium.

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    What to Expect from Hostels in Brussels? 

    Hostels are generally known to be one of the cheapest forms of accommodation on the market. That doesn’t just go for Brussels, but anywhere you’ll visit while travelling Europe. However, that’s not the only good reason for staying at a hostel. The unique vibe and social aspect are what make hostels TRULY special.

    It will completely change your Belgium travel experience for the better if done right. Head down to the common room, make new friends, share travel stories and tips, or just have a great time with like-minded travellers from all over the world – you won’t get that opportunity in any other accommodation. 

    Most hostels in Brussels are just a stone’s throw away from the city’s main attractions. You are guaranteed to be at the centre of the action right after checking in! Note that some of the Brussels hostels offer organic food for breakfast and have a bar where you can taste different Belgian beers – ideal for foodies!

    The sooner you book your stay at a hostel, the more likely you will find cheap rates and save money to treat yourself to Belgian specialties. Overall Brussels is a safe city and its hostels are as well. Though many offer lockers, it’s always a good idea to bring your own padlock.

    Best Hostels in Brussels
    This is The Broke Backpacker’s Guide to the best hostels in Brussels

    Many of the hostels in Brussels offer freebies. That starts from free linen, up to free breakfast, free walking tours, and maybe even dinner. Make sure to check the reviews and comments from previous guests before so you’ll know exactly what to expect. You’ll also want to choose a hostel with a good location near Brussels’ best places to visit.

    But let’s talk more about the important stuff – money and rooms! Overall, dorm rooms will be the cheapest option where as private rooms might run the same as a basic Brussels’ Airbnb.

    Brussels’s hostels normally have three options: dorms, pods and private rooms (although pods are rare). Some hostels even offer large private rooms for a group of friends. The general rule here is: the more beds in a room, the cheaper the price. Obviously, you won’t have to pay as much for an 8-bed dorm as you would for a single-bed private bedroom. To give you a rough overview of Brussels’ prices, we’ve listed the average numbers below:

    • Dorm room (mixed or female-only): $27-21 USD/night
    • Private room: $59-64 USD/night

    When looking for hostels, you’ll find the best options on HOSTELWORLD. This platform offers you a super safe and efficient booking process. All hostels are displayed with a rating and previous guest reviews. You can also filter your personal travel needs easily and find the perfect place for you.

    There are a ton of great neighborhoods in Brussels that will cater to all types of travelers. When it comes to finding the best Brussels hostels though, there are some neighborhoods that offer better hostel options than others. To help you out, we’ve listed our favorites below: 

    • City Centre – Brussels City Centre is a magnet for tourists, with dazzling architecture, interesting attractions, and a good choice of places to eat, drink, shop, and sleep.
    • The Marolles – The Marolles is one of the best neighbourhoods in Brussels for people looking for budget accommodation. Soak up the local vibe and discover the working-class side of the Belgian capital.
    • Saint Gilles – Eclectic, hip, and funky, Saint Gilles is one of Brussels’ coolest neighbourhoods. It has plentiful art- and culture-focused spaces and events, varied eateries, and a relaxed ambience.

    Now whether you’re looking for a hostel to stay in for a weekend in Brussels or your planning a longer stay, let’s have a look at the best options…

    The 5 Best Hostels in Brussels

    Organizing our list of the best hostels in Belgium this way made sure of one thing – that you can find an awesome hostel that fits your Brussels itinerary as quickly and easily as possible.

    So let’s dive right in.

    1. Overall Best Hostel in Brussels – Meininger Brussels City Centre

    Meininger Brussels City Centre best hostels in Brussels
    Easily one of the coolest hostels in Brussels, Meininger Brussels City Centre is our pick for best hostel in Brussels 2021
    • $
    • Bar
    • Laundry Facilities
    • Key Card Access

    Not only is Meininger Brussels City Centre our pick for the overall best hostel in Brussels an award-winning place to stay, but it’s also the coolest hostel in Brussels too! The comic book theme is a real talking point and the funky decor breathes life and character into the place. The central location means that many of Brussels’ attractions are in walking distance.

    Try your hand at some Belgian cooking in the fully-equipped kitchen or take the lazy road and grab snacks to go with your drinks in the bar. Unwind with a game of pool or a Wii sesh, catch up with laundry, and stay connected with the free Wi-Fi and computer terminals. All dorms and private rooms are en-suite.

    Why you’ll love this hostel:

    • Super cool design
    • Epic location
    • Cheap breakfast

    Built in an old brewery, MEININGER Brussels City Center has a warehouse vibe with a twist. Look closer and you’ll see graffiti everywhere, from tiny figures sketched on tables and floors to large comic-inspired murals on the walls. The fun-loving design, along with awesome social spaces, might explain why they’ve nailed the top spot as the Hoscars’ Most Popular Hostels in Brussels every year since 2015.

    There’s an on-site bar that serves tasty drinks, a chill outdoor terrace and even a little games room. If you’re not feeling like exploring the city, simply stay at the hostel – you’re still guaranteed to have an epic time.

    The location is pretty good as well. You’ll find yourself on the Canal de Charleroi, 300 metres from Porte de Flandre station and a 40-minute journey by train to Brussels Airport. The Grand Place, Brussels’ central square, just a 15-minute walk away too – the perfect to explore the city’s best hotspots.

    2. Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Brussels – Sleep Well Youth Hostel

    Sleep Well Youth Hostel best hostels in Brussels
    Sociable bar + plenty of activities make Sleep Well Youth Hostel our pick for one of the best hostels in Brussels for solo travelers
    • $$
    • Free Breakfast
    • Restaurant-Bar
    • Bike Hire

    Sleep Well Youth Hostel is the best hostel for solo travelers in Brussels. Centrally located, it’s just a short walk from the Grand Place, Central Station, and other Brussels highlights. Fill up at the free breakfast buffet and join a free walking tour or rent a bike to explore. While Brussels can be expensive, freebies like this can make the city backpacker-friendly after all.

    When you come back, get sociable in the bar and enjoy hours of fun with the ping pong table, foosball, and board games. There’s a book exchange and free Wi-Fi if you’re feeling more like chilling. Dorms at this top hostel in Brussels are single-gender and en-suite.

    Why you’ll love this hostel:

    • Eco-friendly
    • Vending machine with snacks
    • Private Garden

    Let’s talk a bit more about the room options at this hostel. The fresh and clean dorms all have a bathroom, private toilet and free linen, and you can keep your stuff secure in the free storage lockers. Each bed comes with a reading light and a power socket so you can keep your electronics charged. If you feel like a bit more privacy, you could also opt for a private room. These come with a flatscreen TV, a fridge for stashing snacks, and an en-suite bathroom.

    In case you’re not massively into cooking and you’re coming home late, grab yourself a snack from the vending machine before you head to bed. You can find some tasty options there. And if you’re not tired yet, grab yourself a bean bag head to the private garden and socialize with the other travellers.

    3. Best Cheap Hostel in Brussels – Brussels 2Go4 Quality Hostel Grand Place

    • $
    • Central location near Grand Place
    • Comfy beds
    • Communal kitchen

    Brussels 2Go4 Quality Hostel Grand Place has one of the best locations of any youth hostel in Brussels, situated right in the city centre and within walking distance of many major attractions. It’s our pick for the best cheap hostel in Brussels because it’s just that: cheap! It’s also a fun hostel where you can meet others easily.

    This affordable Brussels hostel features newly-renovated dorms that keep to a fun medieval theme. As it’s an international hostel popular with backpackers, it shouldn’t be hard to find a travel buddy. But staff also provide free city maps to make exploring on your own easy.

    Why you’ll love this hostel:

    • Convenient location
    • Free wifi
    • Near Brussels Central Station

    The hostel features modern amenities and there are en suite dorms for six and ten. (Female-only options are also available.) There are also private rooms for four. The individual lockers provided are spacious, and beds are large and comfy.

    The only downside is that there’s no reception here, so checking in is a bit of a mission. Once you’re sorted, though, you can enjoy a clean and comfortable base right in the heart of the city, complete with vintage furnishings in one of the quirkiest hostel lounges in Brussels.

    4. Best Hostel for Couples in Brussels – Latroupe Grand Place

    • $$
    • On site bar
    • Centrally located
    • Privacy curtains in dorms

    This beautifully designed hostel in Central Brussels is the best place to book if you’re travelling as a couple! Latroupe Grand Place is within walking distance of Brussels’ top attractions, all while maintaining excellent standards of cleanliness and comfort.

    The modern hostel has a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of chill common areas that are ideal for meeting other travellers, including a real bar! It also features a key-card entry system for optimal safety.

    Why you’ll love this hostel:

    • Perfect location
    • Artsy design
    • Social atmosphere

    Dorm rooms come in either 4 or 6 bed varieties, with the option to select female-only or mixed-gender beds. Each bed is large and actually comfortable, and features a privacy curtain, USB charger, and reading light! You’ll also get a clean towel and your own locker upon check in.

    Couples looking for more privacy can also select one of the private room options, which are certainly more expensive than the dorms but still not bad for a city like Brussels. They also provide a delicious and varied breakfast, though it’s not free.

    Moreover, the staff are fantastic and while not exactly a party hostel, Latroupe definitely has a welcoming social atmosphere ideal for any Euro trip.

    5. Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Brussels – MEININGER Bruxelles Gare du Midi

    Hostels in Brussels
    • $$
    • Affordable packed lunch
    • Games room
    • Luggage Storage

    We know what you’re thinking, another MEININGER hostel? Yup, but this time it’s in a different location and way better equipped for all those travellers that need to get some work done on their laptops. MEININGER Bruxelles Gare du Midi, unlike the first hostel we’ve listed, is located in the charming neighbourhood of Anderlecht, in the southern part of Brussels.

    There are plenty of green spaces around the hostel where you can enjoy nice picnics or just chill in the afternoon sun with a couple of like-minded digital nomads. However, you don’t need to leave the hostel to have a good time. Thanks to the epic common areas and the games room, you can entertain yourself all day long – perfect for those rainy days. There are many workspaces where you get to sit down and get working behind the screen. Thanks to the high-speed Wifi, you’ll be done in no time!

    Why you’ll love this hostel:

    • Peaceful but great location
    • Bike rental
    • Underground parking

    But let’s have a look at the details, starting with the location of the hostel. Like all MEININGER hotels, this one offers super public transport connections to all over Brussels. Gare Du Midi train station is just 5 minutes from the hostel and from here you can get trains to not only great destinations in the city, but to all over Belgium and to other countries (the Eurostar stops here). Brussels Central Station is just 3 minutes on the train from Gare Du Midi.

    MEININGER Bruxelles Gare du Midi also offers plenty of great freebies. Free linen and towels (only if you’re in a private room), free Wifi, free maps, unlimited access to the kitchen, city maps and much more is waiting for you. If you feel like exploring the city, head to the 24/7 reception and ask the staff for the tour desk. They’ll be happy to help you sort public transport tickets, recommend tours around Brussels, and make sure you get your hands on a bicycle. You’ll be properly looked after at this hostel. And if you don’t believe us, read through the reviews from previous guests yourself!

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    More of the Best Hostels in Brussels

    And, that’s not all folks! Here are ten more of the best hostels in Brussels to suit all kinds of travellers.

    Best Cheap Hostel in Brussels #2 – Urban City Centre Hostel

    Urban City Centre Hostel best hostels in Brussels
    Basic but effective, Urban City Centre Hostel is the best cheap hostel in Brussels, Belgium
    • $
    • Key Card Access
    • Luggage Storage
    • 24-Hour Reception

    Urban City Centre Hostel is the best cheap hostel in Brussels. All dorms and private rooms are en-suite—no stumbling along corridors in the middle of the night! Bathrooms are modern and have a hairdryer. Dorms are spacious and secure, accessible with a code. There are indoor and outdoor common areas and you can leave your luggage here if you go off on other Belgian adventures.

    Jacques Brel Youth Hostel

    Jacques Brel Youth Hostel best hostels in Brussels
    • $$
    • Free Breakfast
    • Bar / Café
    • Laundry Facilities

    Jacques Brel Youth Hostel is a homey Brussels base, ideal for exploring the city and meeting new people. There’s a range of things to do, activities and concerts, available at cheap prices, for you to make the most of your stay in Brussels, or if you prefer to take it easy and hang out at the hostel you can mingle and chill in the sunshine in the huge courtyard or in the bar.

    Break the ice over a glass of Belgian beer or with a game of foosball or ping pong. Other perks at this Brussels backpackers hostel include free breakfast and Wi-Fi, a kitchen, and laundry facilities.

    Generation Europe Youth Hostel

    Generation Europe Youth Hostel best hostels in Brussels
    • $$
    • Free Breakfast
    • Bar
    • Bike Hire

    Generation Europe Youth Hostel is an eco-friendly youth hostel in Brussels with heaps of top facilities and amenities for a fun, relaxing, and sociable stay. Sink a few Belgian beers in the bar, enjoy an included organic breakfast each morning, surf the free Wi-Fi, chillax in the garden, and do some DIY cooking in the kitchen.

    Challenge new pals to a game of foosball or pool or head out to explore the local attractions and experience the night scene in the nearby district of Saint-Géry.

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      Brussels 2Go4 Quality Hostel City Centre

      Brussels 2Go4 Quality Hostel City Centre best hostels in Brussels

      A quirky and recommended hostel in Brussels’ city centre, Brussels 2Go4 Quality Hostel City Centre is a top choice for fans of Instagram!

      From the wall-mounted bicycle over the vending machines and the vintage sidecar displayed on the lounge wall to the old motorbike underneath the TV and the spacesuit in the lobby, there are many unusual features here.

      There’s a separate TV room off the main lounge, and the hostel has a kitchen. There are both dorms and private rooms and all guests have a large locker. Freebies include breakfast, maps, Wi-Fi, and a sense of wonder!

      HI Hostel Bruegel Brussels

      HI Hostel Bruegel Brussels best hostels in Brussels
      • $$
      • Free Breakfast
      • Bar
      • 24-Hour Security

      The family-friendly HI Hostel Bruegel Brussels has single-gender dorms for four and twin rooms with shared bathrooms.

      Located close to the Grand Place and Central Station, it’s a top hostel in Brussels for getting out and exploring. Start each day with a free breakfast and unwind in the bar after days out and about. It’s safe and secure, thanks to key card access and round-the-clock security.

      HI Hostel Bruegel Brussels is one of our favourites in Brussels but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

      What to Pack for your Brussels Hostel
      woman writing a travel packing list

      Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from us, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straight forward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art we have perfected over many years.

      Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!

      FAQ about Hostels in Brussels

      Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Brussels.

      Travel Safety Tips for Brussels

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      World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

      More Epic Hostels in Belgium and Europe

      Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Brussels.

      Planning on extending your journey further into Belgium and Europe?

      Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

      For more cool hostel guides around Europe, check out:

      Over to you

      There you have it! Organized by your needs, the best hostels in Brussels. With the help of this list, we know you’ll be able to easily find an awesome hostel and get to what matters – drinking Belgian beer and eating Belgian chocolate!

      Which hostel are you going to book? Brussel’s best hostel for solo travelers? Or how about the best hostel for Digital Nomads?

      If you still can’t decide, we get it – there are so many to choose from!

      So just go with our pick for the best hostel in Brussels – Meininger Brussels City Centre. The amazing reviews, awesome decor, and great location and price make this award-winning hostel a no-brainer.

      By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Brussels has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!

      Brussels nighlfe
      Brussels has some amazing nightlife options!

      Last Updated October 2022 by Samantha Shea


      And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!