Brussels on a budget

Brussels is often left in the shadows of some of your more classic cities, like Paris or Amsterdam, but this capital isn’t just about fancy chocolates and EU politics – it’s a city packed with culture, history and Insta-worthy spots that won’t drain your bank account. Think grand squares, quirky street art, and food that tastes way more expensive than it is. If you’re after a city break that feels luxe without the price tag, we’ve got the hacks to keep your spending low. From free museums and walking tours to cheap eats and discounts, here’s how to explore Brussels without on a budget. 

Don’t just take our word for it – you can find out what our Insider, @aleena_rzq, got up to on her five-day city break for some itinerary inspo, too. 

Places to stay 

Accommodation can eat up a big chunk of your budget – but why spend loads on a huge hotel room if you’re going to be out exploring all the time? So, you probably don’t need anything too fancy. If you play it smart, you can find a real bargain in Brussels. Start with boutique hotels – forget the big chains and pick something more personal. Think stylish interiors, private rooms and unique social spaces. B&B HOTEL Brussels Centre Louise ticks all the boxes – colourful decor, a garden terrace and comfy rooms with quirky art murals. There’s a buffet breakfast and chill bar area, plus a games room and cinema space that are perfect for socialising. If that’s not your vibe, then budget hotels near the city centre are a great shout. 

If that’s not your vibe, then budget hotels near the city centre are also a great shout. Staying central means you’ll save on transport and still be close to all the action. Pick Bedford Hotel & Congress Centre for a great location and budget rooms. Just a short stroll from Grand Place and Manneken Pis, this spot puts Brussels’ best attractions right on your doorstep. Plus, after a day of sightseeing, you can relax in your comfy room or have a drink at their sleek rooftop bar. Bonus points if breakfast is included – that’s one less meal to pay for and more cash for beers and waffles.  

Free things to do  

Brussels is packed with sights that cost absolutely nothing – perfect for stretching your budget without skimping on experiences. Start with Grand Place, the city’s showstopper square and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s completely free to wander, and if you swing by after dark, the lights make it feel like you’re on a film set. You can also hunt down Brussels’ famous comic strip murals – Tintin and friends pop up on walls all over town, so keep your camera ready. You’ll find them dotted across neighbourhoods like Marolles and around the city centre – it’s basically an open-air gallery, and it won’t cost you a penny.  

Don’t miss the quirky Manneken Pis statue – Brussels’ cheeky mascot – it might be tiny, but it’s a classic photo op and totally free to see. And, when you need to escape the buzzy square, Parc du Cinquantenaire is perfect. This large local park is known for its lush gardens and iconic arches. If you fancy getting the inside goss, then join a free walking tour. They’ll cover the city’s history and point out all the top spots that only a local would know – just remember to tip your guide if you can. 

Top tip – Many museums in Brussels offer free entry on the first Wednesday of the month, so time your trip right to score culture without the cost.  

Foodie finds 

Belgian food doesn’t have to cost a fortune – and trust us, you’ll want to taste it all. Grab a cone of golden fries from food stands found all over the city – they’re double-fried for extra crispiness, and the best bit is they’re super cheap, around £3 a cone. You can also pick the classic mayo or one of the many sauces locals swear by.  

If you’re into sweet things, then you’re in the right city. We’re talking iconic Belgian waffles – sweet, fluffy and served hot from street vendors – the ideal snack between sightseeing stops. Go classic with powdered sugar or level up with chocolate drizzle – either way, it’s a pretty cheap snack. Hit up the local markets for cheese and bread, or check out the chocolate shops for plenty of free samples. Food stalls are your best bet for cheap snacks, but if you’re after a proper sit-down meal without the price shock, look for brasseries away from the tourist hotspots.  

Getting around  

Brussels is a compact city, so ditch pricey taxis and explore on foot – most of the big sites are walkable, and you can stumble across hidden gems along the way. If you want to cover more ground, then hire a bike for the day and pedal through the city’s pretty streets and parks – it’s cheap, eco-friendly and gives you total freedom. Or, there are other kinds of tours available on First Choice Experiences.  

When you need to hop on public transport, grab a day pass – it costs less than two single tickets and gives you unlimited rides on trams, buses and the metro, so you can travel all over the city as many times as you like. For longer stays, a multi-day pass or the Brussels Card is a must – it includes free transport, plus discounts on attractions.  

Ready to lock in your Brussels stay? Check out our city breaks and start planning today. 

Make sure you keep up to date on our latest travel tips on our First Choice Inspire homepage. 

Author: Rachel Coppenhall (she/her)
Last updated: 13/11/2025