Hi there! My name is Alex, and I want to share a little story about my trip to Brussels last year. Like many of you, I love to travel, but I’m always on the lookout for ways to do it on a budget. Brussels, being the heart of Europe, had always been on my list, and I finally got the chance to visit it. If you’re planning to go, or just curious about affordable ways to see the city, let me tell you how I did it without breaking the bank.
Getting to Brussels
First things first, I booked my flight well in advance, which saved me a lot of money. If you’re planning a trip, I’d suggest keeping an eye on flight deals or booking at least a month ahead. I flew with a budget airline, and while it wasn’t the most luxurious experience, it got me there. Once I landed, I took a local bus from the airport into the city. It’s much cheaper than a taxi, and the buses are reliable.
Affordable Accommodation
When it came to finding a place to stay, I knew I had to be smart. Hotels in Brussels can be pricey, especially in the city center, but I found a cozy little hostel just a short walk from the main attractions. It wasn’t anything fancy, but it was clean, comfortable, and most importantly, affordable. If you’re not into hostels, there are also some budget hotels and Airbnb options that won’t cost you a fortune. Just make sure to book early, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Getting Around the City
Brussels is a fairly compact city, so walking is one of the best ways to explore it. I walked a lot during my trip, and it was not only free but also a great way to discover hidden gems like small cafes and local shops. However, if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions in a day, you might want to consider the Hop on Hop off Brussels bus. I used it during my visit, and it made getting around so much easier without having to spend a lot on taxis or public transport. The best part? You can get off at any major attraction, explore at your own pace, and then hop back on when you’re ready. It’s super convenient, and if you’re on a budget, this is a great option.
Must-See Free Attractions
One of the things I loved about Brussels is how many amazing sights you can see for free. Let me share a few of my favorites.
1. Grand Place
This is the main square in Brussels, and trust me, it’s stunning! The square is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings that just take your breath away. And the best part? It’s completely free to wander around and take in the sights. I spent hours just sitting there, watching the world go by.
2. Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis is one of the most famous landmarks in Brussels. It’s a tiny statue of a boy peeing into a fountain, and while it might sound a bit strange, it’s actually a lot of fun to visit. Plus, it’s free! It’s located not too far from the Grand Place, so you can easily visit both in one go.
3. Parc de Bruxelles
If you’re looking for a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Parc de Bruxelles. It’s a beautiful park where you can take a nice walk, have a picnic, or just enjoy some quiet time. I spent a peaceful afternoon here, and it didn’t cost a thing!
Budget-Friendly Eats
Food is always a big part of any trip, and Brussels didn’t disappoint. But eating out can get expensive, so I had to be mindful of where I ate. Thankfully, there are plenty of affordable options if you know where to look.
One of my favorite things to eat in Brussels was Belgian waffles. You can find them everywhere, and they’re super cheap. I grabbed one from a street vendor, and it was honestly the best waffle I’ve ever had. Another budget-friendly option is frites (Belgian fries). They’re crispy, delicious, and won’t hurt your wallet. I also found some small cafes where I could get sandwiches and coffee without spending too much.
If you’re looking for a bigger meal, try heading to local markets like Marché du Midi. You can find fresh and affordable food there, from fruits to ready-to-eat meals. It’s also a great way to experience the local culture.
Cheap and Fun Activities
Apart from sightseeing, there are tons of fun activities you can do in Brussels without spending a lot of money. One of the things I enjoyed was visiting free museums. Did you know that many museums in Brussels offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month? I took advantage of that and visited a couple of them, including the Musée de la Ville de Bruxelles, which was fascinating!
Another highlight of my trip was exploring the local markets. Brussels is known for its markets, and wandering around them doesn’t cost a thing. I visited the Place du Jeu de Balle flea market, which was full of interesting antiques and quirky finds. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s still a fun experience.
Day Trips on a Budget
If you have a bit of time and want to explore beyond Brussels, there are plenty of budget-friendly day trips you can take. One of the most popular ones is Ghent. It’s only a short train ride away, and tickets are quite affordable, especially if you book in advance. Ghent is a beautiful city with historic architecture, and it’s much less touristy than Brussels.
Another great option is Leuven. It’s a university town with a lively atmosphere and charming streets. Again, it’s easy to reach by train, and the cost is low. Both of these day trips were highlights of my visit and didn’t strain my budget at all.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Brussels on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. From free attractions and cheap eats to affordable transportation like the Hop on Hop offbus, you can experience the best of the city without spending a fortune. My trip to Brussels was filled with unforgettable moments, and I hope my tips help you plan your own budget-friendly adventure to this beautiful city.
Remember, you don’t need to spend a lot to have an amazing time in Brussels. Just plan ahead, take advantage of free and low-cost activities, and be open to exploring the city in different ways. Safe travels and I hope you have as much fun in Brussels as I did!
Also Read: Explore Ultimate Beautiful Sights in Copenhagen – Hassle Free