From Art Nouveau mansions to renovated industrial sites showcasing local artists and even 5-star designer hotels, these are 15 of my favorite boutique hotels in Brussels. All have a strong sustainable ethos, some offer chargers for EV’s, others use only renewable energy and work exclusively with local suppliers.
Serving as both the capital of Europe and Belgium, nestled in the very heart of the country, lies the often overlooked city of Brussels. A city I happen to call home and through years of exploration can safely state “I know like the back of my hand”.
Boutique hotels in Brussels are abundant, yet those that reflect eco-conscious practices are few and far between. I wanted to create a list of hotels I would actually stay in, places that combine sustainable living without compromising on top-notch hospitality.
I have handpicked 15 of my favorite boutique hotels Brussels has to offer. Most of them are locally run, and all of them commit to sustainable practices. Scroll down to find the various hotels plotted on a map of Brussels to help you plan your perfect trip. Alternatively, find a cute B&B in Brussels to stay.
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Boutique Hotels in Brussels at a Glance
MORE BRUSSELS GUIDES
- TO DO: One day in Brussels
- FOOD: Vegetarian Restaurants Brussels
- DAY TRIPS: Day trips from Brussels
- SEASONAL: Christmas Markets Brussels
TOP HOTEL PICKS
- LUXURY: The Dominican
- HISTORICAL: Art Nouveau Maison Flagey
- LOCATION: Boutique Hotel Saint Géry
- BUDGET: Meininger Gare du Midi
- Tourism Office: Visit Brussels Website or Brussels Info Palace (Rue Royale, 2); City Hall Brussels (Grand-Place). Opening Hours 09.00 am – 05.00 pm.
- Best time to visit: Brussels is a year-round destination. Although prices swell in July and August, it will never feel too crowded as it is not a tourist hotspot like Amsterdam or Paris. The weather is unpredictable in these months. May, September and October are traditionally the driest months.
- You might also like: 15 Sustainable Boutique Hotels in Bruges; Perfect One Day Guide to Bruges
Where to Stay In Brussels
READ | 10 Areas to stay in Brussels – a local’s guide
The city of Brussels is made up of 19 different communes (neighborhoods), each have a different postal code and name. Despite these differences, they still very much are considered to be Brussels.
Depending on the map you receive, this name can be in either French, Dutch or English. Which makes things overly complicated at first. Let’s look at a concrete example. The Historical Center of Brussels has postal code 1000 and is called Brussels in English, Brussel in Dutch and Bruxelles in French.
BEST PLACE TO STAY IN BRUSSELS BREAKDOWN
1000 – BRUXELLES/BRUSSEL – GREAT FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS OR SHORT STAYS
This is the historical center of Brussels and where you will find most of the highlights of Brussels incl. Grand Place & Manneken Pis. (Reco: The Dominican)
1050 – IXELLES/ELSENE – TOP PLACE FOR NIGHTLIFE AND GASTRONOMY
A trendy neighborhood in Brussels known for its abundance of restaurants, and bars. Traditionally the place where European expats move due to the vicinity of the European Institutions. (Reco: Le Louise or Art Nouveau Maison Flagey )
1060 – SAINT-GILLES/ SINT-GILLES – CLOSE TO BRUSSELS MIDI STATION AND PLENTY OF BARS
If you are looking for a place to stay in Brussels that is more budget-friendly and easy to get to if you are coming to the city via train, this is the perfect neighborhood. This part of Brussels has undergone a real transformation in the past 10 years. (Reco: Meininger Gare du Midi )
15 Sustainable Brussels Boutique Hotels
To help you navigate the various boutique hotels in Brussels, I took the liberty of splitting them up into three distinct categories for you. Each of the hotels that I picked has sustainable practices, which I have highlighted to help you pick your ideal accommodation.
- Five Luxury Boutique Hotels in Brussels
- Five Unique Design Hotels Brussels
- Five Boutique Accommodations in Brussels City Center
5 LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN BRUSSELS
1. 9Hotel Sablon
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets Allowed; Energy & Water Efficient Devices; Reduce Single-Use Plastic
WHY BOOK: Top Location; Indoor Swimming Pool; Wheelchair Accessible; Wellness Facilities
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.3
Positioned near the iconic Grand Place and other tourist attractions in Brussels, this beautiful boutique hotel is cozy with a touch of luxury. The indoor swimming pool is unique, especially for similar size hotels in this area.
Guests consistently laud the attentive and friendly staff, highlighting their commitment to providing an exceptional experience. From energy-efficient lighting to waste reduction initiatives, 9Hotel Sablon strives to minimize its environmental impact while maximizing guest comfort.
2. The Dominican (Adults Only)
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Limited Single-Use Plastic; Accessibility; Use of Local Suppliers
WHY BOOK: Beautiful Design, High-Tea; Wheelchair Accessible; Wellness Facilities; Adults Only
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.6
The Dominican is the luxury boutique hotel in Brussels. The historical building was a Dominican Abbey in the 15th century. Over the centuries, it has undergone various transformations, from ecclesiastical use to becoming a university library, before ultimately being repurposed into the exquisite boutique hotel it is today.
The architectural elements and historical nuances of the building have been meticulously preserved. Aside from the beautiful architecture, it is noteworthy to note the 4-star Dominican hotel is located within walking distance from the Grand Place of Brussels.
GOOD TO KNOW | The Dominican has a set of 5 apartments located next to the hotel. These are perfect for travelers who want an extended stay in Brussels (minimum one month stay).
3. NH Collection Brussels Grand Sablon
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets Allowed; EV Charging; Energy Efficient Lighting; No Single-Use Plastic
WHY BOOK: On Site Gym; Parking; Wheelchair Accessible; Location; Soundproof Rooms
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.7
I usually recommend friends who want to stay in Brussels to pick the Sablon area. It is close to the historical landmarks, super safe and surrounded by plenty of bars and restaurants. The 4-star NH Collection Brussels is luxurious, without feeling pompous, and in general good value for money!
Guests are treated to a host of amenities, including a chic bar and restaurant, ensuring a delightful culinary experience within the comfort of the hotel. The stylish and contemporary design of the interiors is the perfect place to chill out after a day exploring the bustling city.
4. Le Louise Hotel Brussels – MGallery
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets Allowed; Charger for Electric Car; Wheelchair Accessible
WHY BOOK: Close to Metro & Tram; City Views; Private Parking; Babysitting Service
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.4
Indulge in the epitome of luxury at Le Louise Hotel Brussels – MGallery, a slice of luxury just steps away from Avenue Louise and its high-end boutiques. The hotel is slightly larger than others mentioned, with 159 rooms and 10 suites.
Le Louise Hotel offers an array of key amenities, including a refined bar and lounge area where guests can unwind in style. Reviews consistently highlight the attentive staff, exemplifying a commitment to providing a personalized and memorable stay. Personally, I am a big fan of their outdoor terrace, a rarity for hotels in this part of Brussels.
5. Pillows City Hotel Brussels Centre
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: EV Charging Station; Use of Seasonal Products; Reduced Single-Use Plastic
WHY BOOK: Central Location; On Site Gym; Sound-Proof Rooms; Private Parking
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.0
The 4-star Pillow City Hotel Brussels Centre is perfect for travelers looking to book a hotel in the center of Brussels. The Grand Place and Manneken Pis are a mere 5-minute walk from the hotel.
What sets the hotel apart is its plush king-size beds covered with the finest Egyptian cotton bed linen as well as its on-site restaurant serving delicious French cuisine made with fresh seasonal products. Pillows Hotels are a small chain of boutique hotels located across the Netherlands and Belgium. The Brussel Centre hotel has 70 comfortable rooms
5 UNIQUE HOTELS BRUSSELS
6. Moxy Hotel
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets allowed; Reduced Single-Use Plastic; Supports Local Artists
WHY BOOK: Value for Money; On Site Gym; Terrace; Soundproof Rooms; Wheelchair Accessible; Trendy
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.9
Possibly the coolest hotel in Brussels, especially if you are a fan of funky design. Located in the hip Ixelles neighborhood, surrounded by plenty of bars, restaurants and shops. The hotel is littered with common spaces encouraging guests to mingle!
The Marriott-owned Moxy brand is known for its focus on contemporary design, affordability, and a social atmosphere. They offer a platform for local artists to showcase their work (video, photograph) and have one of the best continental breakfasts in Brussels.
7. Hotel La Grande Cloche
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets allowed; Local Produce; Sustainable Design; Limited Single Use Plastic
WHY BOOK: Value for Money; Location; Trendy Design
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.4
With but 42 rooms, the 3-star hotel La Grande Cloche is smaller than many of its abovementioned counterparts. Centrally located near popular attractions, this boutique hotel offers an immersive experience for travelers seeking an authentic Brussels stay.
La Grande Cloche is locally run and has a strong commitment to sustainability, a feat which is directly noticeable in the upcycled decor. The on-site restaurant, KLOK, serves local cuisine made with local produce. Breakfast is chefs kiss!
8. Vintage Hotel Brussels
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Sustainable Design; No Single Use Plastic; Vegan Menu Available
WHY BOOK: Value for Money; Location; Quirky Vintage Design; Breakfast; Near Metro
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.4
If you are looking for a hotel in Brussels with a truly unique design make sure to take a peek at the 3-star Vintage Hotel Brussels. Located in the up-and-coming, budget-friendly Saint Gilles (Sint-Gilles) neighborhood of Brussels, 50 meters from upscale Avenue Louise. Really good value for money considering the location.
Guests can choose to sleep in one of the 38 rooms or to spend the night in the airstream (!) bus parked in the inner courtyard. Rooms have been decorated in a distinct 70-ies style with vintage furniture and colorful wallpaper.
9. Zoom Hotel
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: EV Charging; Supports Local Artists; Natural Wines; Brussels Craft Beers
WHY BOOK: Design by Local Artists; Inner Courtyard; Spacious Rooms; Parking Available
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.2
One of the coolest hotels in Brussels is the small Zoom Hotel located in the hip Ixelles (Elsene) neighborhood of Brussels, just off Avenue Louise. The 37 rooms have been tastefully decorated by local photographers and painters. Zoom Hotel hosts various photo exhibitions throughout the year to create visibility for up-and-coming local photographers.
Aside from its strong ethos to supporting local artists, the spacious inner courtyard and decidedly industrial design are what set this boutique hotel apart. The on-site bar has an extensive list of natural wines, Brussels craft beers, and slow-food snacks.
10. Maison Flagey – My absolute favorite boutique hotel in Brussels!
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Locally Run; Bicycle Rental
WHY BOOK: Inside Classified Art Nouveau Building Local Neighborhood; Accommodating Host; Terrace
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.2
Anyone who knows me understands my deep love for Art Nouveau. When I found a boutique hotel in Brussels that was set in a classified Art Nouveau building, decorated with exquisite taste I was over the moon. The fact that it is locally run just made it even better!
Maison Flagey is located by the eponymous square, which is the de-facto beating heart of the lively Ixelles Elsene) neighborhood. As a local, I have spent many an evening drinking and eating around the square as it is choc-a-bloc full of bars & restaurants.
When the weather is good, locals flock to the lakes surrounding Flagey Square for picnics or languorous strolls after which they head to the square for a drink on the sun-drenched terrace of Café Belge. Maison Flagey is the perfect boutique hotel to book if you want to get a feel of local Brussels life.
5 BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN BRUSSELS CITY CENTER
11. Boutique Hotel Saint Géry
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Locally Sourced Food; No Single-Use Plastic; Water- Efficiënt Showers
WHY BOOK: Great Location for a Night Out; Terrace; Parking
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.1
One of the coziest Brussels boutique hotels and with the very best location too. Saint Géry is right behind the Grand Place and absolutely brimming with bars & restaurants. This is the perfect location to book if you are planning a night out on the town.
Boutique Hotel Saint Géry has but 24 rooms all tastefully decorated to resemble a 19th-century Manor House. The use of raw materials such as bluestone, wood, slate, and the original brick walls makes the hotel feel wonderfully cozy and warm!
GOOD TO KNOW | Despite being very centrally located, on a busy street, most guest reviews praise the hotel rooms for being a beacon of tranquility.
12. Dansaert Hotel
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Bike Tours; Walking Tours; Reduced Single-use Plastic; Water Efficiënt Toilets
WHY BOOK: Great Location for a Night Out; Budget Friendly; Extra Long Beds;
BOOKING.COM RATING: 7.6
The 3-star Dansaert Hotel is located on the hip Antoine Dansaert Street, known for its local designer boutiques and hip eateries. You cannot get more central than this part of town. Keeping this in mind, the price/night of the hotel is an absolute bargain.
Inside you will find 47 rooms, furnished with L’Occitane en Provence amenities. This hotel is perfect if are planning on spending the majority of your day exploring Brussels. Consider having breakfast in one of the many awesome brunch places in Brussels
13. Maison Arya
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets Allowed; No Single-Use Plastic; Locally Sourced Food; Water Efficiënt
WHY BOOK: Great Breakfast, Tranquil Located Close to Center; Soundproof Rooms; Pet Facilities
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.9
Nestled in the heart of Brussels, right behind the lively Place Saint Catherine and a mere 15-minute walk from the Grand Place. The price per night is great value for money, especially considering the central location.
Maison Arya is the perfect spot for travelers seeking a unique yet homely Brussels stay. The common room has been set up to resemble a cozy living space, complete with an open kitchen where breakfast is served daily. Travelers particularly love the high-speed WIFI, exceptional staff and general ambiance of this little hotel.
14. Hotel Made In Louise (Adults Only)
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: 100% Renewable Energy; Locally Sourced Food; Green Key Lable
WHY BOOK: Value for Money; Location; Garden; Near Metro Station; Tranquil; Games Room; Happy Hour
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.1
One of the top-rated boutique hotels. Brussels has few small hotels that are as committed to sustainability as the 3-star Hotel Made In Louise. With 100% renewable energy powering the premises, water efficiënt showers & toilets and the use of organic, locally sourced foods it truly reigns supreme.
Located in the hip Ixelles (Elsene) neighborhood, 300 meters from the upscale Avenue Louise. This family-run hotel has a mere 48 rooms, all of them come with a rain shower while others also have courtyard views and a little bathtub. Most of the reviews are absolutely raving about the delicious, healthy breakfast and great location.
15. MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles Gare du Midi
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets Allowed; Bicycle Rental; 100% Renewable Electricity; Platbased Options
WHY BOOK: Value for Money; Trendy Design; Sociable Atmosphere, Great for Solo Travelers
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.1
Meininger Hotel is located right opposite Brussels Gare du Midi or Brussels South train station. This part of Brussels is not what I would consider a prime location. In fact, it can get pretty hairy at night. As a local, I do not like to walk alone at night in this part of Brussels.
That being said if you are heading to/leaving Brussels on the train, the Meininger Hotel is worth considering. The hotel is a hybrid between hotel and hostel, offering both budget-friendly dorm rooms as well as single & family rooms.
Minimize Your Impact When Visiting Brussels
TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The historical center of Brussels is very walkable! A few of the tourist attractions (ex. The Atomium) are slightly further out but can easily be reached via the tram. Consider investing in the Brussels Card, which includes unlimited use of public transportation.
AVOID SINGLE USE PLASTIC: Tap water is drinkable in Brussels. Bring your refillable water bottle and simply fill up at your hotel.
PURCHASE LOCAL: Yuman Brussels offers the largest selection of ‘Made in Belgium’ products as well as a host of other sustainable brands.
STAY A LITTLE LONGER: Consider visiting Brussels for a weekend trip instead of a day trip.
GETTING THERE: Brussels is the perfect day trip from Paris by train or a train day trip from Amsterdam.
READ | What is sustainable tourism and why is it important?
Good to Know Before Booking a Hotel in Brussels
LANGUAGE SPOKEN: One of the charming oddities of Belgium is the fact it has three national languages (French, Dutch and German). Within Brussels, each location – be it the name of a street, a square or a building, will have both a French and a Dutch name. These can sometimes vary significantly from each other. The Main Square in Brussels goes by the name Grand Place (French) or Grote Markt (Dutch).
EUROPEAN CAPITAL: If your stay in Brussels coincides with a NATO or EU summit, prices of hotels can skyrocket. It also means that certain sections of the city might be cordoned off.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Do not hesitate to book a hotel in Brussels that is outside of the Historical Center. The city is very well connected by a system of trams, metro and (night)busses. Metro and trams run from 5:30 am to midnight; night busses from 12.30 am to 03.00 am. After hours there is the possibility to make use of the ridesharing apps Uber and Bolt. Download transportation maps.
Map of Conscious Boutique Hotels in Brussels Belgium
The various boutique accommodations are spread out across Brussels. In the map below you will find all the hotels that are covered in this guide plotted on the map of the city. If you click this interactive Google Map you can take a closer peek.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING BRUSSELS
TRAVEL GUIDE: 2-Day Itinerary Brussels
FOOD GUIDE: Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Brussels
FOOD GUIDE: Local’s Guide to Brunch in Brussels
PLANNING GUIDE: Is Brussels Worth Visiting?
PLANNING GUIDE: Bruges or Brussels: Which Belgian City to Visit?
SEASONAL GUIDE: Visit the Bluebell Forest Near Brussels
DAY TRIPS: Brussels to Bruges One-Day Trip
DAY TRIP: 16 Day Trips by Train From Brussels – Under 2 Hours Travel Time
OTHER DAY TRIPS: Paris to Bruges for a day
Sustainable Boutique Hotels in Brussels – Pin it
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