Brussels Prices & Travel Costs

Last Updated: Dec 2023

With one of the most beautiful central squares in all of Europe, Brussels is not an obvious tourist destination otherwise. This is where Europe does most of its bureaucratic business so most of the city is built for government workers and business people.

Is Brussels Expensive or Cheap?

Brussels gets ignored by most of those who tour Europe, and it deserves its reputation for being a city of international bureaucrats, but it also has a charm that is undeniable. Compared to most European cities it’s a bit on the expensive end of things, with relatively few options for those on tight budgets.

The main attractions, except for the Grand Place and the nearby Mannekin Pis statue, are relatively expensive as well. This is a tough city for a backpacker, which is one reason why most of them stay only a day or two if they stop here at all.

Brussels City Featured Image

Travel Costs to Brussels

Population 1,100,000
Area 1,900,000
Timezone UTC+1
Currency Euro
Airports Brussels Airport (BRU)
BACKPACKER INDEX: US$104.32
1 USD = 0.9200 EUR
134 World cities ranked cheapest to most expensive: Backpacker Index for 2024

Accommodation Costs in Brussels

Brussels Hotel Seasons

Brussels Hotel Prices

Rating Price(USD)
starstarstarstarstar32.61 - 60.87
starstarstarstarstar55.43 - 72.83
starstarstarstarstar45.65 - 108.70
starstarstarstarstar77.17 - 131.52
starstarstarstarstar141.30 - 200.00

Brussels Hostels Prices

Type Price(USD)
Hostel Bed19.57 - 31.52

Brussels Attractions Prices

Best tours in Brussels

Location Description Type Price(USD)
AtomiumSpace-age symbol of Brussels, this odd attraction is interesting to see for free from the outside. Admission gets you displays + observation deck.
adults
33.70
Mini-EuropeAt the base of the Atomium you can see many or Europe's landmarks in miniature. Combine the two and save a bit.
adults
children
16.30
11.96
Musées Royaux Art et HistoireBrussels' oldest and most important art museum, with pieces from around the world.
adults
10.87
Belgian Comic Strip CenterThe city celebrates its fascination and history with comic art at this museum.
adults
65+
14.13
10.87

Brussels Food and Drink Prices

Food Type Description Price(USD)
Budget breakfastOften breakfast is included with a room or bed. If not there are neighborhood cafes in most tourist areas.5.43 - 8.70
Budget lunchFinding cheap meals in Brussels can be challenging in some areas.7.61 - 13.04
Budget dinnerRestaurants near the main square can be expensive, so walk a couple blocks for better value.11.96 - 20.65
Beer (pint)Most beer is served in bottles, and there are many dozens to choose from. Lagers can be cheap while monk brews are expensive.5.43 - 8.70
Belgian waffleStreet carts are all over the city center, offering many topping choices.1.09 - 3.26

Brussels Transport Prices

Type Price(USD)
Taxi from airport to city center39.13 - 44.57
Train from airport to city center8.70 - 15.22
Public bus from airport to city center6.52 - 19.57
3km taxi ride in Brussels9.78 - 10.87
Metro or bus ride in Brussels2.17 - 2.17

Getting to Brussels

Getting around Brussels

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When to visit Brussels

Temperature and rainfall

Month High F Low F Precip (inches)
January42332.8
February44332.1
March50372.9
April56412.1
May64482.8
June68533.1
July72572.7
August73562.5
September66512.5
October58462.7
November48393.1
December44353.1

Brussels Weather advice

Sunrise and sunset

21 Mar6:44am6:57pm
21 Jun5:29am10:00pm
21 Sep7:27am7:44pm
21 Dec8:43am4:39pm

Where to go before and after