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Accommodation in Brussels for long-term stays as a digital nomad

Moving to Belgium’s capital can be an amazing experience. Find your place with this guide to the best accommodation in Brussels for long term stays.

Knowing where to stay in Brussels is key to making the most of everything Europe’s administrative capital offers. In this Belgian city, you can live in a bohemian district full of murals, work from a café facing a neoclassical square, or enjoy the calm of a park. Everyday life blends with the international atmosphere, where travellers from everywhere and different languages meet at every corner. Finding an accommodation in Brussels for long term stays means discovering a city that adapts to you, not the other way around. You can live at a slow pace in a peaceful area like Woluwe or surround yourself with art and cafés in Saint-Gilles. Studying, working remotely, and exploring Europe from Brussels is entirely possible, as it’s a strategic hub in the continent.

If we’ve convinced you of the benefits of living for a season in Belgium’s capital, this guide is for you. We’ll take you through the most recommended neighbourhoods for long stays and the types of accommodation available. Whether you choose a modern studio in Ixelles, a creative room in a Saint-Gilles coliving space, or a professional residence in Etterbeek, Brussels has a place for you.

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Where to stay in Brussels: Long-stay accommodation options

Settling for a season in Brussels is easier than you think. You can live in the historic centre, in artistic neighbourhoods filled with cafés and coworking spaces, or in quiet, green residential areas. Either way, the long-stay offer is impressive: modern colivings, furnished apartments, studios in historical buildings, student or professional residences, hotels, and aparthotels with monthly rates.

Also, one of Brussels’ advantages is its lower living cost compared to Paris, London, or Amsterdam. Therefore, by choosing the right neighbourhood, you can live comfortably without overspending on rent. Moreover, many accommodations, especially colivings and aparthotels, allow flexible contracts without long-term commitments.

So, let’s not wait any longer and start finding the best place to stay in Brussels.

Coliving in Brussels

Brussels has one of Europe’s most exciting coliving scenes, offering spaces designed for nomads, remote workers, and creatives who seek community living while keeping independence. Imagine arriving in Brussels, knowing no one, and wanting to build both personal and professional connections. For that, nothing beats a coliving space, where besides working in shared areas, you’ll have accommodation and services included.

The best areas for this type of accommodation are Ixelles, a lively and modern district popular among young professionals; Saint-Gilles, artistic, multicultural, and full of bohemian cafés; and Schaerbeek, a more residential, affordable area ideal if you want peace without being far from the centre.

The average cost of coliving in Brussels varies depending on location, services, and duration, but usually ranges between $770–1,320 (€700–1,200), with everything included (rent, internet, and cleaning).

Furnished apartments in Brussels

Sharing a kitchen or workspace might not sound appealing to everyone. After all, coliving isn’t for everyone. If you prefer independence and quietness, or if you’re travelling as a couple or with family, renting a furnished apartment in Brussels can be a very comfortable choice.

The offer is broad: from central studios in historical buildings to modern flats in residential neighbourhoods. Most include a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, Wi-Fi, heating, and complete furnishings, allowing you to move in straight away without extra shopping.

Neighbourhoods like Ixelles, Etterbeek, Saint-Gilles, and Woluwe-Saint-Lambert are perfect for this type of accommodation. Prices depend on size and services, but as a reference, you can consider the following:

Studios: from $825–1,210 (€750–1,100).
1-bedroom flats: between $1,045–1,540 (€950–1,400).
2-bedroom flats: from $1,430–2,200 (€1,300–2,000).

If you’re unsure where to look, start with Spotahome, HousingAnywhere, Immoweb.be (Belgium’s main housing portal), and Facebook groups like “Brussels Apartments for Rent” or “Expats in Brussels Housing.” Tip: when searching, make sure the ad mentions “charges comprises” to avoid surprises with electricity, water, or heating during winter.

Airbnb for long stays in Brussels

Airbnb is the most convenient option to settle in Brussels without worrying about anything other than arriving with your luggage and soaking up the city’s vibe. Forget about signing rental contracts or paying large deposits.

Airbnb is an excellent option for long-term stays in Brussels. As in many other cities, hosts offer 20–40% discounts for stays longer than 28 days, especially in non-touristy areas or winter. Flats are usually fully equipped, and basic services come included in the price.

The approximate monthly cost of an Airbnb stay is:

Studios or small flats: from $935–1,320 (€850–1,200) per month.
1-bedroom apartments: between $1,100–1,650 (€1,000–1,500) per month.
2-bedroom apartments: from $1,540 (€1,400) upwards.

Hotels with long-stay discounts: Another option for staying in Brussels

Why not live in a hotel? Although it might not be your first choice, it’s worth considering the comfort and flexibility hotels provide. Many hotels and aparthotels in Brussels offer reduced rates for 14, 28 nights, or longer stays. Therefore, they’re a practical option if you want a temporary base while finding a more permanent rental.

The areas of Brussels City Centre, European Quarter (Etterbeek/Ixelles), and Louise/Toison d’Or are most suitable. However, the city’s hotel offer is extensive and spreads across almost every district.

The cost may be slightly higher than other accommodation types, but you shouldn’t rule them out. Besides, if you contact the property directly instead of booking through platforms, you can often get long-stay discounts or extra benefits.

Basic studios or rooms: from $1,100–1,540 (€1,000–1,400).
Fully equipped aparthotels (with kitchen): between $1,320–1,980 (€1,200–1,800).

Student and professional residences in Brussels

Brussels is a major academic and international training hub in Europe. Thousands of students from around the world arrive here each year. That’s why there are several student residences hosting Erasmus students, master’s participants, and young professionals on internships or scholarships.

Student residences are a more affordable accommodation option in Brussels, though they lack the luxury of hotels or high-end apartments. However, they usually offer private rooms or full studios with access to common areas, shared or private kitchens, fast Wi-Fi, and included services. Therefore, you’ll have all the comfort you need for your stay.

Regarding prices, a private room starts from $550–825 (€500–750), while a studio with a kitchen ranges between $825–1,210 (€750–1,100).

One of the most popular areas among students is Ixelles, located near the Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB). For example, BRIK Student Housing is a well-known residence based here, offering furnished rooms from$550 (€500) per month.

Connectivity: Reliable Wi-Fi in Brussels

Brussels has one of the best digital infrastructures in Europe. Most long-stay accommodations offer high-speed Wi-Fi, ideal for remote work, video calls, or online classes without interruptions. Generally, both private homes and cafés or coworking spaces provide fast, stable, and unlimited connections.

Although that’s excellent, relying only on Wi-Fi networks isn’t always safe. That’s why the eSIM for Belgium lets you access the internet from day one, as you can activate unlimited data only for the days you need. Meanwhile, the Holafly monthly plans are a great choice for reliable internet every month in Brussels, making the most of its digital infrastructure.

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The best neighbourhoods and areas where to stay in Brussels for a while

One distinctive thing about Belgium’s capital is that, although it welcomes many tourists, it doesn’t rely on them. Its economy mainly revolves around EU officials. Therefore, accommodation prices don’t follow typical European capital patterns — a big advantage. For example: Summer and public holiday weekends are considered low season due to fewer officials.

Brussels is a compact, green, and surprisingly diverse city. Each neighbourhood has its rhythm and character, from artistic and bohemian areas to elegant, modern, or entirely residential districts. Therefore, there are many different places to stay in Brussels.

Regarding transport, wherever you choose to live, you can cross the city in under 40 minutes thanks to its excellent network of metros, trams, and buses. You just need to take the time to compare options and find the right area according to your routine, budget, and lifestyle.

Don’t worry — we’ll help you choose the best part of the city so your stay in Brussels becomes unforgettable.

Ixelles: One of the best areas to stay in Brussels

Ixelles is one of the 19 districts forming the city. It’s a multicultural, lively, and elegant area — a wonderful place to live. A curious fact: It’s home to a large African community centred around the area known as Matongé.

Ixelles includes the bustling Place Flagey filled with bars and restaurants, the university area, and the trendy Chatelain neighbourhood. The latter is one of the most fashionable places to stay in Brussels, offering endless dining and nightlife options.

Ixelles blends culture, art galleries, specialty cafés, bookshops, street markets, and green spaces. It’s also very well connected to the city centre, European institutions, and universities such as ULB. Metro stations like Porte de Namur and Louise, together with several tram and bus lines, make commuting simple. It’s also bike-friendly, a transport mode widely chosen by locals.

Much of the area is crossed by Avenue Louise, one of Brussels’ main streets and home to the city’s most luxurious shops. It stretches nearly 3 km, so walking along it is an experience itself. The most central point surrounds Louise metro station, only 15 minutes’ walk from downtown.

Accommodation in Ixelles

In Ixelles, you’ll find all kinds of accommodation, from furnished studios at $935 (€850) per month to premium colivings such as Cohabs Flagey. Here are some concrete examples to help you decide:

Stephanie 12 – Cohabs: Coliving with fully furnished rooms, shared spaces, and a lively community.
Morton Place Chatelain: Another coliving option offering fully equipped homes for international professionals near Chatelain.
Co-Homing – Flagey House: Spacious coliving with included services and a central location.
Les Estudines Bruxelles Ixelles: Student residence with shared flats and common areas like a terrace, kitchen, and lounge.
ULB Housing Office: Managed by Université Libre de Bruxelles, offering various on- and off-campus accommodations.
Appartements Gustav: Includes free Wi-Fi and private parking. These apartments are ideal for long stays thanks to their comfort and included services.
Thon Residence Parnasse: Aparthotel with fully furnished apartments and hotel services like cleaning and reception — a great long-stay choice in Ixelles.

Ixelles is one of the best areas to stay in Brussels – @Shutterstock

Saint-Gilles

Saint-Gilles is Brussels’ bohemian, artistic, and multicultural district. Here, you’ll find Art Nouveau buildings, antique markets, independent galleries, and alternative cafés that attract artists, digital nomads, young professionals, and students from around the world. It’s close to the centre yet keeps a strong local and diverse atmosphere.

Another great advantage is its excellent tram and metro connections (Horta and Porte de Hal stations) with the rest of the city. And if you enjoy walking, you’ll reach the centre in about 20 minutes. The area is safe, although it’s best to stay cautious near Midi Station at night.

Besides admiring the neighbourhood’s architecture, you can visit Van Meenen Square (the heart of Saint-Gilles), the Midi Market (Brussels’ largest), and the Church of the Holy Trinity.

Accommodation in Saint-Gilles

Long-stay accommodation options in this district are also diverse. You’ll find colivings, furnished studios and flats, Airbnbs, and hotels. Here are some popular examples to give you an idea:

Hilton Garden Inn Brussels City Centre: Hotel with modern rooms featuring kitchenettes — ideal for extended stays.
Smartflats Design – Louise: Aparthotel near Avenue Louise offering fully equipped apartments perfect for long-term guests.
Citadines Toison d’Or Brussels: Aparthotel with fully equipped studios and flats in a lively Saint-Gilles area.
Cohabs – Ma Campagne 232: Coliving with furnished rooms and shared spaces such as kitchen, lounge, and garden.
Neybor – Louise 13: Coliving-style residence offering private ensuite rooms, shared kitchens, and well-equipped common areas.
Colonies – Ensor: Coliving with 12 spacious rooms (some for two people) and shared kitchens and lounges. It’s a cosy choice for long stays.

Etterbeek: A residential area to stay in Brussels

Etterbeek is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a comfortable, quiet area close to the European institutions.

This district is residential and popular among EU officials, professionals, and postgraduate students. It also has a lively side with many shops, parks, and international restaurants. Additionally, it’s more affordable than Ixelles or the city centre.

Top attractions include Parc du Cinquantenaire, famous for its triumphal arch and peaceful green surroundings, and the impressive glass building of the European Parliament and other EU institutions — hence its nickname, the European Quarter of Brussels.

Of course, Etterbeek is well connected by metro (Merode and Thieffry stations), trams, and buses providing quick access to the city centre and beyond.

Accommodation in Etterbeek

This Brussels district offers various accommodation types, from Airbnb to hotels with long-stay discounts. For instance, a furnished studio in Morodo costs around $902 (€820) per month, while staying in a residence near the Université Libre de Bruxelles costs about $990 (€900) per month for a full studio with all services included.

Here’s a selection of recommended stays in Etterbeek:

Hotel Derby MERODE: Located opposite Parc du Cinquantenaire, it offers simple rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. Its proximity to EU institutions and public transport makes it ideal for long stays.
Appart-Hotel Maison de la Lune: An apart-hotel with fully equipped rooms for extended stays. It’s located near Cinquantenaire Park and Schuman metro station, providing easy access to the city centre.
Best Western Plus Park Hotel Brussels: A 4-star hotel facing Cinquantenaire Park, offering comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi. Although it’s a more expensive option, it’s highly rated for its excellent service quality.
Apartment – Place Jourdan & EU institutions: One-bedroom flat near Place Jourdan with an equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi. It features a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and excellent public transport connections.
Charming Apartment: A 70 m² flat with one bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony. It’s located in a quiet area of Etterbeek, perfect for longer stays.
B&B Place Jourdan: A bed and breakfast offering cosy rooms with private bathrooms and breakfast included. It’s situated near Place Jourdan and the European institutions, giving easy access to several parts of the city.
Living in Brussels, Urban B&B: Accommodation that combines the charm of a bed and breakfast with modern comforts. It offers rooms with private bathrooms and is set in a peaceful area of Etterbeek.

Etterbeek is Brussels’ European Quarter and another excellent place to stay – @Shutterstock

Frequently asked questions about where to stay in Brussels

What’s the best area to live in Brussels for a while?

Saint-Gilles is, in our view, the best area to live in Brussels for a while, especially if you want a mix of local life, good transport, affordable rents, and a multicultural setting. It offers a vibrant cultural life with markets, artistic cafés, and year-round activities that attract a young, creative community.

Which Brussels district is best connected?

Of the three neighbourhoods mentioned, Ixelles is probably the best connected with the rest of the city. You’ll be close to the centre, able to walk, work from cafés or coworking spaces, or relax under a park tree while living stylishly — though on a slightly higher budget.

Do I need a visa to live in Brussels for a while?

It depends on your nationality. If you come from an EU or Schengen Area country, you’ll have no restrictions to live and work in Brussels or Belgium. However, if you’re from Latin America, you can stay up to 90 days visa-free as a tourist. For longer stays, you must apply for a study, work, or temporary residence visa before travelling or within the first 90 days, depending on your situation.

How can I get around Brussels without a car?

Getting around Brussels is easy thanks to its excellent public transport system. Metro, trams, buses, and trains cover the entire city and are available with a monthly pass of about $54 (€49). There’s also a large network of public bikes (Villo!) and electric scooters using apps like Tier or Dott. If you stay in Ixelles, Saint-Gilles, or Etterbeek, you can walk or cycle almost everywhere.

Is Brussels’ nomad community large?

Yes, Brussels is an international city hosting meetups, events, and Facebook groups such as “Expats in Brussels”, “Brussels Freelancers”, or “Digital Nomads in Brussels”. Colivings and coworkings often organise weekly events, communal dinners, and cultural activities. Therefore, even if you arrive alone, you’ll easily integrate — its open, diverse vibe makes meeting new people effortless.