Introduction
Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant student life. With numerous world-class universities located within its borders, such as those highlighted in our Best universities in Brussels guide, the city has become a popular destination for students from all over the world. In this article, we will delve into the best areas to live in Brussels for students, providing insights into the unique aspects of each neighborhood and the reasons why they are an excellent choice. Furthermore, we will discuss the best areas to rent a place, taking into consideration factors such as affordability, proximity to universities, and student-friendly amenities. Lastly, we will explore the best aspects of living in Brussels, from its rich cultural offerings to its excellent transportation system, making your university experience an unforgettable one.
Best areas to live in Brussels
If you’re considering moving to Brussels, there are several neighborhoods that stand out as some of the best places to call home. Ixelles is one such area, known for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural diversity. This borough boasts numerous parks, museums, and a lively nightlife scene, making it an ideal choice for young professionals and families alike. The area around Place Flagey is particularly desirable, with its many cafes, restaurants, and shops. Another top pick is Saint-Gilles, which has a charming village feel and offers easy access to public transportation. This neighborhood is also home to many beautiful Art Nouveau buildings and a thriving arts community. For those who prefer a more laid-back vibe, Uccle is worth considering. With its leafy streets and spacious homes, this upscale suburb is perfect for families seeking a quieter lifestyle. Finally, Etterbeek is another excellent option, offering plenty of green spaces and a family-friendly environment. Located near the European Parliament, this neighborhood is popular among expats working in the EU institutions. Overall, each of these areas provides unique benefits and amenities, so be sure to research thoroughly before deciding where to settle down in Brussels.
Best areas to rent a place in Brussels if you’re a young professional or student
If you are a young professional or student looking to rent a place in Brussels, there are several neighborhoods that may be particularly appealing to you due to their vibrant atmosphere, convenient amenities, and affordability. According to recent data, some of the top areas to consider include Ixelles, Saint Gilles, Etterbeek, and Schaerbeek. These neighborhoods offer a mix of apartments, studios, and shared housing options, making them ideal for those on a budget. Additionally, they boast excellent transportation links, with easy access to the city center and major universities such as Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB).
Ixelles is a popular choice among students and young professionals due to its diverse population, lively nightlife, and abundance of cafes, bars, and restaurants. The area is also home to several green spaces, including the beautiful Bois de la Cambre park, which provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Meanwhile, Saint Gilles is known for its artistic heritage, with numerous galleries and cultural events taking place throughout the year. This trendy neighborhood offers a range of affordable housing options, from charming studio apartments to larger flats suitable for sharing with roommates.
Etterbeek is another great option for those seeking a balance between work and play. The area features several business centers and office parks, making it an attractive location for young professionals. At the same time, Etterbeek boasts plenty of leisure activities, including cinemas, theaters, and sports facilities. For students, the European School of Brussels is located in this neighborhood, providing a convenient study location for international students.
Finally, Schaerbeek is worth considering for its multicultural vibe, stunning architecture, and affordable housing options. The area has undergone significant regeneration in recent years, attracting a growing number of young residents. With its proximity to key transport hubs, including Brussels North Station, Schaerbeek is well-connected to other parts of the city, making it an ideal location for those who need to commute.
Overall, when it comes to renting a place in Brussels as a young professional or student, there are plenty of great options to choose from. By considering factors such as affordability, transportation links, and local amenities, you can find the perfect neighborhood to suit your needs and lifestyle.
Best areas to rent a place in Brussels if you’re looking for a place to live as a family
If you are searching for the perfect area to rent a home for your family in Brussels, there are several neighborhoods that stand out due to their safety, accessibility, and availability of family-friendly amenities. The European Quarter is an excellent choice due to its proximity to international schools and institutions such as the European Parliament and NATO headquarters. This district offers many green spaces, including Leopold Park and Cinquantenaire Park, which provide ample opportunities for families to enjoy outdoor activities together. Another top pick is Ixelles, known for its vibrant cultural scene with numerous museums, art galleries, and festivals throughout the year. It also features a diverse range of housing options catering to different budgets, making it a popular choice among expat families. Additionally, Uccle has a reputation for being one of the most affluent and safest districts in Brussels, offering spacious homes with gardens, reputable local schools, and easy access to public transportation. Woluwe-Saint-Pierre is another desirable location, boasting large villas, modern apartments, and plenty of parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities for children. Finally, Etterbeek, located near the city center, provides a mix of urban living and suburban tranquility, with convenient access to shops, restaurants, and supermarkets, along with several highly rated bilingual schools. Overall, choosing any of these areas will ensure that you find a suitable rental property for your family, providing both comfort and convenience during your stay in Brussels.
Best aspects of living in Brussels
If you are considering making a move to Europe, then Brussels should be at the top of your list. This vibrant city is not only the capital of Belgium but also serves as an important hub for international politics and business. Living in Brussels offers residents a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity that is hard to find elsewhere. One of the standout features of this city is its stunning architecture. From the grandeur of the Royal Palace to the intricate details of the Grand Place, there is no shortage of breathtaking buildings to admire. Additionally, Brussels is home to a thriving food scene, with world-renowned chocolate shops and beer cafes on every corner. The city is also incredibly diverse, with over 180 nationalities represented among its population, which means that there are plenty of opportunities to learn about new cultures and try out different cuisines.
Another major draw of living in Brussels is its central location within Europe. With easy access to other European capitals such as Paris, Amsterdam, and London, it’s never been easier to explore all that the continent has to offer. For those who love to travel, this is an unbeatable advantage. Moreover, Brussels boasts an excellent public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains, making it simple to get around the city without a car. And if you do prefer to drive, don’t worry – the city’s roads are well-maintained, and parking facilities are plentiful.
In terms of quality of life, Brussels has a lot to offer its residents. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other European cities, and healthcare services are both affordable and accessible. There are also numerous green spaces throughout the city, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, and cycling. Furthermore, Brussels is home to many prestigious educational institutions, making it an attractive option for families with children. Whether you’re looking for a safe neighborhood, a good school district, or a lively social scene, Brussels has something for everyone.
Finally, one of the most exciting things about living in Brussels is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. Belgians are known for their friendly demeanor and welcoming attitude towards outsiders, so you can expect to feel right at home from day one. From attending cultural festivals to learning the local language (Dutch or French), there are countless ways to connect with the community and make new friends. All in all, Brussels is a dynamic and fascinating city that offers a wealth of opportunities for personal growth and fulfillment. For more information on universities in Brussels and the best areas to live, be sure to check out our helpful guides.
Conclusion
In summary, Brussels, the capital city of Belgium and a significant hub for international politics and business, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. For those considering a move to Brussels, several neighborhoods stand out as ideal places to live, each with its unique benefits.
Young professionals and students may prefer Ixelles, Saint Gilles, Etterbeek, and Schaerbeek due to their affordability, convenient transportation links, and vibrant atmospheres. Ixelles is known for its diverse population, lively nightlife, and abundance of cafes, bars, and restaurants, while Saint Gilles is famous for its artistic heritage and affordable housing options. Etterbeek is popular among young professionals due to its business centers and leisure activities, and Schaerbeek offers a multicultural vibe and affordable housing options.
Families, on the other hand, may prefer the European Quarter, Ixelles, Uccle, or Woluwe-Saint-Pierre due to their safety, accessibility, and family-friendly amenities. The European Quarter is conveniently located near international schools and institutions, while Ixelles offers a diverse range of housing options and cultural activities. Uccle is known for its safety, spacious homes, and reputable local schools, and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre features large villas, modern apartments, and plenty of parks and sports facilities for children.
Brussels also offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, with stunning architecture, a thriving food scene, and easy access to other European capitals. The city is also known for its affordability, excellent public transportation system, and numerous green spaces. Overall, Brussels is an attractive option for those seeking personal and professional growth in a dynamic and fascinating city.
