Brussels is not only the capital of Belgium but also the heart of Europe. As the political capital of the EU, it embodies progressive values and is known—just as Belgium is—for its open-mindedness. Brussels is the diversity capital par excellence, with 183 nationalities, and its inhabitants possess a free-spirited attitude born of such diversity. It's also incredibly beautiful, with Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture standing in stark contrast to the sleek glass-and-steel offices of EU institutions.
Its attractions range from the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by ornate guildhalls that glow gold at night, to the futuristic Atomium, a museum shaped like a unit cell. Brussels boasts avant-garde art galleries and museums but also hosts some of the best gay parties in the world. Whether you're visiting for La Demence or traversing Europe, take your time exploring this cosmopolitan city steeped in character.
Table of Contents
1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in Brussels
4. Sightseeing & Activities in Brussels
5. Restaurants & Cafes in Brussels
6. Brussels Gay Bars and Clubs
7. Brussels Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
8. Gay Events in Brussels
9. Day Trips from Brussels
General Tips
Brussels experiences all four seasons, with a chance of rain year-round. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons, between March and May or September and October. During these months, room rates are lower, and the weather is mild, with lows in the 40s and highs in the mid-50s. Consider visiting in July for the Ommegang festivities, a Renaissance-style festival that recreates Emperor Charles V’s entrance to the city. A December visit is equally magical, with holiday decorations and a giant Christmas tree in the main square.
When choosing where to stay, note that Brussels is one of the most progressive and LGBTQ+-friendly cities in Europe. We recommend finding accommodations near the Brussels Gay Village (Saint-Jacques neighborhood), located in the city center close to the Grand Place and all major attractions. The area is home to many gay hot spots both day and night, especially around Rue du Marché au Charbon and Rue des Pierres. These streets offer an exciting variety of bars where you can drink, dance, and immerse yourself in the lively and warm character of the city.
Transportation & Airport Transfer
Brussels Airport (BRU), located in Zaventem about eight miles northeast of the city center, was the 24th busiest airport in Europe in 2019. It serves as the hub for Brussels Airlines and TUI fly Belgium. The airport uses a one-terminal concept with several levels: the railway station is on level -1, buses and taxis arrive at level 0, arrivals are on level 2, and departures are on level 3. Levels 2 and 3 connect to the airport’s two piers: Pier A, primarily for Schengen flights, and Pier B, for non-Schengen flights.
Traveling from the airport to the city center is convenient, with options like trains, taxis, and buses. Trains run every 10 minutes between 5 a.m. and midnight, taking 18 minutes to reach Brussels Central Station for €12.70 (about $15). Taxis, a more comfortable option, cost around €45 (about $55) for a 20-minute trip; make sure to use official blue taxis with yellow logos. Rideshare services like Uber and Poppy are also available and may cost slightly less than a taxi. For buses, levels 0 hosts Lines 12 and 21. Line 12 operates on weekdays until 8 p.m., stopping only at main stations, while Line 21 runs evenings and weekends, serving additional stops and ending at Hertog/Ducale station.
Gay Hotels in Brussels
There aren't any gay-specific gay hotels or properties in Brussels, but the city is incredibly gay friendly.
Luxury
Radisson Collection Grand Place Brussels – Great value for a luxury stay in an ideal location near the Grand Place and just a 15-minute walk to the main gay bars. This contemporary hotel features spacious rooms with views of the streets below, a cocktail bar, a 24-hour gym, and two restaurants offering Oriental and Mediterranean cuisine.
Mid-Range
NH Collection Brussels Grand Sablon – Located on one of Brussels’ most beautiful squares, near the Central Railway Station and steps from the Grand Place and the Royal Museum of Fine Arts. With 196 premium rooms and suites, the hotel features contemporary decor, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 room service, and a minibar. Guests can also enjoy an award-winning restaurant, gym, and meeting spaces.
Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie – A 4-star hotel on Avenue Louise, Brussels’ most fashionable shopping street. Rooms are air-conditioned and stylish, with flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms. The hotel offers a restaurant and bar serving traditional and innovative French cuisine, daily breakfast, a gym, and a sauna.
Vintage Hotel – This boutique hotel features 38 unique and trendy rooms, including the Airstream room inside a fully renovated Airstream travel trailer. All rooms offer free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace, an on-site bar, and a lounge.
Budget
Le Berger Hotel – Once a clandestine meeting spot, this vintage-themed hotel has 66 chic rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and a luxurious ambiance. Guests can enjoy daily breakfast, an on-site restaurant and bar, and a terrace.
We’ve partnered with misterb&b to help curate the most LGBT+ friendly homestays. misterb&b is not a hotel or chain, but rather a booking platform for rooms, apartments and homes and it allows you to book from gay and gay-friendly hosts around the world. They have hosts in more than 200 countries and territories with more than 1 million total listings. Understanding the gay scene is much more easily done with the help of a local and home-sharing is one of the best ways to meet someone living in the city who knows how things work, where and when are the best nights to go out, and what places to eat at and which to avoid. misterb&b is our top choice if your priority is exploring the local gay scene.
Special Offer! Sign up with misterb&b and you will receive a free $10 credit to use on your first booking!
Sightseeing & Activities in Brussels
Mini Europe – Don't have time to see all of Europe in one go? Well, this miniature park, located at the foot of the Atomium in Bruparck, features reproductions of 350 buildings and monuments from 80 European cities, scaled to 1/25. Take a two-hour walk through thousands of lifelike figurines and live-action animations crafted in incredible detail. Book tour →
Atomium – An icon of Belgium, the Atomium is one of Brussels’ most popular attractions. Built for the 1958 World’s Fair, this structure represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Learn about its history, enjoy panoramic 360-degree views, and dine at the Atomium restaurant, 95 meters above the ground. Book tour →
Grand Place – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grand Place is Brussels’ central square surrounded by opulent guildhalls, the ornate Town Hall, and the King’s House (Maison du Roi). It showcases intricate Gothic and Baroque architecture and a lovely place for a Belgium beer. At night, the illuminated buildings glow gold. Book tour →
Royal Palace of Brussels – Although not the residence of Belgium’s monarchs, the Royal Palace is their official workplace. The magnificent neoclassical building is open to the public during the summer months to explore its opulent halls, including the rather odd Mirror Room adorned with a ceiling of scarab beetle wings.
Manneken Pis – No one ever believes it. But one of the most iconic landmarks of Brussels is this cheeky, small bronze statue of a boy peeing. Located near the Grand Place, it often sports seasonal costumes and embodies the city’s irreverent spirit. Sometimes the statue is accompanied by two sidekick counterparts in Jeanneke Pis, a girl, and Zinneke Pis, a dog. Book tour →
Chocolate Tasting Tour – Satisfy your sweet tooth on this two-hour walking tour. Learn about the art of chocolate-making from Brussels’ master chocolatiers while exploring the city center and sampling chocolate from its most famous shops. Book tour →
Beer Tasting Tour – Guided by a beer expert, this four-hour pub crawl takes you through historic landmarks and some of Brussels’ oldest cafes. Sample brews like Geuze, fruity Chimay, and strong Trappist beers while learning about Brussels’ rich brewing history. Book tour →
Gay Tours in Brussels
GAILY TOUR in BRUSSELS – Gay & Lesbian Tour – Choose from options like the Classic Tour, Gay Tour & Marché au Charbon’s Secrets, or Brussels by Night Gay Tour. Led by gay/lesbian guides, these walking tours offer insights into the city’s famous landmarks with a focus on LGBTQ+ history and culture. Book tour →
Restaurants & Cafes in Brussels
Le Dillens – A cozy French-style cafe offering modern dishes for breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner. Enjoy a glass of wine or a drink at the bar with free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating, and delicious meals in a quaint atmosphere.
Mamma Roma Flagey – A Roman-style pizzeria with a simple and friendly vibe, featuring a display case of pizza by the slice. Choose from a variety of toppings for an inexpensive, quick bite.
Fritland – No visit to Brussels is complete without a stop at this fast-food spot serving fresh, crispy frites (fries) with a variety of sauces. Open late and takeout only, it’s perfect for a post-night-out snack.
Fontainas – A chic cafe and restaurant with a large street terrace ideal for people-watching. Popular among trendy LGBTQ+ crowds, artists, and bohemians, it offers pastries, sandwiches, vegan-friendly dishes, and an extensive cocktail menu.
Plattesteeen – A French-style brasserie with a lively terrace in the Saint-Jacques district, close to gay street art. Inside, it resembles a classic French pub, serving delicious Dutch-inspired food like carbonade flamande (beef stew).
Yuca Latina -A gay-owned Latin American restaurant near the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula. Enjoy generously portioned Brazilian dishes like Picanha (cut beef), assorted croquettes, and yuca. Events like live music and karaoke add to the experience.
Brussels Gay Bars and Clubs
Bearzone Le Baroque – Located near the Grand Place, this bar embodies the “bear spirit” with a friendly atmosphere. Enjoy happy hour, guest DJs, and inclusive vibes.
Amalgame – A short walk from the Grand Place, this gay karaoke bar also offers drinks, dancing, and the popular Flash after-party on Sunday nights.
Le Bélgica – A Brussels gay institution known for its disco balls, cheap drinks, and lively outdoor scene. Perfect for pre-club drinks or casual socializing.
Jungle Bar – An absolutely stunning experience-based gay bar, which describes itself as ‘the jungle in the centre of Brussels'. The Indian-inspired decor spans three floors, creating an immersive “jungle” experience and serve as testament to the multiculturism of Brussels. Events include DJs, drag shows, and karaoke nights. They hold events every week from DJs to drag shows to karaoke nights.
La Reserve – Brussels’ oldest gay bar, with a pub-like atmosphere and an excellent selection of Belgian beers. The cozy spot attracts a mature crowd, and weekends bring lively music and dancing.
Station BXL – A retro-themed gay bar and cafe with free Wi-Fi, located in Brussels’ gay district. Mature men and bears gather here to enjoy the outdoor patio, beer, and cocktails.
Le Dolores – A cozy bar with a summer and winter terrace in Brussels’ gay district. Pick up local gay magazines like Bruce or Tribu while enjoying the relaxed vibe.
Chez Maman – This place has become the benchmark Brussels cabaret cafe. Every weekend, Maman and her daughters perform on this now-mythical stage. At Chez Maman, the stage is actually the main room's counter. This slab of marble has a magic that hundreds of people come to experience every week.
La Demence – La Demence is undoubtedly one of the longest-running gay circuit parties in the world. Over thirty years strong, it takes place 12 times a year, usually on Friday evenings or on the eve of public holidays, and attracts thousands of people from all over Europe and beyond.
Revelation – A gay fetish dance and cruise party that usually takes place on a Saturday once a month at Bazar. It features international DJs, two dance floors, cruising areas, kinky gogo dancers, and sexy performers. Check ahead for admission (discounts for guys under 26 years old).
Brussels Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
Macho Sauna – Located in the center of the gay district, this is the most popular gay sauna in Brussels. It’s a multi-level facility with lockers, a steam room, a dry sauna, a dark room, cabins, an outdoor patio, and a bar. Drawing in a mix of attractive men, it’s busiest on Sundays and during the ‘After La Demence’ nights.
Stamm Bar – Open seven nights a week, this is Brussels’ premier fetish and cruise club, where bears and their admirers come out to play. The venue has an industrial vibe with cruise areas and a dark room. Stop by for the naked party on Sundays.
Gay Events in Brussels
Belgian Pride – Hosted by the Belgian Pride Association, this annual event has prospered since 1996. It takes place in May and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to celebrate at Pride Village and Rainbow Village. Here, you’ll enjoy acts, music, culinary specialties, and the stand market, where you can learn from many LGBTQ+ organizations.
Pink Screens Film Festival – Brussels’ queer film festival, organized by the non-profit organizations Genres d’à Côté and Cinéma Nova, is an annual event in November. It lasts ten days and includes hundreds of fictions, documentaries, and experimental films, both long and short.
Day Trips from Brussels
Bruges – Just 55 miles (88 km) northwest of Brussels, you’ll discover the city of Bruges, which owes its name to the various bridges found within it. Taking the train is the fastest way to get there, although the bus is only 30 minutes longer. Bruges was declared a World Heritage City in 2000 and is also known as the Venice of the North. It boasts an impressive medieval architectural heritage, which you can enjoy as you walk through the city. Book tour →
Ghent – Only 30 miles northwest of Brussels, hopping on the train makes for a quick 27-minute journey. What once was a prominent city-state in the Middle Ages is now a port city at the meeting of the Leie and Scheldt Rivers. It’s known for its pedestrian center, the medieval 12th-century Gravensteen Castle, and the Graslei—a row of guildhalls beside the Leie River harbor. The Ghent Museum of Fine Arts also offers an LGBTQ+ themed fine art tour—the first in Belgium. Given by museum guides who are part of the community, it uses works from the collection to tell stories from LGBTQ+ history and mythology Book tour →
Antwerp – The journey from Brussels to Antwerp is approximately 40 minutes by train and just under an hour by car. This medieval city serves as a port on Belgium’s River Scheldt and was one of Europe’s most important cities in the mid-1500s, as well as the home of famed Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. Today, Antwerp is known for its vibrant fashion and entertainment scene, as well as a riverside fortress and an impressive cathedral. Book tour →
Featured image by Joaquin Aranoa from Pixabay
Note: Some of these links are affiliates which means using them won’t cost you any extra but we do receive a small commission for each referral. You're not obligated to use them but we appreciate it if you do. Thanks in advance for supporting this site if you choose to use our link!
Comment (0)