Brussels Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Brussels

Renting a car in Brussels offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. This is especially beneficial for those seeking cultural experiences, city-themed adventures, or business-related trips. You can conveniently visit key attractions such as La Grand Place, a stunning square ideal for city and culture experiences, or the Atomium, a unique museum that showcases Belgium's rich history. Avenue Louise, a lively street perfect for city exploration, is also just a short drive away. Beyond Brussels, a rental car allows you to discover nearby destinations like Machelen, where you can explore Chateau Marga and enjoy the sights of La Grand Place and Atomium. The Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk offers attractions like Avenue Louise and Tour & Taxis, all easily accessible by car. Zaventem is another nearby city featuring notable sites such as Skyhall. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience, making it simpler and more enjoyable to uncover the beauty of Brussels and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals in Brussels

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice among renters in Brussels, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for a budget-friendly solution. With its compact size, it allows for easy navigation through the city and parking in tight spots, making it a convenient choice for exploring Brussels at your own pace.
• Compact: The Compact car is another highly booked option in Brussels, offering room for 5 travellers and accommodating up to 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle strikes a balance between size and comfort, making it suitable for solo adventurers, couples, and families alike. Its slightly larger size compared to the Economy car provides extra luggage space without sacrificing manoeuvrability, which is perfect for those wanting to discover the city’s attractions with ease.
• Midsize SUV: For those requiring more space, the Midsize SUV is a popular rental choice in Brussels. This vehicle can accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers a higher driving position and additional comfort, which enhances the overall travel experience. It is suitable for longer journeys and provides the versatility needed for a variety of travel needs while exploring the region.

Top rated car suppliers in Brussels

• Hertz: With 3 rental locations throughout Brussels, Hertz is a popular choice for many travellers seeking flexibility during their visit. This supplier has earned an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, reflecting customer satisfaction. Most frequently booked vehicles include Compact and Economy options, making it easy to navigate the city while keeping your budget in check.
• Sixt: Sixt features 4 rental locations in Brussels, providing convenience for visitors. This supplier is known for its selection of Compact and Fullsize SUVs, catering to a variety of travel needs. Sixt’s commitment to customer service ensures a friendly and efficient rental experience, making it a reliable option for those exploring the area.
• Europcar: Also offering 4 rental locations within Brussels, Europcar is another top choice for car rentals. This supplier is well-regarded for its Compact and Economy vehicles, which are ideal for both city driving and longer excursions. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Europcar provides a smooth and hassle-free rental process for tourists.

Where to stay in Brussels

• Lower Town: Lower Town is a vibrant neighborhood in Brussels known for its rich cultural and family experiences. It features a bustling market and a shopping area, making it convenient for visitors. Key attractions include the Belgian Comic Strip Center, La Grand Place, and St. Catherine's Square, all within a short distance. This area also offers numerous food and drink options, including local breweries and cafes, perfect for those looking to enjoy Belgian delicacies.
• Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk: Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk captures the essence of Brussels with its cultural and family-friendly atmosphere. The neighborhood is home to significant landmarks such as La Grand Place and Avenue Louise, which are ideal for sightseeing and shopping. Visitors can also explore the dynamic public markets that reflect local life. Sweet treats and refreshing beer are readily available, enhancing your culinary experience as you soak in the vibrant city life.
• Sint-Gillis: Sint-Gillis is a culturally rich neighborhood offering a mix of city life and business opportunities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, such as the Horta Museum and Saint Gilles Town Hall, both showcasing the area's historical significance. The nearby piazza squares and bustling market enhance the local charm. With numerous cafes and breweries, Sint-Gillis provides a delightful setting to unwind after a day of exploring the city.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Brussels

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilizing filters on Expedia can assist you in discovering the perfect vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel date. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to access lower prices and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to navigate and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. Renters over the age of 70 may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age criteria before proceeding with your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most economical. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well—just remember to return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airport locations often incurs a surcharge; however, the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Brussels

The best value period to rent a car in and around Brussels is October, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderate. September also offers slightly low prices with average demand, making it a good option. Following this, November continues the trend with slightly low prices and average demand. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month due to moderately high demand, while June and August also see slightly high prices and demand levels.