Brussels Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Brussels

Renting a car in Brussels offers you the freedom to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily navigate to key attractions like La Grand Place, Atomium, and Avenue Louise, allowing for flexible travel plans and efficient luggage management. This convenience is especially beneficial for those seeking city and culture-themed experiences, as you can visit these iconic sites without the constraints of public transport schedules. Additionally, a rental car enables you to venture beyond the city to nearby destinations such as Machelen, where you can find Chateau Marga and enjoy the sights of Atomium. Exploring Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk or Zaventem provides further opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture, with attractions like Tour & Taxis and Skyhall accessible at your leisure. Whether you are on a business trip or a cultural journey, having a car allows you to manage your itinerary effortlessly, making your visit to Brussels more enjoyable and stress-free.

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: Hertz is a popular choice for travellers in Brussels, offering 3 rental locations throughout the area. With an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, this supplier is known for its reliable service. Most customers opt for their Compact and Economy vehicles, making it a practical option for those looking to navigate the city comfortably while managing their luggage with ease.
• Sixt: Sixt stands out with 4 rental locations in Brussels, catering to a variety of needs. This supplier is especially favoured for its Compact and Fullsize SUV options, which provide flexibility for both city driving and longer trips. Their well-maintained vehicles and efficient service contribute to a positive rental experience for many travellers exploring the Brussels area.
• Europcar: Europcar also boasts 4 rental locations in Brussels, making it a convenient choice for car rentals. This supplier is well-regarded for its Compact and Economy vehicle offerings, which appeal to budget-conscious travellers. With a focus on customer satisfaction and a reputation for clean and reliable cars, Europcar is a solid option for those looking to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace.

Where to stay in Brussels

• Lower Town: Located in the heart of Brussels, Lower Town is perfect for those seeking a cultural and family-oriented experience. Travellers can enjoy attractions such as the Belgian Comic Strip Center, La Grand Place, and St. Catherine's Square, all rich in history and local charm. The area is also home to bustling markets and shopping areas, making it ideal for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. With nearby cafes and beer options, Lower Town offers a vibrant atmosphere for relaxation after a day of exploration.
• Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk: This neighbourhood is renowned for its cultural and city-themed experiences, appealing to families and solo travellers alike. Key points of interest include the iconic La Grand Place and the stylish Avenue Louise, which is perfect for shopping enthusiasts. The area also features markets and sweet treat options, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk is a lively hub, making it an excellent base for exploring the rich history and landmarks of Brussels.
• Sint-Gillis: A vibrant neighbourhood known for its cultural and business themes, Sint-Gillis offers visitors a unique blend of attractions. Notable sites include the historic Saint Gilles Town Hall and the Horta Museum, both rich in artistic heritage. With various markets and shopping areas, this locale is ideal for those looking to explore local culture. The abundance of breweries and cafes provides great opportunities for enjoying Belgian drinks, making Sint-Gillis a lively area for both leisure and discovery.

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 desired features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for affordability, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure more favourable rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
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 time to rent a car in and around Brussels is October, when prices are at their lowest and demand is slightly low. September also offers good value, with slightly low prices and average demand. Following this, November maintains moderately low prices with steady demand. In contrast, July is the most expensive month, as demand peaks and prices are slightly high. August sees similar trends, making it a busier time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
February	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
March	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly High
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	65.8°F (18.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly Low
November	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average