Outdoor terrace with laptop, coffee, and Brussels streetscape.

Brussels isn’t just the political heart of Europe — it’s quickly becoming a hotspot for digital nomads, remote workers, and young professionals. With its cafés, coworking spaces, green areas, and cultural scene, Brussels offers the perfect mix of productivity and lifestyle.

If you’re planning a workation or a short-term rental stay in Brussels, here’s your ultimate guide to the best neighbourhoods to live, work, and explore.

Why Brussels is Perfect for Digital Nomads

Before diving into neighbourhoods, here’s why Brussels works so well for remote work:

  • Fast and reliable internet in almost every part of the city
  • Coworking spaces everywhere, from cosy cafés to professional hubs
  • Affordable short-term rentals compared to other major EU capitals
  • International community — English is widely spoken
  • Central European location — easy weekend trips to Paris, Amsterdam, or Luxembourg

Whether you want a quiet spot to focus or a lively district to socialise, Brussels has something for every nomad.

Ixelles (Elsene) – Trendy & Creative

Ixelles is the go-to neighbourhood for young professionals and creatives. Expect a mix of bustling streets, eclectic cafés, and quiet corners perfect for working from your laptop.

Why digital nomads love Ixelles:

  • Countless cafés and coworking spots (think: Café Capitale, Silversquare)
  • Lively social scene with bars, clubs, and cultural events
  • Beautiful parks like Abbaye de la Cambre for outdoor breaks

Pro tip: Look for short-term rentals near Place Flagey or Avenue Louise — walking distance to coworking spaces and nightlife.

Saint-Gilles (Sint-Gillis) – Hip & Artsy

Saint-Gilles is Brussels’ creative hub, full of street art, boutique shops, and international eateries. It’s perfect if you want budget-friendly rentals without sacrificing style.

Why Saint-Gilles works:

  • Affordable short-term rentals
  • Artistic vibe attracts other digital nomads
  • Easy access to the city centre via tram or metro

Hotspots: Parvis de Saint-Gilles for cafés and local markets, and Horta Museum for a touch of culture.

Etterbeek – Professional & Central

Etterbeek is ideal for nomads who need a professional, central location near EU institutions. Quiet streets after work make it great for focused productivity.

Why digital nomads choose Etterbeek:

  • Modern coworking spaces nearby
  • International networking opportunities
  • Good cafés and transport connections

Pro tip: Apartments near the European Quarter are great for networking and commuting.

Forest (Vorst) – Green & Peaceful

Forest offers a calmer, green environment while still being close to central Brussels. Ideal for deep work and digital nomads who value nature.

Why Forest works:

  • Parks and canals for outdoor breaks
  • Cosy cafés for laptop work
  • Lower rental prices than in central neighbourhoods

Pro tip: Stay near Parc Duden for a balance of focus and lifestyle.

Uccle (Ukkel) – Quiet & Residential

Uccle is Brussels’ suburban gem. Perfect for longer stays where peace and comfort matter.

Why Uccle works:

  • Quiet residential streets, ideal for focus
  • Green areas and walking paths
  • Good public transport connections to the city

Hotspots: Boondael Park and local cafés for working outside.

Other Neighbourhoods Worth Considering

Brussels is more than politics and chocolate — it’s a city where digital nomads can thrive, meet like-minded people, and enjoy a vibrant urban lifestyle.

Whether you prefer the trendy Ixelles, the artsy Saint-Gilles, the central Etterbeek, or the quiet Forest, Brussels has the perfect neighbourhood for productivity and fun.

Explore work-friendly short-term rentals across Brussels on EU-rentals.com and start planning your digital nomad adventure!