Lisbon at Dawn: 4 Activities to Enjoy Before 9AM
Lisbon at dawn: 4 peaceful early-morning activities to enjoy the city before 9AM—solo or with your...
Brussels
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and Europe, is a unique city that mixes history, modernity and cultural diversity. Its iconic architecture, between Art Nouveau buildings and European institutions, gives it a special charm. The UNESCO-listed Grand Place is one of the jewels of the city, surrounded by lively alleys, famous chocolatiers and friendly bars. Between the famous fries, waffles and chocolate, the city is full of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a good meal, whether alone, with your family or with your flatmates.
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Why live in Brussels? Because it’s a lively city, full of contrasts, where you can stroll between historic buildings and ultra-modern neighborhoods. Each town has its own atmosphere, its own rhythm and its own good addresses. You enjoy a real cultural richness: museums, exhibitions, concerts, festivals… There’s always something cool to do.
You can walk in a park after work, discover a new cuisine down the street or cross the city in a few minutes thanks to the transport. And above all, Brussels is an open, welcoming city, where you quickly feel at home.
Whether you are a student or a young professional, here, you can easily find your balance between urban life, nature and encounters.
Sébastien
City manager of Brussels
Our City Manager in Brussels, Sébastien, is your go-to person throughout your stay—and not just for recommending the best spots in town. If anything comes up in the house (a breakdown, questions about how the appliances work, cleanliness issues, etc.), he jumps into action and coordinates everything to get it fixed as quickly as possible. You can rely on him to guide you, introduce you to all the house’s services, and liaise with the Colive team so that your move-in and daily life run smoothly and stress-free. A beer enthusiast (and former brewer), a keen photographer, and a big fan of galleries, museums, and flea markets, he’ll also point you toward his favorite gems to help you explore Brussels from a truly unique perspective.
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Alexandra
City manager of Brussels
Just arrived in a coliving or your new home in Brussels? Alexandra is here to guide you and make sure everything runs smoothly! Need a hand setting up, advice on arranging your space, or a hot tip for exploring the city? She’s on it. Where Alexandra really shines, though, is anything culture-related! Passionate about Brussels’s art scene, she knows all the can’t-miss exhibitions, intimate concert venues, festivals, landmark theatres, and even the hidden gems where art and music come alive. If you want to experience Brussels differently and dive into its incredible cultural buzz, she’s the perfect person to turn to. With Alexandra, not only will your move-in be seamless, but your discovery of the city will be filled with unforgettable experiences!
See moreThe Colivers say it best
Lucie
Belgium, Brussels
“I was lucky enough to stay at Colive Flagey 2 in Brussels for 5 months.
The house was magnificent, and my room very nice! Thank you to the Colive team for their responsiveness and friendliness throughout my stay! I recommend Colive for those who want to : enjoy a shared flat experience, create unforgettable memories with their roommates, travel, improve their interpersonal skills, become part of the Colive family
Thanks to Colive, I came to Brussels alone, but now I’m leaving with 9 people I hold dear to my heart.
Thank you for this :)”
Edward
Belgium, Brussels
“Having spent 8 months taking care of myself for various reasons, I’m happy to have found Colive for housing. Excellent service, very good communication, a very understanding team when there are little glitches. I can’t think of a single negative point, and I’d give a 100% recommendation to anyone who needs a roof over their head to discover a city.
Little plus: Colive is ideal for those looking for accommodation despite the many scams that can be found on social network accommodation groups.
I recommend it, it was great (I’d give it more than 5 stars if I could) 😊”
Bernardo
Belgium, Brussels
“As a former tenant of Colive Botanique (Brussels), I can say that I had a very good experience with them. Colive’s residences are very well-equiped and they even have some rooms with a private bathroom. At the same time, the concept of living in a shared residence also gave me a great opportunity to know amazing people, expats like me, and share good times with them.
Colive’s team has always been helpful and kind. If you want to spend some time in Brussels or even start your independent adult life, Colive’s residences can definitely be an advantageous choice by a reasonable cost.”
Claire
Belgium, Brussels
Incredible experience at Colive! The service is excellent and the Colive team is top notch! The room was exactly like the pictures, very comfortable, and the house was hot! Colive gave me the opportunity to meet a lot of new people, and I highly recommend Colive if you’re looking for a nice, friendly place to share 🙂
Tom
Belgium, Brussels
“Almost 1 year at Colive and I love it! Big house with big room and everything is done to make it simple and efficient from arrival to departure!
Big up to the Colive in-house team, so nice and super open!
Thanks again and maybe see you soon!
I recommend 100%.”
Matea
Portugal, Lisbon
Such a great place for a longer stay in Lisbon. I was staying at the Colive in Alameda for 3 months, the whole experience was so good and if I am ever coming back to Lisbon staying with colive will be my first choice. Met so many new people and the whole coliving experience was just memorable.
Romain
Belgium, Brussels
“The Colive team is very active and responds quickly to our needs when they arise. Imagine a world where administrative processes are simple. Well, that’s what Colive allowed me to experience during my stay with them. Everything was quick and easy. That’s a real plus!
The houses and flats they offer are large and allow you to thrive in a generally international collocation, while offering cheaper prices than other Ikohab and Cohabs for example! So, of course, I’d recommend going with them!”
James
Belgium, Brussels
“Great location, amazing people and beautiful house! Our house in Arts-Loi was pretty quiet and always pretty neat even if we were 8, it worked our so well! I’ve always had space for myself and could always socialize in the common spaces or so, also the events were a great way to meet people! I’d def recommend it!”
Olivia
Belgium, Brussels
“Colive is the place to be if you need to find a room in Brussels. The staff is super friendly, the rooms are cosy and clean and they are always ready to help if you have any issue. Additionally, they also organise social events for the members, such as running, drinks at a bar, etc. I highly recommend Colive :)”
David
France, Paris
“Happy with my stay! The housemates were all very accommodating. Colive was quick to resolve any issues I had on my part.”
Etienne
France, Lille
“Colive is an ultra-practical solution for those wishing to move to a new city. The colive team listens to your problems, and although I can’t guarantee it to anyone, I’ve met some great people.”
Léon
Belgium, Brussels
“Top experience with Colive for my 6-month internship in Brussels! Clean room and great support from the whole team, all I had to do was drop my bags off 🙂 I recommend 🙌”
Victor
Portugal, Lisbon
“Beautiful, clean accommodation! The Colive team is very responsive when a problem arises. 10/10. I recommend”
Ricard
Belgium, Brussels
“I lived 6 months in a Colive in Brussels and it was perfect. I got to meet very interesting people since it is a very international environment, the house was clean, big and comfortable. I definitely recommend it!”
Félix
Belgium, Brussels
“It’s the easy way to find accommodation without having to run around… Super good support from the team who searched for me. They really listened and were quite responsive! In the end, I would have stayed much longer, but all good things must come to an end! I wish you all the best!”
Camille
Belgium, Brussels
“If you’re looking for a cosy place to stay in Brussels with a friendly community, do not hesitate… Colive is the best solution for you ! I spent 6 months in a Colive house in Ixelles and each was worth it 😀 It was a pleasure to discover people, culture and food from all around the world ! Also the team was really flexible/understanding so that felt good 🙂 ! Anyway, thanks for this amazing sharing experience !”
Laura
Portugal, Lisbon
“Super house with a great atmosphere! Team always available and listening! 😁
Rooms: 5/5Service: 5/5Location: 5/5″
Victor
Belgium, Brussels
“I loved living in Brussels! Living in a great house with people from all over the world was just the right combination for me! Thanks to the Colive team! Can’t wait to see you in two years when I come back! See you soon!”
Elise
Belgium, Brussels
“I booked all online as I wasn’t able to arrive before and it was so convenient to be able to do so. I had a virtual tours and received lots of advices from the team, they’re really chill and will def help you feel like home in Brussels”
Benjamin
Belgium, Brussels
“So easy! Easy to choose and book a room (even if I wasn’t in Belgium at that time), great location so it was easy to get around, easy to meet people from all over the world at once, easy to ask something to their team, smooooth ! Many thanks !!”
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Accommodation in Brussels: the complete guide to accommodation
Finding accommodation in Brussels is a key step for anyone wishing to settle in the capital. Whether you are originally from Wallonia, whether you are arriving for your studies, your work or a new start, the city of Brussels offers a wide range of accommodation. From the room to the room, from the apartment to the house, including the shared flat, there is always accommodation available adapted to your profile and your life.
Understanding the housing market in Brussels
In Brussels, the search for housing starts with a good understanding of the different types of housing. The accommodation can be an apartment, a room in a shared flat, a student room, or a multi-storey house. Each district, each municipality, each building has its own specificities. The general condition of the property, the floor, the rooms, the facilities, the services, the proximity of a park or transport influence the price.
The city also offers a diversity of atmospheres: some neighborhoods are young and lively, others more residential or social. Proximity to universities, shops, green spaces such as a park, and transport plays a central role in the choice of housing. Whether you’re looking for a quiet residence, a lively shared flat or a functional apartment, Brussels has an answer.
Room, room, shared flat or apartment?
The student accommodation is a very common solution among students. It is an individual or shared dwelling, often located in a residence or a house, with a kitchen, a bathroom, and other common rooms. Some rooms are furnished, others are not. The price depends on the state, the floor, the proximity and the municipality.
Shared accommodation, on the other hand, is ideal for young professionals or students who want to live a social life while dividing the rent. Each roommate usually has his or her own room, and shares the kitchen, the dining room, the bath, and sometimes other places such as a terrace or a private park. A good flatshare is based on the clarity of the rules, respect for the premises, and a good understanding between roommates.
Apartments are very present in the rental market in Brussels. They are suitable for single people, couples or small families. The classic lease can be for a main or temporary rental. The apartment, furnished or unfurnished, offers several rooms: living room, kitchen, bathroom, sometimes several bedrooms. Some are in a building with an elevator, cellar or shared garden.
Finally, the house is ideal for those who want more space. It can also be used for shared accommodation, especially if it has several bedrooms, floors, rooms, and a good general condition. Some houses host student residences with several roommates.
The lease and obligations
Regardless of the type of housing, a lease is always necessary. This rental contract binds the owner and the tenant, and specifies the rights and duties of each. The lease mentions the duration, the amount of the rent, the deposit, the rental deposit, the condition of the accommodation, the domiciliation, and the notice conditions.
It is returned if the condition of the property is in accordance with the entry and exit. A detailed inventory is therefore essential. The deposit protects the owner, but also the tenant in the event of a dispute.
Domiciliation is mandatory in Belgium. Other points can be important: some rentals accept pets, others don’t. The same goes for smokers. These mentions must be clear in the lease. Respecting the notice period, generally one to three months, is also crucial to avoid penalties.
What to look for when visiting
When searching, it is essential to visit several available properties. Observe the general condition of the home: walls, floors, windows, plumbing, condition of the bathroom, kitchen equipment, furniture if present. Check the brightness, insulation, floor, condition of the building, proximity to transport, shops or a park.
Ask the landlord questions: about charges, the rental deposit, the deposit, the duration of the lease, the internal rules, the former tenants, etc. Discuss with any roommates to understand daily life, the atmosphere, and the rules of common life.
Preparing your application
A good record increases your chances. Prepare: identity card, proof of income, guarantor (if you are a student), dates of availability, wish to domiciliate, type of accommodation sought (apartment, room, kot, house, shared flat), number of rooms, need for furniture, acceptance of pets, tolerance for smokers, etc.
Be clear about the duration of the rental, the type of lease, and your rent budget. Prices in Brussels can vary greatly depending on the district, the floor, the condition, the facilities, and the municipality.
Living in Brussels: more than just a place to live
The city of Brussels, with its varied neighbourhoods, dynamic municipalities, cultural richness and social life, is an excellent choice for a stay. Living in a good home, well located, well maintained, with good roommates or a good landlord, makes your integration much easier.
The quality of the accommodation, the serenity of the lease, the good understanding with the flatmates, the balance between private and social life, the proximity of a park or a metro station: all this makes your rental experience in Brussels pleasant and fulfilling.