Anderlecht is one of the largest and most diverse communes in Brussels, offering a fascinating mix of city life, residential neighbourhoods, green spaces and historic character. Located to the south-west of central Brussels, Anderlecht is a popular choice for people who want more space and a wider range of rental options while remaining well connected to the city centre.
One of Anderlecht's biggest advantages is its variety. Around the historic centre and Saint-Guidon, you'll find traditional Brussels architecture, local cafés, restaurants and shops. Cureghem is more urban and multicultural, while areas such as Neerpede offer a much greener and quieter environment, with open landscapes, parks and walking routes.
For renters, this variety means that living in Anderlecht can feel very different depending on which part of the commune you choose. Whether you're looking for an apartment close to public transport, a family-friendly neighbourhood or a greener home away from the busiest parts of Brussels, Anderlecht is worth exploring.
Why Live in Anderlecht?
- Excellent public transport: Metro, tram and bus connections make it easy to reach central Brussels and other communes.
- More space for your money: Anderlecht offers a broad selection of apartments and houses across different price levels.
- Green spaces: From Astrid Park and Scherdemael Park to the large open spaces of Neerpede.
- Diverse neighbourhoods: Choose between lively urban areas, traditional residential streets and quieter green districts.
- Strong local character: Markets, independent shops, restaurants and cafés give Anderlecht a distinct identity.
- Historic heritage: The area around Saint-Guidon includes the Collegiate Church, Beguinage and Erasmus House.
- Good for families: Parks, playgrounds and quieter residential areas make several parts of Anderlecht particularly attractive to families.
Rental Market in Anderlecht
The Anderlecht rental market is one of the most varied in Brussels. The commune includes everything from apartments in dense urban neighbourhoods to larger family homes and properties close to parks and green spaces.
You can find modern apartment buildings as well as older Brussels properties with larger rooms and more traditional architecture. The area around the centre and Saint-Guidon is particularly convenient for renters who want shops, cafés and public transport nearby, while neighbourhoods closer to Neerpede can offer a quieter residential atmosphere.
Because Anderlecht is such a large and varied commune, rental prices can differ considerably depending on the exact location, property size, condition and proximity to transport. This makes it useful to compare individual listings rather than judging the entire commune by a single average price.
Whether you're searching for a one-bedroom apartment in Anderlecht, a larger apartment for a family or a house with access to green space, it's worth checking the latest available properties regularly.
Lifestyle & Atmosphere
Anderlecht has a very different atmosphere from some of Brussels' more polished central neighbourhoods. It feels more varied, local and multicultural, with busy streets and neighbourhood markets sitting alongside quiet residential areas and large green spaces.
The historic centre around Saint-Guidon is one of the most interesting areas for people who enjoy local character. The neighbourhood combines historic buildings with cafés, restaurants, independent shops and everyday services. Visit Brussels highlights the area around Saint-Guidon, Erasmus House and the Beguinage as one of the commune's key neighbourhood walks.
Cureghem, meanwhile, has a distinctly urban and multicultural identity. It is particularly interesting for people who enjoy discovering different cuisines, markets, independent businesses and a more energetic Brussels atmosphere.
Further south-west, Neerpede feels almost rural. This is one of the most surprising aspects of Anderlecht: you can be in Brussels and still find fields, ponds, walking routes and large areas of open countryside.
Green Spaces & Parks in Anderlecht
Anderlecht is one of the greener parts of Brussels, with parks, gardens, waterways and semi-natural areas spread throughout the commune. The municipality describes Anderlecht as both an urban and rural commune, with numerous parks and green areas between its built-up neighbourhoods.
Astrid Park
Astrid Park is one of the best-known green spaces in Anderlecht. Located close to the residential areas around the centre, it features a pond, playground, petanque facilities, mature trees and a café terrace. It is a useful everyday green space for residents rather than simply a tourist attraction.
Scherdemael Park
Scherdemael Park is a large green area of almost 8 hectares. It includes playgrounds, a basketball court, petanque facilities and walking areas, making it particularly attractive for families and people who enjoy outdoor activities.
Neerpede & Pede Park
For a completely different atmosphere, head towards Neerpede. The Pede Park includes a large pond, walking paths and recreational areas and forms part of the Brussels Green Walk. The surrounding Neerpede landscape is one of the best places in Brussels to escape the feeling of being in a major city.
If green space is an important factor when choosing where to live, Uccle, Forest, Watermael-Boitsfort and Auderghem are also worth comparing with Anderlecht.
Public Transport in Anderlecht
Public transport is one of Anderlecht's major advantages. Metro line 5 provides connections through the commune and towards central Brussels, while tram and bus routes serve the residential areas.
Important metro stops include Saint-Guidon, Veeweide, Bizet, COOVI and Erasme. This makes different parts of Anderlecht accessible without relying entirely on a car.
Anderlecht also has its own railway station near COOVI and is connected to Brussels' wider cycling and shared-mobility network. For commuters, the combination of metro, tram, bus and cycling options can make the commune a practical alternative to more central neighbourhoods.
Cafés, Restaurants & Local Life
Anderlecht has plenty of everyday local life, particularly around Saint-Guidon and the historic centre. Independent cafés, bakeries, restaurants, food shops and markets give the area a more neighbourhood-focused feel than some of Brussels' business districts.
The area also has a strong multicultural food scene. Around Cureghem, you'll find an especially broad mix of international food, shops and markets.
For a more traditional Brussels experience, the area around Saint-Guidon combines local businesses with historic landmarks. Visit Brussels highlights places such as traditional friteries, Italian food shops and local cafés around the centre of Anderlecht.
History & Culture
Anderlecht has a surprisingly rich history. The commune's history stretches back more than a thousand years, and the historic centre still contains important architectural and cultural landmarks.
Erasmus House is one of the best-known attractions. The Renaissance humanist Erasmus stayed here in the 16th century, and the house is surrounded by a distinctive philosophical garden and medicinal plant garden.
The Collegiate Church of Saints Peter and Guidon and the nearby Beguinage add another layer of history to the centre of the commune.
This combination of historic buildings, modern residential areas, industrial heritage and green spaces is part of what makes Anderlecht different from many other Brussels neighbourhoods.
Who Should Live in Anderlecht?
Anderlecht can work well for a wide range of renters.
- Young professionals: Good metro connections make commuting into central Brussels practical.
- Families: Larger properties, playgrounds and green spaces can be attractive for family life.
- Students: The area can offer alternatives to more expensive central neighbourhoods, particularly around the metro network.
- Expats: The diverse population and international atmosphere make Anderlecht an interesting place to experience a different side of Brussels.
- Nature lovers: Neerpede is particularly appealing if you want access to open space and countryside.
- Renters looking for value: Compared with some of the most sought-after central communes, Anderlecht can provide more options and space.
Anderlecht vs Central Brussels
One of the biggest reasons to consider renting in Anderlecht is the balance between accessibility and space.
Living in central Brussels puts you close to the Grand-Place, restaurants, nightlife and major attractions, but properties can be smaller and the urban environment considerably busier.
Anderlecht gives you more variation. You can choose an apartment close to a metro station and still have access to parks and local amenities, or move further towards Neerpede for a much quieter environment.
If you are considering several areas, it is also worth comparing Anderlecht with Saint-Gilles, Forest, Molenbeek and Uccle.
Explore Nearby Neighbourhoods
Anderlecht is well positioned for exploring several other parts of Brussels. If you're comparing rental options, take a look at:
- Forest (Vorst) – green, residential and close to southern Brussels.
- Saint-Gilles (Sint-Gillis) – lively, popular and full of cafés, restaurants and Art Nouveau architecture.
- Molenbeek-Saint-Jean – diverse, urban and increasingly popular with younger residents.
- Brussels City Centre – ideal if being close to the historic centre is your priority.
- Uccle (Ukkel) – greener and more residential, with many family-oriented areas.
- Ixelles (Elsene) – lively, international and popular with young professionals and expats.
Related Brussels Guides
Planning a move to Brussels? These guides can help you understand the city and choose the right neighbourhood:
- A First-Timer's Guide to Living in Brussels
- How to Rent in Brussels as an Expat
- Cost of Renting in Brussels: 2026 Guide
- Best Parks in Brussels for a Picnic
- Summer in Brussels: 25 Things to Do
Find a Rental in Anderlecht
Ready to explore Anderlecht rentals? Browse available properties on EU-rentals and discover apartments, houses and other rental opportunities across Anderlecht and the wider Brussels region.
Why Choose Anderlecht?
Anderlecht is a neighbourhood of contrasts in the best possible sense. You can enjoy the energy and diversity of Cureghem, explore the historic centre around Saint-Guidon, relax in Astrid Park or Scherdemael Park, and head towards Neerpede for open landscapes and a quieter pace of life.
For renters who want a good combination of transport, space, green areas, local life and relatively easy access to central Brussels, Anderlecht deserves a place on the shortlist.
Explore the latest Anderlecht rental listings and find your next home in one of Brussels' most diverse and interesting communes.