The many facets of Brussels include an elegant and sophisticated side, exemplified by a wide range of upscale hotels.
A suite at Juliana Brussels (Photo: courtesy of Juliana Brussels)
Grand, scruffy, European, provincial… Brussels famously juggles its many facets with remarkable ease. Look one way and you’ll see an elegant capital with a distinct international flavour, whereas a tranquil and neighbourly atmosphere may await just around the corner. Among this mosaic of characters, experiencing the most sophisticated side of the city starts with picking the right accommodation, which might involve an exclusive location, impeccable service, fine dining or state-of-the-art facilities. We’ve rounded up our favourite five-star and luxury hotels, suitable for the high-end traveller visiting the Belgian capital for business or leisure alike.
Juliana Brussels
Part of a small family of independent luxury hotels, Juliana Brussels sits on the prestigious Place des Martyrs. The exterior’s Neoclassical style is matched inside by bold contemporary interiors, adorned with notable pieces such as a Philippe Starck mirror and retro iron railing. Uniquely designed, the 33 guest rooms and 10 suites range in size from 20 to 160 square metres and feature artworks and dim lighting as recurring elements. Brazilian blue marble adds a radiant touch to the hotel’s communal wellness area, which includes a swimming pool, fitness room, hammam and sauna. The bar provides yet another stylish place to relax, while the on-site restaurant menu revolves around contemporary French cuisine. A luxurious breakfast is served each morning. From €315 per night.
Le Corbusier-inspired mosaics adorn Juliana’s pool and spa area (Photo: courtesy of Juliana Brussels)
Le Plaza
Housed in an Art Deco building completed in 1931, Le Plaza is a historic luxury hotel situated next to the Rue Nueve shopping avenue. It features old-school charm throughout its interiors, effortlessly blending traditional elegance with modern luxuries. Expect a classic ambience in the guest rooms, matched with impeccable attention to detail. Congresses and events take place in the hotel’s neo-Baroque movie theatre, which delivers a delightful journey back to the Belle Epoque filled with frescoes, carvings, twisted columns and Spanish-inspired decor. The Charleston breakfast hall offers a nod to the 1930s, while lunch and dinner are served at the L’Esterel restaurant. A fitness room is also available. From €159 per night.
Le Plaza’s rooms feature a classic and flawless design (Photo: courtesy of Hotel Le Plaza Brussels)
NH Collection Brussels Grand Sablon
This four-star hotel is part of the NH’s upscale and boutique brand. It takes its name from the grand square it looks over – a prestigious Brussels location famous for its chocolateries and antique shops. The rooms and interiors feel modern and spacious, featuring an elegant style enhanced by soft colours. All of the suites and some rooms boast magnificent views over the square and the 15th-century church of Notre-Dame du Sablon. A lavish buffet is served at breakfast, while the on-site restaurant offers modern Spanish cuisine in an informal atmosphere. Other facilities include a 24/7 gym and multiple meeting rooms. From €157 per night.
The lounge at NH Collection Grand Sablon (Photo: courtesy of NH Collection Grand Sablon)
Le Châtelain
Le Châtelain matches luxury hospitality with all the perks of a family-run hotel. A discreet and convivial atmosphere fills the communal spaces, which comprise a cosy garden and a lounge bar fitted with an open fire. Original touches accentuate the classic design of the guest rooms, and the top range room offers 100 square metres complete with a private balcony. The restaurant’s menu features an innovative take on Belgian and Mediterranean dishes, while an American breakfast buffet is served at the B’Artist Café daily. A fitness area is also available, and regular yoga classes are held on the rooftop terrace. From €138 per night.
Sofitel Brussels
Sofitel Brussels looks out over Place Jourdan, a prime location in Brussel’s European District. Casual luxury nods ostensibly at the quintessential French lifestyle, with a modern and elegant design featuring across the building. The bright and spacious rooms include three categories of suites, and the 130 square metre apartment has been recently renovated. Food and drinks are served in a rooftop lounge, a chic bar and a modern brasserie. A complete wellness menu and a fitness area are also available, as well as an impressive range of spaces for business meetings and events. From €189 per night.