Le Louise Hotel Brussels

As the capital of the European Union the city of Brussels is something of a crossroads, and as such it’s got no shortage of high-end hotels — most of which, perhaps understandably, are a bit on the conservative side. Exceptions, however, are ever easier to come by. Previously an absolutely traditional grand hotel, today’s Le Louise Hotel Brussels is fresh off a substantial renovation, offering a stylish and contemporary alternative to business travelers and Avenue Louise–bound luxury shoppers alike.

This means just enough Parisian chic to satisfy the style-conscious traveler, without going so far as to alienate the traditionalists. It’s not the perfunctory minimalism that the other big chains are just now getting round to embracing, but something with a bit of personality, complete with printed wallpapers, bold color accents, and smartly updated antique-style furnishings.

As usual the guest rooms are exceedingly comfortable, just this side of decadent, with thoughtful touches like Hermès bath products. The surrounding area, near the Avenue Louise, is a high-end shoppers’ paradise, and more wholesome cultural opportunities abound; all this just three metro stops (or a very brief taxi ride) from the Eurostar-served Gare du Midi.