Hôtel Amigo

Once a jail, later a rather uninspired hotel, today’s refurbished Hotel Amigo (courtesy of Rocco Forte) is one of the best hotels in Brussels, for business or pleasure. The location is central, steps from the scenic Grand Place, in a pedestrian-only historic district, near enough to any number of shops, restaurants, the financial district, and even the Town Hall. And the hotel itself is sublime—a Spanish Renaissance building decorated with ancient Brussels flagstones, Magritte and Broodthaers prints, and even illustrations by Tintin creator Hergé.

Modern and traditional meet with Belgian accents in the guest rooms as well; Brussels linens and Flemish antique furnishings sit alongside sleek modern pieces, leather headboards, creative lighting and creature comforts like pie-plate showerheads and luxe Rocco Forte bath products. Room sizes and layouts vary by price but all are luxurious and a bit subdued, even the suites—however sprawling and well-appointed the Blaton Suite may be, the only thing ostentatious about it is the commanding view of the city’s rooftops from the private terrace.

The Amigo claims to be the top hotel in Brussels, and we must admit it’s in the running; it’s so gorgeous you could almost forget it’s a business hotel, and with such pleasures as the full-service breakfast and the Belgian chocolates at turndown, you may resent any time spent working. There’s plenty to do if you skip your appointments, from Ristorante Bocconi, the Italian signature restaurant, to the countless charms of the Grand Place and the surrounding museums, galleries, and chocolate shops.