Built in the late 19t -century, the Metropole’s lobby resembles something between a regal bank reception area and a cathedral. The ornate vaulted ceiling, chandeliers, and tall marble walls supported by brass-adorned pillars lend old world sophistication, while touches such as an antique bust, arched stained glass windows, a circular leather couch, and a vintage phone booth (with computer terminal) give the space an inviting feel. Hallways are full of antiques: marble busts, full-size mirrors, and Victorian-era armchairs. Breakfast is served in Jardin Indien, a modern space with white tile and black wood chairs, while Cafe Metropole feels more classic, with its elaborate vaulted ceiling, and original Art Nouveau dining area decked out with potted palm trees, dark red vinyl banquettes, and oversized contemporary portraits -- there's also a lengthy outdoor patio. Bar Le 31 is equally impressive, with a grand piano as its centerpiece, providing regular evening background music. There are several similarly elegant rooms for banquets and meetings. 

The hotel sits on one of the main roads passing through the historic center of Brussels -- the street is lined with shops and commercial buildings, and draws lots of tourists and locals. However, due to its being set back from the road, the hotel remains relatively quiet and feels removed from traffic. The hotel is about a 10-minute walk from the financial district, main square (Grand Place), and old town center. Rue Neuve, one of Brussels' primary shopping streets, is less than five minutes' walk from the hotel. Brussels Airport is about a 15-minute drive, and there are great road connections near the hotel. De Brouckere metro station is a couple minutes' walk from the hotel, and the central and Nord train stations are each about a 10 minutes’ walk away.

Room options begin with Superior, and continue on to Privilege Rooms, Junior Suites, and Suites. Each has an old world feeling, with original architectural elements, and decor in classic shades of blue, red, and gold. Lovely touches in Superior rooms include candlelight-style light fixtures above beds, and charming window-side seating areas. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, trouser presses, safes, and free minibars, which are restocked daily with Belgian beer, water, and soda. Bathrooms are somewhat less impressive, with tired tiling in the shower/tub combos. Suites have impressive bathrooms with full-size tubs and beautiful gold-hued tiling and marble floors; some suites also have flat-screen TVs hidden in the bedroom ceilings. Wi-Fi is free. 

The buffet breakfast is quite pricey, and has left some guests feeling unimpressed -- it includes fresh fruit, meats, eggs cooked-to-order, and breads. The hotel has an enormous brasserie serving lunch and dinner, ranging from burgers to exquisite, French-inspired dishes. Bar Le 31 serves creative cocktails and offers live piano music. Other on-site features include a hair salon, small fitness facility, and several majestic meeting and banquet rooms that can be rented out. Room service is available, and the 24-hour concierge service can arrange airport transfers, limousine rentals, reservations, and tour tickets. There is free Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel.