Renaissance Brussels Hotel

With its mid-90s, beige-and-brown facade, the Renaissance Brussels Hotel provides a straightforward, smart, and functional first impression. Stepping into the lobby the vibe gets a little more upmarket, thanks to high ceilings, broad pillars, and low-profile contemporary furnishings. The hotel was last renovated in 2010, and interiors still feel adequately updated. Polished touches such as marble-trimmed elevators and wood paneling also add a high-end feel. The location and ambience inevitably draws plenty of business guests -- mostly EU diplomats and other officials -- though there are a surprising number of leisure travelers at weekends. After the bombings in March 2016, the hotel instituted increased security and travelers may have their bags searched upon arrival. 

The hotel is located in the European Quarter, largely set among other hotels, some residential buildings, and the city's European Union offices and institutions. The European Parliament building is just a few minutes' walk away, and there are numerous embassies in the immediate area, making this a particularly popular spot with international officials. The hotel is also around 15 minutes on foot to the Avenue Louise shopping area, as well as to the Royal Palace. It's a bit far to walk The Grand Place, however (25 minutes), so leisure travelers may prefer a different location. The Brussels-Luxemburg train station too is just a block away, which connects directly to Brussels Airport in 20 minutes. Those with cars will likely appreciate the on-site parking garage, though keep a close eye out as it can be easy to miss.

The hotel's 262 rooms are modern, business-like, and conservative. Decor blends patterned fabrics, carpets, and drapery with dark-wood furnishings and black-and-white photographs. They're fairly spacious and beds are comfortable. While the expected amenities are here -- tea/coffee facilities (with free instant coffee), flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges -- Wi-Fi is not free of charge (without signing up for the chain's rewards program), and some may prefer the convenience of a stocked minibar. Bathrooms are functional, with shower/tub combos, hotel-brand products, and wall-mounted hairdryers. Rooms on the higher floors feature pleasant views over the Brussels' rooftops. Lower-level rooms, however, can be prone to street noise and some guests have experienced noise between rooms. 

An extensive hot and cold buffet breakfast is served in the Parnasse Bistro, though it's not typically included in the room rate (some packages do include breakfast and Wi-Fi). This colorful bistro-style eatery is also open for lunch and dinner offering a menu of traditional Belgian dishes. A swish lounge bar also serves Belgian beers and Starbucks coffee. The hotel also features an impressively large health center, which includes a spacious and well-equipped gym, a heated indoor swimming pool, and a sauna; fitness facilities can get busy at peak times. On-site parking is available for a daily fee.