Hotel Amigo

The hotel's unusual name harks back to the site's early-16th century roots as a prison, when "Amigo" became its nickname (Belgium was then a part of the Spanish Netherlands). The property could now hardly be further from its custodial origins, from the immaculately top-hat-and-tailed doormen ushering well-heeled guests through its entrance to the unfussy, coolly stated luxury of its interiors. It's clear the Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo is a seriously upscale establishment -- and one of the very few true luxury hotels in Brussels’ center. Specifically Belgian references, such as Marcel Broodthaers and René Magritte prints, combine with antique tapestries and period furnishings that adorn the lobby's polished flagstone floors. The clientele is mostly well-heeled tourists and corporate business guests, and the signed portraits of celebrity and VIP guests adorn the hotel bar walls to attest to their stay.

The hotel is situated on a quaint cobbled road just off the Grand Place in the heart of Brussels’ historical center. Opposite the hotel is a beautiful traditional-style Belgian cafe (often packed with tourists) as well as numerous other bars, cafes, and restaurants. Other tourist attractions in the area include the Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate about a block away, and the famous Manekin Pis fountain two minutes away on foot. The area has good public transport connections with the Centraal train station under 10 minutes' walk. The hotel forecourt also has a pickup area for taxis, and Brussels Airport is about 20 minutes' drive away.

The hotel has 173 bright spacious rooms, all decorated with fresh, contemporary styling with homey touches and occasional antique pieces. Simple white bathrooms are finished in earth-toned marble and include walk-in showers, robes, and REN bath products -- some also with tubs. Free W-Fi, well-stocked minibars, and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels all come as standard (though most rooms lack tea and coffee facilities, these can be provided on request). Locally sourced fixtures and fittings selected by well-known designer Olga Polizzi have a distinctive Belgian touch, while the suites are all decorated and furnished in a specific theme relating to Belgium, which include Tintin- and Magritte-themed suites. Although all rooms are soundproofed, those overlooking the Grand Place are prone to noise.

The hotel's Ristorante Bocconi features modern Italian cooking in smart, contemporary surrounds and is considered one of the better places to eat in Brussels. The restaurant also serves an extensive -- though pricey when not included -- buffet breakfast, while the stylish Bar Amigo specializes in martinis and serves various cocktails -- including creative, low-calorie selections -- throughout the day. There is also a well-lit fitness room on-site with a few exercise machines, though not the health facilities or pool you might expect from this caliber of property. A private car park with valet parking can accommodate those arriving by car, and a well-equipped business center is available for guests' use.