Sofitel Brussels Europe

For business travellers to Brussels, whether to the European District or not, the Sofitel Brussels Europe, is often their first choice. This 5-star hotel is very popular as it is quite classy and offers quality service and luxurious rooms. It sits right at Place Jourdan, with its many restaurants and bars, and is only a couple of minutes walk away from the European Parliament, the European Commission and the train and subway station "Schuman".

When walking into the high ceiling lobby (which was being completely refurbished during my last stay), you are met by their signature scent, which is always being diffused throughout the hotel, a bit like in Abercrombie & Fitch stores. It's the same at the Sofitel, only that it is a more sophisticated and neutral scent. Check-in is from 3 pm onward and check-out needs to be done by 12 pm at the 24-hour reception desk.

You can also do an online check-in ahead of your arrival which simplifies your check-in and qualifies you for express check-out. This can come in handy as meetings in the area often start around the same time in the morning and busy business travels always seem to wanna check out concurrently, which can lead to a bit of a wait. However, the staff is always very friendly and polite and always do their best to help you with any issues or inquiries in a timely and discrete manner.

I would also recommend you joining their Le Club Accor Hotels Loyalty Program; this will get you an extra 10% off the room price, as rooms do not come cheap. If you are a member and collect points it will also get you some perks, like a drink voucher for the bar or a free upgrade. If you are looking for a more affordable option to stay in the European district, check out B&B The Nest, a charming bed and breakfast, just steps away from the Place Jourdan.

In case you are in the mood for something sweet, a franchise store of the Belgian chocolatier Neuhaus is located in the hotel or you can grab at drink at the 1040 Bar or a bite to eat at the 1040 restaurant. The bar has also been recently refurbished and it has a cool, lounge-y vibe but still leaving some functional spaces for those people wanting to grab a drink and work at the same time. The restaurant is also supposed to be quite good, serving some Belgian cuisine inspired dishes, with prices ranging from 20 to 45 Euros for a main dish.

The rooms, depending on your booked category are quite spacious, and all come with some of the nicest beds and bedding I have ever seen in a hotel. The mattress is really thick and spongy but not too soft at the same time. You feel like sinking into fluffy clouds while still having enough support for your back to avoid getting any back pain. Sofitel also offers a free pillow menu for any special needs or requests you might have to give you the best possible sleep while being away from home.

For your well-being, you will find a couple of bottles of still and sparkling water in the mini bar, as well as a Nespresso machine, coffee capsules as well as high quality tea. During my last stay there was a turn down service at night, meaning your room is all prepped for you to get a good night sleep. The curtains are drawn and a little mat has been laid out by the side of your bed, with slippers placed right next to it. On your night stand you will find a cup and a selected tea so you can make yourself a nightcap before hopping into bed.

I also really enjoy the bathroom, which comes with a large walk in shower and is equipped with a rainwater shower head. Plus, the Sofitel actually has some really nice, fluffy bathrobes you can wrap yourself in. To top it off, they give you a nice selection of Hermès body products, shower gel, shampoo and lotion, making the whole experience even more luxurious feeling.