Le Dixsèptieme, Brussels

Once you've done the Grand-Place, head to the Upper Town for a clutch of museums - Beaux Arts, René Magritte, musical instruments - and the cathedral as well as antiques and chocolatiers around Place du Grand Sablon.

It's a five-minute walk to the Grand-Place, the central showpiece of Brussels, with its elaborate town hall and guild-houses.

By plane: there are direct flights from London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Birmingham. The hotel is a 25-minute drive from the airport. Book flights to Brussels.

By train: the Eurostar goes direct from London St Pancras to Brussels (2 hours). The terminal is a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Book trains to Brussels.

The main part of the hotel is neo-classical, dating from the 17th century (hence the name), and exudes a quiet class with oak staircase, marble floors, decorative plasterwork and a scattering of antiques. The newer wings blend effortlessly but have a lighter, more contemporary touch.

There's a choice of two lounges - an elegantly furnished room at the front or a quieter and more modern affair between the old and new sections. There's an inner courtyard garden for use on warmer days. There's also a small gym and sauna.

• Bar
• Terrace
• Garden
• Breakfast
• Room service
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms are either grand and traditional with antiques and oak beams, or contemporary with pale oak furniture, dove-grey walls and splashes of colour in the soft furnishings. Bathrooms are generous, often with marble fittings.

Room types: Patio Budget, Patio Standard, Garden Standard, Garden Junior Suite, Garden Superior Suite, Classic Junior Suite, Classic Suite, Classic Superior Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with bath and shower, double bed, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

The beautiful dining room has high ceilings, parquet flooring, plasterwork panels and decorative pilasters. It's breakfast-only, with a generous cold buffet, plus some cooked dishes. For an evening meal, try Bij den Boer - a lively locals' favourite that does great seafood.

Breakfast: high-end continental breakfast, served to your table in the lounge.