Le Meridien Brussels Hotel Review

Le Meridien Brussels is located next to the Central Train Station in Brussels in a beautiful, curved building just steps from the Gothic-style central square. Because of the hotel’s location, taxis are not allowed to drive directly up to the hotel; therefore, when arriving be prepared to carry your own bags from the street into the hotel. And, although there appeared to be a bell stand outside of the hotel, it was never staffed during my entire stay. So assume you’re on your own with your luggage.

The lobby is grand and welcoming and is home to the hotel’s bar. There is a day [spa] that offers massage and nail services and a hair salon, as well. The hotel restaurant is on the ground level and located near the main elevators. There was construction during my stay and some areas of the hotel were closed. The hotel combines modern design and historical elegance, synonymous with Brussels architecture.

I checked in on March 2, 2012, just one day after Starwood’s new Platinum benefits went into effect. As my check-in amenity, I selected free continental breakfast. Since many Le Meridiens [Use an apostrophe as a possessive, but not for a simple plural] don’t have concierge lounges, this is a great benefit. The check in process was easy and I was off to my room quickly.

I was upgraded to an executive room on the top floor. The room was extremely large and had a bedroom and separate living area with desk, couch, chair and TV. The bedroom had a refreshment center, an Illy coffee maker with an assortment of coffee pods to chose from, a king size bed, and large bay windows. The view from the room was spectacular. From the bedroom, I could see the town square and from the living area, I could see part of the Central Train Station. The bathroom was large and had a tub and shower. The water pressure in the shower was amazing – something that I find is hard to come by in many European hotels.

The hotel is in walking distance to all of Brussels’ major attractions, the main shopping and dining districts, and has access to all types of transportation. I did not find the concierge staff to be friendly or helpful and so I planned my own sightseeing tours online.

I enjoyed the continental breakfast that was served daily in the hotel’s restaurant, however, in comparison to the Sheraton Brussels, the Le Meridien’s buffet was very underwhelming. Where the Le Meridien wins in room comfort and design, the Sheraton wins for dining options. One of the biggest disappointments at the Le Meridien restaurant was that they did not serve any of the Jean-George breakfast creations.

I would definitely return to the Le Meridien Brussels but instead of choosing the free breakfast, I would opt for the points and eat at a local café. Overall, a great stay at the Le Meridien.