5 Best Hotels in Antwerp and the Northeast, Belgium

This five-story complex incorporates the fin-de-siècle facade of what was once the Grand Bazar department store. Mahogany doors open onto spacious guest rooms with duvet-topped beds---in the bathrooms the mirrors are even heated so they won’t steam up when you most need them. Afternoon tea is served in the marble-floor lobby. Be sure to check out the glorious Belle Epoque ballroom, which can accommodate 1,000 guests.

Yet another stylish address in the Het Zuid area, Hotel Pilar has the feel of an establishment where every last detail has been agonized over. A hotel, bar, and ceramic and textile shop is squeezed into a historic corner building with an emphasis on design: think high-ceilinged rooms, neutral tones, and walls strewn with bespoke art. Suites have fold-out sofas to accommodate extras, while the Foodbar downstairs (closed Monday and Tuesday) is a reliable breakfast, lunch, and dinner spot dishing up seasonal treats.

Located directly behind the Grote Markt, a complete renovation has seen this tucked-away gem gain a new lease on life. Neutral tones, light-oak floors, and a cute ground-floor courtyard (for breakfast) replace the nouveau riche excess of the previous model. The deep bathtubs still make for a good soak at the end of the day, but its big appeal is still its location: one street away from the center yet far enough removed to seem like another world entirely.

In the middle of the diamond district, and across the street from Antwerp Centraal railway station, this modern chain hotel is perfectly located for a quick getaway, or if you are in the mood for a bit of jewelry window-shopping. The decently sized rooms have big and über-comfortable beds, stylish modern bathrooms, and unusually well-stocked minibars.

Directly across from Antwerp's Centraal Station and a stone's throw from the National Express stop, convenience is the key at this refurbished old-stager, which now has the likable Made in Antwerp restaurants on hand, a Starbucks, and a rather minimalist look. The surrounding area might not be Antwerp's most attractive quarter, but it affords easy access to the Diamond District and shopping on the Meir, plus the adjoining Chocolate Nation attraction. A 24-hour gym complex includes a pool, Jacuzzis, and sauna.