Hotel Review: The Dominican, Brussels

A three-minute walk from the Grand Place, opposite the opera house on a pedestrianised street, the hotel is central without being amongst the tourist crowds. Key sites are within walking distance - including the cathedral and fine art museum - while one of the main stations and Metro is less than ten minutes.

By plane: there are direct flights from London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Birmingham. The hotel is a 30-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 15-minute drive from the hotel. Book trains to Brussels.

This is a swish and stylish hotel, from the over-sized Moroccan-style lanterns at reception to the black-tiled courtyard; it's no surprise to learn it's a member of the Design Hotels group.

The courtyard, with its slate-grey tiling, chic furniture and choice of covered cloisters or full al fresco, is a tranquil spot to recover from a day's sight-seeing or shopping.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Courtyard
• Fitness centre
• Room service
• Free Wi-Fi

This is a big hotel with big rooms that are understatedly luxiours in style. Clean-lined furniture, oversized headboards and velvet-upholstered armchairs sit against plain walls and richly patterned carpets.

Room types: Deluxe, Courtyard, Executive, Loft, Concept Rooms and Suites, Studio Apartments

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, king or twin beds, climate control, high speed Wi-Fi, tea and coffee facilities

The all-day menu covers all the brasserie classics whether you want something light - Caesar salad, club sandwich - or something more filling, such as lobster pasta or navarin of lamb.

Grand Lounge: relaxed, modern cuisine, classic European dishes. Open daily until midnight.

Lounge Bar: sophisticated atmosphere, extensive menu of wines, digestifs and cocktails.