More photosHotel Welcome is one of Brussels’ most distinctive small hotels, tucked into a historic townhouse near Sainte-Catherine Square. Rather than following a single design theme, it turns travel itself into the décor, with each of its 17 rooms inspired by a different destination around the world.
The hotel’s story began in the late 1980s, when the building was transformed from a restaurant into a family-run hotel by owners Michel and Sophie. What started with just six rooms gradually expanded while preserving the character of the original house.
Its most memorable feature is the extraordinary attention to detail. Guests can sleep in rooms inspired by places such as Japan, Morocco, Tibet, Zanzibar, or the Silk Road, surrounded by authentic objects, textiles, and artwork collected during the owners’ travels.
Even breakfast reflects the hotel’s personality, with fair-trade products and Belgian specialties served in an atmospheric wood-paneled room. For travelers who prefer character over cookie-cutter luxury, Hotel Welcome feels less like a hotel and more like a miniature passport stamped with stories from around the globe.
Expert reviews
“Each of the rooms is inspired by a different destination that the owners, Michel and Sophie Smeeters, have visited. To ‘create’ Morocco, India, Japan, China, Bali, Tibet, and other parts of the world, the very hands-on Smeeters brought back all the furnishings and luxurious fabrics, objects, and artifacts that you see in the rooms.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Brussels.
“Among the many charms of this petite hotel are the incredibly friendly owners, Michel and Sophie Smeesters. The rooms, divided into economy, business, and first class, are as comfortable as those in far more expensive establishments.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Brussels.
“Exotic travel is the theme at the Brussels Welcome Hotel, where a wonderland lies behind the rather plain façade. You’ll find unique, theatrical rooms, helpful staff and great value for money, close to Rue Antoine Dansaert and the Grand Place. Not the place for those who prefer hotels to be bland and anonymous.”
What guests liked
- Themed rooms
- Friendly staff
- Excellent location
- Excellent Wifi
- Comfortable beds
Location
Recent guest reviews
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