I’ll admit it, my image of Brussels used to be a bit one-dimensional. I pictured grand old buildings, chocolate shops on every corner, and maybe the odd EU bureaucrat dashing between meetings. But after a whirlwind stay with Minor Hotels at the NH Collection Brussels, I’ve discovered there’s a whole lot more to this city than just waffles and politics. Brussels is a city that wears its history on its sleeve but pulses with a creative, contemporary energy and if you want to experience the best of both, the NH hotels portfolio is your perfect launchpad.

A Walking Tour of Brussels, One NH Hotel at a Time

When Fernwood Events got the invite from Minor Hotels to explore every NH property across Brussels, I expected a lot of walking, and maybe a little hotel fatigue by the end. I was wrong on both counts. The hotels are so cleverly dotted across the city that our walking tour doubled as a crash course in Brussels’ personalities, from regal old squares to trendy, artsy neighbourhoods.

First Stop: NH Brussels Grand Place

You can’t come to Brussels and not visit the Grand Place, and staying at NH Brussels Grand Place means you’re practically living in a postcard. The hotel itself blends historic architecture with modern interiors, think original stonework and soaring ceilings alongside minimalist, sleek rooms. It’s a hit with groups who want to be right in the middle of the action. Step outside and you’re a few paces from the flower markets, chocolatiers, and the nightly light show that turns the square into something straight out of a fairy-tale.

NH Brussels Carrefour de l’Europe: Where Business Meets Pleasure

A short stroll away is NH Brussels Carrefour de l’Europe, ideally placed for those who mix business with sightseeing. It hugs the edge of the European Quarter, making it perfect for corporate travellers or anyone with EU meetings on the agenda. The conference facilities are top-notch, with big windows that let in a wash of daylight and views that remind you you’re somewhere special (not just another anonymous business hotel). Plus, you can finish your day with a wander through the city’s bustling restaurant scene.

NH Brussels Bloom: Creative Vibes and Neighbourhood Charm

Next up, NH Brussels Bloom which is a boutique-style gem set away from the hustle, in a leafier residential area. This hotel feels like a secret retreat, but with Saint-Gilles’ coolest bars, galleries, and restaurants a short walk away. The rooms are bright, playful, and filled with local art. If you’re planning a team retreat or incentive trip, this is the spot for creative sessions with a side of inspiration.

NH Brussels Airport: Gateway to the City

Of course, not every trip lets you linger in the city centre, and that’s where NH Brussels Airport comes in. Just minutes from the terminal, it’s a godsend for pre- or post-trip stays. The shuttle whisks you straight into central Brussels, so you can squeeze in some last-minute sightseeing or shopping before your flight.

Brussels’ Best Spots- Beyond the Boardroom

No trip to Brussels is complete without a little sightseeing, and the city’s compact centre makes it easy to hop from one icon to the next.

• Manneken Pis: You can’t skip the city’s cheekiest statue (though it’s smaller than you’d think).
• Royal Museum of Fine Arts: Lose yourself among Bruegel, Rubens, and Magritte Brussels’ answer to the Louvre.
• Marolles District: Cobblestone streets, antique shops, flea markets, and cafes serving waffles so fresh you’ll want seconds.
• BOZAR Centre for Fine Arts: If you love music, visual arts, or simply jaw-dropping Art Deco architecture, this is a must.
• Beer Museum: Learn the history of Belgian brewing and sample classics like Trappist ales and lambics in an atmospheric setting.

Making Corporate Events Unforgettable

As an event planner, I always have my “venue radar” on, and Brussels scores high. The NH hotels are ideal bases for conferences, incentive trips, or team getaways each with flexible meeting spaces, great locations, and just enough local character to make your delegates feel like they’re somewhere special. The team at Fernwood Events works with you to venue source, plan tailored activities (think chocolate-making workshops, private museum tours, or craft beer tastings), and handle every detail that turns a good business trip into a genuinely memorable one.

The Verdict: Brussels for Business and Pleasure

After a few days crisscrossing the city on foot and by tram, I left Brussels with a new appreciation for its blend of history, culture, and creativity. Whether you’re bringing a team for a major conference, hosting clients in style, or just looking for a city that surprises you at every turn, Brussels, seen through the lens of the NH hotels delivers.

Ready to plan an event that’s anything but ordinary? Let Fernwood Events and Minor Hotels show you Brussels as you’ve never seen it before.