New York Times Review

Affordable Europe: Brussels

Home to the European Union and NATO, Brussels is flush with big-spending bureaucrats in Armani suits. That has pushed up prices everywhere, from monthly rents to moules frites. Luckily, Europe's political capital still suffers from an inferiority complex, which means certain things remain affordable, like Belgium antiques and the 450 varieties of homegrown beer (strawberry brews, anyone?), some of which cost about 1 euro.

Where to Stay for Under 125 Euros

Thanks to the city's revolving door of diplomats with fat wallets, Brussels hotels can be expensive. One bargain – at 95 euros, or $127 at $1.36 to the euro, for a double – is the Hotel Mozart (rue du Marché aux Fromages 23; 32-2-502-6661; www.hotel-mozart.be). Disregard the kebab stands outside and the failed attempt to replicate the grandeur of the Hapsburg court and focus instead on the Grand Place – one of the world's most beautiful squares – just a few steps away.

Frommer's Review

Go a flight up from the busy, cheap-eats street level, and guess which famous composer's music wafts through the lobby? Salmon-colored walls, plants, and old paintings create a warm, intimate ambience that's carried into the rooms. Although furnishings are blandly modern, colorful fabrics and exposed beams lend each room a rustic originality. Several are duplexes with a sitting room underneath the loft bedroom. Top rooms have a great view.   →