Pilar Hotel

Pilar Hotel is a design-led independent hotel at Pelgrimstraat 8 in the old town of Antwerp, in the Flanders region of Belgium. The street lies close to the Grote Markt and the Meir, placing the Cathedral of Our Lady, the town hall and many of the city's museums and shops within a short walk. Antwerp-Centraal station is a tram ride or a walk of about twenty-five minutes away. The hotel presents itself as a contemporary, stylish alternative to the larger chains, with an emphasis on design, a relaxed atmosphere and a compact, personal scale. Rooms are generally modern and thoughtfully furnished, and visitors can expect wifi throughout and an in-house bar that doubles as a social space in the evening. Breakfast is included among the listed amenities, and the old town offers a wide selection of cafes, brasseries and independent restaurants within a few minutes of the front door, from traditional Flemish cooking to contemporary kitchens. Because of its modest size, there is no spa or pool, and facilities are kept simple, which is reflected in the mid-range pricing of roughly €130 to €220 per night depending on season and room type. The service style is informal and helpful, appealing to couples, city-break travellers and design-minded visitors who want a central address without a corporate feel. Staff can usually advise on neighbourhood restaurants, the fashion district around Nationalestraat, and day trips to Ghent, Bruges or Mechelen by train. Weekends and summer are the busiest times in Antwerp, so advance reservations are advisable. Visitors arriving by car should note that the old town has restricted traffic and limited street parking, so public car parks nearby are the usual option.