Hotel Solvay

Constructed in 1894 as a family home for a wealthy chemical magnate, this townhome features gorgeous interiors dominated by intricate wrought-iron and marble banisters, an elaborate mosaic floor, and lush custom furnishings. Self-guided tours give visitors access to the rooms on the bottom two floors. If you want to see more of the mansion, including the private quarters of the home's original residents, you'll need to book a guided tour, available on request through the Hotel Solvay website.

• A visit to the Hotel Solvay is a must for anyone who loves Art Nouveau.

• Tickets must be booked ahead of time on the Hotel Solvay website and often fill up months in advance.

• Special accommodations for travelers with limited mobility are available but must be requested in advance.

• Photography is not allowed inside the building.

Hotel Solvay is located in the heart of Brussels, less than a 10-minute drive from Brussels Central Station or about 20 minutes by bus (line 38 to Vleurgat). It's easy to reach by public transportation by taking line 8 or 93 of the tram to the Bailli station, about a 2-minute walk away.

Only a few visitors are allowed in the house at a time, so you won’t have to worry about crowds. However, booking your tickets in advance is crucial to avoid disappointment, as visiting hours are limited, and the house is typically only open on Saturdays and the first Thursday of every month.

If you're a fan of Horta's work (and you probably will be by the time you're done at Hotel Solvay), it's worth checking out the Horta Museum, a 10-minute walk away. Here you can see a range of Horta-related ephemera, from models of his work to beautiful stained-glass windows and mosaics.