DK Travel : Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp and Ghent

The four great cities of northern Belgium share a rich cultural heritage dating back to medieval times, when this was one of the most vibrant trading regions in the world. Yet each is very different: Brussels is the new Capital of Europe, while Bruges is one of Europe’s best preserved medieval cities. Ghent is a historic university city, while Antwerp still has the muscular stance of a great industrial centre. Each, in its own way, is richly rewarding – not only in cultural sights, but also in delightful and welcoming places to stay, eat and drink.

For a list of the best art galleries and museums (see Art Galleries and Museums)

Chez Marius en Provence

Set in a 17th-century house, this restaurant specializes in fish, with Mediterranean touches.
Chez Moeder Lambic

A welcoming pub devoted to beer, with 450 kinds listed in its menu.
Chez Moeder Lambic, Brussels

A justly revered beer-shrine in Saint-Gilles, which serves 450 kinds of beer (see Chez Moeder Lambic).
Chez Patrick

This cherished and popular restaurant refuses to change or diverge from its traditions of solid, good-value, truly Belgian cooking.
Chez Toone

Hidden away from the tourist throngs, the famous Toone puppet theatre (see Théâtre Royal de Toone, Brussels) has an atmospheric bar serving decent beers and light meals.
Chicons au Gratin

Belgian endives wrapped in ham and baked in a creamy cheese sauce.
Children’s Clothes

There are numerous shops devoted to children’s clothes in Belgium, and their products are irresistible – from hard-wearing romp-around cottons to beautifully made winter jackets and hats, and fun shoes.
Chocoladehuisje

There are chocolate shops at every turn in Bruges. The big names are on Steenstraat and Zuidzandstraat, but try the Chocoladehuisje for its imaginative (sometimes lewd) designs.
Chocolate

Belgian chocolate is justly famous. The manufacturers use high-quality cocoa beans and re-introduce a generous proportion of cocoa butter. They also invented the means to manufacture filled chocolates (or pralines) on an industrial scale. As a result, these superb chocolates are remarkably good value.
Christmas Beers

Many of the breweries produce Christmas ales for the festive season. These may just be prettily labelled versions of their usual brew, but may also be enriched ales of high strength.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with with half a bottle of wine for (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €30
- €30–€40
- €40–€50
- €50–€60
- over €60