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)

De Ultieme Hallucinatie

Sophisticated Art Nouveau restaurant, serving French-Belgian food.
De Ultieme Hallucinatie

“Ultimate Hallucination” might be a good description of some of the more extravagant examples of Art Nouveau design. The dining room of this celebrated establishment offers a rare opportunity to eat in an authentic Art Nouveau setting (see De Ultieme Hallucinatie).
De Vagant

A welcoming traditional cafébar offering some 200 types of jenever (gin). The restaurant upstairs specializes in jenever -based dishes.
De Vlaamse Opera, Antwerp

Antwerp’s opera house was completed in 1907, its interior elegantly decked out with marble and gilding. The Vlaamse Opera performs here and in Ghent.
De Vlaamse Opera, Ghent

Ghent home of the much-respected Vlaamse Opera, this classic opera house ranks among the most spectacular theatres in Europe.
De Witte Lelie

One of the loveliest small hotels in Belgium – and, let’s face it, the world. Three 17th-century canal houses have been imaginatively transformed into a deeply attractive, modern hotel of 10 rooms, full of charming touches and surprising spaces. White and natural wood predominate. Relaxed, stylish, interesting.
Den Amand

A small restaurant with Mediterranean decor, serving inventive dishes of worldwide inspiration.
Den Dyver

A paradise for beer pilgrims: most of the dishes are cooked with Belgian beer, and come with a selected beer, demonstrating an astounding range of flavours.
Den Dyver, Bruges

A restaurant specializing in beer cuisine, served with fine beers (see Den Dyver).
Den Engel

A classic Belgian bruine kroeg (brown pub – brown with the patina of age) overlooking the Grote Markt. Try a bolleke (chalice-like glass) of De Koninck, Antwerp’s cherished own brew.

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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
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes, and extra charges.
- under €60
- €60–€100
- €100–€175
- €175–€250
- over €250