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)

Django Reinhardt

The most celebrated of all jazz guitarists, Reinhardt (1910–53) was a key member of the renowned Quintet of the Hot Club of France.
Dorint

Close to the heart of European government and the Cinquantenaire, this hotel is favoured by diplomats, politicians and journalists, who make full use of its state-of-the-art communication systems, fitness centre, Turkish baths and sauna.
Double/Triple

Traditionally, breweries graded their beers by strength: apparently single was around 3%, double 6% and treble 9%. Some breweries – notably the Abbeys – still label their beers double (dubbel ) and triple (tripel ). Double is usually a dark and sweetish brew, triple often golden-blond.
Dries van Noten

A celebrated fashion designer (born 1958) who has helped bring Antwerp to the forefront of haute couture .
Du Mim

The Musée des Instruments de Musique’s spectacular rooftop café (see Musée des Instruments de Musique).
Duc de Bourgogne

This small hotel in a historic house has one of the most attractive locations in town, with a pretty little square, the Huidenvettersplein, on one side, and a classic view over the canals on the other. The rooms are basic but comfortable.
Duinenbrug

Bruges’ canals were spanned by little drawbridges to allow boats to pass. This one is a reconstruction from 1976.
Dulle Griet

One of the celebrated “beer academies” of Belgium, with 250 beers on offer. Note the basket in which you must deposit a shoe as security when drinking Kwak, a beer served in a cherished glass.
Dulle Griet, Ghent

A celebrated pub serving 250 brands of beer (see Dulle Griet).
Eat@café

All black and white and chrome, and as modern as its name would suggest. Drinks and well-made light meals with a touch of style.

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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