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)

Émile Verhaeren

Symbolist poet (1855– 1916) noted for his portrayals (in French) of Flanders.
Erasmus

There is antique charm in abundance in this small hotel. A late 16th-century patrician’s house, it retains many of its original features. The owners are welcoming, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Just west of the city centre.
Etnografisch Museum

Delightful collection with a bit of everything: Brazilian headdresses, Japanese paintings, a Maori war canoe and items from the Belgian Congo.
Ex Voto Offerings

Tiny models of animals and body parts once used to plead for heavenly intercession.
Father Damien

A missionary (1840–89) who devoted his life to caring for lepers in Hawaii. Now on his way to sainthood.
Fernand Khnopff

A painter (1858–1928) whose enigmatic Symbolist work is suffused with suppressed sexuality.
Festival van Vlaanderen

An impressive programme of classical music – as well as jazz, world music and dance – takes place across Flanders every summer and autumn, with performances in the main venues, as well as in churches and other historic buildings.
Fête de Saint-Nicolas, all Belgium

The Feast of St Nicholas (Sinterklaas in Dutch) is celebrated by children with even greater enthusiasm than Christmas. St Nicholas (the original Santa Claus), dressed as the Bishop of Myra, walks the streets with his blacked-up sidekick Zwarte Piet, and children receive presents, as well as sweets and speculoos biscuits.
Filet Américain

Belgians have enough confidence in their beef to eat it raw – as Filet Américain . A toast cannibale is a snack form of this.
Fish

The North Sea ports are the base for active fishing fleets, which bring in daily catches of sole, skate, sea bass, cod and hake. To see the sheer variety of the catch, visit the Vismarkt (fish market) in central Bruges. Place Sainte-Catherine in Brussels is a centre for fish restaurants.

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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