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)

Georges Simenon

One of the world’s bestselling authors, Simenon (1903–89) was born and bred in Liège. His most famous creation, Inspector Maigret, appeared in 75 of his 400 novels.
Georges Simenon

Prolific master of the popular detective story (1903–89) and creator of Inspector Maigret (see Georges Simenon).
Gerard Mercator

Most school maps of the world are still based on the “Mercator projection” – an ingenious way of representing the spherical globe on a flat page. Mercator (1512–94) is also credited with creating the first “atlas”, a word he introduced.
Gin-Fish

On the site of former fish restaurant De Matelote, Gin-Fish offers a no-options three-course set menu.
Godiva

Maker of luxury chocs, with branches worldwide.
Godshuis De Vos

The almshouses (godshuizen ) of Bruges are easily identified by their humble whitewashed walls, inscribed with names and dates. This pretty example dates from 1643.
Gothic

13th–16th centuries. Pointed arches allowed for lighter structures.
Gran Kaffee de Passage

A wonderfully dingy, candle-lit interior provides an enchanting setting for good beer and solid, good-value Belgian dishes.
Grand Café Horta

A dynamic space created using metal salvaged from Victor Horta’s celebrated Art Nouveau Volkshuis in Brussels, demolished in 1965.
Grand Place

No trip to Brussels would be complete without a visit to the Grand Place – even if it’s just to stock up on some Belgian biscuits or chocolates. A remarkable legacy of the city’s Gothic and Renaissance past, it is also a monument to the values and ingenuity of the artisans and merchants who were the architects of Brussels’ prosperity (see The Grand Place, Brussels).

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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