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Designed by Victor Horta in 1893–5, this is considered the first Art Nouveau house. Up to this point, the well-to-do who commissioned new private mansions in the mushrooming Belgian suburbs adopted any style going: Moorish, Medieval, Tuscan, whatever. Horta extrapolated from this “eclectic” style to evolve something more integrated and considered. The private mansion of a bachelor engineer, Hôtel Tassel was carefully tailored to all aspects of his lifestyle, but this individualized approach also made it less adaptable for subsequent owners.

Belgium’s most revered living writer (born 1929), a Bruges-born poet, playwright and novelist writing in Dutch.

This much-restored house – a medieval inn where merchants exchanged credit notes – is the site of the world’s first stock exchange.

Bruges is so picturesque that it attracts numerous artists, and several excellent shops cater for their needs. This one has been run by the same family for three generations.

Follow the beer-making process at this small brewery, in operation since 1856.

A small, visitable brewery – producers of Straffe Hendrik (“Strong Henry”) (see Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan).

Located at the southern end of Avenue Louise, the Hyatt Regency has been redecorated by French designer Jacques Garcia in an opulent Edwardian style. The rooms exude a sense of luxurious, silky comfort.

In this hotel, you’ll find the no-frills, straight-forward efficiency of the Ibis chain. It may lack historic charm, but it satisfies essential requirements, and is conveniently located.

Right in the centre of Ghent, overlooking Sint-Baafskathedraal, this is a well-run, modern and attractive member of the reliable Ibis chain.

This second Ibis hotel is located to the south of the centre, about 10 minutes’ walk from Sint-Baafskathedraal. Although somewhat functional, it is well-run and popular. If driving, be sure to ask for directions, as Ghent’s one-way system is maddening and makes access to the hotel something of a challenge.