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)

Le Dixseptième

There is no other place quite like this in Brussels: an utterly charming and fascinating small hotel in the late-17th-century residence of the Spanish ambassador. It has a number of suites – named after Belgian artists – ingeniously devised beneath the roof beams, and furnished with a mixture of antique charm and modern flair.
Le Docks Café

Inventive, multi-layered interior by celebrated designer Antoine Pinto. Choose from oyster snacks or full Franco–Italian dishes.
Le Falstaff

Le Falstaff, a famous restaurant and drinking palace opposite the Bourse in the heart of Brussels, dates from 1903, and still powerfully evokes the era in which it was created. The interior is rich in Art Nouveau detail, seen in the stained glass, the mirrors, the lamp fittings and the furniture (see Le Falstaff).
Le Falstaff

This celebrated café and brasserie-restaurant is famed for its Art Nouveau detailing, but it also has a robust, tavern-like atmosphere in keeping with its Shakespearean name.
Le Fuse

Behind the gritty industrial exterior lies the best disco in town. World-class DJs spin a mix of techno and drum’n’bass.
Le Métropole (Le Dixneuvième)

A wonderfully grand café and bar belonging to Brussels’ grandest hotel – and neither outrageously expensive nor intimidating. A place to watch and be watched.
Le Pain Quotidien

Selling excellent bread with delicious fillings, as well as tempting pastries, Le Pain Quotidien (“Daily Bread”) has been a runaway success. This is the most central of the 10 branches in Brussels.
Le Plaza

You feel a bit like a guest of Louis XVI in the palatial foyer and public rooms of this recently renovated hotel, with its stucco, gilt, and lavish ceiling paintings. The rooms maintain the same high standard of spacious comfort.
Le Roy d’Espagne

A famous watering-hole in the old bakers’ guildhouse. There is a medieval air to the interior decor. Also serves light meals.
Lebanese Restaurant

Unfortunately, I can't remeber the name of the restaurant, but it's next to the Merode Metro station and they serve very cheap, very filling and very nutritious Lebanese food (especially the especially yummy Fatoush salad!)

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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