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)

Louis

Famous boutique carrying the top names.
Lucca

The 18th-century Neo-Classical exterior conceals an even older interior, with a vaulted medieval cellar in which guests breakfast. This was once the lodge of the merchants of Lucca – with connections to Giovanni Arnolfini, the banker who features in Jan van Eyck’s famous painting, The Arnolfini Marriage . The rooms are quaintly old-fashioned – a fact reflected in the attractive room price.
L’Archiduc

The 1930s Art Deco interior of this elegant bar was designed to evoke a cruise-liner. A grand piano tinkles jazz numbers.
L’Ecailler du Palais Royal

One of Brussels’ most prestigious fish restaurants is now under a new team bringing young flair to the range of classic dishes.
L’Entrée des Artistes

This popular and reliable brasserie serves well-judged fare, with some good Belgian standards among them, such as chicons au gratin .
Maagdenhuis

Quirky museum in an old orphanage.
Madonna and Child (1504–5)

Michelangelo sculpture of mesmeric dignity (see Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk).
Mageleinstraat and Koestraat

Ghent claims to have the largest pedestrianized zone of any city in Europe, making shopping all the more agreeable. Most chain stores are in Veldstraat and Lange Munt, but there’s more charm around the quieter Mageleinstraat and Koestraat.
Magritte Museum

Visit the home of the famous Belgian surrealist, Rene Magritte, and if you are lucky and time your visit well you may even have the tour guide to yourself.
Maison de Paul Cauchie

Behind a façade combining geometric shapes with dreamy Art Nouveau murals lies the home of little-known painter Paul Cauchie (1875–1952).

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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