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)

Pollentier-Maréchal

This fine shop sells old prints, many of them of Bruges.
Poortackere Monasterium

Here is a interesting experience: a hotel in a converted convent. An air of tranquillity pervades the (largely 19th-century) buildings and grounds. A special place, enhanced by a warm welcome and a relaxed atmosphere – and a convenient location just west of the city centre.
Porte de Hal

The sole surviving gate of the 14th-century city walls.
Post Plaza

The palatial Neo-Gothic former post office has been cleverly turned into a modern mall of high-profile boutiques.
Praalstoet van de Gouden Boom, Bruges

First performed in 1958, the Pageant of the Golden Tree takes place in Bruges every five years or so. In a vast costumed parade, the people of the city evoke the glory days of the Burgundian era.
Prinsenhof

Part of the Relais du Silence group, this neat little hotel is tucked away down a side street in the west of the city, in an area once occupied by the splendid palace of the dukes of Burgundy. Something of the dukes’ grand style pervades the decor – on a smaller scale, of course.
Proximus Diamond Games

Prestigious women’s tennis international.
Queen Astrid

Prince Léopold of Belgium married the beautiful Swedish princess Astrid in 1926. By the time of their coronation in 1934, they had three young children, but tragedy struck the following year when she was killed in a car accident in Switzerland, aged 29.
Radisson SAS Hotel

The foyer is breathtaking – a towering atrium, with tropical plants and fountains filling its base, and glass-fronted lifts rising into the firmament. Managed with stylish efficiency, the hotel has a renowned restaurant, the Sea Grill (see Sea Grill, SAS Radisson).
Radisson SAS Park Lane

As you would expect from the name, a smart, well-run, modern hotel. It faces onto the Stadspark, about 1.5 km (1 mile) to the south-east of the cathedral. Fitness suite, swimming pool.

Jump to top

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