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)

Baroque

17th–18th centuries. A lavish interpretation of Classical style, full of exuberance and swagger.
Baroque Pulpit (1699)

Hendrik Verbruggen’s elaborately carved pulpit in Brussels’ cathedral (see Cathédrale des Saints Michel et Gudule).
Basilique Nationale du Sacré-Coeur

The largest Art Deco building ever built? Remarkable view from its copper-green dome.
Basilique Nationale du Sacré-Coeur, Brussels

There is something strangely soulless about this massive 20th-century church (see Basilique Nationale du Sacré-Coeur).
Bauhaus Hotel

This “International Youth Hotel” is popular, energetic and friendly. Located in the east of the city, a 15-minute walk from the centre, it prides itself on its cheap accommodation, its well-priced restaurants and bar, and its cybercafé.
Beer

In 1900 there were over 3,200 breweries in Belgium; now there are just over 100, but they still generate an astonishing variety of beers (see Types of Belgian Beer). The most famous are produced by the Trappist monasteries, but even the lighter, lager-style beers such as Stella Artois and Jupiler are made to a high standard.
Begijnhof

This beautiful enclave, home to a community of béguines (see Bruges) from 1245 until 1928, expresses something essential about the soul of Bruges. Around the tree-shaded park are the 17th-and 18th-century whitewashed homes of the béguines . You can visit the grounds, the béguinage church and one of the houses (Begijnhuisje ).
Béguinage d’Anderlecht

Tiny béguinage (see Bruges) – now a museum showing how the béguines lived.
Béguinage d’Anderlecht, Brussels

Many of these pious settlements for single women still survive (see Bruges). This small one serves as a museum evoking their lives. Unforgettable charm (see Béguinage d’Anderlecht).
Belfort

For a breathtaking view over Bruges’ medieval streets, climb the 366 steps to the top of the Belfort (belfry). The set of bells at the top include the 47 carillon bells that are rung by a mechanism installed in 1748. But they can also be played manually from a keyboard on the floor below by the town’s beiaardier (carillon player) – Bruges’ highest paid official, as the joke goes.

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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