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)

Bruparck

Family leisure park.
Bruparck, Brussels

Near the Atomium (see The Atomium) is an amusement designed to entertain all the family – with a multi-screen cinema, swimming-pool complex, bars and restaurants, and a “Mini-Europe” of scale models (see Bruparck).
Brussels 20K Race

Brussels’ mini-marathon.
Brussels Bike Tour

The best way to see all of Brussels in one day is with the Brussels Bike Tour! Starting at Grand Place, the tour is an eco-friendly and fun way to see all the Brussels tourist hightlighs, plus out of the way places that would generally be missed when exploring by foot. The tour guides are wonderful and accommodating of group abilities and interests. Plus, a mid-tour stop for Belgian frites and beer makes for a delicious rest before returning to pedaling!
Brussels Welcome Hotel

This is a very quirky and original hotel, with each room themed after a different country. It is located just off picturesque Place St Catherine, about five-ten minutes walk from the Grand Place, in an area surrounded by fantastic fish restaurants. The friendly owners help make your stay a relaxing and enojoyable experience.
Burg

This intimate and fetching square – a glittering confection of historic architecture, sculpture and gilding – was the focal point of old Bruges (see The Burg, Bruges).
Café Belga (Flagey building)

Trendy café that draws a young arty crowd. Small wonder, given its setting in the extraordinary 1930s Art Deco Flagey radio building. Also a thriving music venue.
Café d’Anvers

House, soul, disco and funk in an old warehouse in the red-light district. The best-known – and, to many, the best – disco in town.
Café Le Perroquet

An Art Nouveau tavern, popular with a young crowd. It’s good for snacks of filled pitta, and the daily lunch dishes are chalked up on the board outside.
Cafe Local

A glamorous complex of themed Latin-American-style areas: Cuban market, high street, ballroom. It holds Saturday-night salsa, and Latin-American “fiestas” on advertised dates.

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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