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Occupying a grand 19th-century mansion close to the centre, this is one of Ghent’s most refined and sophisticated hotels. The public rooms have been refurbished in glittering Second Empire style, while the rooms have a simple elegance.

A smart, comfortable hotel in a 19th-century mansion, located in the old merchant quarter to the north of the Markt. It boasts a spa and fitness room in the cellar, and a sun deck on the roof.

Overlooking the Groenplaats, right in the middle of Antwerp, is the extraordinary dome-roofed palace built as the Grand Bazar du Bon Marché, a 1920s department store. Part of it has now been converted into a top-class, stylish and well-appointed Hilton hotel. Most of the rooms overlook a quiet inner courtyard.

Facing the Comfort Art Hotel Siru, on the other side of Place Rogier, the Hilton Brussels City is a modern interpretation of Art Deco – all chrome and sensual wooden surfaces, and satisfying geometric surprises.

You could not get more central than this if you tried: the Crowne Plaza overlooks the Burg at the very heart of Bruges. An efficiently run, modern establishment, it also incorporates some historic remains: the excavated foundations of the medieval church of St Donatian. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool and its own car park.

Located at the southern end of Avenue Louise, the Hyatt Regency has been redecorated by French designer Jacques Garcia in an opulent Edwardian style. The rooms exude a sense of luxurious, silky comfort.

In this hotel, you’ll find the no-frills, straight-forward efficiency of the Ibis chain. It may lack historic charm, but it satisfies essential requirements, and is conveniently located.

Right in the centre of Ghent, overlooking Sint-Baafskathedraal, this is a well-run, modern and attractive member of the reliable Ibis chain.

This second Ibis hotel is located to the south of the centre, about 10 minutes’ walk from Sint-Baafskathedraal. Although somewhat functional, it is well-run and popular. If driving, be sure to ask for directions, as Ghent’s one-way system is maddening and makes access to the hotel something of a challenge.