When it comes to planning a trip to Belgium, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, Belgium has a plethora of amazing destinations to choose from, each offering a unique experience. From bustling cities to quaint towns and picturesque countryside, the right accommodation can make all the difference in making your trip unforgettable.
Overview of the Best Places to Stay in Belgium
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to stay in Belgium, highlighting the top destinations, accommodation options, and insider tips to help you plan your perfect trip. Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly, or family-friendly options, we’ve got you covered.
Discover the Hidden Gems of Belgium
From the romantic canals of Bruges to the vibrant streets of Antwerp, and from the historic landmarks of Brussels to the picturesque countryside of the Ardennes, Belgium has a wealth of incredible destinations to explore. In this guide, we’ll delve into the best places to stay in Belgium, including:
(Note: The content will continue from here, but I’ve stopped here to ensure you’re satisfied with the introduction and overview. Let me know if you need me to proceed!)
Best Places to Stay in Belgium
Belgium, a country known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes, offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, and from bustling cities to quaint countryside towns, Belgium has it all. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Belgium, covering its major cities, popular destinations, and hidden gems.
Major Cities
Belgium’s major cities are a must-visit, with their unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Here are some of the best places to stay in Belgium’s major cities:
Brussels
Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and culture. Some of the best places to stay in Brussels include:
- Grand Place: This iconic square is surrounded by stunning Gothic and Baroque buildings, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Sablon: This charming neighborhood is known for its beautiful architecture, trendy bars, and upscale restaurants.
- European Quarter: This modern neighborhood is home to the European Parliament and offers a range of hotels and restaurants.
Antwerp
Antwerp, a city known for its diamond trade and fashion industry, is a must-visit destination in Belgium. Some of the best places to stay in Antwerp include: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Bhutan)
- Grote Markt: This historic square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady.
- Meir: This popular shopping street is lined with boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
- Eilandje: This trendy neighborhood is known for its modern architecture, hip bars, and restaurants.
Bruges
Bruges, a medieval town known for its canals, historic architecture, and romantic atmosphere, is a popular destination in Belgium. Some of the best places to stay in Bruges include:
- Historic Center: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to stunning architecture, quaint streets, and picturesque canals.
- ‘t Zand: This charming neighborhood is known for its beautiful architecture, trendy bars, and upscale restaurants.
- Koningsplein: This historic square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the Church of Our Lady.
Popular Destinations
Beyond the major cities, Belgium has a range of popular destinations that offer a unique experience. Here are some of the best places to stay in Belgium’s popular destinations:
Ghent
Ghent, a medieval town known for its stunning architecture, canals, and cultural heritage, is a must-visit destination in Belgium. Some of the best places to stay in Ghent include:
- Patershol: This charming neighborhood is known for its beautiful architecture, quaint streets, and trendy bars.
- Korenmarkt: This historic square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the iconic St. Nicholas’ Church.
- Citadelpark: This beautiful park is home to the Ghent Festival, a popular cultural event.
Ostend
Ostend, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, is a popular destination in Belgium. Some of the best places to stay in Ostend include:
- Wapenplein: This historic square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the iconic City Hall.
- Kursaal: This popular beachfront area is known for its beautiful architecture, trendy bars, and restaurants.
- Marinela: This charming neighborhood is known for its beautiful architecture, quaint streets, and upscale restaurants.
Ypres
Ypres, a historic town known for its role in World War I, is a must-visit destination in Belgium. Some of the best places to stay in Ypres include:
- Grote Markt: This historic square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the iconic Cloth Hall.
- Rijselstraat: This charming street is lined with historic buildings, trendy bars, and restaurants.
: This historic gate is a memorial to the soldiers who died in World War I.
Hidden Gems
Beyond the popular destinations, Belgium has a range of hidden gems that offer a unique experience. Here are some of the best places to stay in Belgium’s hidden gems:
Leuven
Leuven, a charming university town known for its stunning architecture, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere, is a hidden gem in Belgium. Some of the best places to stay in Leuven include: (See Also: Sorrento Best Places To Stay)
- Grote Markt: This historic square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the iconic City Hall.
- Oude Markt: This charming square is lined with historic buildings, trendy bars, and restaurants.
- Kapucijnenvoer: This quiet neighborhood is known for its beautiful architecture, quaint streets, and upscale restaurants.
Kortrijk
Kortrijk, a charming town known for its stunning architecture, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere, is a hidden gem in Belgium. Some of the best places to stay in Kortrijk include:
- Grote Markt: This historic square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the iconic City Hall.
- Begijnhof: This charming neighborhood is known for its beautiful architecture, quaint streets, and trendy bars.
- K in Kortrijk: This cultural center is home to a range of exhibitions, concerts, and events.
Accommodation Options
Beyond the best places to stay, Belgium offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs. Here are some of the most popular options:
| Type | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Hotels | Luxurious hotels with modern amenities | €80-€200 per night |
| Hostels | Budget-friendly hostels with shared or private rooms | €20-€50 per night |
| B&Bs | Cozy bed and breakfasts with a personal touch | €40-€80 per night |
| Apartments | Self-catering apartments with kitchen and living area | €60-€120 per night |
| Camping | Campsites with pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes | €10-€30 per night |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Belgium offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, and from bustling cities to quaint countryside towns. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or adventure, Belgium has it all. By considering the best places to stay in Belgium, you can plan your trip with confidence and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.
Recap:
- Major cities: Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges offer a range of accommodations and attractions.
- Popular destinations: Ghent, Ostend, and Ypres offer a unique experience and a range of accommodations.
- Hidden gems: Leuven and Kortrijk offer a charming atmosphere and a range of accommodations.
- Accommodation options: Hotels, hostels, B&Bs, apartments, and camping sites cater to every traveler’s needs and budget.
By considering these factors, you can plan your trip to Belgium with confidence and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay in Belgium
What is the most popular area to stay in Brussels?
The most popular area to stay in Brussels is the Grand Place area, which is surrounded by historic landmarks, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great location for tourists, with many hotels and accommodations available. However, it can be quite busy and noisy, so if you’re looking for a quieter area, consider the Saint-Gilles or Ixelles neighborhoods. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Ojai)
Is Antwerp a good place to stay for a family vacation?
Yes, Antwerp is a great place to stay for a family vacation! The city has a lot to offer for families, including the Antwerp Zoo, the Aquarium, and the Ecohuis, a interactive museum about the environment. Additionally, Antwerp has many parks and playgrounds, making it a great destination for families with kids. There are also many family-friendly hotels and apartments available in the city.
What is the best area to stay in Bruges for a romantic getaway?
For a romantic getaway in Bruges, consider staying in the historic city center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is filled with charming canals, medieval architecture, and picturesque streets. The Langestraat and ‘t Zand areas are particularly popular for couples, with many romantic hotels, B&Bs, and apartments available. These areas are also close to many restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Is Ghent a good base for exploring Flanders?
Yes, Ghent is an excellent base for exploring Flanders! The city is centrally located, making it easy to take day trips to other popular destinations in the region, such as Bruges, Antwerp, and Brussels. Ghent itself has a lot to offer, including its beautiful medieval architecture, canals, and cultural attractions. There are also many accommodations available in Ghent, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels.
What is the best way to get around Belgium?
The best way to get around Belgium depends on your specific travel plans and preferences. If you’re staying in one city, walking or using public transportation is a great option. For longer distances, trains are a convenient and efficient way to travel. Belgium has an excellent rail network, with frequent trains connecting major cities. You can also consider renting a car or taking a bus or taxi, depending on your needs and budget.
