Beer, chocolate and world-class museums

This small country, set between France, Germany, the Netherlands and the sea, offers a surprising amount for the visitor considering its size.

Brussels, the capital, has a cosmopolitan feel, and boasts a number of world-class museums and some amazing Art Nouveau architecture along with charming cobbled streets and an impressive guildhouse in the main square.

Bruges is much smaller but has become famous for its picturesque canals and medieval architecture; tourism is the principal industry here but it’s hard not to be utterly charmed by the gabled houses, handsome squares and great museums.

Here, we’ve listed the best places to stay in either city – hotels that have stood the test of time and offer personal service, lots of character and good value.