Where to stay

There's no better place to stay to really experience the city than the Historical Center Bruges, whose energy has been running through these streets for hundreds of years. A bit less touristy, but just as historic, are the quiet accommodations in Sainte-Walburge, whose streets are still packed with medieval churches, if not as many people. Bruges' manufacturing culture is also on display within the hotels of formerly blue collar Sint-Anna, which has a more hip vibe. Get a bit outside the city to stay among the many castles of Oostkamp, still a good base for sightseeing in the city itself.

The Belgians, particularly the Flemish, are known for their impressive craftsmanship, so souvenir shopping in Bruges is a must. Stock up on lace, chocolate, or even a pair of handcrafted clogs while shopping near hotels on the Geldmuntstraat, whose buildings reflect its long commercial history. Be close to one of Europe's biggest antiques market in 't Zand, where accommodations are also convenient for concerts and events. There's a more hip, less traditional vibe in the stores, galleries, and boutique hotels of the Ezelstraat neighborhood. Alternatively, head to the coast for a stay near the distinctive seaside shops and restaurants of Blankenberge.

Children may not be as excited about lace shops as their parents, though chocolate is always a crowd-pleaser. Give kids someplace to run around by booking a room in Sint-Michiels, a close suburb that also features an amusement park and dolphinarium. The neighborhoods of Assebroek and Sint-Andries, also residential, are perfect for families hoping to take advantage of parks and even attend a soccer game during their stay. Proximity to the sea means that staying at the Belle Epoque hotels in Knokke-Heist or De Haan offers a potential bribe of sand castle and water time for tired toddlers whining on Bruges' cobbled streets.