TRANSPORT – First, fly to Brussels International Airport with BA, BMI Regional, Brussels Airlines and easyjet from various UK airports, or to Brussels South Charleroi with Ryanair, or get the Eurostar to Brussels Gare du Midi from London St Pancras. From Brussels, get the bus or train to Bruges. Bruges’ train station is a mile south of Markt-a scenic 20-minute walk – or catch a taxi or bus into town. The city is best explored on foot.

WHERE TO STAY

Enter Hotel Patritius, an 1830s townhouse, through the tall carriageway. Up the historic spiral staircase, 16 guest rooms vary radically in size and style, some with exposed beams, others chintzy or renovated in a bolder style.

Featuring the distinctive ceramics of Martine Bossuyt, Number 11 is a top-notch b&b, with logoed linens and pralines on the pillow. There’s a private salon and courtyard garden for the handful of guests.

Occupying a medieval house, Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce is a luxurious boutique hotel that’s graced with art, antiques, Persian carpets and fresh orchids. The16 rooms are full of designer fittings.