Brussels Excursions

For a Half Day

Bruges: The heyday of Bruges lasted from the 13th century, when merchants became rich from the cloth trade, until the silting of the Zwin River brought about the city's rapid decline. Nonetheless, Bruges remains one of the most beautifully preserved medieval cities in Europe and is Belgium's top tourist attraction. Visitors can explore charming streets and canals, packed with little restaurants, atmospheric cafes and a cluster of interesting museums and churches. A highlight is the spectacular Belfry. Michelangelo's delicate marble Madonna and Child lies within the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk (Church of Our Lady). Situated some 80km (50 miles) west of Brussels, Bruges is well connected by public transport and motorways; it is just a one-hour train or bus ride away, although traffic can be intense at busy times. The Tourist Office, t' Zand 34 (tel: (050) 444 646; website: www.brugge.be), provides information and a hotel booking service.

For a Whole Day

Antwerp: Located 40km (25 miles) north of Brussels, Antwerp is tucked into the east bank of a bend in the Schelde River. The 14th-century Cathedral of Our Lady in Groenplaats (tel: (03) 213 9951; website: www.dekathedraal.be) is without doubt one of the finest buildings in the Low Countries. Masterpieces by Rubens (a former resident) and Van Dyck are on display at the Museum voor Schone Kunsten (Royal Museum of Fine Art), Léopold De Waelplaats (tel: (03) 238 7809; website: www.kmska.be). Antwerp is also a thriving port, the world's leading diamond centre and now an international fashion capital. Antwerp's Centraal Station is easily reached by train from all three of Brussels' principal stations. The Tourist Office, Grote Markt 13 (tel: (03) 232 0103; website: www.visitantwerpen.be), can provide a wealth of information on the city.

Namur: Located just 45km (28 miles) southeast of Brussels, Namur is a picturesque town with a hilltop citadel, which indicates its historic military importance at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers. Down by the riverbanks, meanwhile, there are pretty pedestrianised streets packed with interesting shops, fine old churches and a handful of decent museums. The pick of these is the Trésor du Prieuré d'Oignies, housed in a convent at 17 Rue Julie Billiart, and boasting an exquisite collection of gold and silver work. Namur also has some top restaurants and a buzzing nightlife, thanks to its many university students. More information can be obtained from the Tourist Office, Hôtel de Ville (tel: (081) 246 449; website: www.ville.namur.be), which is a two-minute walk from the station. Namur is easily accessible from all three stations in Brussels.