In Bruges, according to Arnold Bennett writing more than 100 years ago, you are "assailed on every side by the picturesque". And despite a fair slice of the citiy's splendours being not what they seem - restored rather than authentically original - that is still true today. The city certainly brings out the romance in many of its visitors and you can't help but be amazed by the number of couples wandering its canals hand in hand. The ancient centre of neighbouring Ghent, a city that is less conspicuously touristy than Bruges, holds a glorious set of Gothic buildings and has a bustling nightlife.

Bruges & Ghent DIRECTIONS has all you need to get the most out of your stay: the best-value hotels and restaurants, whatever your budget; the coolest and most interesting bars; the best shops, museums and galleries ... in short, the best the cities have to offer.

Browse the full-colour ideas section for a wealth of things to do. Then flip to the places section to explore Bruges and Ghent, with every sight, restaurant, bar and shop located on our easy-to-use maps.

It's like having a Belgian friend plan your trip.