Dukes' Academie ★★★★

Tucked away on a pretty, quiet, cobbled street in the southern section of Bruges' historic centre, the four-star Dukes' Academie offers a unique, homey stay. Unpack in your comfy and relatively spacious room in this fully renovated hotel, featuring elegant contemporary décor. Once the on-site residence of the owner of the Anker brewery, the 18th-century main building retains glimpses into its past, including the ornate lounge and stone anchors over the facade's arches.

Wake each morning to a generous, inclusive breakfast served in the beautiful breakfast room with its authentic brick-vaulted ceiling, once the malt storage cellar. Hang out in the intimate, atmospheric bar with its outdoor terrace, perfect for warm weather. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or a culinary dinner, head to the hotel's stylish restaurant. There is even a small on-site gym.

Close to the hotel, you'll find the tranquil Minnewater Lake, known as the "Lake of Love," and the white houses and charming courtyard of the Beguinage, a site once inhabited by the beguines, a community of unmarried women.

Not to be missed is the historic city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with Gothic and Renaissance architecture and landmarks such as Market Square, the 83-meter-high Belfry Tower, and the nearby Basilica of the Holy Blood. During your day out exploring, stop regularly to indulge in artisan chocolate washed down with tasty Belgian beers like Brugse Zot in local breweries and cosy pubs.

Back at the hotel, the staff will shower you with Flemish hospitality and provide top tips for places to eat and visit. Dukes' Hotel Collection has even developed an app with information about the hotel and the city, providing you with your own digital city guide.