I'd like to surprise my husband for a romantic weekend getaway to Belgium but am a little concerned that we will only have 3 full days to enjoy. I've heard many wonderful things about Brugge as well as Brussels but which of the two would you recommend given the short stay? Also, any suggestions for a moderately priced charming hotel in either city? Thanks for your help!

Brugge

Second vote for Brugge

Brugge<BR><BR>Hotel Ter Duinen

no contest...Brugge hands down is the better of the two, especially for a romantic weekend.

Brugge

I just got back from a trip that included Brussels. If I had to do it over, I would have avoided Brussels altogether. The people were somewhat rude, unhelpful, the public transportation systems confusing, and the food overpriced and over-rated. Also, I had some items stolen out of my backpack on a crowded escalator and the police treated me as a buffoon for reporting it. In short go to Brugge - or anywhere else for that matter. (I wasn't amused by the Mannekin Pis boy wearing a santa suit, either) I really enjoyed Cologne, Germany and suggest that as an alternate.

Brugge!

Golly, Vanessa...I live in Brussels and would still choose Brugge! It's much smaller and oozes atmosphere and comfort. Much less tinge of big business and global enterprise if you know what I mean. You can walk everywhere and will want to. I like the Pandhotel, extremely lovely but maybe high-moderate.

Definitely, Brugge!

Spent a week in Brussels in 1998 and 10 days in Brugge 2001 and I say....<BR>Brugge,Brugge,Brugge,Brugge,Brugge.Brug ge,Brugge,Brugge,Brugge,Brugge,Brugge..<BR>well I just can't say it enough!

I am going to Paris in 4 weeks. We are also planning a 1 day side trip to Brussels. My husband went to Brussels and fell in love with it. However, he has never been to Brugge. Forgive my ignorance, why is Brugge so highly recommended? Also, is it easily to get to from Paris?<BR>

BRUGGE!!!

It depends somewhat on the time of the year. Any time other than July/August, I would definitely vote for Brugge (and I live in Brussels too). But Brugge is not at all romantic in July &amp; August when it is packed with tourists.

Brugge,<BR><BR>Be sure to take a stroll on the walking trail around the city! Bring a picnic lunch with you. We have always been there in May/June and love it. I would love to be in the city with snow in the window. What a beautiful picture that would be. A city with chocolate and lace in the windows is wonderful. We found the food to be great. Take lots of pictures. We also enjoy Brussels but it is not as &quot;romantic&quot;. I think it is a little quieter to visit there in the middle of the week than on the weekends when the european &quot;tourists&quot; arrive.

Brugge, without a doubt. Do NOT bother with Brussels. Brugge is the most gorgeous little place, a real dream. It is highly romantic, easy to get around, little traffic and lots to do and see. Even just sitting in the cafes is a lovely experience. For a romantic hotel, try Relais Oud Huis. Beautiful breakfasts (with champagne). We stayed in a room which was self contained in the back. Round (kind of like a mill) it was on two levels - bathroom downstairs, 4 poster in plaid upstairs. Really special

Thank you all so much for your prompt replies. They were all very helpful! I will look into a hotel in Brugge for February. Any favorites? Thanks again and Happy New Year!!