3 Best Hotels in Kortrijk, Ghent and the Leie

Nestled amid the elegant town houses of Groeningestraat is arguably the most stylish retreat in town. Hotel Messeyne is a slick boutique stay, but one that manages to squeeze in the extras normally found in newer hotels. A gym, sauna, and hammam offer a dash of luxury, while rooms are crisp affairs, with those in the eaves accented by original beams. Restaurant Messeyne is also one of the finer spots in town, not just for its French-Belgian menu but for the pretty terrace garden that offers a rare chance to sit outside in the city in peace.

The location of this regal city-center stay, right across from the belfry, takes in some of the more cherished real estate in Kortrijk. The rococo exterior dates from 1769, and its litany of past guests is no less grand, ranging from kings to presidents. The interior is suitably classical, while a well-respected cocktail bar and brasserie (which is accessed via the Grote Markt) complete the boutique picture.

This rather plush stay by the railway station has the air of a luxury business hotel. The Belgian-French bistro doubles as a breakfast room, and you can add the convivial Jules Bar and wellness center to the overall waft of urban elan. Rooms are restrained and largely nondescript, though the larger family-size rooms at the corners of the building are blessed with giant windows and balconies, to take in the cityscape. Parkhotel have also recently opened a newer branch in the city center, called The Market, which sits atop a burger restaurant. This is cheaper but swaps plush extras for convenience.