Fun in Flanders that won’t cost the earth

With summer just around the corner, and our wallets feeling more anaemic than ever, look no further than Flanders to make the pennies stretch that little bit further. With Eurostar offering return fares from London to Brussels for as little as £59, there is no more affordable way to visit the region.

All tickets allow passengers to travel onwards to any Belgian rail station within 24 hours, so it means that city hopping is easy, and with no additional cost.

Whether you are planning a luxurious stay in Brussels or prefer to travel to Bruges on a shoestring, Flanders has something for everyone. For under £500, you can treat yourself to a special weekend away and spend two nights at the centrally located, deluxe Hotel Amigo, from the Rocco Forte collection.

Where in London at the Amigo’s sister hotel, Brown’s hotel, you can expect to pay from £550 plus for two night’s accommodation, in Brussels prices start at just £153 per night. What’s more, a day spa at The Sanctuary in London is as much as £140 including massages, but in Brussels, the exclusive Aspria Avenue Louise (voted by ELLE as Belgium’s best spa) offers a similar package for just £85.

In Bruges, there are plenty of sights to see for free and the heart of the city, which is surrounded by an almost continuous ring of canals, is the best preserved example of medieval Flanders. Along these canals you can discover many secret gardens, picturesque settings and medieval buildings.

For under twenty six year-olds and for only €1, you can visit attractions such as Groeningemuseum & Arentshuis, Bruggemuseum, Belfort and Stadhuis. Free admission is also available for all at St Saviour’s Cathedral as well as the English Convent. Whilst in the city, why not stay at the Bauhaus hotel for as little as £17 per night, including breakfast. The hotel is conveniently located in the centre of the city and will ensure you have an authentic experience, without breaking the bank.

Dining in Flanders is also more affordable than at home. Brussels is host to over 1800 restaurants and there are plenty of reasonably priced eateries that offer three delicious courses for as little £20. If you are looking for something that extra bit special, Michelin starred seafood restaurant Sea Grill offers three courses for just £55. In Bruges, renowned De Vlaamsche Pot serves authentic Belgian cuisine at unbeatable prices. Or if you are really on a budget, pick up a portion of typical Flemish fritjes for next to nothing.

Industry expert Richard Gale, Product Manager of Railbookers, says: “The best value holidays at the moment are in the 4* hotels in Flanders. High quality, good prices and free nights, particularly during July and August."

Railbookers is currently offering holidays to Bruges staying at the boutique 4* Hotel de Tuilereen. Book a two night break now and enjoy a third night for free from just £249pp.

Dawn Page, Director of Tourism Flanders-Brussels UK, comments: “During these tumultuous economic times, Flanders has emerged as an unrivalled destination for enjoyment seekers looking for value for money mini-breaks.”

So, look no further than Flanders for your perfect summer getaway. For more information log on to visitflanders.co.uk.