Tourist Attractions
Brussels
Staying in Bruges and visiting Brussels during the day is no problem at all, since the capital of Belgium can easily be reaced by train. The distance Bruges-Brussels is usually done in less than an hour.
Ofcourse, some people find Brussels more appealing than Bruges as a starting point to explore Flanders or Belgium. In a way they're right, since Brussels has many hotels to offer that will satisfy all possible needs.
Ofcourse, since Bruges is 5 times smaller than Brussels, hotels in Bruges will feel less cosmopolitan than hotels in Brussels, but they generally also a lot more expensive. Especially during weekends, hotels in Brussels are cheaper than their counterparts in Bruges.
Ghent
Ghent less charming than Bruges? Not necessarily, since the city has a lot to offer and can deliver that historical and peaceful atmosphere as well. The 2nd largest city in Flanders is absolutely recommended when staying in Bruges.
You could ofcourse also consider to leave Bruges and to stay one or more nights in a hotel in Ghent. By train it will take you only 20min to get there. Just like Bruges, Ghent has a lot of beautiful historical buildings, streets, squares and alleys. Its quality hotels in Gent and its vibrant atmosphere at night (mainly because of the 30.000 students) are only 2 reasons why you should definitely consider to book a hotel in Gent.
Less tourists than Bruges, but more exciting, especially during summer, when huge crowds (2 million in total) gather together for the ten day long very vibrant street festival called the "Ghent Fests" (Gentse Feesten in Dutch).
Antwerp
Antwerp is definitely worth a visit and only a little over an hour by train from Bruges. The perfect combination of history, culture and a sparkling nightlife, all within reach, make Antwerp one of the most appealing cities of the Lowlands.
The city houses the 4th largest international port in the world, making it the most important Flemish city. This cosmopolitic aspect is tangible on almost every corner and maybe even more in the hotels in Antwerpen. They are usually larger than hotels in Bruges, but absolutely of an equal charm (the more you go to the city centre, the more authentic the 'feel' of the hotel in Antwerp will be).
The capital of fashion, city of diamands, has a lot to offer. Hotels in Antwerpen are cheaper than their counterparts in Bruges, but offer the same level of quality.