This Valentine’s Day, a romantic stay in one of Flanders’ enchanting cities will provide the backdrop for your perfect city break. With value for money options and close proximity to the UK, the Flemish cities offer it all in terms in hospitality, gastronomic excellence and a great chocolate experience!

Where to stay: Beautiful Boulevard Leopold is situated in Antwerp’s trendy Jewish Quarter and offers stylish luxury. With just three rooms and two apartments, each offering antique bathtubs, period couches and tasteful décor to reflect the building’s 19th century origins, room rates start at just €115 per room per night including breakfast. www.boulevard-leopold.be

What to do: Browse around Antwerp’s cobbled market square, enjoy the work of the Flemish Masters and more than 1500 paintings at the Royal Museum of Arts. Or, why not explore the Diamond Quarter and search for the perfect diamond engagement ring!

What to eat: Dine out in a traditional Antwerpen pub such as Den Engel on Grote Markt. Take a trip to the Suikerui for some of the city’s most popular restaurants or indulge in some famous local speciality chocolate such as Hans Burie or Del Rey.

Where to stay: In a city famed for romance throughout the year, there is definitely no shortage of intimate places to rest for the night. Maison Le Dragon is an exclusive private guesthouse housed in a 16th Century manor and is located in the centre of the city. Renovated in its original former glory, enjoy breakfast in Rococo-styled décor, beautiful antiques and admire ornate engravings and paintings throughout the building. Prices start at just €150 per room, per night. www.maisonledragon.be

What to do: No visit to Bruges would be complete without a visit to “Lovers Lake” Minnewater and fortunately, everything can be reached on foot in this easily-accessible city. Art lovers will be inspired by the work of the Flemish Masters in Bruges’ famous Groninge Museum, but for a bit of fun, visit the Chocolate and Frite Museums with some delicious sampling on offer.

What to eat: Famed for its gastronomic excellence, Bruges has one of the highest concentrations per head for Michelin starred restaurants. Chocolate shops aplenty, try some of the best handmade chocolate at Sukerbuyc or The Chocolate Line.

Where to stay: Chambreplus in Ghent’s historical city centre proposes 3 exclusive guestrooms in an 18th century renovated mansion house. This guesthouse offers the chance for guests to take part in private cookery classes such as chocolate making and other Flemish specialities. Prices start at just €95 per room per night. www.chambreplus.be

What to do: Situated on the banks of the River Lei, a walk around the stunning guild houses and meandering canals in the Patershol is a must. A visit to see the St Bravo’s cathedral and its beautiful art treasures or one of Ghent’s fine museums makes the perfect pastime for a charming stay.

What to eat: For some authentic local delicacies, visit the Groot Vleeshuis - a former meat market hall. And why not also purchase some delectable chocolates from Luc Van Hoorebeke. If they are not sweet enough, try an elaborate treat from waffle maker Max. One of his cream, berries and Grand Marnier topped Belgian waffles is the ultimate expression in indulgence.

Where to stay: Situated in a 16th Century mansion, the Keyser Carel guesthouse was a former brewery. Housing just three exclusive rooms, its location in the heart of this stunning University town provides an elegant and romantic setting. www.keysercarel.be

What to do: Wander along the meandering ancient streets of Leuven taking its beautiful 15th century Town Hall, stunning gothic architecture and tranquil Great Begijnhof area. Stop for refreshments at the Oude Markt where countless bars, including the longest bar in Europe are situated or simply browse amongst Leuven’s quaint boutiques on the Mechelstraat.

What to eat: There are plenty of fantastic eateries dotted all over the city of Leuven. In particular, take a stroll along Munstraat to find quirky restaurants such as Très Luxe and Kokoon. Here you will encounter a fine blend of different cuisines and be able to sit and watch the world go by!

Where to stay: Located in the historic heart of the city of Mechelen, the 19th century Franciscan church been transformed into Martin’s Patershof, a glowing four-star hotel, has been converted into an ultra-modern fashionable property. Trendy and atmospheric, the hotel still maintains the greatest respect for the integrity of the location. www.martins-hotels.com

What to do: Mechelen has a number of impressive buildings to visit including a variety of beautiful churches, famous for their carillon (bell) playing! During your stay, be sure to visit the Het Anker brewery where you can eat, drink and even sleep!

What to eat: No trip to Mechelen would be complete without tasting Mechelen Cuckoo which is a famous regional dish made with local beer. For something different try Barramundo lounge bar which stands in the shadow of the Sint-Rombouts tower. It really is the place to be seen in Mechelen!

For more information check out www.visitflanders.co.uk

Main image is of Bruges