sites from Bruges??

I would not agree that Bruges and Ghent are "so similar" (if that is indeed what you meant). I liked Bruges, took some time to warm up to Ghent (but liked it enough in the end) and loved Antwerp (of the three, it's the one I want to return to). Of course, everyone will have different opinions. I don't know how much time you have allotted for Brussels, but of all the places I went in Belgium (Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Tournai, and Brussels), Brussels was the "lowlight." It has some things to see (mainly the Art Nouveau tour through ARAU - fabulous!), but 1-2 days should cover it. Again, I know others disagree, but you asked for my recommendation.

I do not agree that Brugge is like Ghent. I was disappointed in Ghent having first spent 3 days in Brugge. I woiuld stay in Brugge the whole time.

We like them both, for different reasons - I would NOT consider them "so similar".

We just did a trip to Belgium, spending 5 nights in Bruges (our second time there) and 3 nights in Ghent (first time). They are not similar. Bruges is more central, more contained, sites relatively close, a city with a small town feel. Ghent is larger, more spread out, public transportation helps greatly as the sites are not as central. Yes both cities are historic but are not similar. I love both for different reasons. We also had a hard time finding flemish frites in Ghent, as we made sure we had a portion every day under the bell tower in the central Bruges market. By time we got to Ghent, our flemish frites addiction was in full formation. They only place we found them (besides sit down restaurants) was a chain place called Bicky Burger, which deep fries everything under the sun, including our veggie burger, and yes it was good. We side tripped to Antwerp and left after 3 hours....it was bleak, dirty, and had no appeal to us after having been in Bruges and Ghent. never been to Leuven but on this forum, I have read many posts describe Leuven as bleak as well. Brussels, I can tolerate for a few hours (enough time to get me thru the fine arts museum and maybe a short walk thru town). So yes, Bruges is worth visiting, if not actually moving to (yes I would live there).

Brugge and Gent are nothing like each other. Brugge to me is the most beautiful city in Belgium.

...and take the train! Unless you need the car for some reason... You can come visit Kelly and me - we'll be neighbors one day ;-)