accommodation suggestions for family - bruges or brussels also NYE advice

[givemeaclue]

I have free return tickets on eurostar due to delay on journey earlier in year, thinking of going to bruges or brussels poss at new year. any suggestions re hotel for 2 adults and 2 dcs - pref wiht pool so even if really cold outside we can hang out inside. also anyone know what happens on nye in either destination?

any general advice?

thanks

Bruges is a lovely old town, friends have been there on NYE and they had a great time, outdoor ice skating etc. Brussels is more of a big industrial city.

NYE is a big family occasion in Belgium - almost more so than Xmas. Most restaurants do a special all-in multi course menu that lasts til the early hours. You would need to book it in advance. Fireworks at midnight all over the place - they have a big display in Brussels but I think most towns do them. In Brussels the Xmas Market is open til 1st January - ice rink, big wheel, lots of food, drinks and crafts. I am not sure what dates for Bruges though....it is much smaller than Brussels but very pretty.

In Brussels I would recommend the Citadines in Ste Catherine - right opposite the market. They reasonable price apartments and there are loads of places to eat nearby. The Novotel in Bruges does family rooms and is central - Novotels are usually very family friendly ime.