Beautiful Bruges in Belgium

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This little Belgian gem is nicknamed “The Venice of the North,” and for very good reason!

An hour’s train ride from Brussels, this medieval trading port – its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site – looks and feels like a different world. 

Here is a quick guide to this picturesque town of cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and winding canals.

Hop on a boat to appreciate Bruges from a different perspective!

This photo of Canal Boat Tours is courtesy of TripAdvisor

A must for all visitors, the 35-minute boat tour goes through the town’s canals.  No only do the tour guides give a brief history of the city, they also point out various architectural styles and interesting sights – like the smallest window in Bruges – that you’d miss if you were on land.

Climb the Belfry’s 366 Steps.

This photo of Historium Brugge is courtesy of TripAdvisor

The 83-meter tall Belfry, the main landmark of Bruges, can be found in the town market square, Grote Markt.  After enjoying panoramic views from the top, grab an order of Belgium’s famous frites (that’s fries for you!) from the carts at the foot of the bell tower.

See Michelangelo’s “Madonna and Child.”

This photo of Church of Our Lady (Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk) is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Housed in the Church of Our Lady, this marble sculpture was the only work of the legendary artist to leave Italy during his lifetime.  Today, the only other places outside Italy with Michaelangelo’s sculptures are the Louvre Museum in Paris and the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersberg, Russia.

Take a break and snack on a waffle (or two).

This photo of Tearoom Carpe Diem is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Enjoy this popular pastry either plain or topped with whipped cream, fruits or syrup (or all three!) and up the Belgian ante by pairing it with a cup of hot Cecemel (a local chocolate beverage.

Satisfy your sweet tooth!

This photo of Historic Centre of Brugge is courtesy of TripAdvisor

The town is peppered with chocolate stores, and even if you’re just window-shopping, the creative displays will already give you your fill of eye candy.  Belgium’s famous brands include Cote d’Or, Godiva and Leonidas, but the small, artisanal shops are worth checking out, too.