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Bruges in 5: A Guide to Belgian Fun!

Experience the charm and romance of Bruges, the Venice of the North.

22 April 2023

Bruges, the "Venice of the North," is a medieval city with cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and well-preserved architecture. Visiting Bruges as a tourist involves exploring its historic center, sampling Belgian chocolate and waffles, and taking a scenic boat ride down the canals. Other popular activities include climbing to the top of the Belfry tower, admiring the artistry of local breweries and sampling their renowned beers, and discovering the city's cultural heritage through its art and museums.

Travel plan

• Check into Hotel Die Swaene, a charming boutique hotel housed in a 15th-century mansion.
• Head to the picturesque Markt square and try out the traditional Belgian waffles and hot chocolate.
• Visit the Half Moon Brewery for a beer tasting and tour, where you can sample some of the best brews in Belgium.
• Take a canal boat tour and admire the city's historic architecture from the water.
• End the day with dinner at 't Zwart Huis, a cosy restaurant with hearty Belgian classics and a beer menu to die for.

• Start the day at the Groeningemuseum, a treasure trove of Flemish art spanning centuries.
• Grab some lunch at De Stove, a local favourite for its intimate atmosphere and delicious seafood.
• Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a gothic church with a vial containing a drop of Christ's blood.
• Head to the Memling Museum, housed in a former hospital, for a glimpse into medieval Bruges.
• Wind down with a coffee and pastry at Academiecafé, a trendy spot with a great view of the city.

• Start the day with a bit of indulgence at The Chocolate Line, Bruges' famous chocolate shop.
• Take a stroll through the charming streets of the Lace Centre to learn about traditional lace-making.
• Grab lunch at De Halve Maan Brewery, enjoy the beer and their great food in the shadow of the brewery's trademark spiral.
• Visit the Gruuthuse Museum, a stunning medieval mansion with a fascinating collection of artefacts.
• End the day with dinner at De Visscherie, a seafood resto located in a charming alley that serves up fresh catches from the North Sea.

• Take a day trip to Ypres, a small town that played a pivotal role in WWI.
• Visit the Menin Gate Memorial and attend the Last Post ceremony, a daily tribute to fallen soldiers.
• Stop by In Flanders Fields Museum to learn more about the war and its impact on the town.
• Grab lunch at Staminee De Koning, a cosy, local tavern with great food and drinks.
• Head back to Bruges for dinner at Bistro Bruut, a trendy spot with a menu featuring modern twists on Belgian cuisine.

• Start the day with a visit to the Church of Our Lady, home to Michelangelo's sculpture of the Madonna and Child.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the canals and soak up the picturesque scenery.
• Visit the charming Begijnhof, an enclave of historic whitewashed homes with a tranquil atmosphere.
• Grab lunch at De Carillon, a brasserie with a varied menu and great views of the city.
• Finally, cap off your trip with a visit to the newly-opened Museum of the Flemish Primitives, where you can learn about the famous local artists known for their detailed realism.