Visiting Bruges
I visited Bruges a few years ago and absolutely adored this lovely city in the northwest of Belgium. It seems as though Bruges is like something straight out of a fairy-tale with all it’s medieval architecture, gorgeous cobbled streets, meandering canals and pretty market squares. It’s the type of place that really looks just as adorable in real life as it does on the postcards and pictures you’re bound to have seen countless times before (or if you’ve watched the movie In Bruges!)
Wandering the streets is one of the best ways to get a feel for the relaxed atmosphere of this little city. However, Bruges is filled with narrow, winding little streets that all seem to look rather similar so I’d suggest definitely getting a map and carrying it around with you should you lose track of your bearings. I know I certainly did!
Bruges la Belle et ses secrets – Image Source Flickr
The historic centre of Bruges is where you’ll find all the best architecture in the city. There’s Gothic style buildings everywhere in the historic centre and you’ll see the wonderfully impressive Belfry which towers over the city. If you’re feeling energetic you can climb the almost 400 steps to the top of the Belfry tower and enjoy stunning views over the city.
Town Hall and Basilica of Holy Blood on Burg square, center of Bruges, Belgium
You might think it’s a little cliche and touristy but a boat ride in Bruges is actually a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Plus it’s totally relaxing and perfect on a sunny day and is also quite inexpensive.
Chips and mayonnaise is a simple, yet delicious delicacy in Bruges and you’ll find plenty of places where you can sample this dish. You’re able to order this dish in restaurants as well as grab some on the go from a street vendor. If you’ve never actually put mayonnaise on your chips before then you might just find that you love it like I did. I’ve been putting mayonnaise on my chips ever since!
One thing you absolutely should not miss in Bruges is a chance to tuck into some delicious Belgian chocolates. Surely it would be rude not to sample them?! There are chocolate shops absolutely everywhere in the city and you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Chocolates & Happiness shop sign Bruges By Foilman CC BY-SA 2.0
It would also be silly to visit Belgium without trying an authentic Belgian waffle. If you’re on a budget then buy one from one of the many street sellers as they’re usually far cheaper (and just as yummy!) as the ones you’d get in a restaurant. You can enjoy Belgian waffles with a seemingly endless variety of toppings and if you’re as indecisive as me you’ll probably struggle to decide what you want from the extensive list of options.
Belgian Waffles – Image Source
Have you visited Bruges before? What things do you recommend people to do on a visit to the city?
I’m Emma, a twenty-something Scottish girl who’s obsessed with travel.
I’ve been to 38 countries so far and had some incredible adventures around the world.
My passion for travel and writing led me to create my person blog Emma’s Travel Tales.