Belgium, Bruges

Bruges is one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe; there are canals and waterways making this a very picturesque city to visit either on a city break or on a longer holiday. Hotels and accommodation in Bruges are plentiful with various degrees of luxury available as you would expect in the Venice of the North.

There are various museums including the Memling museum, where you can see masterpieces by this artist, also the famous Groeninge museum which has a fine collection of Dutch and Flemish paintings.

You can visit the Lace Center where you can watch lace-makers at work

Visit the Markt Square with its magnificent Belfry which stands at 83m high, it was built in the 13th century there are 366 steps to the top but is well worth making the effort to see the panoramic view of the city, you will pass the 18th century carillon with its 47 bells they are still played manually at certain times and days throughout the year.

If you are looking for a more lively late night out try the Eiermarkt or Langestraat there are also live music at other venues in Bruges including jazz and contemporary.

There is a Leisure Park on the outskirts of the city with a fun fair, great for the children and young at heart.

Bruges is mainly traffic free and is pleasant to wander around taking in the many sights around.

You can take a leisurely canal cruise relax and enjoy the atmosphere, you can also go on an organized bicycle tour which you can book at the tourist office. Alternatively take a horse drawn carriage ride the children will love the experience and it is enjoyable and relaxing for all.

Bruges has a maze of cobbled streets where you will find chocolate shops selling hand made Belgian chocolate, traditional tapestry and lace shops. There is an excellent choice of clothing shops boutiques and department stores; you will not be able to resist making a purchase or two!

If you feel the need to sit down and relax have a drink or a meal you will find an abundance of eating places to suit most everyone’s taste, a nice lunch dish to try is croque-monsieur croque-madame, with a fried egg or if your adventurous a croque-boem-boem (with spaghetti or bolognese sauce) or try the waffles both of these are delicious.

A visit to Bruges is a most enjoyable holiday experience whether for a long or short stay, there is so much to see and enjoy here and is suitable for all age groups. Bruges is a very popular destination for English speaking tourists as everybody does!