Medieval Bruges

Canals, swans and brick houses — Bruges seems frozen in the 15th century. Fly into Brussels (or Charleroi), then it's an hour by train.

👀 What to see

• The Markt square and the Belfry
• A boat trip along the canals
• The Beguinage and the Lake of Love

🍽 What to taste

• Belgian chocolate and waffles
• Mussels with fries and local beer

⚓ Quiet spot

The windmills on the Kruisvest rampart at the edge of town.

💡 Fun facts

• Bruges is called the "Venice of the North" thanks to the canals that encircle the old town.
• To climb the Belfry tower you have to tackle 366 steps.
• The Church of Our Lady holds Michelangelo's Madonna and Child — one of the few of his sculptures to leave Italy during his lifetime.

🗓 Best time: in April, in May, in June, in September, in December