Bruges
Walking through Bruges feels like stepping into a medieval painting. Canals wind past gabled houses, horse-drawn carriages clip-clop over cobblestones, and there's chocolate and Belgian beer around every corner. It's small enough to see in a day, but charming enough to make you stay longer.
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Bruges travel FAQ
How many days do I need in Bruges?
1 to 2 days covers the highlights comfortably. Day one: Markt Square, Belfry tower climb, canal boat ride, Church of Our Lady (with Michelangelo's Madonna), and chocolate shop hopping. A second day lets you explore museums, take a brewery tour at De Halve Maan, and enjoy a long Belgian waffle breakfast.
Is Bruges just a day trip destination?
Many people visit as a day trip from Brussels (1 hour by train, €15-20), but staying overnight is worth it. The day-trippers leave by 6pm, and suddenly the streets empty out and the city becomes magical. Evening light on the canals, quiet restaurants, and no crowds — that's the real Bruges.
What should I eat and drink in Bruges?
Belgian frites with mayo (from a frituur stand, not a restaurant), waffles (Liège style with caramelized sugar), moules-frites (mussels with fries) at a canal-side brasserie, and local Bruges beer (try Brugse Zot at De Halve Maan brewery). Chocolate from The Chocolate Line or Dumon is a cut above the tourist shops.