Posted on Thursday, 26 April 2018

It's impossible not to be charmed by medieval Bruges, blessed as it is with a clutch of Gothic churches, ancient municipal buildings and soaring towers. A network of canals and cobbled alleys make exploring this city a real pleasure.

Having somehow sidestepped the ravages of two world wars, Bruges is a very special place - but one that has become a highlight of the Belgian tourist trail. If you want to avoid the masses, aim to visit during the week, and stay at least one night so you can enjoy quiet moments in the morning and evening, when the day-trippers are absent.

Romantic Bruges

As a romantic destination, it's hard to better Bruges: Alongside the utterly beguiling centre, wonderful Flanders cuisine awaits in numerous cosy eateries, while the standard of hotels is high - without breaking the bank.

Bruges for Families

For families, the museums, art galleries, canal boat trips and horse drawn carriages will keep all age groups happy. And ascending the mighty Belfry is sure to be a hit - as long as there are no claustrophobics in your group.

Market Square (Markt)

Get a feel for the city by enjoying a coffee in the Market Square (Markt), where you can soak up the remarkable Gothic locale, the centre piece of which is the mighty Belfry.

The Belfry

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Bruges' most famous attraction, the 83m Belfry towers over the city, affording views that stretch all the way to the cranes and wind turbines of Zeebrugge on the coast. The tower leans 87 centimetres to the east - but try not to think about that as you ascend the 366 steps to the top. If you don't like enclosed spaces, you might want to give it a miss.

Burg Square

A short walk from Market Square is Burg Square, which boasts a myriad architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance and Neo-Classicist. Here you'll see what is arguably the city's finest building, the Town Hall or Stadhuis - a triumph of Gothic excess.

Blind Donkey Alley

Between the Town Hall and the Palace of the Liberty of Bruges is Blind Donkey Alley, named after a legendary Bruges donkey who refused to help robbers steal the city's gilded dragon. The dragon, once atop the belfry, had been loaded onto a cart - but the donkey would not budge. It is said that the robbers blindfolded or blinded the donkey - giving this alley its name.

Canal boat cruise

Emerging from Blind Donkey Alley you'll see one of the city's canals. Take the opportunity to hop on a canal boat and enjoy this magical city at a leisurely pace. If you're not a fan of boats, why not take a horse-drawn carriage ride around town?

Begijnhof

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Despite attracting plenty of tourists, this 13th century cloister is still a tranquil place. Originally built for emancipated lay-women who chose not to marry, it is still home to a group of nuns and a number of women who prefer the single life. In spring, daffodils erupt in a sea of yellow.

Belgian chocolate

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Depending on how much you like your chocolate, Bruges' chocolatiers could be reason enough to visit. Alongside famous brands like Godiva, you'll find a collection of family-run establishments which make a bewildering array of beautiful, delicious chocolates. Pop in to Neuhaus for a "caprice" (toffee with vanilla crème), Galler for its fabulous 85% dark chocolate, or Leonidas (loved for its white chocolate), where the chocs are a little cheaper.

Beer

Beer is another world-class Belgian product. You'll find some beautiful beer houses in Bruges, serving a bewildering selection of delicious, malty imbibes. Visit 2be, famed for its long glass cabinet filled with beers from across Belgium, then hop over to the De Halve Maan Brewery, where you can take a guided tour and see the brewing process in action - before an obligatory beer.

Fish market (Vismarkt)

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Whether you love fresh fish, or simply enjoy the hubbub of a thriving market, visit the fish market (Vismarkt) which runs from Wednesday to Saturday. This covered arcade was purpose-built in 1821, having been moved from its previous location because the locals were upset by the smell.

Picnic by Minnewater Lake

This delightful lake is perfect for a picnic and a relaxed stroll. Don't forget to cross Lover's Bridge - ideal if you're visiting Bruges with your favourite person.

Market Square by night

If you're staying overnight, return to Market Square as darkness falls and witness the incredible Gothic and Renaissance architecture in all its flood-lit glory.

Accommodation top picks

Budget - Hotel Academie - £56+

Set around a spacious courtyard, Hotel Acadamie is located in the southern part of the historic centre. While contemporary in design, signs of the building's historic past are evident in the brick-vaulted breakfast room and the stone anchors on the façade.

Mid-range - Hotel Alegria - £86+

This former grand townhouse boasts high ceilinged rooms and a delightful courtyard garden. Despite its history, the rooms are all very modern. Hotel Alegria is two minutes' walk from the Market Square.

High-end - Hotel Dukes' Palace - £136+

Any establishment named 'Hotel Dukes' Palace' is sure to be plush, but this 5-star (the only one in Bruges) is not pompous with it. Its attentive staff and luxurious rooms make for a very special stay. Just a five minute walk from the Markt, Dukes is worth the extra cash. That said, for a 5-star it is actually rather affordable.

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