Bruges, Belgium

Celebrity Silhouette will dock in Bruges.  I am looking forward to visiting beautiful, tiny Bruges!  I've never been here but everything that I have read is making me daydream of my upcoming visit.  Evidently there's a great movie that will really inspire you to visit Bruges.  "In Bruges", 2008, starring Colin Farrell. I plan to see it soon!

Everyone seems to love Bruges.  The entire city is named as a UNESCO World Heritage site.  Beautiful streets, gardens, bridges, churches, canals, swans, chocolate shops and restaurants provide photo-ops at every moment.  Bruges is often called The Venice of the North.  You will marvel at the medieval attractions and buildings that were not damaged during the two world wars.   

Bruges, an occupied city during the First World War, is within easy reach of the First World War battlefields, cemeteries and memorials. Several companies in the city offer full-day tours, with knowledgeable guides who will help you to understand the history, horrors and stories of Flanders Field and World War I.

Grote Markt –   (yes markt is how it is spelled!) the main market square.  Horse drawn carriage rides originate here; although I’ve read that they are not leisurely and are expensive.  Click here for a web cam view of Grote Markt Square.

Climb the Belfort Belfry and take photos overlooking the city – It’s 366 steps and dates back to 1240.

Another must-do is a canal cruise – You will see a totally different view of the city, as well as areas not accessible by streets. Bruges has more than 54 bridges, some so low that you will have to duck!  Here's a link to Bootochten Brugge for more information on canal boat tours.

Who hasn’t heard of Belgium chocolate?  Plan to gorge on chocolate!  Here's a link to Rick Steves' (my favorite travel guru) tips for chocolate in Bruges.

Drink a beer – Bruges is home to more than 600 varieties of beer.   Plan to visit the Brewery de Halve Maan , a brewery and museum. De Halve Mann opened in the 16th century, and still brews beer to this day. You can visit the brewery and following your tour taste a glass of beer, so-called Brugse Zot.

Bruges is home to many museums, even the Frietmuseum, dedicated to the potato!  The Frietmuseum is located not far from Grote Markt. There is also a chocolate museum, diamond museum, and of course several art museums.

Shopping anyone?  Bruges is famous for its lace.  But beware that much of it is made in China, so be sure that you find the real Belgian handmade lace!  Of course chocolate will be on my list; but I may find a grocery store for better prices for gifts to take home.  If you're a beer connaisseur, then perhaps beer mugs or coasters from different bars, or perhaps a Belgian national soccer jersey.  Beautiful tapestries are also found in Bruges.

 Take a Walking Tour and explore the historic city center with a local.  Learn about the history as well as urban legends.  Here's a free tour that gets great reviews on Tripadvisor; but tips are appreciated. - Legends of Bruges free walking tour

As you must have learned by now, I love to eat as part of experiencing the local culture!  Here are some Must Eats in Bruges:

Chips and Mayo, 

Carbonnades Flamandes/Stoverij, aka Flemish beef stew

Moules/Frites, aka Mussels and Fries

Speculoos, Belgium's national cookie