Bruges is one of the most photo-worthy and authentic medieval towns in Belgium and that place which no matter how many times I would visit, I still would be happy to return anytime.
But, during autumn is the most romantic season I visited Bruges: the chill but still warm weather, the fall colors matching the gingerbread looks like houses, drinking hot chocolate at a terrace or walking alongside the canals, in the sound of the horse carriages. What else can be more pleasant to enjoy the golden autumn days?
How to get in Bruges
Bruges is easily accessible by train from Brussels, Gare Centrale, being 1 hour and a half away. There are many trains leaving at every 20 minutes from Gare Centrale to Bruges and other Belgian cities. If you visit Belgium for the first time, is good to know that during the weekend the train tickets are half price to any destination in Belgium.
These are the best sights in Bruges
Autumn colors transform Bruges into a fairytale place and a dream destination for photographers. Each time I visit Bruges, I am overwhelmed by the abundance of chocolate shops, the beauty of medieval houses and castles, the bridges and the picturesque views. If you like chocolate, you will fell in love with Bruges, since there are many artisanal and local chocolate shops. And even if you don’t like chocolate, you might be surprised by how good the Belgian chocolate is.
The best experiences and sights not to miss if you visit Bruges for the first time:
- Bonifacius bridge also called Lovers Bridge is a good stop for photos and watching the calm and beautiful scenery. Also, is a legend about this bridge, which says that the first person you will meet after crossing the bridge is the person you will marry.
- Grote Markt is one of the most vibrant and colorful spots in Bruges, being surrounded by medieval houses, shops and restaurants. Belfort Tower watches the market like a guardian angel, being the iconic symbol of Bruges. For a different perspective and a panoramic view over the Grote Markt and Bruges, climb the 366 stairs of Belfort Tower.
- Take a walk alongside The Beguniage (Begijnhof), one of the most peaceful spots in Bruges.
- The Church of our Lady is also the highest medieval building in the historical center, hosting among other pieces of art, the sculpture of Michelangelo “Madona and the Child“.
- A boat ride is a different and pleasant perspective to enjoy and discover Bruges. For a good reason, Bruges is also called the Venice of the North and a boat ride shows some places which can be missed otherwise. A boat ride lasts 30 minutes and costs about 8 euro.
The local food in Bruges
The local food is one of my favorite things to try when I am visiting Bruges. The frites (the Belgian version of French fries), the Belgian chocolate – one of the best in the world, the beer, the waffles or the moules are among the most authentic food to try if you visit Bruges. My favorite waffles store and one of the best in Bruges is Chez Albert, located between Belfry Tower and Town Hall.
Leave a Reply