Bruges

Whether you’re visiting in winter for the Christmas Markets, or in summer when the flowers are blooming and the sun is shining, Bruges is the picture of medieval perfection. The cobbled streets, the canals, the squares, the buildings – they’re all gorgeous. And it just gets prettier in the nighttime when they’re all lit up beautifully by strategic lighting. Small enough to cover easily in a few days, with enough to keep you entertained, Bruges is the perfect destination for a city break getaway.

The heart and soul of Bruges and the place to start any visit is the square called Markt. The buildings surrounding this open space are gorgeous medieval stunners, with the famous belfry being the most iconic. It’s the place to take pictures, trying to capture the beauty, or to sit and enjoy some al fresco dining. There’s also horse drawn carriages completing the picture and offering a naff yet enjoyable tourist experience.

Continue your wanderings through Belgium’s beauty to Hof Arents. This tiny park includes the Lover’s Bridge crossing a quaint canal – an absolutely superb view and yet another place for a classic ‘Bruges’ photo opportunity.

Lace and chocolate are what Bruges is famous for. The two best places to experience these treats are the Choco-Story museum and ‘t Apostelientje handmade lace museum-shop.