10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN

Bruges is a city of canals and is one of many European cities to have been dubbed "The Venice of the North". With so many waterways crisscrossing the city, it's easy to see why a boat trip is one of the most popular things to do in Bruges. You can take the canal trips from Huidenvettersplein, and the journey takes 30 minutes.

Eat some French fries with mayo for lunch Bruges

If there's one dish you can't avoid when visiting Bruges, it's fried with mayonnaise. There has long been a friendly debate over whether it was the French or the Belgians who invented the fry, and around these pieces the Belgians claim ownership. You'll find chip shops scattered all over town, but for a little friendly competition, head to the main square where two stalls sit right in front of the belfry vying to be the best. Condiments are extra here, but it's worth splurging on a pump of mayonnaise and a pump of curry ketchup.

Find the park where sheep roam Bruges

One of the most original attractions you will find in Bruges is a park that is home to sheep. The park, Hof de Jonghe, is located at the northern end of the old town and is a little difficult to find - you will have to walk through a residential area and you may feel like you are encroaching - but when you do Get there, you'll be greeted by a peaceful green space and a giant pen full of bah-ing sheep. I suggest you choose one of the free "USE IT" maps to help you find this place.

The Belfry of Bruges - Belgium

The Belfry of Bruges is a medieval bell tower that sits in the Market Square, and it's listed as one of the best things to do in Bruges. It takes 366 steps to reach the top, and once you do, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. The fun part is trying to take a symmetrical shot of the tower once you're back on solid ground because the tower is actually leaning a full meter to the east.

Eat lots of Belgian chocolate Bruges - Belgium

Chocolate lovers will rejoice! Belgians have a long history of chocolate making, and in Bruges, you will find an abundance of chocolate shops offering the tastiest treats. You will find the most delicious selection of truffles and pralines, white chocolate and dark chocolate, cream liqueur fillings, and strawberry ganache. If you want to learn how Belgian chocolate is made, you can take part in this fun chocolate-making workshop!

Waffles & Crepes in Bruges

If you've had your fill of chocolates but your stomach is still craving another bite of something sweet, I suggest you find Belgian waffles. These waffles are bigger and fluffier than waffles you'll find in North America, and you can add a number of toppings, including Nutella, whipped cream, icing sugar, strawberries, and more. You'll be happy to know that there's a Belgian waffle-making workshop so you can take the recipe home!

Harp concert in Bruges

There is also the unique opportunity of attending a free harp concert by Bruges harpist Luc Vanlaere. These take place at the Site Oud Sint Jan, located at 38 Mariastraat, just opposite the Church of Our Lady. The concerts take place from Tuesday to Saturday at 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 6:30 p.m., each session lasting 40 minutes. You can find more information about harp concerts here.

Windmills in Bruges

Everyone knows that the Dutch have windmills, but the Belgians have them too. The old town of Bruges is surrounded by a canal, and if you head towards the northeast end you will come across four windmills dating back to the 18th century. Mills such as the Koeleweimolen and Sint-Janshuismolen hold a special place in the tradition of the city's heritage, and they continue to grind grain to this day.

Rays at the beach in Bruges

If you are in Bruges during the summer months, another fun activity is to rent a bike, and head to the beach. The two beaches are Knokke and Zeebrugge. Don't be afraid to ask for directions along the way, as you might need them!

Best Lace Shop in Bruges

We've talked about the Belgians' expertise in the chocolate department, but we haven't mentioned lace yet, and that's another area where they really excel. Take a quick stroll through the old town of Bruges, and you will come across shop after shop with the most beautiful displays of lace you have ever seen. The pieces you'll see are incredibly intricate and take countless hours to create - it's an art form you have to see for yourself.