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Bruges, Belgium, is an absolutely charming city located in the northwest of the small country of Belgium. It is the capital of West Flanders and is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world! I [Natalie] have had the chance to visit twice (when I took my trips to Belgium to see my sister and her family), and it’s one of my favorite cities in all of Europe. The first time I visited was with my parents in November 2021, and the second time was in September 2022 with my cousin Amber and her husband.
Bruges is in the Flemish part of Brussels, so they do not speak French there. Flemish is similar to Dutch! Like many European cities, it has been around a very long time, and there are areas in the city, as well as structures, that date back to times as early as the 400s.
The city is a perfect combination of old-world charm and modern amenities. People can explore its cobblestone streets, beautiful canals, and historic sites. The most famous and stunning part of the city, in my opinion, is the main market area. It’s open and surrounded by beautiful buildings, restaurants, and the large Bruges Belfry, a 13th-century bell tower. With the town being relatively small, it’s not hard to see it! It is the tallest structure in the city and offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings. You can climb it to the top or just enjoy it from the market.
One of my favorite things during my first trip there was a boat ride through the canals! My parents and I hopped in a boat, similar to what you might ride when in Venice, but not a gondola. The boats fit closer to 15 people. We chose to tour the city this way instead of the free walking tour. The second time I visited, I did the free walking tour! Both were wonderful ways to learn about the city.
Both times I visited, I enjoyed some of the city’s most notable treats, including; Flemish Stew, hot chocolate from The Old Chocolate House, bitterballen, and gluhwein.
Flemish Stew is a famous dish in the Flemish culture. It is a beef and onion stew made with a beer-based broth. Mussels are a Belgian staple, as well!
The Old Chocolate House is a highlight!! I recommend stopping there if you travel to Bruges. It is a super cozy tea room and shop where you can get chocolate, tea, waffles, biscuits, and other sweets. They are most well known for their famous and unique hot chocolate, where they serve a huge mug of steaming hot milk, and you pick your choice of a chocolate creation that you put into the milk, and then with a personal whisk, you stir it in. It melts, and there you go! I got a hazelnut chocolate one, and my cousin’s husband got a dark chocolate one.
Bitterballen is made of roux (a mixture of flour and fat cooked together) and meat, then covered in breading and deep fried, served with mustard, typically. It’s also popular in Holland! My family on my dad’s side is Dutch, so this treat was not new to me. But, so, so delicious!
Gluehwein is a drink that combines red wine, cloves, cinnamon, sugar, and a host of other aromatic spices to create a soothing warm drink for a cold winter evening.
Brugge is full of beautiful swans! The river is packed, and the green areas are packed - they are everywhere. The legend of why there are so many swans is fun to share. In the late 1400s, the ruler of Brugge, Emperor Maximilian, imposed intense taxes on the citizens. They didn’t like this, so they revolted, and while the Emperor was locked away, they tortured and beheaded his bailiff and trusted counselor, Pieter Lanchals, who was referred to as Long Neck.
The legend says that the Emperor eventually escaped and avenged the local people by forcing them to keep ‘long necks’, or swans, on the canals for eternity. In reality, however, swans have been swimming on the canals since the beginning of the 15th century, when they were seen as a status symbol of the city’s power and wealth.
No matter what time of year you visit, Brugge is sure to be a memorable destination. From its stunning architecture and canals to its delicious beer and food, Brugge is a city that will captivate visitors for days. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Brugge is an ideal destination!
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