Bruges was once the capital of Flanders, and one of the wealthiest cities in Europe. But in the 15th century the river leading to the port silted up, and the city was frozen at this size and has become something of a time capsule. This is fantastic as a tourist, as the city is a perfect size to cover on foot and has something pretty around every corner.
One of the pretty things around a corner
Belgian sense of humour - though I liked it too :)We started off in the main square (just 10 minutes walk from our house), where there was a market in full swing. From there we headed up to the Chocostory museum, where the highlight was the fantastic sculptures made from chocolate (plus the praline manufacturing demonstration and tasting) - but it felt a little steep at 6eur entry fee...
Sarah in the main square
One of the many chocolate statuesNext stop (after picking up lunch and an obligatory waffle) were some chocolate shops to collect some of the local delicacies before going for a cruise on the canals. The city was beautiful from the the land, but even more beautiful from the water.
The city from across the canal
One of the terrace houses as seen from the canalWe headed off on the Lonely Planet walking tour, which featured (amongst virtually every scenic spot in the city) the oldest pub in Bruges, Herberg Vlissinghe which has been operating since 1515! It didn't look like much from the street but was classic inside, and had a beautiful beer garden out the back where I tried Karmeliet (great beer) and Sarah had the Framboise (rasberry beer - so tasty!)
Sarah on the walking tour
Stephen outside the oldest pub in BrugesWe rounded out our day with a traditional delicacy - Mussels, Chips and Beer, before returning to our place happy, sleepy and very satisfied
All the Mussels you could want! Check out the fantastic glasses the beers are all sold in, too
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