As soon as we got off the train in Bruges it smelled of fresh waffles, chocolate, and beer. Does it get any better than that? I’ll never forget that scent combination. From its delicious treats to its quaint canal streets, Bruges should be on everyone’s bucket list.  Here’s a list of my top ten reasons to visit Bruges!

1. Belgian Waffles

Let’s start with the obvious, food! You can get fresh waffles covered in your choice of chocolate, caramel, and whipped cream. They even put a cute little Belgian flag in them. So delicious!

Waffles on a stick. I went for the one hand dipped in milk chocolate and rolled in pistachios!

2. Belgian Chocolate

This picture of the chocolatier takes me back in time. There’s basically a chocolate shop on every corner in Bruges!

3. Belgian Beer

We stopped for a beer tasting at one of the local breweries and it was really fun to try a few different samples.

4. Belgian Fries

I didn’t know this, but Belgium is actually known for fries or “frits” as they call them. They’re usually served with mayonnaise, but they have shops that sell them with several different toppings. I went for the fries covered in peanut sauce topped with mayo and onions!

5. Architecture

Bruges is known for its particular style of brick Neo-Gothic architecture. I love the way the tops of the buildings are shaped. Add some wisteria and you have the perfect combination.

6. Canals

Bruges is known as the Venice of the north due to its multiple canals and bridges. I really loved all the houses along the canals covered in overgrown greenery.

7. Carriage Rides

Several cities in Europe offer carriage rides throughout the city, but I think one of the best places to take advantage of this is Bruges.

8. Basilica of the Holy Blood

There’s a Catholic church in Bruges famous for housing an alleged cloth with the blood of Jesus Christ. (Or so it is said.) It was brought to the city in the 12th century during the Second Crusade. Whether this is true or not, the church itself is beautiful and definitely worth a visit.

People lined up to see the cloth…

9. City Center

Bruges has a very quaint and picturesque city center filled with restaurants and historical buildings. Definitely one of my favorites of the trip.

10. It’s just Unique

Bruges is truly original and unlike any other city I visited on my trip to Europe. Honestly, I’d never even heard of it until I started researching the stops along the way. It exceeded all my expectations and I just loved everything about it. It’s easily walkable, safe, historic and able to be explored in a couple days. I will definitely be back!

Stay tuned. Next up: Amsterdam!

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