We went because of the movie, but stayed for the Belgian beer, chocolate, waffles, and stunning architecture of one of the world’s most famous gothic cities. Bruges. It’s like a town that’s been frozen in time.
Most if not all of the buildings are intact from 12th century, and they sit on top of rippling canals. The streets teemed with tourists. It was packed! People had come out en masse to enjoy the clear and warm summer Sunday. It was like Disneyland without the rides. People were everywhere, jossling along the streets, stuffing their faces with local culinary treats and taking in the culture.
Tara and I only had a day to marvel at this place of history. We took a bazillion photos, which have been culled to the bare minimum. Highlights included the history of chocolate museum, full of facts about one of the most consumed treats on the planet (plus a chocolate figurine of Puss in Boots) , The Basilica of the Holy Blood, which had a relic said to contain the blood of Christ, and the chiming bell tower, which peeled ding a ling dongs each hour.
Kitsch markets lined canals and it was easy to get around on foot, drinking in the many statues, unique building facades and watching horses and carts trample along the cobbled streets.
It was a quick visit but one well worth it. We’d both love to return to this romantic place in the dead of winter, with snow falling it would have to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. In summer it was amazing, just a little crowded.
