Beer and waffles in Bruges, Belgium

We went on a day trip to Bruges from Ghent as it was just around fifty kilometres away that could be covered in an hour.

Bruges, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is a picturesque city in Belgium known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and enchanting canals. 

Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features cobblestone streets, charming squares, and landmarks such as the Belfry of Bruges and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

Bruges has a rich and complex history that dates back to the early medieval period. Originally a settlement of the Celtic tribe, it developed significantly during the 9th century as a trading post due to its strategic location near the North Sea.

In the 12th and 13th centuries, Bruges flourished as a major commercial hub in Europe, especially in the wool trade. The construction of canals facilitated trade, connecting the city to the sea and enabling it to become a vital port. This period saw the rise of powerful merchant guilds and the establishment of the Bruges Bourse, one of the first stock exchanges.

The city reached its peak in the 14th century, becoming a cultural and artistic center. Notable works from this time include the famous Flemish Primitives, such as Jan van Eyck. However, by the 15th century, Bruges began to decline due to silting in its harbor, which reduced its trading capacity.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Bruges faced further economic challenges but managed to retain its artistic heritage. The Industrial Revolution brought some revitalization, but the city transformed into a quiet, medieval town.

Today, Bruges is celebrated for its historical significance and beauty, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to experience its rich cultural legacy. Its preservation as a UNESCO World Heritage site underscores its importance as a medieval urban center.

Our first item on the ‘to-do’ list was a boat cruise down the canal as we would manage to see most of the city without breaking into a sweat.

The cruise was wonderful with a knowledgeable boat captain who kept pointing out the various sights on the way. He had a great sense of humour too!

Next on our list was to try out the various beers of Belgium followed by a quick snack. Not to forget the ‘French’ fries that originated in Belgium and of course to satiate our sweet tooth, the world famous Belgian waffles!

Before long it was evening and time to get back to Ghent after a lovely satisfying day in Bruges, ending it on a sweet note!

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Ghent, Belgium

Ghent, or Gent in Dutch, is a historic city in Belgium. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, medieval architecture, vibrant arts scene, and a lively student population.

Ghent combines the charm of a small town with the vibrancy of a bustling city. Its canals, historic buildings, and lively squares create a picturesque and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're exploring its rich history, enjoying its contemporary art scene, or savoring its culinary delights, Ghent offers a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.

Most of these landmarks are within walking distances from each other.

The Gravensteen Castle - a medieval castle, built in 1180, is one of Ghent's most iconic landmarks and provides a glimpse into the city's feudal past. The current castle was the residence of the Counts of

Flanders until 1353. It was subsequently re-purposed as a court, prison, mint, and even as a cotton factory. It was restored over 1893–1903 and is now a museum and a major landmark in the city.

Belfry of Ghent: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this belfry offers panoramic views of the city and is a symbol of civic freedom. Construction of the tower began in 1313 after a design by master mason Jan van Haelst. The work reached completion in 1380. 

The uppermost parts of the building have been rebuilt several times, in part to accommodate the growing number of bells.

Saint Bavo's Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Construction of the Gothic church began around 1274. In the subsequent period from the 14th through 16th centuries, nearly continuous expansion projects in the Gothic style were executed on the structure. 

When the Diocese of Ghent was founded in 1559, the church became its cathedral. Construction was considered complete on 7 June 1569.

St. Nicholas Church is one of the oldest and most prominent landmarks in Ghent, Belgium. Begun in the early 13th century as a replacement for an earlier Romanesque church, construction continued through the rest of the century in the local Scheldt Gothic style. 

Typical of this style is the use of blue-gray stone from the Tournai area, the single large tower above the crossing, and the slender turrets at the building's corners.

The City Hall of Ghent is a four-sided complex surrounded by the Botermarkt, the Hoogpoort, the Stadhuissteeg and the Poeljemarkt. The main wings are the late-Gothic alderman's house of De Keure and the alderman's house of Gedele in the Renaissance style. The building has 51 halls.

Ghent's City Hall seen from the Grote Markt

The Royal Flemish Academy of Dutch Language and Literature is a government organization which was established in 1886 by Royal Decree as Koninklijke Vlaamse Academie voor Taal- en Letterkunde.

In 1972 the name of The Royal Flemish Academy for language and literature was changed to The Royal Academy of Dutch language and literature, and in 1981 the existence of the Academy was confirmed by a decree of the Council for Cultural Affairs for the Dutch cultural community (the predecessor of the Flemish Parliament) (decree of 13 February 1980). The KANTL is now an institution of the Flemish Government.

 St-Jacobskerk - The Romanesque twin towers of this iconic church date from the 12th century but the church itself has undergone numerous expansions, renovations and reconstructions over its long history. 

It's believed there has been a place of worship on the site since the 7th century, with the first church constructed in 1093. Today the square surrounding it is regarded as the epicentre of the Gentse Feesten; it also hosts the town's favourite flea market.

And last but not the least if you like murals/graffiti do visit the lane that is filled with it. It’s an amazing experience. Check out the brief video below.