During our latest trip to Europe we never planned to travel to Brugge, Belgium. Truthfully it was a last minute addition to our itinerary after realizing affordable accommodation at our intended destination (Amsterdam during Easter weekend) was virtually non-existent. With hotel prices skyrocketing we decided to spend less time in Amsterdam and instead add another city to our itinerary. Enter Brugge. While it hadn’t immediately stood out to me as somewhere on my must-visit list it happened to be right on our way from Paris to Amsterdam and hotels were a third of the cost of staying in either major city. Although we mostly decided to visit Brugge out of convenience, we were completely amazed by the beauty and charm of the city. I now recommend it to anyone planning a trip through Europe as it is easily the most charming city in Europe.

Many would say Brugge is a day trip but without staying the night, you never get to experience the true magic of Brugge. Walking through Brugge in the morning is like stepping into a real life fairytale. The historic buildings reflect against perfectly still water and the only sounds are birds chirping and church bells softly ringing in the distance. The streets are filled with the intoxicating scent of waffles and chocolate as bakers prepare for the rush of tour busses that will arrive later that day.

While Brugge is a small town, there is plenty to do that makes it worthwhile to stay overnight.  Here are 10 things you must do when visiting Brugge, Belgium.

10 Things to do Brugge, Belgium

1. Get up early to wander along the canals
2. Eat a liege waffle (I recommend Chez Albert!)
3. Visit the lace making centre
4. Take a boat tour of the city
5. Buy a bouquet of flowers from the Markt
6. Try Belgian beer
7. Climb the Belfry of Bruges
8. Visit the Chocolate museum
9. Peruse local shops for unique souvenirs (we loved Sissy Boy)
10. Take photos on your favourite bridges