Bruges, the capital of Belgium’s West Flanders province, is a remarkably preserved medieval city whose canals, cobbled lanes, and step-gabled houses have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status and the nickname Venice of the North.
Climb the Markt Belfry for sweeping rooftop views, glide along the canals by boat, and admire Flemish Primitive masterpieces in the Groeninge Museum. Don’t miss the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the Church of Our Lady, and, of course, the city’s celebrated chocolate.
Bruges is small and very walkable, so two to three days is plenty. The quieter off-season from November through early March is ideal for avoiding crowds, and December adds a magical Christmas market on the Markt; spring brings mild weather and blooms, while June to October is the busy high season.