Bruges is known as ‘Venice of the North’ due to its vast network of canals. As I entered Bruges by car- the first thing I saw was Kruispoort Gate, otherwise known as ‘The Gateway to Bruges.’ The white limestone structure was constructed in 1402 and is a short distance from the three remaining windmills that are in Bruges.
Venice of the North
This canal-based city is an island, encircled by channels. Check out Dijver Canal the proper way- by boat. You will duck under stone bridges, passing by gardens, and houses- ancient and modern! Medieval Times. Bruges is renown for Gothic architecture that has been impeccably preserved from the Middle Ages. There are also some structures still in tact from its inception in the 15th century.
Storybook Setting
Swans glide down the placid waterways as you walk over the arched bridges throughout the city. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop down the cobblestone streets. Bruges seems to be the setting of a storybook you read as a child. Climb up the three hundred sixty-six steps to the top of Belfry Tower for a breath- taking view of the city. The bell tower has forty-six bells, which are played manually by a carillonist.
Don’t forget to stop by one of the restaurants to chill and try the world class Belgian brews and french fries. Not only was the town itself memorable- the dining was exceptional.
Bruges, Belgium is an idyllic setting for a summer vacation abroad. If you are staying in the unban setting of Brussels- take a side trip to Bruges to experience the unique history of this town.