Where is it? 

Bruges is just an hour outside Brussels by train. It’s a medieval city that’s survived two wars and yet retained every ounce of its charm and historical presence. Take the Eurostar from Waterloo and alight at Brussels where you can catch a connecting train.

Where should I be heading?

Bruges is a small city that can be easily traversed on foot. For a weekend you can pack most of the sights in, but for a more in-depth trip to take in all of the museums, markets and shops, a few days is recommended. Head straight into the heart of Bruges and you will find a multitude of smart cafés, havens on cold wintry days for a warming hot chocolate and calorie filled waffles. All of the churches and museums are within walking distance of each other and it’s impossible to get lost. A handy landmark is the famous Belfry – you can see it from virtually anywhere in the city.

Entry requirements:

A passport and a ticket will see you through the check-in point at Brussels.

Health:

Bruges is one of the cleanest cities I have ever seen, no litter or graffiti but I still follow the same principle, that everywhere I go I buy bottled water.

Top 5 things to do:

1. Huis de Crone – The chocolate museum is one thing not to be missed.It’s an interesting yet educational look at the history of chocolate and where its origins lie.Spread out over four floors there’s much to take in as well as a complimentary nibble in the demonstration area!

2. Begijnhof – Situated idyllically by a long stretch of water – Minnewater (Lake of Love) the Begijnhof is a place of tranquillity and one which still provides a refuge for the Begjins (form of nuns).The cloistered gardens are best seen in the spring when the daffodils are in bloom.

3. Belfort – The Belfry can be seen from all angles in the heart of the city and is an impressive 290ft high Gothic building. If you have a strong heart then 366 steps will get you to the top for some spectacular views. If like us, your hotel happens to be behind the Belfry then prepare yourself for folk tunes, which chime out every 15 minutes!

4. Boat ride – From various points on Bruges’ long winding canals you can for as little as €5 (just over £3) take a 30 minutes supervised and commentated boat ride to capture all of the main sights and learn about the city’s architecture from a different point of view.

5. Shop for chocolates! – You can’t leave Belgium without sampling some of their finest produce. With chocolate shops adorning every street and alleyway you can be sure to find some top quality pralines and nougat for significantly cheaper prices than in England. Easter time will send all chocoholics into raptures – I wanted to bring home a gigantic chocolate Faberge egg but I think I would have got stopped at customs!

Is it expensive?

There are some exceptionally cheap deals to get out there, which include accommodation. Most entries to museums and places of interest are reasonably priced too. Some of the restaurants can be quite pricey but if you shop around enough you can find something to suit your budget.

What's the food like?

They are big on seafood in Belgium and before you leave you have to have at least indulged in some mussels and chips. I can personally recommend the restaurant t’Minnewater located near the Begijnhof. The Belgians also invented eating chips with mayonnaise – it’s personally too much for me but it’s a delicacy I’m told. If you’re a beer fan then Belgium is the place to go – hundreds to choose from and each served in their own unique glass.

What are the toilets like?

There aren’t that many unfortunately, but it’s such a small city that you can walk back to your hotel most times if you’re desperate. The main market square the t’Zand which you will have to pass through on your approach from the station has some facilities but you will find you will have to depart with at least €0.25.

What to wear:

The weather can be quite varied and in the late winter January/February it can still get bitterly cold so hats, gloves and coats are required. The spring and summer brings warmer weather but it’s always best to be prepared for any eventuality.

Best time to visit:

If you’re not a fan of the cold then I would suggest spring or summer for a visit. Unfortunately many people are cottoning on to the city’s charm and tranquillity now so in the summer expect hoards of tourists.

Don't miss:

The Begijnhof in its full glory. When the flowers are out it really is a spectacular sight. If like me you’re a huge Smurfs fan too, then checkout the local mini mart for the only place I know that does Smurf biscuits…or Smurfen Schtroumpfs!

Most overrated thing:

I used to think that one of the best ways to view the city was to take a horse drawn carriage, driven by a local who provides you with a running commentary. However on this particular trip we saw how knackered the poor horses looked traipsing up and down all day, so we decided to give them a break and take the boat trip instead, which despite feeling like it was going to capsize all the time, was much better.
(5/5)

Photos: Mojo