Forget my terrible pun - to be honest I've never even seen the film. But I have seen the city, which was a must on my Europe list after some rave reviews by my fellow travellers. While Bruges is the sort of city that requires only a day or two, it's a welcome relax from the bustle of some of it's nearest neighbours, and feels almost like a step back into the past.
Things to do:
Things to do:
- Take a canal cruise: yes this is ultra touristy, but so are most things you're going to do here - so make the most of it. A local told me that Bruges is a city best seen, not from above, but from below: and a canal cruise (for a mere 8 euros!) is the way to do it.
- A stop in the Groeningmuseum was another reason for my must-see trip to Bruges: housing the works of notable Northern Renaissance artists, such as Jan van Eyck, this museum should be on the top of the list for any art enthusiasts (extra points for the super quaint garden).
- The Basilica of the Holy Blood is one of those things you just 'have to do': no, you can't see the vial of Christ's blood which is supposedly owned by the basilica, but it's a mere two steps from the central market, so with free entry, taking in this gothic structure is nonetheless worthwhile.
- Waffles and beer: you're in Belgium after all! Try the fruit beer (cherry is a winner!) for added brownie points.