Beautiful ‘Venice of the North’ that’s one of Europe’s most underrated cities

With thousands of tourists flocking to cities like Amsterdam and Venice, this beautiful city in Belgium, named the “Venice of the North” is one of Europe’s most underrated and is far less crowded. 

Located in the northwest coast of Belgium, this city has much to offer to tourists who are looking for the charm that is now seemingly lacking in bigger cities, with cobblestone streets, medieval-style buildings, canals and rich history.

Located just over an hour by train from Brussels, Bruges has managed to maintain its quaint, romantic charm. It is hot on the list for those tourists looking for a place with fewer crowds.

Bruges boasts an exceptionally well-preserved medieval city centre with towering buildings, rows of gabled houses, pointed arches, ornate facades and barrel vaults.  It has managed to maintain its charm and history while still adapting to current trends.

The city’s oldest buildings, in early Romanesque and Gothic styles are still visible, including the Belfry of Bruges bell tower. This building dates back to the 13th-century and is one of the most notable buildings in the old city. The top of the tower can be climbed via 366 steps for a small fee, but rewards you with stunning aerial views of the town and its surroundings. 

Other key sights include the Museum of the Church of Our Lady, housing the second tallest brick tower in the world and the Basilica of the Holy Blood which contains what is believed to be a cloth stained by the blood of Jesus. 

Reminiscent of Venice, Bruges is home to an intricate network of canals that connect different parts of the city. Most attractions are walkable, while those which are not can be accessed via a beautiful canal ride.Originally used for transportation and trade, the canals now form an integral part of the city’s culture, much like Venice, but today they can be enjoyed without the huge number of tourists.

Another way to enjoy Bruges is by horse-drawn carriage. Departing from one of the main squares, they take you through the winding cobblestone roads, across ancient bridges and through other key squares in the city, while the coachman gives you information along the way, said Visit Bruges. It should be noted, however, that the rides do not run in temperatures of 30°C or higher to ensure the wellbeing of the horses. 

Bruge is also a hub for art and culture, with many world-class museums including  the Groeningemuseum and the Memling Museum, showcasing Flemish and Dutch artworks, statues and sculptures. It also embraces contemporary artwork, holding the Bruges Triennial every few years, during which artists create modern installations throughout the city. 

The country famed for having the best chocolate in the world, Bruges is home to some of the richest chocolate in the country. Indeed, the city is home to many of Belgium’s chocolate shops. The city’s chocolatiers tend to use high-quality ingredients such as premium cocoa beans, cocoa butter, and fresh, local dairy products to create their chocolates, according to Fodor’s Travel. A huge variety of flavours and fillings are available, including nuts, liqueurs and fruits. There is also a chocolate museum, Choco-Story Brugge, where visitors can learn about the history and participate in workshops.

When you are looking for something more substantial, the food scene in Bruges’ restaurants, nestled among the historic buildings, offer a dining experience of mixed Belgian and French influences. The famous crispy Belgian frites – “pommes frites” – are offered in many restaurants, served with made side sauces of truffle may, BBQ and Indian curry. Flemish Stew is another staple. 

For those wishing to avoid the summer heat and rush, Bruges also offers one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe. 

Visitors to the historic centre of Bruges described their experience as a “fairytale” on Tripadvisor: “The medieval architecture, with its charming gabled houses and serene canals, creates a magical atmosphere.”

It was also described as the “prettiest town in Belgium” and “a place that everybody should visit.”