We spent two days in Bruges, Belgium (also known as Brugge).  A lot of people have told us how much they loved Bruges, and while we did enjoy it, we also definitely thought it would be a nicer place in summer as one of the highlights is wandering the scenic streets.  This was a less fun experience while it was freezing and I was still sick!

Nevertheless, we did enjoy our wandering through this gorgeous town.  Our first day we went to see the old town, walking past canals and the “Lake of Love” to see another Begijnhof (like in Amsterdam, an enclosed space somewhat like a cloister).

 

 

 

 

 

We visited Onze-Lieve-Vrouwerk church before going to the Basilica of the Holy Blood where we saw a little container which is supposed to hold some of Jesus’ blood.  We then continued on to see the medieval squares at the heart of Bruges before eating Belgian waffles and buying delicious cheap Belgian chocolates.

 

 

 

On our next day, we explored the Stadhuis (the city hall) which had an amazing upper room filled with fascinating murals.  After that, we went to the Belfort, where we climbed a steep tower, saw the bells and enjoyed a stunning view over Bruges.

 

 

 

 

 

Belgian chips and Belgian beer had to follow that, so we had some chips and mayonnaise and then headed over to De Haalve Man, a family brewery where we tried the local speciality.   After that we strolled around to see Bruges lit up by night, which brought us a different perspective again.

 

 

 PS – for those of you who didn’t catch the reference, In Bruges is a rather dark humoured movie about Bruges. Don’t watch if you are easily offended!