A Warm Welcome to Bruges

As the sun rises over the medieval city of Bruges, the warmth of an unseasonably hot winter day envelops the cobblestone streets, inviting you to explore its rich history and vibrant culture. Known as “the little Venice of the North,” Bruges is a city that captivates with its canals, gothic architecture, and the timeless charm of its bustling squares. This weekend, the weather is set to be warm, with temperatures reaching up to 41.8°C, making it an ideal time to wander through the city’s enchanting streets.

Begin your journey with the UNESCO Heritage City Tour from Paris, a day-long exploration that immerses you in the elegance and allure of Bruges. As you stroll through the city, you’ll discover landmarks such as the Belfry, the Grand Place, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. The tour offers a unique perspective on the city’s history, with a professional guide sharing insights into Bruges’ well-preserved architecture from the fifteenth to seventeenth centuries. The tour also includes a peaceful cruise on the canals, or a visit to the gothic-style town hall during the winter months, providing a serene escape from the bustling streets.

“The most AMAZING tour guide - The best part of our tour is our tour guide Serge. The Brugge day tour from Paris is definitely a must because Brugge is a beautiful city. Serge made our tour extra special for being so helpful, caring, friendly and generous. He gave us chocolate to try from Brugge and at the end of our tour he took us to an area to give us champagne. Serge provided us a lot of information about Brugge and give us a lot of recommendations where to go to make our free time special. If you are doing this tour, make sure to request for Serge.” - Reviewed at 2024-12-06

Culinary Delights in the Heart of Bruges

As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow over the city, indulge in a culinary adventure that combines two of Belgium’s most iconic offerings: waffles and beer. The Waffles and Beer Experience is a hands-on workshop that invites you to explore the rich flavors of Belgian beer and the art of waffle-making. Available on both February 15th and 16th, this experience is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Begin with a Belgian beer tasting, where you’ll discover the history and brewing process behind three unique beers. Choose your favorite to infuse into your waffle batter, and then dive into the baking class, where expert guidance will help you create your own delicious waffles. The experience culminates in a self-indulgent feast, pairing your freshly baked waffles with chosen toppings and the beer used in the batter.

“Fun, accessible and entertaining workshop - This was a very nice workshop! Interesting background information is told about the beers and the explanation for baking the waffles is very clear and easy to follow. There are also a number of drinks included and you can even keep the apron afterwards. We certainly enjoyed ourselves!” - Reviewed at 2024-11-30

Evening Strolls and Hidden Gems

As the day transitions to evening, the city of Bruges takes on a magical quality, with its historic buildings illuminated against the night sky. Take a leisurely stroll through the Beguinage “Ten Wijngaerde,” a tranquil convent garden that offers a glimpse into the lives of the beguines, emancipated lay-women who once called this place home. The serene atmosphere provides a perfect contrast to the vibrant energy of the city’s bustling squares.

For those seeking a more intimate experience, explore the hidden gems of Bruges’ culinary scene. From quaint cafés serving rich Belgian chocolate to cozy bistros offering traditional Flemish dishes, the city is a haven for food lovers. As you wander through the streets, let the aromas of freshly baked bread and simmering stews guide you to your next culinary delight.

With its warm weather and rich cultural offerings, Bruges is a city that invites exploration and indulgence. Whether you’re savoring the flavors of Belgian beer and waffles or discovering the city’s historic landmarks, this weekend promises an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.