Bruges

Bruges is the best-preserved medieval city in Belgium, a UNESCO fairytale of dreamy canals, cobbled squares, step-gabled brick houses and a great belfry that climbs above it all. Once one of the richest trading cities in Europe, it fell quietly asleep for centuries and woke perfectly preserved, its lanes, bridges and boat trips along the canals earning it the name the Venice of the North.

What you actually see

• The Belfry - the great medieval bell tower, climbable for a view.
• The Markt and Burg squares - the historic central squares.
• The canals - the dreamy waterways, best seen by boat.
• The Beguinage and lake of love - the tranquil convent and Minnewater.

When to go

Spring to autumn for the best weather and canal boats; December brings a lovely Christmas market. It is an easy day trip from Brussels, but staying overnight lets you enjoy the town once the day-trippers leave.

Honest expectations

It is very popular and the centre fills with day-trippers, so it can feel crowded and a touch like a film set by day; early morning and evening, once the crowds thin, are magical. It is compact, seen in a day, though an overnight rewards you with quiet.

Nearby

Ghent is a short train ride; the Flanders coast and the fields of Flanders are close.