Bruges

The quaint city of Bruges, yet again, is like a little Venice of Northern Europe. With cobbled lanes, alleyways and divine canals, it is easily the prettiest place in Belgium. This medieval town sometimes looks straight out of a Disney musical or a Brothers Grimm fairy tale. The rich, luscious chocolates that you get to relish effortlessly transport you to the land of Willy Wonka. Legions of Hollywood titles have glorified the town on the screen, making sure that it ends up on the list of every potential traveller. This is the reason behind the overwhelming swarm of tourists and the incessant flashing of cameras. However, winters are relatively more peaceful albeit snowy and for those looking to walk around without being pushed and elbowed.
With a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the form of its historic city centre, Bruges is perhaps the most photogenic (read: Instagram-worthy) of all Belgian cities and that probably could be one reason why it is more popular than the capital. When in Bruges, see the Saint Salvador Cathedral, Beguinage (a neatly preserved home to the community of pious women known as ‘Beguines’), City Hall and Basilica of the Holy Blood. The Market Square is a wonderful place to spend time, observe people and argue over French and Dutch pronunciations. The evenings in Bruges are blissfully romantic and long walks around the canals are therefore imperative. I remember gorging on waffles and more waffles, every flavour of chocolate in the book, several mugs of beer and the ridiculously addictive Belgian fries (no, they are not French fries). I got back home with some extra pounds and a truckload of beautiful memories and so will you. Give Bruges a chance. I can vouch for the fact that it will not disappoint you.