Travano

Experience a magical December city break in Bruges, where the enchanting scenery and festive atmosphere create unforgettable memories.

Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is a charming medieval town in Belgium that comes alive with festive cheer during the holiday season.

Our December 2023 trip was nothing short of enchanting. The cobblestone streets, glittering canals, and a vibrant Christmas market created an unforgettable winter wonderland.

Arrival in Bruges

We arrived in Belgium with a sense of anticipation, eager to explore this historical gem. The journey itself was pretty straightforward. We took a bus from Charleroi Airport to Brussels train station, from where we took the train to Bruges.

Where We Stayed

Our accommodations were perfectly situated, offering easy access to Bruges’ main attractions. We stayed at Hotel Het Gheestelic Hof by CW Hotel Collection, a mere 5 minute walk from the Market Square.

The hotel’s proximity to the center allowed us to explore at a leisurely pace. Most sights were within a short walking distance.

Strolling Through the Historic Streets

Bruges’ beauty lies in its details. Every street corner seemed to reveal a new postcard-worthy scene. From the picturesque canals lined with centuries-old houses to the majestic Belfry of Bruges towering over the town, there was always something to marvel at.

We took a leisurely canal boat tour to see the city from a different perspective. The reflections of the illuminated buildings on the water were breathtaking. Additionally, our guide regaled us with fascinating tales of Bruges’ history.

One of the highlights of our trip was Bruges’ famous Christmas Market at Market Square (Markt) as well as the serene Minnewaterpark, also known as the Lake of Love. The peaceful setting was combined with shimmering lights and numerous beautiful swans swimming up and down the lake. It was a sight to behold.

Cultural Highlights

Bruges is rich in culture and history. We made the most of our time by visiting some of its renowned museums. At the Groeningemuseum, we admired masterpieces of Flemish art. Conversely, the Historium offered an immersive journey into Bruges’ golden age.

Another standout experience was exploring the Church of Our Lady, home to Michelangelo’s stunning sculpture, Madonna and Child. The peaceful ambiance of the church was a welcome respite from the bustling streets.

A Feast for the Senses

Bruges is a food lover’s paradise, and December is the perfect time to indulge. We ate at several restaurants located in the town square, I can recommend that all of them have awesome food. One very fond memory was when we ate the famous waffles from The Waffle House.

Of course, no trip to Belgium is complete without sampling its famous chocolates. We visited a few chocolatiers, each offering unique takes on this beloved treat. As a result, we brought home more than we’d care to admit!

A Perfect One-Day Trip to Ghent from Bruges

Getting to Ghent

While Bruges captivated us with its timeless charm, we decided to explore more of Belgium during our December city break. Just a short journey away, Ghent proved to be the perfect day trip destination. This vibrant city offered a delightful blend of history, culture, and a lively atmosphere. It made our brief visit truly memorable.

Our journey from Bruges to Ghent was quick and easy. We took a direct train from Bruges, which took less than 30 minutes. The trains were punctual and comfortable, making it a hassle-free experience.

Arriving in Ghent, we were immediately struck by the contrast between the two cities. While Bruges feels like a fairytale village, Ghent has a youthful energy and an urban charm. It beautifully blends medieval architecture with a modern vibe.

Exploring the Heart of Ghent

We started our day at the iconic Graslei and Korenlei, the picturesque riverside streets that are the heart of the city. Lined with historic guild houses, the area offered stunning views of the canal. We couldn’t resist stopping for photos at every turn. The reflections of the buildings in the water were magical, even in December’s wintry light.

A short walk brought us to the towering Belfry of Ghent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which we climbed to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

A Stroll Through History at Gravensteen Castle

No visit to Ghent is complete without a stop at Gravensteen, the medieval castle in the heart of the city. Its imposing stone walls and well-preserved interior transported us back to the Middle Ages.

We explored the castle’s exhibits, which included fascinating displays of armor and medieval weaponry. Then we headed to the top for panoramic views of Ghent. The festive decorations visible from the castle added a touch of holiday cheer to the cityscape.

A Walk Through Patershol and some tasy burgers

In the afternoon, we wandered through Patershol, Ghent’s historic district. The narrow cobblestone streets and charming houses gave this area a cozy feel. It was easy to imagine its rich history as a medieval artisans’ quarter.

Of course, we couldn’t leave Ghent without trying some nice burgers with fries. Manhattn’s Burgers proved to be the solution to our needs.

Returning to Bruges

As the evening drew near, we reluctantly made our way back to the train station for our return to Bruges. I recall that on our trip back, there was a man who was trapped in the train’s toilet for a large part of the journey back. I am not sure if his final destination was also Bruges. However, when we arrived, he was still stuck. The conductor seemed to be asking someone else for help. I hope he wasn’t in too much trouble after that.

Final Thoughts

Our trip to Belgium came to an end with a last day short trip to Brussels. While Bruges and Ghent share a rich history and beautiful architecture, the crowded streets of Brussels proved a bit too chaotic for us. The key takeaway memory for us was eating the best ribs and steak ever at Mozart – BBQ Restaurant in the old town.

The whole trip cost around 2,000 EUR (accommodation, plane tickets, food, sights, gifts). But we left with full hearts, fond memories, and a newfound appreciation for this incredible country.