I have a confession to make: I bought a new pair of shoes just for this trip. I know, I know, the name of the blog is “Around the World in 80 Pairs of Shoes,” not “A New Pair of Shoes for Every Trip,” but when I saw these adorable red ankle boots, I just knew they were made for wandering the cobblestone streets of Bruges. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint.
Bruges has been on my bucket list for what feels like forever. I’d seen the pictures, I’d heard the stories, and I was ready to see if this fairytale city lived up to the hype. Spoiler alert: it did. From the charming canals to the medieval architecture, Bruges is a city that will steal your heart. And the best part? It’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway from London.
Things to Do in Bruges
- Get Lost in the Old Town: The best way to experience Bruges is to simply wander. The entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and every corner you turn reveals a new picture-perfect scene. I spent hours just meandering through the streets, admiring the architecture, and popping into little shops.
- Take a Canal Tour: Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also a must-do. Seeing the city from the water gives you a whole new perspective. The tours are relatively cheap and last about half an hour.
- Climb the Belfry: If you’re feeling energetic, climb the 366 steps to the top of the Belfry for panoramic views of the city. I’ll be honest, my legs were shaking by the time I reached the top, but the view was worth it.
- Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood: This beautiful basilica is home to a relic of the Holy Blood. It’s a stunning piece of architecture and a peaceful place to escape the crowds.
Where to Eat (Gluten-Free and Delicious!)
As a gluten-free traveler, I was a little nervous about finding food in a city known for its beer and waffles. But I was pleasantly surprised by the number of gluten-free options available.
- Books & Brunch: This cozy little cafe was a lifesaver. They have a great selection of gluten-free options, including pancakes, sandwiches, and cakes. I had the most delicious gluten-free pancakes with a generous helping of fresh fruit.
- De Bron: This vegetarian restaurant has a focus on healthy and organic food, with plenty of gluten-free options. I had a wonderful quinoa salad that was both filling and flavorful.
- The Old Chocolate House: You can’t go to Bruges and not have chocolate! This place is famous for its hot chocolate, and they have a gluten-free option that is pure bliss. It’s the perfect treat after a long day of sightseeing.
What I Wore in Bruges
As I mentioned, my red ankle boots were the star of the show. Here’s what else I packed for my weekend in Bruges:
- Comfortable Jeans: A must for all the walking.
- Cozy Sweaters: It can get chilly in Bruges, even in the spring, so I packed a few cozy sweaters to layer.
- A Classic Trench Coat: Perfect for the unpredictable weather.
- A Crossbody Bag: To keep my hands free for taking pictures and eating chocolate.
Where to Stay
I stayed at the Hotel Adornes, a charming family-run hotel right on the canal. The rooms were cozy, the staff was friendly, and the location was perfect. It was the ideal base for exploring the city.
Final Thoughts
Bruges is a city that will capture your imagination. It’s the perfect place to slow down, wander, and simply enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. And yes, it’s the perfect place to break in a new pair of shoes.
Have you been to Bruges? What were your favorite spots? Let me in the comments below!
