We took the train from Amsterdam to Bruges and it was smooth- worth getting on the train early to get a window seat.  In Brugge, it is a bit of a walk from the train station with luggage, but staying in the heart of the city was worth it.  

Where to stay in Bruges: 

We stayed at Hotel Bourgoensch Hof with a balcony window overlooking the street.  The smell of belgium waffles wafting into our room was amazing.  House of Waffles had the best waffles in Bruges (we tried several), with just the right amount of crunch on the waffles and lots of topping choices. They even had a street facing order window, so we got waffles pretty much any time we left the hotel.  I think you could have a canal view in other parts of the building, but watching the traffic and eating waffles was worth the street view.  This renovated hotel combined old building exteriors with a modern remodel, and nordic-like furniture.  

Unique Bruges Experiences:

1. 1. Bike ride Bruges-Damme – We went bike riding down the canal to Damme.  We rented from Ben’s Bikes for 10 Euro for half a day.  We felt so European on the bike paths and it was a lovely view the whole way down the canal.  There are windmills to see before leaving the main area of Bruges, but not as cute as windmills outside of Amsterdam.  We had a tasty lunch at Tijl en Nele before biking back.  

1. 1. Culinary Farmer’s Market  – The farmers market in Grote Markt, market square, on Wednesday morning, was incredible.  The booths were not just pop up tents, but huge trucks that folded out into elaborate storefronts of cheese, smoked meats, flowers, and so much more.  We bought so many goodies at the market, snacks for our next train ride! Check the dates of the market here

1. 1. Hidden Pub  – De Garre is a cool little pub that is in an alley, off the main market square.  The local beer is high ABV and raved about!  You can use Google maps to get close, and then keep an eye out for a doorway that has no door, which will lead you into the alley and the hidden gem.  

1. 1. People and bike watching. – If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a city with fewer cars and bike mobility, Bruges has it.  Its not the overwhelm of bikes in Amsterdam, but we were able to watch young and old commute through the Market Square.  Tourists and locals collide in the heart of Bruges, and you’ll start to believe you can live to bike commute when you’re 70 as well.  Grab a snack and watch the local bike by.