Discover why the medieval city of Bruges is a must visit, this summer

It’s impossible to visit Bruges and not indulge in some of Belgium’s finest culinary delights. With over 50 chocolate shops within the compact city centre, Bruges is a chocoholic’s paradise. Friendly warning: Visiting the Choco-Story Museum to trace the history of this beloved treat and joining the tasting sessions will make you question why you ever settled for mediocre chocolate! Belgian beer is as famous as its chocolate and is another source of national pride, and Bruges delivers in spades! The city is home to several breweries, including the historic De Halve Maan Brewery, where you can enjoy a guided tour and sample some of the finest brews Belgium has to offer. Pro tip: Try the local favorite – Brugse Zot. When you’ve had enough, you’ll probably question if you’re tipsy or simply head-over-heels in love with Bruges.

But one can’t live on chocolate and beer alone! So, feast on traditional Belgian dishes such as waterzooi – a creamy fish or chicken stew, or stoofvlees – a slow-cooked beef dish served with a generous helping of frites. Speaking of ‘frites, it’s time to address the elephant in the room, or rather the ‘frites in the cone’. Did you know that Belgian frites, often mistakenly called ‘French fries’, are in fact a native invention? Served in a paper cone with a side of mayonnaise or a choice of other delectable sauces, Belgian frites are the perfect companion for your Bruges wanderings. It is a weekend staple in Belgian cuisine… unsurprisingly so. If you still have space after all of that, kudos to you! But it means that you must try Belgian waffles – a true delight for the senses! Whether you prefer the light and fluffy Belgian waffle or the rich, indulgent Liège variety, Belgian waffles are a scrumptious treat that effortlessly melt in your mouth!