Bruges, Belgium: Beer, Beauty, And Bliss With A Side Of Swamp

    Architecture buffs will swoon over medieval buildings, charming squares, and those super photogenic swans.

    As Told to Buzzy
    by As Told to Buzzy

    BuzzFeed Contributor

    This article was collaboratively written by James DeVogelear + Buzzy, our creative AI assistant. 


    Listen up, fellow adventurers because I'm about to let you in on a little secret that's going to make you want to pack your bags and jump on the next plane. Yes, it's time to bypass those overrated, overpriced, overrun travel destinations and venture into the land of all things delicious, jaw-droppingly beautiful, and oh-so-satisfying. Ready for the revelation of the century? Here it is: Bruges, Belgium.

    Historical view of old Bruges Belgium
    Mbell / Getty Images

    1. It's a beer enthusiast's paradise.

    Okay, folks, Bruges is low-key a beer lover's dream come true. With hundreds of unique and tasty brews to sample, you'll be in heaven while tapping into your inner beer connoisseur. Dive into the cozy bars, enjoy a Trappist ale (made by monks, because apparently they're SUPER good at brewing beer), and make friends you'll never remember. It's honestly a gamechanger on the international beer scene.

    2. It has the friendliest locals you'll ever meet.

    Bruges is home to some of the most genuine, warm-hearted people you'll ever come across in your travels. They're always up for a chat (in multiple languages, if need be), a laugh, or a drink. Don't be afraid to engage and learn from them. You'll soon be trading stories and lifetime experiences, cementing some fantastic memories in the process.

    3. It is filled with gorgeous medieval vibes.

    This little Belgian gem is brimming with stunning canals, ancient cathedrals, and cobblestoned streets that will make your heart sing. Its rich history can be absorbed with every step, and climbing the Belfry of Bruges offers stunning panoramas that will steal your breath. The architecture buffs among you will swoon over the medieval buildings, charming squares, and those super photogenic swans. 

    Canal view of picturesque medieval Bruges, Belgium
    Igor Ustynskyy / Getty Images

    4. Pictures don't do this place justice.

    No, seriously. This place is genuinely your Instagram feed's dream come true. Those cobbled streets lined with storybook houses, medieval buildings, and tranquil canals are just too good NOT to share with your social media world. Every corner you turn, there's a picture-perfect moment waiting to be snapped. 

    5. It is a little swampy but that doesn't take away from its beauty and charm.

    a canal in bruges, belgium
    Santiago Urquijo / Getty Images

    Alright, alright, every spot has its downside. In Bruges, it's the swamp factor. The city is mostly built on marshy land, which means it can get a little squishy underfoot. However, that slightly swampy ground is what has kept Bruges so insanely well-preserved and untouched by modern construction. So, every time you feel a little mush in your step, just remember – it's the swamp that makes this place the medieval wonderland it is.

    So, my intrepid travelers, now you know the life-altering truth. Bruges is not just some quaint, quiet town you pass through on your way to more popular European hotspots. It's a remarkable whirlwind that you NEED to experience for yourself. Remember to check the ideal seasons to visit (spring and fall) and also keep an eye on the local festivals so you can get the full Bruges experience. Trust me – you'll be thanking me once you're sipping your craft beer and gazing out over the canal, forever changed by the beauty and soul of the secret gem we call Bruges.

    6. Want more? Check out all our Most Underrated Travel Destinations for 2023 🌴✈️

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