Bruges

A sleeping beauty of a town, bypassed by the centuries to emerge as a uniquely preserved testimony to the Golden Age of the 15^th century, when Bruges was one of the wealthiest and most powerful trading and cultural centres in the world. The fact its entire historical centre has been classified a World Heritage site speaks volumes.

At every turn, medieval buildings or hump-backed bridges reflect in the ubiquitous canals or ornate gabled facades look down on charming squares and courtyards. But Bruges is so much more than every romantic cliché

Highlights are too numerous to list, but include the magnificent Belfry and its evocative carillon, St Saviour's Church and the basilica of the Holy Blood, Burg Square dominated by the Gothic City Hall, the Beguinage mirrored in the peaceful waters of the Minnewater, the Flemish Masters in the town's museums, the almshouses, the canals of course ... and the hidden gem that awaits down every cobbled alleyway. Then there's the world-famous lace and chocolate (40 chocolate shops and even a Chocolate Museum), and a host of enticing bars, cafes and restaurants to suit every taste and budget

 An obligatory boat ride on the beautiful canals or through the cobbled streets by horse-drawn carriage transport you back to unspoilt medieval times, but above all, Bruges is a city to be discovered on foot. Again and again. There is so much to see and do yet, once there, everything is at your doorstep.... which, of course, makes it the perfect short break destination