Bruges is known worldwide as the “Venice of the North” due to its canals. It's also famous for its bell tower (Belfort) that dominates the main square, its craft beer, and, of course, for being one of the world's great centers of chocolate.
A boat trip through the canals, the Main Square (Grote Markt), Burg Square (where the Town Hall is located), the Rosary Quay, and the Lake of Love. Don't forget to visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
BBruges is a small, compact city. You can see the main sights in a single day, but if you want to enjoy its magical atmosphere when the day trippers have left or have a quiet dinner by the canals, we recommend spending a night there.
If you only have one day, start at the Lake of Love and the Beguinage. Walk towards the center to climb the 366 steps of the Belfort and take in the views. Have mussels and chips for lunch, then spend the afternoon on a boat trip and visit Old St. John's Hospital or the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo's "Madonna".
The famous Frietmuseum is located in a beautiful historic building called Saaihalle, at 33 Vlamingstraat. It's the only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to the history of French fries.
If your flight arrives at Charleroi Airport, the most direct option is Flibco, a shuttle bus that connects the airport with Bruges train station in about 2 hours. Another option is to take a bus to Charleroi-Sud train station and then take a train, although this will require you to change trains in Brussels.
The most convenient way is to take the train (SNCB) from any of the three main stations in Brussels (Nord, Central, or Midi). The journey takes approximately 1 hour, and trains run frequently. If you prefer not to worry about timetables, you can book a guided tour in English with Civitatis, which departs from the center of Brussels.
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