Bruges, or Brugge as the locals call it, is considered Venice of the North. Where better to sneak away for a surprise romantic weekend with my Italian? I secretly made all the arrangements months in advance, and with only a few minor obstacles, just as the leaves were changing into spectacular shades of browns and reds, and the chill of winter lingered in the air, we boarded the train. A short 2-hour ride to discover this UNESCO World Heritage city in Belgium’s Flemish Northwest.

Home was a welcoming regal 15th Century Palace, once the residence of the Burgundian aristocracy.

Bruges greeted us with a cloudy sky and the promise of rain, setting the mood as explorations began.

We were both struck with the city’s architecture. Elegant brick buildings set upon tranquil canals.

We did our best to avoid the crowds and chose any side streets we could find, following the sun.

To get a better look at the city from above, we climbed the 366 steps of the historic Belfry Tower.

A view to savour as the ancient clock tower chimed all around us.

We also enjoyed an impressive view from the rooftop of the last remaining brewery, De Halve Maan.

What’s a trip to Belgium without a chocolate tasting? After trying quite a few, I favored Dumon.

Having taken quite a few weekend escapes since living in Paris, Bruges was one of my favorites. It’s inhabitants friendly, it’s range of dining options impressive (In’t Nieuw Museum is a must for a real local experience) and the scenery spectacular. There are quite a few museums and galleries too, satisfying all the senses. Weekend in Bruges, a success!

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