Bruges is the largest city and capital of the West Flanders Province of Belgium. It is the place to start your tour of the Flemish region of Belgium. The total surface area of the city comes to about 13,840 hectares, of which 1075 sits the UNESCO world heritage site of Zeebrugge. The city is sometimes referred to as the 'Venice of the North'.

Thus said, you will never go wrong by deciding to travel in this Flemish region. It is full of holiday surprise festivities, ancient architectural marvels and some nightspots you would never think existed in 'conservative' Europe. Below is a list of top things to do in Bruges;

1. Sightseeing the UNESCO listed Historic Centre of Brugge

2. How about a boat ride around the ancient city? You will probably see more sights than you would on foot or on a bike. What more, you will have a chance to capture the sights at the best possible angle.

3. Climb the 366 steps to the top of the Belfry in Markt. This offers the best views of the city.

4. Your dining experience will not be complete without sampling 'wafel met slagroom' from a street vendor. It is the as common on the street as the burger is in USA...oh...and it is more healthy. It is just some waffle whipped with some cream.

5. How would you love to feel like your great-great-grand mother going to church? Well, horse drawn carriages are still available here. Ride one. It is an experience worth having.

6. Say some prayers at the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

7. Are you a photography buff? You cannot have a better place to capture the sunset or sunrise than the Rozenhoedkaai in Bruges.

8. The Bruges' landscape is dotted with architectural marvels. From old bridges to churches to markets to cobbled street; you will realize that the city reached its apogee way before you were born.

9. From the city, you can grab a bus or train to Oostende and sunbathe in the mild Belgium sun.

10. Dine with the Flemish People. Delicacies such as Choco-story (Belgian chocolate) or De Halve Maan Brewery (local beer) will leave you with a taste of Belgium that you will find hard to forget.

Welcome to Bruges and have your best European experience yet!