Though relatively small, Bruges has a lot to offer not only for visitors on a romantic getaway, but also for those visiting Brussels and eager to experience Bruges during a one-day trip. Bruges short breaks and Bruges holidays will take you to the charming city with its plentiful attractions at every turn. As the city center is compact and the streets are closed to traffic, Bruges is ideal for exploring on foot, by hiring a bicycle or by horse drawn carriage.

Bruges short breaks won't be complete without paying a visit to one of the fifty great chocolate shops for a taste of what is regarded as the world's finest chocolate. As an alternative, you are welcome to a Belgian brewery to enjoy the taste of the local prize winning beer. The city is also home to a great number of museums, featuring the world renowned collections of Flemish art. At night when the canals and historic buildings are illuminated, Bruges turns into one of the most romantic cities, inviting its guests to plentiful bars, cafes and restaurants.

Bruges short breaks and Bruges holidays offer you only the top attractions and the most visited sights of Bruges, so that you steep in the unique atmosphere and feel part of the city's culture. The most popular with tourists is the historic Markt square that has been the heart of the city since the 12th century. Located in the square's center is a bronze statue dedicated to the city's heroes Pieter de Coninck and Jan Breydel. Among other attractions is the covered market Halle, whose origins can be traced back to the 13th
century. The original center of the city was Burg Square with its Basilica of the Holy Blood and the gothic Town Hall on the south side. Included in a must-do list while on Bruges short breaks is the Holy Savior's Cathedral, home to more than 120 paintings along with manuscripts, pottery and ancient artifacts.

Another popular attraction to be enjoyed during your Bruges short breaks or Bruges holidays is the Begijnhof -- a group of the 18th century buildings arranged around the small area. Connoisseurs of art will be amazed at a wide variety of museums, all of them worth a visit. Recognized as the most popular with tourists enjoying their Bruges holidays, the Groeninge Museum is renowned for its 15th century collection of Flemish Primitive art. Included into the museum's collection are work by Gerard David, Jan van Eyck, Hieronymus Bosch, Delvaux, James Ensor and Magritte.

The Gruuthuse Museum is another popular attraction, housing a diverse collection of the 17th century lace, ceramics and tapestry, sculptures and silver. If you want to trace the history of diamonds, visit the Diamond Museum, demonstrating a diamond polishing and a display of Flemish jewelry daily. Another highlight is Groeninge Museum, home to six centuries of paintings in a great variety of styles and an outstanding section of Flemish Primitives.

The 16th century Flemish paintings, as well as Michelangelo's Madonna and Child marble sculpture can be found in the tower of the Church of Our Lady, seen as the highest tower in the city. Romantics should consider a visit to the Minnewater, known also as the Lake of Love. Originally the city's harbor and the source of its canals, Minnewater is now a quiet area, offering a spectacular view of Bruges from the bridge over the lake.

So now you know all there is to know about Bruges short breaks and Bruges holidays! Have a safe trip and don't forget to send a postcard.