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Thirteen Interesting Things to Do in Historic Bruges

In Bruges, Belgium, Old World Charm comes to life in its beautiful architecture and intricate canal system. Visitors of all ages will enjoy indulging in hand-crafted chocolates, while beer connoisseurs can also enjoy some of the best beers in the world. A culture-rich adventure awaits for any traveler looking to visit this quaint city, frozen in time.

Bruges is a fairy tale town come to life, with cobblestone streets and Renaissance architecture. Its unique intersection of historic roots meets modern tourism makes this Belgian town a must-visit for anyone keen to explore distinct pockets of European culture.

There’s sights to be seen, foods to be sampled, and moments of relaxation to be stolen. We’ve compiled our favorite 13 stops during out time in Bruges.

1. Wander through the City Center 

Where better to start than in the heart of the city? In the city center, Bruges’s iconic Gothic architecture is on display for all to indulge upon. Bruges is known to be a city steeped in history, and the city center highlights its longstanding roots.

2. Climb The Belfry 

The Belfry is a pinnacle of architectural beauty within in the city center. If you are up to the climb, you can tackle the 366 steps to the top of the Belfry and you will be rewarded in spades with the breathtaking view of the city. 

3. Seek a peek at Jesus’s blood at the Basilica of the Holy Blood

In a fascinating tale, the Basilica of the Holy Blood purports to have acquired a vial of Jesus Christ’s blood, which they maintain on display. The basilica itself is an ornate personification of Catholic opulence, with multiple levels and daily worship offered. Entry to the Basilica to view the vial is free, and those that are interested in more background can enjoy the accompanying Museum and Treasury for only €2.50.

4. Float around with Boottochten Brugge 

The best canal tour in Bruges!! Bruges has an amazing canal system throughout the city, and the Boottochten Brugge canal tour is the perfect way to take it all in from a nautical vantage point. The canal tour afford a whole new perspective on Brugge architecture and infrastructure.

5. Stop by Sanseveria Bagelsalon for a power breakfast.

You have to have a good breakfast to start the day off right, and Sanseveria Bagelsalon delivers a bagel sandwich that will be on your mind all day. A delicious, hearty breakfast! Not only is the food tasty, but the ambiance in this charming, vintage cafe makes it more than worth the stop.

6. A Belgian Waffle from Chez Albert?? Yes Please!

You can’t visit Belgium without trying a warm, fresh Belgian waffle from Chez Albert! With the delicious array of toppings, this could be your breakfast, or it could be your dessert… regardless of your choice, it’s guaranteed to be delicious! We originally thought we’d share a waffle, but quickly decided one would not be enough! 

7. Warm Up at The Old Chocolate House 

There are loads of beautiful chocolate shops in Brugge, but The Old Chocolate House sells the best hot chocolate! If there is even a hint of a fall chill in the air, lean into it and savor your new soon-to-be-favorite cup of cocoa. 

8. See Your Chocolate Dreams Come to Life at Pralinette

If you can dream it, they can do it. Not only does Pralinette have the endless eye-catching assortment of delicious, artisan chocolate, but they also have impressive chocolate sculptures. We visited around Easter, and they had larger-than-life easter bunnies in the window and throughout the store. 10/10 would recommend visiting for both the tasty treats and the chocolate imagination

9. Sample Some Tasty Treats at Chocolat de Julie

As if taste-testng chocolates could ever be a hassle! The assortment of chocolates at Chocolat de Julie were certainly eye-catching and made us want to sample them all. This chocolate shop is a little less popular with the tourists, so we found the prices of their tasty treats were a little less as well— but no less delicious!! 

beautiful display of chocolate
10. Relax for a Moment at Cafe Rose Red 

Vibe check? Cool vibes only at Cafe Rose Red. This cafe bar is a little off the beaten track, but so worth tracking down, with its genuinely historic atmosphere and amazing selection of beers. You’ll know you’re at the right place when you see the roses hanging from the ceiling! 

11. Explore all Three Floors of De Garre 

Tucked down an easy-to-miss, narrow alley, you’ll find De Garre. This hidden gem will become quite popular throughout the day, as all three floors of this quaint, medieval-chic bar find themselves packed to the gills. Definitely worth tracking down to try their beers… especially if you consider yourself a beer savant. Their beers come with a couple nibbles of cheese— a perfect compliment! 

12. Adventure Below Surface Level at Le Trappiste 

Le Trappiste oozes character from every corner of its unique cellar bar. Guaranteed to have something you’re interested in with their awesome variety of beers on tap and loads more from across the world available in bottles. The underground bar feels a bit like a 21st century speakeasy with its posh vaulted ceilings while still maintaining the airs of a classic Belgian pub. The ambiance is as good as the beers! 

13. Wind Down at Riesling & Pinot Wijnbar-Wijnshop

It’s a little off the main drag, but you simply must wander into the Riesling & Pinot Wijnbar-Wijnshop for a cute wine bar experience. It’s most peculiar how one glass of wine magically turns to three.


What’s in a Name?

Is it Brugge or Bruges? The answer is both! Dutch and French are the predominant languages spoken in Belgium (with some German as well), and Bruges is located in the Flanders or predominantly Dutch region of Belgium. The spelling is Brugge in Flemish/Dutch and Bruges in French as well as English.

Hop, Skip, & a Jump

Bruges is a little over 150 miles from Amsterdam, making it feasible to visit both cities in one trip. Amsterdam is a sister city… rich in historical architecture, with an equally pervasive canal system to explore and even more great beers to try. The easiest way to travel from Bruges to Amsterdam is typically by train, and the 3-4 hour ride (depending on the route), flies by. If you’re curious what Amsterdam has to offer, check out our blog post here.


written by Dana

CEO of being stubbornly independent, Dana lives to speak her mind as her feisty personality lends itself to her outspoken nature. Dana epitomizes the concept of “spending money on experiences, not things” as she is constantly complaining that she has nothing to wear, but ALWAYS has her next trip on the docket. Dana recently graduated from FSU, and has joining us big kids in the adult workforce. She works with our dad at Wherry Truck Lines, keeping all the good ‘ole boys in line.


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Twelve Lovely Stays in Amsterdam

When traveling some place new, a hotel can certainly be fun, but often times an Airbnb can provide a more niched cultural experience of the area— especially if your host enjoys providing local recommendations! We have curated a list of twelve lovely, unique Airbnbs in the Amsterdam area. All are close enough to the city center that guests should not have difficulty touring and cafe-wandering to their heart’s content. High quality selections only, as all Airbnbs detailed below have at least a 4.75 out of 5 overall rating, with at least 30 reviews. Truly the most authentic way to experience Amsterdam!

#1 Multatuli Luxury Guest Suite

Cost: $184 per night

Rating: 4.90 (378 reviews)

Sleeps: 3 comfortably [bedroom in bedroom can either be a king size bed or two singles + the couch converts to a sofa bed]

Notable features: hosted by superhost, bathroom has underfloor heating 

Must be okay with: located one flight up from the street level on the first floor (US second floor); the main entrance and staircase are shared with the hosts/owners (but the guest suite is completely private)

#2 Stylish De Pijp Abode 

Cost: $147 per night

Rating: 4.94 (33 reviews)

Sleeps: 3 comfortably [king size bed + the couch converts to a sofa bed]

Dreamy features: superhost, French balcony, fantastic location

Must be okay with: located one flight up from the street level on the first floor (US second floor).

#3 Amazing Spacious Canal Apartment

Cost: $203 per night

Rating: 4.76 (164 reviews) 

Sleeps: 4 [2 king size beds] 

You’ll love: unique authentic canal house, vintage wood paneling, prime location, lovely canal view

Must be okay with: steep flight of stairs 

#4 Rooftop Views of the Jordaan 

Cost: $146 per night

Rating: 4.96 (81 reviews)

Sleeps: 2 [1 double bed] 

Plus plus plus: superhost, easy walk to train station, amazing views from rooftop deck 

Must be okay with: 68 steps up to the apartment

#5 Lovely Amsterdam Hideout

Cost: $123 per night

Rating: 4.81 (479 reviews)

Sleeps: 2 (1 double bed) 

We love: superhost, v centrally located 

Must be okay with: located between restaurants and across from a Blues Bar with live music, so you will have the late city and bar noises (host does provide earplugs); must be able to ascend a steep flight of stairs 

#6 Koggeschip Studio

Cost: $91 per night

Rating: 4.91 (145 reviews)

Sleeps: 2 (1 double bed) 

Groovy features: superhost, perfect location, unique decor, baby/child bed available 

Must be okay with: going up a flight of stairs 

# 7 Willem de Zwijger Luxury Ark

Cost: $156 per night

Rating: 5.0 (49 reviews)

Sleeps: 2 (1 queen bed) 

Oooo la la: houseboat, multiple terraces, bikes available to rent from owners, heated floors

Must be okay with: only guests 25 & older

#8 Waterfront Getaway

Cost: $139 per night

Rating: 4.94 (554 reviews) 

Sleeps: 2 comfortable, 3 possible [1 double bed + futon] 

Can’t miss out: bikes available to rent, canal view, superhost, wood pellet stove

Must be okay with: ascending a staircase

#9 Luxurious Jordaan Suite

Cost: $141 per night

Rating: 4.91 (345 reviews) 

Sleeps: 3 [1 double bed + 1 sofa bed] 

The works: superhost, garden views, ground floor, claw-foot bath tub 

#10 Cozy, Fab Location Apartment

Cost: $161 per night

Rating: 4.91 (96 reviews)

Sleeps: 2-4 (1 double bed + 1 sofa bed) 

Oh, yes please: store your luggage at the hotel associated with the complex if you arrive before check-in hours, weekly housekeeping for stays of 7 nights or more, washer and dryer, & 24-hour door staff

#11 Bright & Comfortable Apartment

Cost: $119 per night

Rating: 4.97 (61 reviews)

Sleeps: 2 (1 double bed)

Yee-haw: superhost, prime Jordaan location, relaxing bathtub 

#12 Central, Exclusive Penthouse with River View

Cost: $201 per night

Rating: 4.87 (112 reviews)

Sleeps: 2-4 (1 double bed & 1 sofa bed) 

Gimme more, gimme more: superhost, penthouse apartment, fully equipped kitchen, store your luggage at the hotel associated with the complex if you arrive before check-in hours, weekly housekeeping for stays of 7 nights or more


Once you’ve locked in where you’re staying, it’s time to start planning what you’ll be doing when you’re not pouring over the fab view from your Airbnb. Amsterdam has so many different adventures awaiting— from museums to tulips to cafes, your days will be filled with all the beauty this corner of the Netherlands has to offer.


written by Dana

CEO of being stubbornly independent, Dana lives to speak her mind as her feisty personality lends itself to her outspoken nature. Dana epitomizes the concept of “spending money on experiences, not things” as she is constantly complaining that she has nothing to wear, but ALWAYS has her next trip on the docket. Dana is finishing up her final year at FSU this fall, but plans to jet-set off to Hawaii for a few months before joining us big kids in the adult workforce.

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The Best Spots in Historic Amsterdam

Wandering the streets of Amsterdam transports you to the Renaissance era with it’s poignant architecture, teeming with culture. From canals and cafes to museums and tulips, this historic city has a breathtaking adventure for everyone.

Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels 

A stroopwafel is a delicious dutch treat, consisting of two wafer waffles, joined together with a thin layer of caramel. Rudi’s started making stroopwafels in 1978, and to this day they are still sold fresh, right out of the food truck. Easily accessible to anyone looking for a sweet treat, their truck can be found parked in the middle of the Albert Cuyp Market Amsterdam. They are widely regarded at the best stroopwafel in town! A must try!!

Neighborhood: De Pijp

The Carrousel 

You think you’ve had a big pancake, but you’ve never been to The Carrousel! Their pannenkoeken is a pancake on steroids. Not having tasted a savory pancake before, we ordered the ham & cheese pannenkoeken (left plate in the picture), and found it was more like a pizza than any pancake we’ve ever had before— but delicious nonetheless. We also sampled their poffertjes (right plate in the picture), and rather enjoyed this fluffy dutch pastry. They were actually so tasty, we went back to The Carrousel a second time, just to enjoy them again.

Neighborhood: Centrum

De Koffieschenkerij 

We happened along this cute bakery cafe while we were out walking around, and it was a delightful oasis. I’m not terribly picky when it comes to sweet treats, but Kayla is plant-based and gluten free, and she was delighted by their vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options. We were drawn in by the quaint outside garden terrace, but the hipster chic ambiance inside and the cozy lofted attic make for all sorts of nooks and crannies to relax into. If you see it while you’re out, definitely stop in and enjoy a bite!

Neighborhood: Centrum

The Historic Heineken Brewery 

The Heineken Brewery was founded in 1864 in Amsterdam. While production has outgrown the space over the years, the original building is now used for the Heineken Experience Museum. We are far from connoisseurs of beer; however, we found it rather interesting to learn more about such a widespread beer-drinking staple. The price of admission also includes two beers, which is the best way to end any tour!

Neighborhood: De Pijp

Van Stapele 

Have you even been to a bakery that only sells a single kind of cookie? That’s the name of the game at the Van Stapele bakery. Their infamous cookie is made of a dark chocolate dough with a delicious white chocolate filling. It is cooked to perfection: crisp around the edges, but perfectly soft and gooey on the inside. Cookies are made throughout the day as they sell like hotcakes, so they are often warm when you get them. The cookies are packaged up in a cute little paper bag… so you can buy ten and carry around your afternoon snack with ease.

Neighborhood: Centrum

Rijksmuseum 

Amsterdam is home to dozens of niched museums, but none so breathtaking as the Rijksmuseum. Great masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh are housed in this pinnacle of art history. All are able to enjoy not just the art, but the story behind the art as all displays have an English translation.

Admission into the museum is free to those under 18 years old and €20 for adults. We recommend booking your tickets in advance online, as lines can become long. While the museum is open 9am to 5pm, we advise going as early as possible. Tourists and locals alike enjoy the rich culture living within the Rijksmuseum.

Neighborhood: Museum Quarter

paintings at the Rijsmuseum

Anne Frank House

Truly a historical landmark, the Anne Frank House is a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the midst of unimaginable horror.

We booked our tickets in advance, and recommend you do the same if you feel passionately about visiting. All tickets for the coming month become available every first Tuesday of the month. If you make a last minute decision to check it out, they release about 20% of the tickets on the day of, but you need to be on the website waiting to really have a chance at getting them. Tickets cost €14 for adults, €7 for children 10-17 years old, and €1 for children 9 years old and younger. As a note, the Anne Frank House Museum does not reschedule tickets or give refunds for any reason, regardless of it’s validity.

Neighborhood: Centrum 

Red Light District 

The Red Light District is a world of it’s own as red neon windows illuminate prostitutes acting as live action billboards to attract clients. While services rendered are certainly not of interest to everyone, it’s an intriguing cultural phenomenon— especially since this sex-culture so vastly differs from typical socials norms for prostitution.

Important to note, as a tourist, you should understand that this is not an environment to have your phone out snapping pictures of girls in the windows. If someone sees you, this is considered a violation of privacy, and your phone may be confiscated. Photographs of the district, shops, and cafes are allowed but just not of the alluring individuals vying for attention. 

Neighborhood: Centrum

Fields of Tulips 

If you plan to visit Amsterdam in the spring, the Keukenhof Tulip Garden is a MUST visit!!! Thousands and thousands of tulips cover the grounds of this gorgeous garden and make for a beautiful spring attraction.

If you are planning on visiting Europe and are considering stopping by Amsterdam on your travels, the Flower Forecast could be a good resource to keep you in the loop. Weather cycles can affect the blooms, so keep an eye out for prime blossoming! 

There are restaurants on the premise of the gardens, but visitors are also allowed to bring their own food and drinks if you were hoping to have a fun garden-adjacent picnic moment (visitors are not permitted to stroll through the bulb fields).

Tickets for 2022 will only be available online. There is no sale of tickets at the entrance of the park. Tickets available for purchase here beginning in November 2021. Cost is €19 for adults, €9 for children 4-17 years old, and children three years old and younger are free. If you drive to the garden, parking will cost €6.

Neighborhood: Bollenstreek (about 25 miles outside the Amsterdam city centre)

Canal Boat Tour 

Amsterdam is known for its canal labyrinth, and there’s nothing like riding in an open air boat to take in all the sights. Cruising through the canals is the perfect way to immerse yourself in a cultural experience. Perhaps a little touristy but delightfully enriching nonetheless. We love love loved Flagship Amsterdam’s small-group nautical canal exploration experience. The boat environment felt rather luxurious and Hans and Isabel (the best guides!) provided a warm, intimate tour, with all our various local inquires welcomed. Pricing varies according to which tour option you’re interested in and how long you wish to adventure around.

Neighborhood: Centrum

Brouwerij Troost 

If you fancy yourself a craft beer savant, then visiting Troost Brewery is a must. Beers are quintessentially brewed for universal appeal, yet unique flavor profiles. With all organic beers— and even one gluten free, Troost is comprised of beer aficionados with a conscience. While they’re always concocting something new, they do maintain three regular beers on tap: their signature blond ale, the I.P.A., and a weizen. Their palatable array of beers is guaranteed to hit the spot— for even the most discerning hophead. 

Neighborhood: De Pijp

Oliebollen

This is less of a specific locale recommendation and more of a general memo regarding a delectable Dutch donut, called an oliebollen. Think a beignet, but lighter and fluffier. This rec comes from our brother-in-law Salvador as he has been to Amsterdam a few times, and has found this sweet treat becomes more popular around the holidays. The weather turns a little chilly and suddenly it seems vendors are selling them from street carts all throughout town. Give it a taste and let us know what you think!

Go City Pass 

Go City offers an all inclusive pass to 22 different attractions, ranging from the Moco Museum to the Keukenhof Bus Excursion, this cornucopia of adventures is yours for the taking. The website provides the normal ticket value of each attraction, so you can calculate the potential savings. This might not be for everyone, but it is certainly helpful to know about. If you are looking to museum hop or go nuts with tours, this could be a good option for you. 


Helpful Hints for the City

Be cognizant of bikers!! This heads-up is not singular to Amsterdam, and if you have spent much time in Europe, you know bikers do not take kindly to meandering pedestrians wandering into the bike lane. It’s always important to be aware of your surroundings, but keep an extra keen eye out for bikers! This is less of a true safety concern, and more a warning to avoid getting yelled at.

Commonplace in many countries outside the Unites States, if you need to use the restroom while out adventuring, it will likely cost you a small fee. Nothing crazy to budget for, but certainly different from our cultural expectation.

Cannabis, marijuana, weed, grass… whatever you call it, it’s legal and widely available in Amsterdam. If you are looking to indulge, there is abundant opportunity to do so. In the Netherlands, a coffee shop is colloquially understood to be an establishment where cannabis is sold. Many coffee shops still operate as you would expect, selling coffee, with areas to sit and lounge— they just offer ~enhanced relaxation~ as well as the usually pick-me-up coffee shops are known for.

If you’re still deep in the planning stages of trip planning and don’t have your stay booked, check out our post highlighting a collection of unique, authentically Amsterdam Airbnbs in the city.


written by Dana

CEO of being stubbornly independent, Dana lives to speak her mind as her feisty personality lends itself to her outspoken nature. Dana epitomizes the concept of “spending money on experiences, not things” as she is constantly complaining that she has nothing to wear, but ALWAYS has her next trip on the docket. Dana is finishing up her final year at FSU this fall, but plans to jet-set off to Hawaii for a few months before joining us big kids in the adult workforce.

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