Solo Summer 2025 Day 72: A Sweet Day in Brugge - Chocolate, Canals, and Belgian Delights
My first port of call aboard the Norwegian Prima was the charming medieval city of Brugge, Belgium — and what a magical introduction to the continent this was. Known as the “Venice of the North” for its picturesque canals, Brugge is one of Europe’s most beautifully preserved medieval cities. It felt like stepping straight into a fairytale — all cobblestone lanes, gingerbread-like buildings, and the constant, tempting scent of chocolate in the air.
Cruise Excursion: From Port to the Past
My day began with a smooth cruise excursion that included a comfortable shuttle from the port of Zeebrugge into the heart of Brugge. The ride took about 30 minutes, passing through flat Flemish countryside dotted with tidy farms and windmills before the spires and red roofs of Brugge came into view.
First up on my itinerary was a chocolate-making demonstration — because let’s be honest, it’s Belgium, and there’s no way you can skip the chocolate. Our group was taken to ChocoStory, where a local chocolatier gave us a delightful and informative demo. We learned about the tempering process, how pralines are molded and filled, and even got to sample some fresh, still-warm creations. There is truly nothing like Belgian chocolate made right before your eyes — rich, smooth, and impossibly indulgent.
Walking Tour: Brugge on Foot
After getting our chocolate fix, we set off on a 2.5-hour walking tour through the city’s storybook streets. Our guide was full of fascinating facts and quirky anecdotes, and the small size of the city meant we could cover a lot of ground while still taking our time to soak in the scenery.
Here are just a few of the highlights:
The Markt (Market Square): This is the beating heart of Brugge, surrounded by colorful stepped-gable houses and dominated by the iconic Belfry of Bruges. The 13th-century bell tower rises 83 meters high, and though I didn’t climb it today, it’s said to offer the best panoramic view of the city.
The Burg Square: Just a short stroll from the Markt, this square is home to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a small but sacred church that houses what is believed to be a vial of Christ’s blood. The mix of Gothic and Romanesque architecture here is stunning.
The Canals and Bridges: We wandered over numerous picturesque bridges and alongside quiet canals, learning that Brugge’s wealth in the Middle Ages came from its location on a major trade route. Its canals made it a booming commercial hub, and its preservation during both World Wars means much of that history is still intact.
Begijnhof (Beguinage): This serene complex of white houses surrounded by gardens and a small chapel was once home to Beguines — religious women who lived in community without taking formal vows. It’s peaceful, spiritual, and deeply atmospheric.
Hidden Alleys and Courtyards: Part of the magic of Brugge is in the details — tiny cobblestone alleys, ivy-covered brick walls, and quiet corners that feel lost in time.
Fries, Beer, and Chocolate (Of Course)
After our guided walk, we had a little over an hour of free time to explore on our own. I knew exactly what I wanted: the famous Belgian fries. And please — don’t call them “French Fries” here! These crispy golden beauties are a point of national pride in Belgium, double-fried for maximum crunch and usually served with an array of sauces.
I found a popular stand (again, the “longest line strategy” worked perfectly), grabbed a cone of fries with garlic mayo, and paired it with a cold Belgian beer from a nearby café. Sitting by the canal, soaking in the sun with fries in one hand and a beer in the other — this was pure Brugge bliss.
Before heading back to the shuttle, I squeezed in a bit of chocolate shopping. Dozens of artisan chocolatiers line the streets of Brugge, and I couldn’t resist picking up a few boxes of pralines and truffles to bring back to the ship.
Final Thoughts
Brugge is the kind of place that lingers in your mind long after you’ve left — it’s impossibly pretty, steeped in history, and full of the kind of small pleasures that make travel so rewarding. I loved every moment of this port day, from the rich cultural heritage to the sweet indulgences.
Next up: Amsterdam! But Brugge has definitely set a high bar.