September 13th 2024.
Are you planning to travel around Europe by train? Well, here's a must-visit destination that you shouldn't miss out on. We all know how challenging flying can be, from dealing with airport delays to worrying about the hassle of going through security with your liquids. So, if you want to take the stress out of your next city break, why not consider traveling by train? And according to new research, there's one enchanting European city that has been named the best to visit.
Have you ever thought about visiting Bruges in Belgium? You may recognize it as the setting of Martin McDonagh's famous film, "In Bruges", but this city has so much more to offer. With its stunning medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals, it's no wonder that Bruges is also known as the "Venice of the North". In fact, a recent study by the price comparison website Which? has given Bruges a glowing review, with an overall city score of 85%. This charming city has been praised for its affordable hotel rates, delicious food and drink options, cultural sights, and value for money. Even more impressive, Bruges has received a higher score than Paris, the city of love, which is often seen as the go-to destination for easy train travel from the UK.
But what makes Bruges so special? Well, for starters, it's famous for its waterways, which have been an important part of the city's trade for centuries. And the best part? You can easily get to Bruges from London in just over three hours by taking the Eurostar from St Pancras to Brussels South and then changing for an IC train. The first leg of the journey takes two hours, and the local train from Brussels to Bruges is just three stops away, taking only 58 minutes. Who needs to fly when you have such a convenient and scenic train ride?
Bruges isn't the only European city that has been recognized by Which?. In second place is Bordeaux, France, with a city score of 84%. This charming city offers an average hotel rate of £91 per night. Amsterdam comes in third with a score of 82%, but with a slightly higher hotel rate of £141. So, if you're ready to ditch the airport and start planning your next adventure, here's everything you need to know about traveling to Bruges.
There's no doubt that Bruges is filled with history and charm. The Historic Centre of Brugge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its medieval European architecture and iconic landmarks such as the 13th-century Belfort tower, which stands at an impressive 83 meters high. The old city center is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its charming waterways that have connected Bruges to the sea for centuries. For those seeking a bit of culture, the Groeninge Museum is a must-visit, showcasing works from the 14th century to the 1900s, featuring a range of styles from Flemish expressionists to 20th-century modernists.
And let's not forget about the famous cobbled streets and medieval architecture that Bruges is known for. Taking a stroll through the city is like stepping back in time. And for a romantic afternoon, head to Minnewater Park, also known as the "Lake of Love". Surrounded by trees, this park is the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic. In the summer, it's even a popular spot for outdoor concerts.
No visit to Belgium would be complete without indulging in some chocolate. And Bruges is the perfect place to do just that. Choco-Story, the city's very own chocolate museum, offers a fascinating look into the history and cultural significance of chocolate in Belgium. Housed in a 16th-century building that has previously been a wine tavern, bakery, and furniture-making shop, Choco-Story is now a popular attraction for tourists looking to learn more about one of the world's favorite treats.
If you're wondering when the best time to visit Bruges is, it really depends on what you're looking for. Autumn is a quieter time in the city, with pleasant temperatures reaching highs of 18C and 15C in September and October. Spring is also a great time to visit, with fewer tourists and average temperatures of 11C and 15C in April and May, when the trees start to blossom. And for those planning ahead for the Christmas market season, the streets of Bruges come alive during the festive period, starting at the end of November and lasting until January 5.
According to Which?, Bruges is the best European city to visit by train, followed by Bordeaux, Amsterdam, Avignon, and Rotterdam. Other cities that made the top 15 list include Ghent, Paris, Strasbourg, Cologne, Lyon, Brussels, Lille, Basel, Frankfurt, Marseille, and Geneva. So, if you're ready to pack your bags and leave all thoughts of airports behind, Bruges is waiting to enchant you with its rich history, charming canals, and delicious chocolate. Do you have a story to share about your travels to Bruges? Get in touch by emailing us. We'd love to hear from you!
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