Bruges:

Funky Fact: The age of the city is hard to determine and old documents show its age is possibly from the 9th century.

1. Canal Stroll

2. Brugse Vrije

3. St Janshuis (Sint-Janshuismolen) Windmill

4. Koelewei Windmill

5. De nieuwe Papegaai Windmill

6. Sint-Janshuismill windmill

7. The Markt Square

8. Old Town Bruges

9. Kruispoort gate

10. Belfry of Bruges

11. Koningin Astridpark Park

12. House of Time

13. Fish Market

14. Kasteel Minnewater

15. Gruuthuse Museum

16. Minnewater Park Architecture

17. Half Moon Brewery

18. Papageno Statue

19. Church of Our Lady of Bruges

20. Dune Bridge (Ter Duinenbrug)

21. Decrottoir

22. Handcrafted Christmas decor

23. Horse Head Drinking Fountain

24. The Little Bear of Bruges Statue 

25. Canal Boat Ride

26. Swans of Love Lake

27. Depot D’o Antiquaire

1. Canal Stroll

Strolling the 12th century canals is a must when visiting the city. Plan on walking or renting a bike to navigate the charming lanes.

2. Brugse Vrije

This manor and stunning facade were actually an old assize court. Today it is home to the City Archives. Its stunning renaissance halls have 16th century charm. Visitors can marvel at the mammoth carved wood mantelpiece, sparkling marble and alabaster details.

4. Koelewei Windmill

Built in the 13th century this windmill is one in a chain along the banks of the outer wall of the city. It’d was originally uses to grind corn. This is a 1980 reproduction of the original.

5. De Nieuwe Papegaai Windmill

There were once 24 mills along the outer banks wall. Today only 4 remain. A curios note about this mill, there is a parrot placed on the weathervane. It was built in the 1790s as an oil mill and called ‘Hoge Seinemolen’.

6. Sint-Janshuismill windmill

The oldest remaining mill in the chain, was built in 1770. This mill still functions and grinds flour. There is also a museum inside that tourists can visit for a small fee.

7. The Markt Square

This medieval market square is the heart of the city surrounded by coffee shops and filled with horse drawn carriages to draw in tourist.

8. Niche Statue Architecture

Bruges stands as one of the best preserved Medieval cities in Europe. One unique architectural and historical detail in Niche Statues. One most street corner you’ll see remnants of the prevalence of Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodox Christianity here. The Niches usually have a scene of Madonna with child or Jesus.

9. Kruispoort Gate

An incredibly preserved medieval city gate, it was built in 1297. The best feature of this castle like entrance to the city is that it still functions and car and bikes drive thought this perfect piece of history.

10. Belfry of Bruges

If your legs can handle the 366 steps to the top, the Belfry offers a stunning view of the city. This 13th century tower is a world heritage site and stands 83 meters tall.

Webpage and Information: Belfry of Bruges

11. Koningin Astridpark Park

This stunning garden is a refuge from the hustle of city noise, it was names after the beautiful Queen Astrid. It was once a monetary garden and is now a free city park with a pond, ducks, a gazebo, and cafe. Note: This park is bursting with flowers and tulip in the spring.

12. House of Time

This social-artistic project started by an architects’ collective ‘raumlabor.’ It an unusual plot next to the canal where a group of young artists can explore the concept of now. Theres a coffee shop, fire pits, outdoor art, gardens, tree houses, gallery, and amazing works of unusual creativity.

13. Fish Market

Vismarkt Brugge

Built in 1821 as a fish market. This stunning plaza retains every bit of charm from the early 1800s. Keep your eyes peeled around the plaza for stone carved fish and sculptures of fishermen that reference the markets history. The still offer market days where people sell, crafts and goods. In the Summer the plaza hold lively pubic dance classes and music and laughter of dancers fills the square.

14. Minnewater Lake and Kasteel Minnewater

Called ‘Lake of Love’ this stunning place is the site for many folktales including tragic lovers, and elves.

15. Gruuthuse Museum

This former 15th century palace has been converted to a museum. It houses artworks from the 15th-19th century. You can appreciate tapestries, stained glass, sculptures, and even bruges famous lace art. 

Webpage and Information: Gruuthuse Museum

16. Minnewater Park Architecture

This park was the former site of a gothic castle which was demolished in 1969. The lake (presumed to be man-made) acts as a reservoir to collect rain water and prevent town floods. The lake and surrounding gardens are criss-crossed with stunning modern architecture and bridges.

17. Half Moon Brewery

De Halve Maan has been brewing beer here for roughly 500 years. The town is sprinkled with half moon signs to show their love for the Belgium brewery. At the museum visitors can enjoy learning about beer and old brewing techniques.

18. Papageno Statue

The bronze statue stands outside the Royal Concert Hall. His name is Papageno, he is the bird catcher from an opera by Mozart. His character is said to be clumsy and comical, he carries a set of panpipes that can charm birds, then catches them in his cage.

19. Church of Our Lady of Bruges

Built in the 13th century, this stunning catholic church is a testament to the wealth, class, and divine passion of the city. Its also home to an original Michelangelo statue, the piece titled “Brugge Madonna”.

20. Dune Bridge (Ter Duinenbrug)

This was the old locations of the Dune Abbey, which is the namesake for the Dune Bridge. The little gem is one of a kind and the only wooden lifting bridge in the whole city.

21. Decrottoir

This charming adornment is a remnant from antiquity. A decrottoir is an eloquent name for a boot scraper. These are found all over the city and give you a peek into the world where horse drawn carriage and city strolls were a daily event.

22. Handcrafted Christmas decor

Bruges is the idilic city for winter cheer and elegant holiday decorations. The citys long history merchants hub makes the medieval village perfect for finding stunning gifts and Christmas decor. In late November the city set up magical wooded stalls in the city square and tourist can find nutcrackers, candles, manger scenes, hand toys, and some of the best chocolate in the world.

23. Horse Head Drinking Fountain

Taking a horse drawn carriage ride is a popular tourist attraction. This stunning sculptural bronze fountain is used by the coachmen to water their hardworking horses.

There are local city law makes it mandatory for working horses to be fed and watered regularly. They are also given 2 days at pasture for every working day pulling carriages.

24. The Little Bear of Bruges Statue 

Tiny details around Bruges unveil its long history. While wondering it stress you may notice a statue of a bear on the facade of Poortersloge (The Burghers’ Lodge). The bear is known as the oldest citizen of Bruges, referring to the folktale of the white bear. Theres a mediaeval story of the Count of Flanders killing a white bear in the woods (in what’s today, Bruges). It’s been a symbol of the city ever since.

25. Canal Boat Ride

A unique way to tour the city is by boat. It was in 1896, that King Leopold II reenergized the city by cutting a canal through 10 miles of countryside. The new canal connected Bruges to the open sea and prosperity flooded into the charming medieval city. Nickname The Venice of the North, there are 5 main boat landings along the canals, boat rides cost 8 Euro for a 30-35 min. ride.

26. The swans of Love Lake

The city is dotted with historical references to its folklore. One story of note is the tale of The Swans of Love Lake. It’s said that after a city administrator was murder in 1488. The Holy Roman Emperor, punished the city of Bruges. The emperor mandated the city to keep 52 swans in its lakes and canals forever. The family of the slain administrator had a white swan in its coat of arms.

27. Depot D’o Antiquaire

This place is a treat for the art and antique lover. Its curator sells authentic pieces and unique pieces from across the globe. You’ll find pieces from all different eras blended together, there’s hundreds of antiques, curiosities, lighting, tribal pieces, taxidermy, signage, and lots of art.

Webpage and Information: Depot D’o Antiquaire

Brussels:

Funky Fact: Belgium has three official languages, and is technically a Kingdom.

1. Manneken Pis (Peeing Boy Statue)

2. Jeanneke-Pis (The Peeing girl Statue)

3. Belgian Frites

4. Old England

5. La Pharmacie Anglaise Bar

6. Grand Place

7. Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

8. Le Cercueil Bar

9. Shop Consignment: Think Twice T2 or Melting Pot Kilo

10. Egmont Park and The Peter Pan Statue

11. Art Nouveau Sites: The Owl House, Horta Museum, Hotel Solvey

12. Belgium Chocolate

13. The Giant Ferris Wheel: The View

14. Square of Petit Sablon

15. Belgium Beer

16. Floris Bar Absinthe

17.  LGBTQIA+ mural by Ralf König

18. Mont des Arts Garden

19. Comic Book Mural Walking Tour

20. Man From Atlantis Fountain

21. Klokkenspel van de Kunstberg

1. Manneken Pis (Peeing Boy Statue)

This 24 in tall bronze little boy has been peeing since the 17th century. He is widely loved and partakes in the city annual events calendar by dressing up (has an outfit for every occasion).

2. Jeanneke-Pis (The Peeing girl Statue)

This little 20 inch tall bronze girl statue is a modern 1980s restoration of the equality between men and women as the feminine counterpart to the old Manneken Pis.

3. Belgian Frites

It’s commonly believed the original fry was created in Namur, Belgium and it thought be a culinary delight that climbs to a cultural heritage status. Its history can be traced bask to the year 1680. Its highly suggested to try fries served in a baguette, stuffed with meat and smothered in Andalouse sauce.

4. Old England

The stunning Old England Building was constructed in 1899 by architect Paul Saintenoy. This famed building is adorned with stunning aesthetic element form the Art Nouveau movement. The building is now home to the MIM or e Musical Instruments Museum.

Webpage and Information: Old England

5. La Pharmacie Anglaise Bar

One of the best upscale bars in the city. Here you’ll sip on expertly crafted cocktails from a leather tufted chair. The vibe mixes dark academia with victorian steam punk. This 1898 architectural gem is another masterpiece from Paul Saintenoy, originally called the Delacre Pharmacy.

Webpage and Information: La Pharmacie Anglaise Bar

6. Grand Place

A huge lively open square lined wit markets. This square is the heart of the city and hosts fairs, events, holiday markets, the Christmas tree, a stunning nativity scene, and light shows. The building surrounding the square are trimmed with gold and compete for charm and elegance.

7. Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

This stunning market is a pedestrian only shopping paradise. The Gallery consists of three long corridors covered with elegant metal and glass ceiling. Built between 1846 and 1847, this street is lines with chocolatiers. The smell of warm chocolate fills the corridor and the charm of chocolate sculptures and thousands of tasty treats will have you falling in love.

8. Le Cercueil Bar

One of the most unusual bars you’ll stumble upon in Belgium, the ambiance is eternally welcoming. The bars name translates to the coffin in French. The theme of death is all over this bar, from the long hellish mural down the entrance corridor to the coffin coffee tables. The skull mugs and cemetery paintings are the perfect touch.

Webpage and Information: Le Cercueil Bar

9. Shop Consignment: Think Twice T2 or Melting Pot Kilo

Shopping consignment and thinking green is a common environmental living standard in Belgium. These stores sell excellent quality gently used or new clothing, hats, scarves, shoes and etc. for only a few euros. You can even find couture fashion and expensive brands at amazing prices.

10. Egmont Park and The Peter Pan Statue

A stunning gift stand as a moment in Egmont Park. In 1924 this statue was gifted as a symbol of friendship between the British and Belgian children who played here during WWI.

11. Art Nouveau Sites: The Owl House, Horta Museum, Hotel Solvey

Belgium plays a vital roll as being a cradle for Art Nouveau which development out of the Victor Horta Style. This new organic construction and decorative style spread across the city and quickly spread to France.

12. Belgium Chocolate

Since 1635 Belgium has been famed for their exceptional pralines, truffles and milk chocolate. The processing of chocolate and exportations is one of Belgiums biggest industres. The secret to phenomenal chocolate is Belgium refining process which mills the ingredients to 18 microns, this circumvents grainy gestures or taste and contributes to the buttery texture that seems to melts on the tongue.

13. The Giant Ferris Wheel: The View

Offering a complete panorama of Brussels this amusement ride is a permanent 55 meter tall skyline delight. For 9 euros visitor can check out the best view from the tallest building in the city.

14. Square of Petit Sablon

This stunning Neo-renaissance garden is unique in that its actually an open air museum there are busts and sculptures along the boxwood lined paths. They are great humanists of the 16th century.

15. Belgium Beer

The history of Belgium beer can be traces back even before Belgium was a country. Whats their secret to amazing beer? It’s all in the Belgian yeast, it differs from most traditional yeast and is described as floral and sweet. Today there are over 300 active breweries all over the county, all creating great brews.

16. Floris Bar Absinthe

If your a beer enthusiast this is the perfect place to try one of the 2,000 beers they offer. For a taste of something wilder check out their huge selection of Absinthe some are served flaming from an absinthe pipe which is slurped up like a quick hot shot. Warning, green fairy may be lurking.

17.  LGBTQIA+ mural by Ralf König

Down Rue de la Chaufferette in the Charbon area lies a one of a kind. Here you can find the first European gay, lesbian and trans comic strip. It’s in the form of massive mural inaugurated in May 2015.

18. Mont des Arts Garden

This stunning garden vista acts as a terrace to connect upper and lower portions of the city that slopes down the hillside. The garden is lined with roses, fountains and stunning topiary landscaping. This was originally the site for the Exposition of 1910 and adapted to gardens in the 1950s.

19. Comic Book Mural Walking Tour

If you’re a fan of street art then Brussels is the prefect place to go on a long stroll and check out the ‘Comic Strip Route.’ There ar dozens of mural pieces paying tribute to Belgium’s most loved illustrated characters. You’ll see Tintin and over 60 other uniquely creative murals along the route.

20. Man From Atlantis Fountain

The Man From Atlantis is a unique sculpture surrounded by a fountain. The piece was installed in 2003 by sculptor Luk Van Soom.

21. Klokkenspel van de Kunstberg

A time piece fort the ages, this stunning clock can be found in Le Mont des Arts. The clock displays 12 characters in its niches: a drumer, soldier, workman, the Gaul, Godfrey of Bouillon, Jean-Joseph Charlier, a Gunner ( from the Belgian Revolution), Jacob van Artevelde, 14th century leader, Count of Egmont, Peter Paul Rubens, Emperor Charles V, warrior with scimitar (stolen and reinstated) and Philip the Good.

Madrid:

Funky Fact: Madrid was founded sometime around 860 A.C.

1. Street art by Nean

The Madrid tile street artist and basketball enthusiast Nean has plastered the town in comical graphics. His art can be found in the neighborhoods of Malasaña, Chueca, and Huertas

2. Palacio de Cristal

Built in 1887 its original purpose was to showcase tropical plant from the Philippines. In the late 1880s the Philippines was a Spanish colony. Today the Crystal Palace is used as a museum and art exhibit space.

3. Vinos de Madrid

Madrid has been famous for it wine industry for centuries and early production dates back to the 13th century. It’s rumored that Romans brought the first ancient vines to the region. Madrid produces red, white and rosé wines. 

4. Almudena Cathedral

Originally the plans for this stunning church began in 1879 yet wars, regime changes, financial issues drug on for over a hundred years and in 1993, the cathedral was finally completed.

Webpage and Information: Almudena Cathedral

5. Tiled street signs in Madrid 

Our story begins when Madrid became the capital of Spain back in the 16th century and to some extent medieval traditions still reigned. To support the court, a huge influx of artisans descended on the town and set up shop in the narrow streets surrounding the palace (then still the Alcazar built by Mohammed I of Cordoba back in the 9th century). As was the custom at that time, artisans formed guilds, each of which congregated in certain districts. These weren’t the official names of the streets of course, but more or less you could navigate the city in reference to whatever trade was plied in any particular area.

6. Madrid City Hall

Also called Ayuntamiento de Madrid, construction of this white shimmering castle like building was finished in 1919. The building was originally used as post office.

7. Plaza Mayor

Once the original centre of Old Madrid. It was constructed during the reign of Philip III. This lively square lined with cafes is the hear of life the city.

8. Iglesia de San Manuel y San Benito

Built in 1911 this church was intended as a residence and church for the Augustinians Fathers. Its adorned with Neo-Byzantine architectural elements with a tall Italian-style bell towers.

9. La Panarteria

A playful quirky place to enjoy the local street art culture in a fabulous gallery filled with a variety of artist.

Webpage and Information: La Panarteria

10. San Miguel Market

This victorian glass ceiling covered market offer the cities best selection of gourmet tapas and has over 30 vendors. Gastronomy seekers will find a wide variety of fresh tapas, meats, olives, cheeses, pickles and baked goods. Libations of beer, wine, champagne, and sangria are sold as well. Built in 1916 and renovated in 2009, this is the best place in Madrid to find a wide variety of exceptional cuisine under one roof.

11. Lavapiés Neighborhood

This artistic and vibrant, multicultural neighborhood is cascades down the hillside over medieval cobble streets. The neighborhood is filled with street art, color, Indian cuisine and historic Spanish pubs.

12. La Casa De Las Bolas

Completed in 1895. This brightly painted building reflects the neomudéjar (Moorish Revival architecture) architecture and hints at Spain historical connection to Arabic countries. Nicknamed La Casa De Las Bolas due to the marble spheres decorating the facade.

13. Rockade Madrid

An epic bar adorned with kitch, art, vintage pinball machines, and arcade games. Their food menu is as varied as the decor with tacos, hot dogs, burgers and nachos. Don’t miss the cave room arcade room downstairs.