Bruges

One of the things that immediately struck me when we arrived in Bruges was how perfectly designed it seems to be for a weekend visit.  It is neatly encased by a moat that follows the contours of the city's medieval fortifications and it has a delightfully compact center.  There's no need for a car as everything of interest is within walking distance and there is enough interesting architecture to keep the eyes busy.

There are two main squares around which you spend most of your time. The Markt and the Burg.  The Markt is dominated by Belgium's most famous belfry which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.  It was built in the 13th century  when the city was a busy trading capital.  I'm told that there is a wonderful and panoramic view on top, but I have to say that the 366 steps to the top proved to be too much for yours truly.    
Bruges is also home to a large network of canals and waterways that give the city a distinctively romantic air.  It has over 63 bridges spanning its canal system. We succumbed to the lure of tourism and joined one of the numerous boat tours and found to our delight that it was a very good way of seeing the city.  Sitting there on the boat, the sun on your face, and feasting one's eyes on Flemish architecture dating back to the 14th century, leaves one with a peacefully serene feeling.  That alone is well worth the price of your boat trip!