| Brussels and Bruges are two of the most popular | | | | more than 400 different kinds of beer offered in the |
| travel destinations in Belgium. The cities are linked by a | | | | city's many bars! A popular hangout after dark is the |
| reliable rail network, which makes it easy for | | | | central square, Place Saint-Gery, which is home to a |
| backpackers and gap year travelers in Europe to | | | | number of fashionable cafes and luckily accessible |
| explore the sights of both on a single trip. | | | | from most Brussels hostels so travelers can find their |
| History and Politics in Brussels | | | | way back after a long night sampling the local brews. |
| Known as the 'Capital of Europe', Brussels is the | | | | Medieval Bruges |
| administrative center of the European Union and home | | | | At the heart of the region of Flanders, Bruges is |
| to the headquarters of NATO. But despite this | | | | packed with medieval charm and often called the |
| significant role in modern politics and international | | | | 'Venice of the North' and the 'City of Romance' |
| relations, the city has managed to preserve much of | | | | because of its attractive setting on the canals. The city |
| its cultural heritage. | | | | center is a World Heritage Site and closed to cars so |
| The city's rich history is celebrated in no less than 80 | | | | travelers can explore via a boat trip or - the more |
| museums. As well as a number of excellent art | | | | budget-friendly option - on foot. |
| galleries, highlights include a beer museum and several | | | | One of the major sights of the city is the |
| buildings designed by celebrated architect Victor Horta. | | | | 83-meter-high Belfry tower, built in 13th century, in |
| Travelers might also enjoy the Bellevue Museum, | | | | which energetic travelers can climb 366 steps for |
| which is the official museum of the Belgian Royal | | | | picturesque views of Bruges and the surrounding |
| Family. The building is an attraction in itself having once | | | | countryside. |
| been used as a royal residence. | | | | The bars in Bruges tend to stay open until midnight, |
| The Jewish Museum, which traces 1,000 years of the | | | | although some are open until the early hours, |
| religion's history, is also an interesting visit. It has been | | | | particularly in the trendy district of Langestraat. |
| open for 20 years and explores the presence of | | | | Located in the eastern part of the city, Langestraat is |
| Judaism in Brussels and Belgium as a whole. | | | | home to the city's student population and a number of |
| In addition to its great cultural attractions, Brussels also | | | | Bruges hostels. |
| boasts a fun, vibrant nightlife scene and there are | | | | |