Bruges is the capital and largest city of the province of West Flanders in the Flemish Region of North West Belgium. Often called the Venice of the North it’s an absolute gem of a city which is steeped in history. One of the best preserved Medieval cities in the world, it has been added to the Unesco’s World Heritage List. Bruges was lucky enough to avoid being bombed during the war, leaving its wonderful architecture intact, so it is not difficult to imagine yourself back in Medieval times. You can walk down a maze of cobbled alleys passed the modest almshouses or along romantic canals, there are busy squares and lovely parks. There is a wealth of museums as well as a concert hall. Bruges is also the world capital of chocolate!

Although Bruges does not have a gay district with gay bars and clubs, the community here is open, active and dedicated. A youth organisation called Jong & Hib – ‘young & hip’ – are making the gay community much more visible with various events and stands at the town’s cultural festival. They’re working on getting a rainbow flag officially approved by the council, so watch this space!

The bars mentioned are either gay owned or gay-friendly. All hotels are gay-friendly and the restaurants, as well as being gay-friendly, serve delicious food.