The town has often been described as the Western Venice. There are two main truths in this: It has winding streets and waterways creeping throughout the historical city; secondly it contains the same hoards of middle-class tourists sipping their Americano coffees.

However, Bruges is like Venice's younger sister, a little more innocent and cheerful in character. Tourists have not yet infiltrated all its corners, and its beer is undoubtedly of higher quality at less exorbitant prices than Venice. The town is also a refreshing break to the souvenir-ridden virus that sweeps most European tourist hubs. Instead you will find home-made chocolate delicatessen shops spread along the streets - the divine selection of hand crafted treats is enough to send a chocoholic plump with choice.

An Historical Insight

Wander down the narrow lanes for a glimpse back through Bruges' history. Notable sights include the 13th century Belfry, the Beguinage (c1245) and the Groeningemuseum. Most spectacular is the Church of Our Lady, one of the world's highest brick buildings (122 meters) and containing Michelangelo's famous Madonna and Child. This is a must for any cultural buff.

The medieval buildings highlight Bruges' textured past. It rose as an important port and centre of trade within Europe, however struggles with revolts, poverty and war throughout the 13-14 Century saw the downfall of its trade and prosperity. It was not until the 19th Century that Bruges once again saw a rise in wealth by trading in on its art and culture, ultimately capturing the tourist hearts and dollar.

From Diamonds to Dancing

Belgium is world renowned for its diamond trade, with the art of diamond polishing originating within Bruges in the 15th Century. The town contains various jewellery and diamond shops, however if this does not satisfy all your needs, only one hour train ride away is the major centre of the global diamond trade: Antwerp. This town devotes an entire district to diamond shops, and also has "Diamondland," a store that also offers a short tour on the process of transforming a rough cut diamond to a gem.

There is no better way to unwind after an indulging day of chocolate, diamonds and history lessons than settling in for a beer within Bruges' remarkable night scene. You will discover live jazz bars, dance bars, smoky clubs, traditional Belgium pubs, as well the occasional outdoor music concert or festival within the town centre.

The restaurants and bars resting on the water's edge light up the canals and streets, while the walkways become packed with tourists, teens, couples and numerous camera tripods attempting to capture the enticing scenes. Restaurants serve a feast of food, including fresh seafood, Spanish tapas, or my personal favourite: chips, mayonnaise and beer (the Belgium staple).

The Art of Beer

Beer is taken extremely seriously in Belgium, with many restaurants devoting the majority of its menu to in-depth coverage of various local beer varieties. Each brew is served in a specialised glass, at the precise temperature to ensure optimal taste.

I recommend the various cherry and strawberry beers, such as Bellevue and Framboos. A more masculine beer on offer is the Chimay Bleue. This distinctive dark ale was developed by local monks who were dedicated to finding the perfect brew. One should be wary though, at 9% alcohol volume it is better to savour the full flavoured taste, rather than gulp it back like you may a regular beer.

On the whole the locals are friendly and happy to lend their expertise to recommend particular brews. However, is it not always easy to share their jokes as English comes in third after French and Dutch in the national language stakes.

Bruges is a gem within Europe, offering culture, good food and drink all within the realms of every traveller's budget and tastes. The art and culture junkie will get their fix here, as will lovers of beer, chips and live music. The downside of this popular town is the rush of tourists filling the centre squares and restaurants during the popular summer months of July - August. Worse still, is the the inability to trial all the delectable beer varieties in just one weekend.

The Essential Facts:

Getting there: Bruges is a great add-on to any European trip and is well connected by train, plane and bus to all major European capitals. From London the Eurostar has great deals on accommodation and return train fares starting at ₤100 per person.

Getting around: Bruges is small enough to wander around, with numerous cafes, bars and restaurants available for a rest if the walking gets too much. Alternatively, There are taxis and local buses for travel around the city.

Eat: The ultimate Belgium experience is traditional chips and mayonnaise served fresh from the deep fryer

Events:

• Canalside Festival (September 2008): Dancing, music and historical theatrics light up the canal's for this colorful festival.
• Procession of Holy Blood (May 2008): A festival that began in 1150, where a sacred cloth that was stained with the blood of Christ's wounds is paraded through the town.
• Christmas Market (November 2007 - January 2008): An large open-air ice-rink, festive lights, market stalls and plenty of chocolate take over the Central Market Square.
• Jazz Bruges (September 2008): Jazz artists from across Europe put on day and evening Jazz shows
• Coco Laté Festival (April 2008): A town famed for its chocolate puts on a divine show of chocolate sculptures, tasting presentations, walking tours and cocoa massages.

Further Information:

• Official tourist website
• Belgium for Beer Lovers
• Diamond Lovers
• Chimay breweries
• Hotel Accommodation