During my second day in Belgium, I booked a bus tour from Brussels to the picturesque villages of Brugges and Ghent. Both are enchanting Medieval era towns offering charming architecture and splendid canal views.

When my tour group first arrived in Brugges, we headed straight for the striking town center, known as “Market Square”. Brugges is the capital of the province of West Flanders. The square is encompassed by shops, restaurants, and other buildings designed in the Medieval period. The famous clock tower hovers over its center also. We were given some free time on our own, so the group scattered about until the designated meeting time.

I decided to pay a visit to the 12th century Catholic church in the town center. The “Basilica Of The Holy Blood” is said to contain a cloth with the blood of Jesus. It has two beautiful chapels. I went inside the upstairs chapel to appreciate the alter and the stained glass windows.

The ornate Provincial Court House borders the Basilica. Visitors could not go inside so I just admired the structure from the perimeter.

I took a walk around other parts of the square.

After some browsing in the gift shops, I headed back to the Market Square spot where my tour group was re-assembling.

We then made a stop at the Church Of Our Lady. Here I was able to view an impressive Michaelangelo of Madonna and Child. In addition, you can find many Medieval period paintings and church memorabilia such as elaborate alters pieces, podiums, and statues.

We also passed by a Medieval religious women’s quarters.

When lunch time arrived, I just had to dine at the only vegan restaurant in town: De Bron(De Bron Restaurant)! I ordered the medium veggie plate containing brown rice, mixed vegetables, and a veggie burger! It was absolutely delicious!

My tour group was given ample time to shop for Belgian chocolates! I purchased some vegan dark chocolate with nuts! It was delectabe!

After eating, I strolled by the canals, where geese were roaming about in the sunlight.

Our group started walking to the other side of the town, as we passed by the castle. We got some stunning views of the dwellings by the canal walls! We noticed the gorgeously detailed structures and the design of the roof tops.

Onward by bus to the village of Ghent, we went!

The first landmark we visited was the St. Bavo’s Cathedral. There is where we viewed Van Eyck’s infamous “The lamb Of God” alterpiece series of paintings. Paul Ruben’s painting “St. Bavo Enters The Convent At Ghent ” is also found there.

The town also is home to its own clock tower.

As we strolled by the canals and admired the old architecture surrounding us, we bid adieu to the town and headed by bus back to our home base of Brussels.