Husband and I are off to France for 3 weeks in October and I've convinced him to take a day trip to Bruges. I've done some reading, so am aware of places of historic interest as well as the canals and boat rides. What would Fodorites suggest are a "must"; we enjoy walking, historic buildings, shopping, but are not big on art galleries.

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I don't think one day will do bruges justice...however, if you cannot overnight, then I would say the 'must see' places are: cathedral of the sacred blood, bell tower, at least one of the other two cathedrals, st john hospital which is now an art gallery but upstairs is a medical museum which was fascinating, take a canal cruise, go to the "chocolate line" shop for the best chocolates we found (but others will have other suggestions), wander the side streets and you'll see elderly ladies still making lace by hand...etc etc. If you can also convince him, I would highly suggest a day trip to Ypres and the western front. I used quasimodo tours - they pick up at your hotel, the firm is owned by an australian couple with a great passion for WW1 history and preservation. A carriage ride is also wonderful, stroll thru the bejuinhof if possible. gosh, how can you possibly try to do just one day????

Musts??.....fries in the square,mussels for lunch...If your going to cover territory you must rent a bike early before they are all taken....If they are, go to St Marys( forgot the name) there is a bike shop nearby just ask...then have them tell you the main streets to see evrything...dont linger as one day is not enough

I've only been once, for 3 days, could have used a couple more days. If you can swing at least one overnight there you won't be sorry - evening and early mornings when it's quiet are magical. Did you know that you can email a request for a free brochure? Mine arrived via regular mail in less than a week (I was amazed). There's a handy map included, I think its www.visitbrugge.be or you can google it. The climb up the bell tower is well worth the effort (not bad), if you can, time your climb for when the bells will be ringing! I loved all the museums and churches. If you don't care about sidewalk seating and want to save some money just go off the main squares (Markt and Burg)to the little side streets and find a cafe. Mmmm, crepes and cider! I did a Flanders Fields day tour that I'll never forget. To save time, taxi from the station to your lodgings, (should be 10 Euros or less), it's easy to get lost in Bruges - but fun. Or just take a bus to Markt Square and schlep your bags from there. I would recommend you bring a compass to help follow the map. For just 1 or 2 days you will find plenty to see and do just walking around the main squares.