Donna

"Quaint but crowded and touristy" is the perfect description (and "touristy" is a description I am always loathe to apply). The plethora of lace/chocolate/souvenir shops is quite disturbing, along with most photo ops are virtually impossible due to tour busses and mobs of folks. HOWEVER, if you take a walking tour, concentrate on visiting the "top" sights, and get otherwise away from the "square", you'll be rewarded with one fine experience. All in all, there's a really good reason for "touristy" but "worth it" destinations. They are magnificent!

Judy

We were in Brugge the last week of February this year. We did a day trip from Paris. Beautiful city..not crowded..*cold* (much more than Paris)..ate reasonable and very good lunch at a restaurant on the square. On the other hand, am glad that we didn't stay there for three days last October (cancelled travel for October after 11Sep)as planned. Think one day was just right!

DANLONG

IM OFF TO BRUGGE THIS WEEK-END AND HAVE BEEN LOOKING FORWARD TO IT UNTIL THIS POSTING , AS YOU HAVE BEEN RECENTLY ,CAN YOU SUGGEST A RESTAURANT WITH A BUDGET OF 100 EUROS FOR 2, BUT NOT A FISH RESTAURANT ,<BR>MANY THANKS DAN.<BR>

XXX

DANLONG, <BR><BR>Suggest you don't use all caps as it is considered rude. It makes you appear to be shouting.<BR><BR>We don't want any "Ugly Americans" in Europe, do we.<BR><BR>XXX

kristen

DANLONG -<BR><BR>Don't let postings get you down - can't let people's own personal opinions affect your excitement about upcoming trips...<BR><BR>Went to Brugge in March and loved it. The only meal we ate that was more than 100 euros was at Den Dyver. Went to Brugge looking for great food and beer and found both at Taverna Curiosa - they have a pretty decent selection of different types of meals, and my boyfriend swears by their lasagna. Our fave beer spots were t'bruges beertje (amazing selection, great cheese dishes) and De Garre. I don't think you'll have a problem finding an affordable meal. (And I didn't eat fish the entire week I was there)<BR><BR>

danlong

Kirsten thanks for the Restaurant recommendations,and words of encouragement, Im sure it will be fine now that I am more prepared,

Larry

I made a point of getting up early and going for a walk before breakfast and found that I had Brugge all to myself. It is a great time to take photos unobstructed by fellow tourists. I try to do this in every city, but it really works best in small ones like Brugge