9Bruges, Belgium

Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is a fairytale town with picturesque canals, cobbled streets, and medieval buildings. Once a major center of trade and commerce, Bruges’ architectural wealth is evident in its Gothic buildings, including the Belfry of Bruges and the Church of Our Lady, which houses a Michelangelo sculpture.

Bruges was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its remarkably well-preserved medieval center, where the urban fabric from the Middle Ages remains intact, offering a glimpse into the prosperous days of the Hanseatic League.