Bruges

Bruges is a very sweet, small town. There aren't many new buildings, so you can imagine you are living in the 17th century when you walk around. The canals add to the scene, and if you want you can take an open boat ride (small boats, nothing fancy) on the canals with a tour guide. The town is small enough that you can meander and find things as you go, but if you want some guidance, these suggestions might come in handy:

1. two churches are very close to each other, and you can go into both. one of them is home to a small Michaelangelo sculpture of the Madonna and Child, which is one of the few scupltures by him that is outside Italy
2. chocolate, chocolate, chocolate - you could spend the entire day going into all the chocolate shops. they each have great displays and mouthwatering offerings. try looking for the Chocoladhuis at 15 Woolestraat, a street off the markt square.
3. Belgian waffles - a must
4. the Burg - this square has buildings with pretty architecture. an information booth can also be found here. you can go inside some of the buildings for a fee, or just go into the lobbies to take a peek.
5. Markt Square - lively and the center of town. don't eat in the restaurants/cafes in the square because they are overpriced. instead try the restaurants on the streets that stem from the square.
6. clock tower - you can climb the tower of the church located in the markt square (be prepared for 300+ steps)
7. Belgian beer - you can tour a brewery or sit in a bar offering 400+ beers on the menu
8. The Chocolate Museum - interesting history of chocolate, plus at the end you can see chocolate being made
9. Lybeer Hostel - a nice lobby and gathering area, good breakfast included in the price, and a good location. just make sure your shower works (hot water issues) before you pay for your room.