Quaint and atmospheric Bruges has managed to maintain the medieval beauty that Belgium's other cities lack.

Founded in the 12th century, the Dunkerque floods forged Bruges into a main port, making it one of the busiest and most prosperous cities in Europe - surprising given its modest size and character.

In the 16th century the bustling city fell from grace when the river silted over, restricting sea access and killing off the brusque sea trade which the thriving city was built on.

During the industrial revolution quiet Bruges kept to itself and did not trade its stunning medieval buildings for looming grey factories.

It was this non-conformist spirit which has allowed the city to retain its narrow cobbled lanes, winding canals and grand cathedrals and churches.

Small but spirited, Bruges, or Brugge as it is known in Flemish, is a haven for travellers who like pretty cities, upmarket boutiques and good food and wine.

For a relaxing tour of the city, a canal ride is the perfect way to start exploring a city which is big enough to get lost in but big enough that you could be sidetracked by various waffle sellers before you've seen the best bits.

Lasting, roughly 45 minutes the canal rides allow visitors to see its chic canal-side houses - home to the city's achingly chic European inhabitants - and its superb medieval architecture.

Markets are as central to life in Bruges as the bicycle and the two seem to go hand-in-hand. It's not uncommon to see lithe Brugean's cycling back from the city's various early morning markets on rickety old bicycles with delights fresh from the market in their woven baskets.

Markt Square holds a Wednesday morning market where you can buy beautiful fresh Belgian produce and then climb to the top of the 13th centry belfry that looms over the stallholders.

To the east of the market is Burg Square, home to the Romanesque St Basil's Chapel and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. The town hall is an enchanting 14th century Gothic building which houses an impressive collection of the city's ancient artefacts.

If a trip to the fish market across the bridge from the square isn't the type of shopping you'd like to do on a city break, head for T'Zand which has a Saturday morning market as well as quintessentially European boutiques.

Markt T'Zand is also the setting for Bruges' ultra-modern concert hall which showcases Belgian and international music and theatre. A trip to the top of its Lantern Tower is recommended for a stunning view of the city.

Sightseeing is guaranteed to make you hungry and if the delights of the city's numerous chocolate shops aren't enough to keep hunger at bay after a day of sightseeing, a meal in Bruges' restaurants and cafes are guaranteed to satiate even the most hard-to-please gastronomes.

Although Belgian cuisine may be behind the French masters, there are still some top-class eateries and cafes. Don't be surprised if you stumble over a suitably cute pooch as you head to the bar for an espresso. Brugeans love their cute, pint-sized dogs and can often be found sipping coffee and perusing rails of expensive clothes in boutiques with their pedigree chums in tow.

For a delicious croque monsieur try L'estaminet at the Astrid Park where good food and a pleasant terrace can salve the soul of the weariest of travellers.

Carnivores who have had their fill of waffles and fricadellen should head for the In't Nieuw Museum on Hooistraat. Well off the beaten track it offers visitors the chance to refuel before they head off to a chic bar.

Bruges is a romantic, atmospheric destination and its size makes it the ideal destination for a city break. Small enough that you will be able to see everything with a bit of determination but large enough that you won't get bored, a trip to Bruges is rewarding without being overwhelming.