Bruges in One Day

Bruges (Brugge) is worth at least 2 days, but if you only have 1, see the Groeninge Museum, the Gruuthuse Museum, and climb the bell tower at Grote Markt Square. Avoid the restaurants along the square, unless you want to pay extra for your mussels and fries. Do have some chocolate and beer in town, though.

The canal boat ride is nice, but not required. If you have the time and energy, and the weather's OK, rent a bike and pedal north to Damme and back.

You could look at Rick's suggestions for what to see and do (https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/belgium/bruges) and see what appeals to you. You can do a lot in one day. I did a day trip from Brussels and was able to climb the bell tower (do it first thing before it gets too long of a line), Groeninge Museum, Church of Our Lady (Bruges Madonna by Michelangelo), Memling Museum at St. John’s Hospital, Begijnhof , and a canal cruise (about an hour). The only thing I didn't have time for was the De Halve Maan Brewery Tour.

Brett & Kathy: Lots to see and do in one day. Cyn has some good recommendations. However, while in Belgium, you must have at least one glass of Tripel Karmeliet beer--and you don't have to be in Bruges to enjoy it. A truly great beer--and I have consumed enough beers in my life to know a good one when I drink it :)

There are a couple of market squares, with some good restaurants in between them. There is also a bus tour of the city that takes about an hour. I like going to the Beguines' neighborhood, a bit of a walk, but lots of swans and carriage horses.

I really enjoyed the Halve Maan brewery tour. It takes about 60-75 minutes and you can reserve a spot online. One free glass of beer after the tour!

Visiting the Beguinage is not to be missed. I seldom see any mention of in threads about Bruges. It is a peaceful, other worldly place. Google for further details.