【Europe Travel 2026】In-Depth Travel Guide to Prague and Bruges｜Hidden Gems of Old Town Square and the Clock Tower Revealed

Planning the perfect European getaway is often a dream for many travelers. As we approach 2026, the trend in travel has shifted from the past's "whirlwind tours across three countries in a day" to a more refined and atmospheric "deep experience travel." If you've already experienced the vibrancy of Paris or the modernity of London, why not follow Kinnso's lead this time? Step into the enchanting cobblestone streets that resemble a fairy tale and explore the captivating medieval charm of Prague in the Czech Republic and Bruges in Belgium.

For travelers departing from Hong Kong or Taiwan, reaching these two cities has never been easier. You can opt for direct flights to Frankfurt, Germany, or Amsterdam, Netherlands, or even connect through Dubai to arrive in Prague. Meanwhile, Bruges is easily accessible by train from Belgium's capital, Brussels. Are you ready to pack your bags? Let's uncover the classic charm of Prague's "Old Town Square" and Bruges' "Belfry," while also discovering hidden gems and practical travel tips that only the insiders know!

Upon entering Prague's Old Town Square, you will undoubtedly be awestruck by the stunning array of buildings that span centuries of history. Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture seamlessly blend together, creating an open-air museum of European architecture. The soul of the square is undoubtedly the world-renowned Prague Astronomical Clock. Built in the 15th century, this intricate timepiece not only tells the time and date but also displays the positions of the sun and moon along the ecliptic. Every hour, the windows above the clock open, and the wooden figures of the Twelve Apostles slowly make their appearances, accompanied by the tolling of the bell by Death, reminding everyone of the passage of time.

Old Town Square is undoubtedly the most crowded spot in Prague. If you're aiming to capture the perfect photo without any passersby, it is highly recommended to arrive between 6:30 and 7:00 AM. At this hour, Prague is just waking up from its morning mist, and the golden sunlight bathes the spires of the Church of Our Lady before Týn, which resemble the towers of a dark fairy tale castle. The entire square is so tranquil that you can only hear the sound of your footsteps and the distant chirping of birds. Furthermore, instead of jostling with hundreds of people in the square to watch the astronomical clock strike the hour, consider spending a little money to buy a ticket and ascend the Old Town Hall tower. The breathtaking 360-degree view of the entire Old Town, with its red-roofed buildings, is truly worth the price of admission!

Now that you've arrived in the Old Town, Kinnso would like to personally recommend a hidden gem—the "Museum of Alchemy" (Speculum Alchemiae). Tucked away in an unassuming ancient building on the outskirts of the Old Town, this site is rumored to have served as a secret laboratory for alchemists during the reign of Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II, where they concocted elixirs of immortality and attempted to turn lead into gold. It wasn't until after a significant flood in 2002 that this underground labyrinth was brought back to light. Following a guide through the dimly lit subterranean passages, you’ll encounter ancient flasks and mysterious symbols, satisfying your thirst for adventure. This unique cultural experience is perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking something different.

- Local Currency: Although the Czech Republic is part of the European Union, it uses the Czech Koruna (CZK). The approximate exchange rate is: 100 CZK ≈ 34 HKD / 136 TWD. It is advisable to carry a credit card that waives overseas transaction fees and withdraw a small amount of cash from local ATMs for snacks. - Theft Precautions: Old Town Square and Charles Bridge are hotspots for pickpockets. The best time to be distracted is when watching the astronomical clock strike the hour. Be sure to wear your backpack in front of you and keep valuables close to your body. - Must-Try Food: After a long day of sightseeing, don't forget to grab a freshly baked "chimney cake" (Trdelník) around the square. Coated in cinnamon sugar on the outside, you can add vanilla ice cream inside. The combination of warm bread and cold ice cream is absolutely perfect!

Leaving behind the mysteries of Bohemia, we turn our focus to the ancient Belgian city known as the "Northern Venice"—Bruges. This city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its dense network of canals, ancient stone bridges, and well-preserved medieval architecture. Dominating the Market Square (Markt) is the Belfry of Bruges, a landmark you simply cannot miss. Standing at 83 meters tall, this bell tower, constructed in the 13th century, once housed the city’s treasury and archives. Today, it serves as a prime destination for travelers seeking both a physical challenge and breathtaking views.

To truly appreciate the stunning views of Bruges, you must first conquer the narrow and winding 366 spiral wooden steps within the belfry. As you ascend, the stairs become increasingly narrow, sometimes requiring you to turn sideways to pass by other visitors heading down. However, trust that when you finally reach the top, the refreshing breeze and the picturesque scenery before you will make every bit of effort worthwhile! You'll be able to clearly see the charmingly uneven rooftops, the meandering canals, and the windmills in the distance. If you're lucky enough to catch a performance of the carillon (which features 47 bells), the crisp and melodious sounds echoing across the city will undoubtedly become one of the most unforgettable auditory memories of your European trip in 2026.

Bruges is an incredibly popular destination for day trips, with the peak crowds arriving from noon until around three in the afternoon. Kinnso highly recommends spending at least one night in this romantic town! After five in the evening, as large groups of day-trippers depart on their tour buses, Bruges truly reveals its serene charm. At this time, you can stroll to the renowned "Rose Garden Quay" (Rozenhoedkaai) and quietly admire the perfect reflections of the ancient buildings on the calm waters of the canal, free from the distraction of other tourists.

On the following morning, consider visiting the "Ten Wijngaerde" located in the southern part of the city. In stark contrast to the bustling market square, this serene garden is surrounded by houses with white exteriors and was once home to devout nuns. During the spring season, the courtyard blooms with beautiful daffodils. As you stroll through this tranquil space, you will instinctively lower your voice, immersing yourself in the peaceful atmosphere that purifies the soul.

- Local Currency: Belgium uses the Euro (EUR). The approximate exchange rate is: 1 EUR ≈ 8.4 HKD / 34 TWD. Electronic payments are widely accepted here. - Belfry Reservation Tips: To protect this historical building, there is a strict limit on the number of people allowed to climb the tower at the same time. Avoid the temptation to queue on-site; it is highly recommended to purchase tickets for specific time slots through the official website at least one month in advance to avoid disappointment. - Transportation Guide: Take a direct train from Brussels Midi Station to Bruges, which takes about 1 hour with frequent departures. Upon arriving at Bruges train station, you can easily reach the city center either by local bus or by walking for approximately 20 minutes.

Whether you're strolling through the Old Town Square in Prague, feeling the passage of time, or climbing the Belfry in Bruges to gaze down at the medieval red-tiled rooftops, both cities possess a magical allure that allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of urban life. During your European journey in 2026, resist the urge to mindlessly chase after the number of tourist spots. Instead, carve out some time to sit by the canal with a Belgian beer, or retreat to a cozy café in Prague to write a postcard! Follow Kinnso's lead to uncover hidden gems behind these classic attractions, and you're sure to experience a European holiday filled with warmth and depth. Start looking for flights now to kick off your next adventure!