Looking for issues to do in Bruges? You have come to the best place. Belgium journey author Sam Van den Haute of Checkout Sam shares the perfect issues to do in Bruges. We are enthusiastic about this submit as we now have but to go to this picturesque city and have at all times wished to go since watching the film In Bruges.
Bruges, additionally identified additionally as ‘Brugge’ in Dutch, is one in every of Europe’s most well-preserved fairytale cities. Located in the western Flemish area of Belgium, Bruges will really transport you to locations you’ve solely examine in storybooks whereas permitting you to indulge in fashionable comforts and delicacies.
Things to do in Bruges, Belgium
Imagine your self strolling down a quaint cobblestone path, previous winding canals teeming with swans and cathedrals from the center ages. Just add some fashionable purchasing spots and the odor of chocolate to that scene and also you’ve received the enchanting, medieval metropolis of Bruges.
Let’s check out the highest points of interest in Bruges that you simply received’t need to miss in your go to to this bewitching vacation spot.
1. Quay Of The Rosary
Rozenhoedkaai (Quay Of The Rosary) is probably the most photographed place in Bruges. Located on a pointy bend of the Dijver Canal it affords the loveliest view in Bruges. The medieval buildings are situated instantly on the canal between the stone bridge and the place the Dijver and Groenerei Canals meet. It’s not possible to miss as it’s a fashionable place to begin for boat excursions.
This guided boat and strolling tour follows an area information as you see Bruges from the Canals on the water. You’ll uncover the narrowest road in Bruges, the basilica, and the Fish Market in your strolling tour. You’ll then get onto a canal boat tour on the Quay of the Roasary and sail alongside the canals to view the facades lined in ivy as you float underneath bridges admiring the great thing about town. Details right here.
Visit the 2Be – Beer Wall
Hot Tip: Make your means to 2Be for a chilly beer throughout the Canal to view the well-known beer wall. Belgium is known for its beer and 2Be homes greater than 1000 totally different beers alongside its 30-meter-long beer wall.
Beer followers will love this extremely rated tour. This Bruges beer expertise units off on foot to find out about and style Belgian beer. It consists of visits to native hidden gems and a well-liked beer bar. The tour consists of Five tasters and three areas together with a brewery. Plus a mini chocolate pairing.
2. the Old Town of Bruges
Home to over 117,000 folks, Bruges, is usually referred to because the “Venice of the North. ” With canals weaving by way of the Old Town surrounded by the grand canal, Bruges is the proper place to discover a combination of enjoyable issues to do and see. But in contrast to Venice, there’s the choice of discovering small quiet corners to loosen up and soak in the splendor.
The Old Town of Bruges is a delegated UNESCO World Heritage Site and its small space packs a big punch. Many of the highest points of interest in Bruges are simply accessible as you wander the streets and discover the canals. With its distinctive historic pathways, church buildings, and parks, you’ll uncover a metropolis in Europe that stands out from the remainder.
This non-public strolling tour is really helpful to discover the city heart. You’ll see a lot of the high Bruges points of interest such because the Belfry of Bruges and Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk a church containing the Madonna and little one by Michelangelo. You’ll wander the canals and alleyways and finish with an optionally available boat journey alongside the canal to see the sights. More particulars right here
3. Lake of Love
The Lake of Love (Minnewater) is a quiet retreat inside Minnewater Park on the south finish of Bruges. This picturesque location is ideal for quiet strolls. One of probably the most photographed locations in The Lover’s Bridge spans the canal and it’s stated that when you cross the bridge with the one you’re keen on and sneak a kiss, your love will final ceaselessly.
4. Belfry of Bruges
A protected World Heritage website, the Belfry of Bruges is a medieval bell tower in the center of Bruges’ medieval city. This is a hovering masterpiece that stand 83 meters (272 toes) excessive it affords some spectacular panoramic views of town.
The climb up would possibly really feel a tad claustrophobic, however the trek will show to be properly price your whereas. Within the bell tower, its 47-bell carillon remains to be tolled manually on any given day.
The Belfort is named an important and symbolic tower in Bruges courting again to the Thirteenth century. It is a standing reminder of one of many oldest examples of medieval structure. You may also acknowledge the Belfry of Bruges tower which was featured in the well-known film “In Bruges”.
5. Bruges Museums
Bruges has many artwork museums and galleries and the Bruges: Museu Musea Brugge Card provides entry to 12 museums. Prices begin at 33 Euro and provides entry to Belfort (Belfry of Bruge), City Hall, Groeninge Museum, Liberty of Bruges, Sint-Janshuis Mill, Our Lady of the Pottery, Folk Museum, Michelangelo’s ‘Madonna and Child’ and extra.
You can activate your card up to one yr after buy. To activate your card you possibly can instantly go to the attraction and scan your voucher on the entrance. Get your card in advance right here.
One of the extra distinctive locations to go to in Bruges is the Torture Museum. This was the oldest jail in Bruges courting again to the eleventh century. Today it has been remodeled right into a museum exhibiting the cruelty of mankind. There are genuine torture devices courting again to the center ages. There are wax figures depicting a few of the torture gadgets transporting you into the horrors of this early dungeon. Even although it’s troublesome, it’s typically vital to see what people are able to in order that we study to not repeat the errors of our previous.
6. Market Square
The Brugge Markt in any other case referred to as the Market Square (or Bruges Markt) is likely one of the high spots to try whereas in Bruges. Today the sq. is chock-full of eating places and retailers and is used as a gathering place for locals. Market Square can also be the place you possibly can catch a trip on a horse-drawn carriage to discover town!
Each constructing in Market Square is exclusive, and you’ll discover the distinct adjustments in structure all through time as you stroll by way of this historic market. For these craving for a “life-like” stroll into the previous, make sure to cease by “Historium” situated in the sq., which affords a historic expertise again to the fifteenth century!
The medieval market sq. has been in use because the yr 958 and can also be the situation of the well-known Belfry tower. A go to right here is one that you just can’t cross up. Make certain to maintain an eye fixed out for the statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck who led the Flemish rebellion in opposition to the French king in 1302.
One of probably the most romantic issues to do in Bruges is to take a horse drawn carriage tour. Carriages go away from Market Square and take you on a half-hour trip to see the Bruges canals, historic bridges, and delightful squares.
7. The Burg Square
For these in structure and historical past, you’re certain to be dancing with pleasure all through your whole journey to Bruges. The Burg is a sq. that has been inhabited because the 2nd Century and displays examples of Renaissance, Gothic, and Neo-classical structure together with the Old Town Hall – a star attraction in Bruges. You will end up strolling by way of historical past with every constructing you cross in your means into Burg sq..
The historic buildings in one of many oldest elements of Bruges embrace the “Stadhuis” often known as the Bruges City Hall, which is preserved from its authentic construct in 1376, and the Old Civil Registry from 1537. The Old Town Hall is likely one of the oldest buildings in the whole area and town has been ruled from right here for greater than 600 years. There is a museum on the bottom ground that’s price going into.
You can even see the historic court docket of Justice, the Church of our Lady, and the Palace of the Liberty of Bruges (Brugse Vrije). You may even pop on over subsequent door to discover the outdated fish market and plenty of scenic canals!
The Burg Square is a superb place to begin to discover Bruges. From the sq., proceed your stroll to discover the colourful alleys that lead you to the canal. It’s stunning, free, and oh-so-photogenic.
8. Church of our Lady
The Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk) is an alluring magnificence originating from the Thirteenth century. Complete with a 115.5-meter-high tower, (379 toes) the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk is the highest-standing construction in Bruges and is outwardly the second tallest brick tower in the world. And here’s a enjoyable truth, additionally it is the second tallest brick constructing in the world.
The Church shows varied notable artworks from artists such because the marble Madonna by Michelangelo. It has been expanded and renovated over time, initially taking roughly two centuries to assemble. It is at present present process additional restoration. Some artworks will probably be unavailable to view due to the renovations, nevertheless, the vast majority of this spectacular church together with the Madonna ought to now be accessible.
9. St. John’s Hospital
Reflecting its over 800 years as a working medical establishment, this fashionable historic museum is discovered within the medieval Saint John’s Hospital.
Sint-Janshospitaal is understood for being one of the vital properly preserved outdated hospitals in all of Europe. Now a museum, it provides you the prospect to see what the outdated wards and life in the hospital would have been like.
As for artwork, there are various collections from varied homes of worship that have been in the outdated neighborhood of Saint Jan’s. Many of these items have been handed over to Saint Jan’s Hospital after the autumn of Napoleon in the yr 1815.
Amongst these examples of high-level non secular artwork, you’ll additionally discover donated works from associated charities, in addition to the well-known Sixteenth-century ensembles from Hans Memling within the chapel.
10. The Begijnhof
As a UNESCO World Heritage website since 1998, Begijnhofs, or “Beguinages” are surely a singular characteristic of Europe, particularly Belgium and the Netherlands.
Dating again to the mid-Thirteenth century, these historic complexes have been initially inhabited by a group of non secular girls, or Beguines, who lived their lives by instance of the apostles. The Begijnhof in Bruges particularly counts as one of many best-preserved. Some Beguine’s homes are open to guests the place you possibly can step again in time to get a really feel of what it was like to reside right here!
The Beguines lived in a neighborhood consisting solely of ladies; those that have been widowed or single that wished to reside in a pious method. The Begijnhof remains to be used immediately as dwelling quarters for nuns and girls who’ve chosen to keep single.
As you stroll down its tiny cobblestone streets, you’ll go away behind the noisy environment of town and end up in a peaceful, serene space.
11. Basilica of the Holy Blood
The wonderful Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed (Basilica of the Holy Blood) dates again to the twelfth century. It is likely one of the high points of interest in Bruges and isn’t to be missed. Named for Our Lady and Saint Basil, this well-known double church is alleged to possess a vial harboring drops of the blood of Jesus Christ himself.
The blood of Jesus was supposedly delivered to the basilica from the holy land after the crusades in the twelfth century. This relic of Jesus is taken out each day at 2 pm permitting guests to pay their respects.
Being a double church, you’ll discover two distinct sections in your go to. An higher church, which sports activities neo-Gothic structure and is dwelling to the relic of the holy blood, and a decrease chapel, which has preserved its Romanesque options. You received’t need to miss the prospect to see this distinctive basilica in individual!
The Basilica of the Holy Blood, aka Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed is situated in town heart, simply west of town corridor. Bruges City Hall is often known as the “Stadhuis.
12. Groeningemuseum
There is not any higher place for artwork lovers to find out about Belgian artwork and historical past than the well-known Groeningemuseum! Bruges has loads of artwork galleries however Groeningemuseum is likely one of the best. This artwork museums is constructed on the previous location of the medieval city, Eekhout Abbey, the museum affords a complete visible overview of assorted features from Flemish & Belgian artists, in addition to paintings from between the 14th to the Sixteenth century.
This consists of neo-classical items from the 18th and Nineteenth centuries. Many post-war fashionable artwork items and examples of Flemish expressionism are additionally highlighted on the museum and let’s not neglect the world-renowned assortment of Flemish primitive work.
Of course, many of those works have been initially created in Bruges itself! It’s additionally good to be aware that there are common showcases of lovely exhibitions held in the Groeningemuseum.
Don’t neglect to try the apothecaries and herb backyard!
13. Loppem Castle
Emphasizing the fairytale-like environment of Bruges, the Nineteenth-century Loppem Castle will be discovered simply 10km south of town heart.
Boasting stunning neo-gothic structure, the Loppem Castle combines its authentic inside and architectural state with its winding backyard maze, and an enormous assortment of artwork to take you again in time.
The fort was briefly dwelling to King Albert I after the primary world conflict, even internet hosting Queen Elizabeth in 1918.
Walking by way of the corridors of Loppem fort brings to life the footprints left by artists and kings of the previous.
14. Hof Arents Park
After that a lot sightseeing, you’ll be prepared for some peace and quiet. Located instantly behind the Arentshuis museum, you will discover the attractive Hof Arents.
This charming inexperienced park is located alongside the canals and affords a small idyllic bridge, outdoors paintings, and plenty of hidden benches between tall timber.
While the 18-century Arentshuis museum itself is definitely price a go to, you’ll be exhausting pressed to discover a extra tranquil spot because the Hof Arents park.
15. De halve maan
Beer lovers will get pleasure from stopping in at De Halve Maan Brewery. It dates again to the Sixteenth century and has been handed down from technology to technology since 1856. No European metropolis go to can be full and not using a tour of the city’s brewery. De Halve Maan affords each day brewer excursions the place guests can get pleasure from a pint of Brugse Zot Blond Beer on the finish of the tour.
Hot Tip: An added bonus is you could go up to the highest of the brewery and expertise a panoramic view of town, saving you the €10 you’ll’ve spent going up to the highest of the Belfry of Bruges.
16. Jan van Eyck Square
Located in the Hansa Quarter, Jan Van Eyck Square is called after the well-known painter Jan Van Eyck. This is a quieter sq. than different squares in Bruges however it’s fairly picturesque.
During the Thirteenth to fifteenth century, Bruges was the buying and selling heart between England, Germany, and Scandinavia and this historic quarter of the Old Town provides you a way of what this vital crossroads was like. It is right here you could view the outdated mansions of the wealthy merchants who took up residence in Bruges. Jan Van Eyck was supported by the wealthy patrons of Bruges and there’s a statue of him at its heart.
17. Go Windmill Hunting
We all know that the Netherlands is known for its windmills, however Bruges has them too! In truth, Bruges isn’t too removed from Amsterdam and many individuals take day journeys from Amsterdam to see Bruges. The windmills of Bruges have turn out to be a well-liked attraction in Bruge with a handful of windmills situated simply outdoors the outdated metropolis. Sometimes referred to as windmill stroll, guests can take a stroll to see the picturesque windmills. You can go inside a few of them as properly.
18. ChocoStory Chocolate Museum
No journey to any Belgium metropolis can be full with out visiting a chocolate museum. The Choco Story Chocolate Museum Tour takes you on a journey by way of time to study in regards to the origins of chocolate and also you’ll get to style it too. Details right here.
Did you realize that there’s 4000 yr historical past of chocolate? This chocolate museum has three phases telling the historical past of the evolution of chocolate to how it’s made and a tasting.
How to Get to Bruges
Bruges is situated in the North-West of Belgium in the Flanders area of the nation just some km inland from the North Sea. Bruges is lower than an hour’s prepare trip from Brussels.
It is known for its canals and slim streets and the Bruges metropolis centre is a UNESCO world heritage website. It’s one in every of Belgium’s most well-preserved medieval cities and is a must-visit when exploring the nation.
Because it’s comparatively small, you possibly can see a variety of Bruges and the medieval city in a short while. Bruges is only a quick drive or prepare trip from Brussels and is well-connected with different cities in Belgium and Europe.
Bruges to Brussels: 101 kilometers (62 miles) Bruges to Ghent: 47 kilometers (29 Miles) Bruges to Antwerp: 90 kilometers (56 miles) There are additionally ferries to Bruges from England. Traveling by prepare to Bruges is straightforward and handy. Brussels airport has a railway station so you possibly can go instantly to Bruges when you land. Or you possibly can do what we desire, hire a automobile and take a street journey. You can examine costs right here at RentalCars.com
Bruges Day Trips
Many folks take day journeys to Bruges from Brussels and Amsterdam, however to actually get a really feel for this metropolis it is best to spend the night time. For reserving accommodations, we use Booking.com and TripAdvisor for comparability purchasing, evaluations, and offers.
Bruges is situated in Flanders and a well-liked day journey from Bruges is to go to Flanders Fields. The poppy fields of Flanders are visited on this tour. You could bear in mind the poem In Flander’s Field by John McCrea. The tour takes you to The WWI Battlefields, the Menin Gate Memorial, and the cemetery in addition to the poppy fields made well-known by the poem. Tickets will be bought in advance and there may be simple cancellation with 24 hours’ discover. Book your tour right here.
While in Flanders, a well-liked cease is the Groeningemuseum. It shows well-known Flemish artists like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.
When is the most effective time to go to Bruges?
The greatest time to go to Bruges is from the top of May to the start of September. From June to August the climate is gentle and sunny and it’s the excessive season for vacationers.
Out of each European metropolis you’ll have had the prospect to go to, I assure that Bruges will stand out from the remainder.
From its tiny canals to its historic markets and museums, there actually is not any place prefer it. Bruges will go away you with an enthralling, nostalgic impression that’s certain to final a lifetime.
Read More about Bruges and Belgium
This Bruges article was initially written by Sa van Den Haute and has been up to date for 2023 by The Planet D group.