Bruges, the capital of West Flanders in northwest Belgium, is known for its beautiful canals, cobblestone streets, and medieval buildings. The port of Zeebrugge is an important hub for fishing and trade. In the city center, you can visit the 14th-century Stadhuis with its detailed ceiling in Burg Square. Nearby, the Markt square is home to a 13th-century belfry with a 47-bell carillon and a 83-meter tower that offers stunning views. The Markt also features horse-drawn carriage rides and 17th-century buildings now used as restaurants and cafes. The Basilica of the Holy Blood holds an important Catholic relic, which is showcased during a grand parade on Ascension Day. The Church of Our Lady, built over two centuries, displays Michelangelo’s famous “Madonna and Child” sculpture. The Kantcentrum offers lace-making demonstrations, and the Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan brewery provides guided tours. At the Groeningemuseum, you can explore centuries of Flemish and Belgian art.
Places to visit in Bruges
Belfry of Bruges
The Belfry, or Belfort, is a medieval bell tower in Bruges, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It once served as a treasury, municipal archive, and fire lookout. Visitors can climb 366 steep steps to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city. Standing at 272 feet tall, it’s a perfect spot to admire Bruges from above.
Groeningemuseum
Located in Bruges, the Groeningemuseum features six centuries of Flemish and Belgian art. The museum showcases works by famous artists such as Jan van Eyck and Peter Paul Rubens. It highlights the evolution of art from the Early Netherlandish period to modern art, with collections that include Renaissance, Baroque, and 20th-century masterpieces.
St. Salvator Cathedral
St. Salvator Cathedral is Bruges’ main cathedral, dedicated to Saint Donatus of Reims. The cathedral holds many works of art, some of which were salvaged from its predecessor, the Sint-Donaaskathedraal, which was destroyed. It’s a beautiful place to explore both for its architecture and its religious history.
Old St. John’s Hospital
Founded in the 12th century, Old St. John’s Hospital is one of Europe’s oldest surviving hospitals. The hospital complex now houses the Hans Memling Museum, showcasing artwork by the early Netherlandish painter, along with medical instruments and records. It offers a glimpse into the hospital’s medieval past.
Bruges City Hall
Bruges City Hall, one of the oldest city halls in Belgium, is located in the historic Burg Square. The Gothic hall features stunning murals from the late 19th century, depicting Bruges’ glorious history. It is a remarkable place to learn about the city’s governance and the power struggles of its past.
Gruuthusemuseum
The Gruuthusemuseum in Bruges is housed in a medieval mansion and showcases a variety of applied arts from the 15th to 19th centuries. Visitors can explore the home of a wealthy family, complete with furnishings and art from the late Middle Ages. The museum’s collection also includes silver, gold objects, musical instruments, and a famous bust of Emperor Charles V.
Brugse Vrije
Brugse Vrije is a historic area in Bruges that includes the old assize court and a Renaissance hall. This location was once the center of local governance in Bruges. It also features a large, decorative fireplace from 1528, adding to the rich history of the area.
Provinciaal Hof
The Provinciaal Hof is a Neo-Gothic building in Bruges that once served as the meeting place for the provincial government of West Flanders. Its architecture is in the Gothic Revival style, and its central meeting room features sculptures of royalty and murals of famous local figures. The building also displays artwork from the Romantic period.
Loppem Castle
Loppem Castle, located near Bruges, is known for its well-preserved architecture and interior decoration. The castle has a rich collection of art and is surrounded by a picturesque park, complete with ponds and a maze, which is protected as a heritage landscape.
Markt
Markt, or Market Square, is the heart of Bruges and surrounded by historic buildings. Notable landmarks include the 12th-century Belfry and the West Flanders Provincial Court, which was rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style after a fire in 1878. In the center of the square stands a statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck, two famous figures from Bruges’ history.
Best time to visit Bruges
The ideal time to visit Bruges is from May to September. During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for strolling through the city’s canals and cobbled streets. The summer months also bring many outdoor events and festivals. Late spring, especially May and June, offers fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed experience. September is also great for enjoying the city before the cooler weather sets in.
