Bruges

Flanders

The northern part of Belgium is known as Flanders. All Flemish towns are brimming with quaint medieval squares, tree-lined canals, gorgeous architectural facades, world class museums, trendy fashion and designer boutiques, and friendly outdoor cafés perfect for sipping on one of the many hundreds of different local beers. And – not to forget – the best chocolate in the world...Travelling to Flanders is an unforgettable experience!

The city's name means "bridge" in the local language â this is a city on the water, countless bridges, cobblestone streets, a medieval city still very much alive... The entire city is Unesco World Heritage.

All the stunning beauty and culture of this unforgettable city can be easily explored on foot, by boat ride along quiet canals, or by horse-drawn carriage through the narrow winding alleys.

Although Bruges is a small city, it will surely take more than a day to explore all of its architectural and artistic treasures, folklore, chocolate shops, lace boutiques, and local restaurants.

And honestly, stay for the night â since you wouldn't want to miss the sun setting over this romantic town...

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Not to Miss

Historium

Historium is your rendezvous with history: you can experience the golden ages as if you were there – Bruges in 1435. Housed in a magnificent historical building at the Markt in Bruges, this is a perfect place to start your visit of Bruges.

Bruges on the Water

A wonderful way to discover this romantic city is by by boat ride along the meandering canals and under the countless bridges. Go aboard at any of the five landings across town for a trip that allows you to appreciate the most noteworthy delights of the city from a completely different angle.

Bruges by Horse-Drawn Carriage

The carriage ride along Bruges’ historic winding streets is a most delighful way to explore the city, with the coachman giving expert commentary en route. A fresh breeze in your hair on summer days, or covered under a warm blanket in winter – sweet romance!

Begijnhof

The century old Beguinage – or Begijnhof – with its whitewashed facades and tranquil convent garden leaves no one unaffected. While the entrance gates are open, seize the opportunity to discover all facets of this peaceful haven. Admire the leaning trees and visit the small Beguinage museum and tiny church. Keep your eyes open for perhaps you will encounter one of the nuns of the Order of Saint Benedict, the present inhabitants of the Beguinage.

Belfry

Built in the 13th and 15th century it is widely considered Belgium's finest, with a carillon that has rung every quarter hour for nearly seven and a half centuries. It’s 366 steps to the top for a breath-taking view over the city.

Church of Our Lady

This church took around 200 years to build, with a spire constructed entirely in brick. It houses a marble Madonna statue by Michelangelo.

Lace

Lace is still made by hand, and many shops offer demonstrations – the intricate patterns and genuine craftsmanship required to make fine lace make this a perfect souvenir. Also worth a visit is the Lace Center, housed in the tastefully restored almshouses founded by the Adornes family: lace demonstrations are frequently given, and in the museum shop all materials for lace-making can be purchased.

Halve Maan Brewery

This museum and brewery is where visitors can discover the old traditional brewing methods in Bruges and taste their famous beer “Brugse Zot”.