Bruges, often called Venice of the North, is about 100km from Brussels and situated close to the port of Zeebrugge. This small picturesque city has cobbled streets, charming squares and winding canals. Fine food, and an abundance of medieval architecture also make Bruges an ideal short break destination.
Getting around
Due to its size, Bruges is easily accessible by foot but it’s also easy to cycle around with its network of cycle paths. Boat trips also depart from various locations around the city.
Sightseeing
Markt Square notes the centre of the city and boasts impressive Gothic and Renaissance buildings including the 13th century Belfort (belfry) where you can climb the 366 steps to the top and take in the impressive views.
The Burg is another attractive square and houses many pavement cafes and bars.
The Church of our Lady contains works of art, most notable being Michaelangelo’s Madonna with Child marble.
The Groeninge Museum houses art works from Flemish masters including Van Eyck and Bosch whilst the Gruuthuse Museum displays a wide range of objects, providing an inside look at life in the period between 1400 and 1900.
The Choco-Story Museum tells you the story of the transformation of the cocoa bean into chocolate.
There is everything a chocolate fan could desire, including a large library containing works on cocoa and chocolate. There are even chocolate experts on hand for visitors to ask questions, as well as recipes for you to try at home.
Bruges has a long history of lacemaking and the Lace Centre keeps this tradition alive.
Lake Minnewater is ideal for a relaxing walk or a picnic.
Food and drink
The cuisine is of high standard in Bruges. The traditional pot of mussels accompanied by French fries are served everywhere and go well with one of the wonderful lambic beers.
Sample the Bruges famous Flemish Stew made only with fine Belgian dark beer. Other delicacies include crunchy croquettes stuffed with North Sea shrimps and superb patisseries.
The canalside restaurants tend to specialise in French and Belgian cuisine and the views certainly add to the atmosphere.
Brugs Beertje is an interesting speciality beer bar with well over a hundred beers on the menu, all coming in their own special glass.
Entertainment
Concertgebouw hosts opera, dance, classical concerts and theatre.
The open-air cafés lining the market square are a popular choice for the young and lively.
There are also bars for night owls offering a mixture of tunes from jazz to techno.
Shopping
The main shopping area is between ‘T Zand and the Markt. There are shops suitable for all budgets from high-street names and major department stores to smaller boutiques for label lovers.
De Kaarsengieterij is a unique candle shop in the centre of Bruges. It has a wide variety of high quality candles from garden candles to interior candles, all in exquisite colours.
The centrally located Bottle Shop is the perfect place for locally brewed ales. With more than 500 varieties of beer on offer you will be spoilt for choice.
At Kanthuisje you can pick up some locally crafted lace and watch the lace makers in action. Make sure you buy the hand-made variety.
Just off Halletoren, Pralinette is Bruges' largest and best-known praline store. Take home some rare treats and try some different and obscure combinations.
