Location: Bruges
Top Things to do in Bruges
Top 10 Things to do in Bruges, Flanders
What could be more romantic and inspiring than a place that looks like a backdrop for a fairy tale? The medieval overtones of Bruges’ cobblestone streets lead to countless historical, architectural and artistic wonders. Marvel at ornate houses lining intricate canals, and understand why this is a favorite destination for all types of travelers. The whole city emanates an appreciation of the past, a love of the present, and enthusiasm for the future. Don’t miss Hof Bladelin, Groeninge Museum, Church of Our Lady, and Belfry and Market Halls.
Restaurants in Bruges
1. Historic Centre of Brugge
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 17,556 reviews
The historic center of Bruges has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 thanks to its status as one of the commercial and cultural capitals of Europe and its enduring Gothic architecture. The Belgian city center is cited as a great example of a medieval historic settlement, even while it has evolved over the years.
Reviewed By Bubbles73uk - Weedon Bec, United Kingdom
I was just one day in Bruges and it was really really marvellous & so appealing. "The Venice of the North" is famous for its myriad canals, bridges & picturesque town square. Bruges is full of historic medieval buildings, old-style bars & cafes & speciality shops, soaring towers, historic churches, old whitewashed almshouses, chocolate & lace, quaint cobbled streets & the UNESCO World Heritage centre. If you have the opportunity to spend at least one day over there don’t waste it.
2. Basilica of the Holy Blood
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,027 reviews
This chapel contains a phial that reputedly contains Christ's blood brought back from the Crusades.
Reviewed By aline901 - Beirut, Lebanon
This is a beautiful Basilica that comprises two level churches. It is snugly located in a corner of Burg Square, the Basilica of the Holy Blood consists of a Romanesque lower chapel and a Gothic upper chapel The lower level church, a dark Romanesque structure, is so beautiful and has amazing statues of Jesus and the Virgin Mary. The upper level church, connected by staircase, is amazing with modern and gothic style, houses the Relic of the Holy Blood. We were so lucky to visit on a Sunday morning when they held a mass and the Relic was on display afterwards for visitors to see it and get the blessings.
3. The Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,840 reviews
Reviewed By TheSGB
I've always loved Bruges as it was the first place I stayed when inter-railing as a student in the 90s with a backpack, some Belgian Francs in my pocket and a bunk bed in a youth hostel booked. What I remembered most was that it was Springtime and the daffodils at the Beguinage were stunning. Many years later I returned to Bruges last month with my boyfriend (his first visit) and I made sure to come in late March, hoping to catch the daffodils at their best. We got lucky...a beautiful sunny week and the Beguinage was a stunning as I remember. A beautiful, peaceful place to stroll around and reflect...even for a non-religious person like me. I could probably have done without the tourists who were doing a sexy, pouty photoshoot in mini skirt and thigh high boots (not sure this is quite the location!) but each to their own!
4. Belfort
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7,834 reviews
The most important of Bruges' towers stands 83 metres tall. It houses, amongst other things, a carillon with 47 melodious bells. In the reception area, waiting visitors can discover all kinds of interesting information about the history and working of this unique world-heritage protected belfry. Those who take on the challenge of climbing the tower can pause for a breather on the way up in the old treasury, where the city's charters, seal and public funds were kept during the Middle Ages, and also at the level of the impressive clock or in the carillonneur's chamber. Finally, after a tiring 366 steps, your efforts will be rewarded with a breath-taking and unforgettable panoramic view of Bruges and her surroundings.
Reviewed By colinb977 - Peterborough, United Kingdom
272feet (83m) 366 steps to the top, but well worth the effort,because the view is marvellous, There are a couple of landings on the way up with interesting items to see, while you catch your breath. At the top the carilllion chimed while we were there, Get there at opening time 09.30hrs because when we got down loads of people were queueing,
5. Minnewater Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,567 reviews
Looking for a scenic place to take a romantic daytime or evening stroll? Minnewater Lake offers urban nature lovers a perfect setting regardless of the season or time of year.
Reviewed By 721mariand - Dublin, Ireland
Very pretty lake set in well laid out and beautiful park close to the city centre in Bruges. A place to enjoy a very pleasant stroll away from the hustle and bustle
6. Burg Square
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,764 reviews
Reviewed By cvtmuench - Mesa, United States
Bruges is such a charming city: cobblestone streets, 17th century buildings, beautiful scenery along the canals, Christmas market, and hundreds of Catholic Churches. Mass at the Basilica of the Holy Blood and veneration of the relic, the only Michelangelo sculpture in Belgium (the Madonna and Child), and the tomb of Charles the Bold. Love Flanders!
7. The Markt
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,056 reviews
Reviewed By cvtmuench - Mesa, United States
Bruges is such a charming city: cobblestone streets, 17th century buildings, beautiful scenery along the canals, Christmas market, and hundreds of Catholic Churches. Mass at the Basilica of the Holy Blood and veneration of the relic, the only Michelangelo sculpture in Belgium (the Madonna and Child), and the tomb of Charles the Bold. Love Flanders!
8. De Halve Maan Brewery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,875 reviews
Reviewed By 91elzbietal
Definately need to visit when in Bruges. Last of the breweries in the town!! Grear beers, lovely history and beautiful views of the city!! Recomedning the XL tour with beer tasting!
9. Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,558 reviews
After nearly 60 years, Bourgogne des Flandres has returned to the inner city of Bruges with its own brewery. Explore the brewery and breathe in the smell of malt and fresh hops in the loft. See how the beer is brewed with your own eyes! During the visit you will find out more about hops and the brewing process, learn how to tap beer digitally and/or take a bottle with your picture home! Of course, at the end of the tour you will get a free Bourgogne des Flandres and enjoy a wonderful view of the Bruges canals …
Reviewed By D7764FSalexandrel
Being a beer geek myself, visiting the brewery of Bourgogne des Flandres was a must in Bruges. And I was not disapointed. The tour was very well balanced through history and technical details, and the enconter with the Thomas the brewer was very interesting. He told us all about his job while doing it at the same time. You finish the tour with a nice beer flight (tasting of 6 different beers).
10. Bruges Beer Experience (Bruges Beer Museum)
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,770 reviews
At the Bruges Beer Experience you discover the most fascinating aspects of beer in a fun and innovative way. The iPad Mini takes you deep into the rich world of beer... You learn about the history of beer, from its beginnings until the present day, beer in Bruges, Trappist beers, beer types and brewing processes. You can taste, smell and feel every beer ingredient. Which of their properties are beneficial to our health? You interactively learn what role women played in the world of beer, how to combine a gastronomic dish with the right beer and what the history of beer is in your country. After the museum visit you get to taste the different beer types and styles. The price of admission includes a tasting of 15cl of three beers of your choice.
Reviewed By stephjarvis1991 - Hampshire, United Kingdom
Great fun using the iPad as an interactive tour guide and finding the quiz markers too. Bar at the End where you can sample various beers is modern and spacious. Staff really helpful and as always great at English.
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