While thousands of tourists flock to beloved cities like Amsterdam, London, and Paris, the “Venice of the North” is less crowded and just as beautiful.
Bruges, a small but vibrant city in Belgium, has so much to offer to tourists who are looking for a place with fewer crowds and even more charm than the bigger cities.
Located on the northwest coast of the country, you’ll be swept away to a land of cobblestone streets, medieval-style buildings, winding canals, and rich history. Located a little over an hour away from the hustle and bustle of Brussels, Bruges has a sort of quaint, romantic charm that feels straight out of a fairytale, frozen in time. From the horse-drawn carriages clomping through the square to some of the impeccably preserved medieval architecture, you’ll find yourself staring in awe at every turn.
Architecture That Spans the Ages
Bruges boasts an exceptionally well-preserved medieval city center, with towering buildings that will take your breath away. Walking through the city center, you’ll feel like you’ve tripped and stumbled into a completely different century. Rows of gable houses, pointed arches, ornate facades, and barrel vaults are just some of the remnants of the different transformations that Bruges has gone through. Bruges manages to maintain a certain level of charm and history while still adapting to current trends.
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The oldest architecture in Bruges, which saw the construction of the early Romanesque and Gothic buildings, is still visible in the city today. During your visit, you can’t miss seeing the Belfry of Bruges, both literally and figuratively. This astonishing bell tower, dating back to the 13th century, sits in the center of Bruges and is one of the most notable buildings in the old city. For a small fee, you can climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking aerial views of the town and surrounding areas. Or if the 366 steps to the top are too intimidating, there are smaller exhibitions within the tower that don’t require as much cardio.
Other architectural beauties to visit include Museum of the Church of Our Lady, which is the second tallest brick tower in the world, and The Basilica of the Holy Blood, which contains what is believed to be a cloth stained with the blood of Jesus. Though Bruges is known for its beautiful preservation of historical architecture, today you can also see some of the more modern additions that blend seamlessly with past structures.
Canals Can Take You Far
One of the most picturesque and unique parts of Bruges is its intricate network of canals that connect different parts of the city. This is a city where having a car is not necessary because most of the attractions are walkable, and what you can’t walk to, you can take a scenic canal ride. The city is crisscrossed with several canals that wind through the city’s historic center, and were originally used for transportation and trade but have now become an integral part of the city culture. There are tours that depart from the city center and can be a relaxing way to soak in the ambiance of Bruges.
There are several tours available that float tourists around, showcasing passing landmarks and providing a break from the busy streets. There are a plethora of different canals to choose from that will no doubt captivate you, but try visiting Groenerei, utterly charming, Rosary Quay, a photography hotspot, or Minnewater, dubbed “Lake of Love.” And if you aren’t a fan of boats, simply taking a stroll along the canals will provide you with views of dainty swans going for a swim and charming little bridges connecting adjacent parts of the city.
World-Renowned Chocolate
Belgium’s chocolate is considered some of the best in the world, so it’s no surprise that Bruges is home to some of the richest chocolate in the country. Today, Belgium is home to thousands of chocolate shops, many of which are located in Bruges. The city’s chocolatiers tend to use high-quality ingredients such as premium cocoa beans, cocoa butter, and fresh, local dairy products to create their chocolates.
Even if you don’t consider yourself a chocolate connoisseur, you can’t leave Bruges without a little taste. Thankfully, the city has a something for everyone. The shops offer a wide range of flavors and fillings, including pralines, ganaches, and truffles, which can be filled with nuts, fruit, liqueurs, and more. Some of the well-known chocolatiers in Bruges include Neuhaus, Leonidas, and Godiva, but trying out one of the smaller, mom-and-pop shops such as The Old Chocolate House or Chocolatier Dumon are worth a stop. For history buffs, Bruges also has a chocolate museum, Choco-Story Brugge, where visitors can learn about the history of chocolate and participate in chocolate-making workshops.
Art and Museums
Bruges is a hub of artistic and cultural treasures. The city boasts world-class museums, including the Groeningemuseum and the Memling Museum, showcasing Flemish and Dutch masterpieces. The Musea Sculpta is a hidden gem that features statues and sculptures made from gypsum, a soft, sulfate mineral. The preservation of the city’s medieval architecture makes it a work of art in and of itself. The city’s canals, dome-topped buildings, and historic windmills contribute to its charm and offer numerous opportunities for photography and relaxation. While Bruges is celebrated for its historical art, it also embraces contemporary artistic expressions. The Bruges Triennial, held every few years, invites artists to create contemporary installations throughout the city, blending modern art with its medieval backdrop.
The Food Scene
Bruges is a food lover’s dream due to the fusion of Belgian and French influences. The city’s quaint restaurants, often nestled in those historic buildings, offer an unforgettable dining experience with an ambiance that perfectly complements the culinary delights. If the famous crispy Belgian fries are your thing, grab lunch at FritbBar – Bruges for an array of “pommes frites” with a side of sauces like truffle mayo, Indian curry, or BBQ. Flemish Stew is another local staple, which you can get at eatery
‘T Huidevettershuis, which has tables overlooking the canals. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable dining experience, Bruges offers a culinary journey that mirrors the city’s timeless charm.
An Easy Jaunt
Belgium in general is a country worth spending time in, but Bruges will take your breath away. When you consider the world-renowned chocolate, captivating museums, and picturesque canals, Bruges offers something for everyone. Foodies from all over will appreciate the sidewalk cafes and restaurants serving up local favorites and breathtaking views. With so many things to see and do, it’s worth the hour-long train ride from Brussels to transport yourself to a real-life fairytale.
We loved our visit there, but only had one day/night. In July, there were absolute hordes of tourists (yes us included) trekking from the train to the city center. I would love to go again in the off-season. It's simply magical and gorgeous. Use a backpack for luggage if you can, pulling a roller along the cobblestone streets is less than ideal.
Not enough public toilets.