Bruges

Medieval romance

An entire city center as a UNESCO World Heritage Site: you don't need more reasons to visit Bruges. But of course there are also the picturesque canals, the delicious chocolates and the top-class museums. Lovers of music and architecture are also drawn to the Concertgebouw. Bruges' concert hall is as impressive for its appearance as it is for its varied program. And then there is the De Halve Maan brewery, which transports its beer through the city using its own pipeline.

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Highlights

The rustic home brewery De Halve Maan, family-owned since 1856, actually has its own beer pipeline and can also be visited and the in-house beer with illustrious names such as Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik can be tasted.
One of the oldest preserved hospital buildings in Europe, dating back to the 12th century, the Sint-Jans-Hospital, now serves as a museum. The medieval wards now house an impressive collection of archives and antique medical equipment as well as an extraordinary art collection, including works by the Grand Master Hans Memling. The Church of Our Lady boasts one of the tallest brick church towers in the world. Equally impressive is the wealth of art treasures here, such as the marble statue of the Madonna and Child by Michelangelo. Right next door, the Gruuthuse Palace is well worth a visit. Art lovers will find important works by the old masters Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling or Hieronymus Bosch in the Groenigemuseum with insights into over 6 centuries of art history!
The picturesque Blinde Ezel Bridge takes us across the Huidenvettersplein, which is reminiscent of a stately courtyard, to the Burg Square. This has been the city's center of power for centuries and the current city council of Bruges is still based in the 14th century town hall. The Gothic hall with its impressive vaulted ceiling and murals depicting the history of the city is a real eye-catcher. Another special feature of Burgplatz is that you can admire several majestic buildings of different architectural styles from different periods on this one square.
Along the cozy stores in the Wollestraat, you walk to the Dijver, part of the Bruges canals. These canals, spanned by historic arched bridges, shape the character of the city. The photo spot par excellence in Bruges is the Rozenhoedkaai. Rosaries were once sold here, but today it is one of the most beautiful spots in the city. Summer or winter, at dawn or dusk, it exudes a special ambience. You can experience the city in a very impressive way on a romantic boat trip through the canals.
Cobbled alleyways meander past centuries-old buildings. The network of small canals flows alongside exceptionally well-preserved historical sites. Near the Minnewaterpark is the "Lake of Love", an ideal romantic spot for a leisurely stroll, which can be continued in the fairytale beguinage from the 13th century. The authentic streetscape is almost perfectly preserved, even the skyline is still intact. In the Middle Ages, Bruges was one of the most important trading centers in Europe.

Insider Tips

Grote Markt

The Grote Markt, the market square in the center of the old town, is the beating heart of the city. It is dominated by the impressive Belfry, which at 83 meters high is one of Bruges' most important sights. A climb up the 366 steps of the belfry is rewarded with a breathtaking panorama. Once at the bottom, a cooling Belgian beer or a Belgian “warm chocolademelk” with koekjes awaits you on one of the terraces.

History & chocolate

Afterwards, you can visit the Historium, which uses VR technology to immerse you in the history of the city and the Middle Ages - an experience for young and old alike. At the Choco Story chocolate museum, you can watch Belgian chocolates being made or even create your own.

City brewery with beer pipeline

The rustic home brewery De Halve Maan, family-owned since 1856, actually has its own beer pipeline and can also be visited and the in-house beer with illustrious names such as Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik can be tasted.