How Can I See the Best Views in Bruges?

Are you planning a trip to Belgium and wondering which are the best views in one of its most beautiful cities, Bruges? Whether you’re traveling to this fairytale-esque city for its history, beautiful canals, or world-renowned chocolate and beer scene – be sure to explore the best spots in the city. This article provides you with an overview of the best viewpoints and scenic places to visit when in Bruges.As a small city, Bruges is easy to explore on foot and by bike. Our recommendation for seeing some of the best views of the historic city is to set aside a day to wander around, camera in hand and soak up the wonderful atmosphere.

Belfort Tower

Located in the Grote Markt in the city center, Belfort Tower is the most iconic site of the city. Belfort is decorated with symbols from the city’s coat of arms and stands 83 meters (272 feet) tall. This structure – one of the most striking in Bruges – itself has an incredible view of the city center, as seen from its top notch. One of the best things about Belfort Tower is that entry to this landmark is free of charge.

Begijnhof

Another spot with superb views of Bruges is Begijnhof, a courtyard that preserves some of Bruges’ most iconic features of the Medieval era. This secret oasis is a quiet refuge within the city, filled with tranquil gardens, cobbled paths, ponds, a 17th-century chapel, and plenty of greenery. Here you’ll find incredible views looking both out and over the courtyard itself, a kind of secret garden where you can get some photographer’s gold: views with very little people in them!

Canal Cruises

One of the best ways to experience Bruges is to go for a canal cruise. Boat trips are popular for locals and tourists alike and provide a new perspective of this romantic city, allowing visitors to experience Bruges from a completely different angle. Some cruises even include a stop for beer tasting!

Burg Square

Located close to Belfort Tower, Burg Square dates back 800 years and yet has maintained its unique atmosphere. It’s here that you will find a vibrant range of colors juxtaposed against stunning old architecture including Stadhuis (a 14th century stone building). Grab a lunch to go, or sit at one of the nearby restaurants and simply soak up the views.

St John’s Hospital

No visit to Bruges would be complete without a visit to St John’s Hospital – one of Belgium’s oldest and best-preserved hospitals. Having been built over eight hundred years and served a variety of purposes in its past, so St John’s provides a fantastic insight into the region’s history. Get yourself up to roof level for some fantastic views over the city’s canals!

Judith Bridge

At Judith Bridge get close to the action as canal boats float by – it’s here you can snap some unique perspective shots with Belfort Tower in the backdrop. Chiefly made out of brick, once photographed from ground level – Judith Bridge doesn’t look particularly special – however from the top you get postcard-perfect views.

Conclusion

This blog has highlighted six of Bruges’ most famous places for getting stunning views. Either by foot, bike or boat – set aside a day and make sure you’re visiting at least one of these iconic landmarks as they all provide something genuinely unique when it comes to experiencing one of Belgium’s foremost cities. To check out more information specific to each area, visit-bruges.org is an invaluable guide that answers all questions new and old visitors may have about planning their ideal trip.

Insider’s Guide: Unveiling the Hidden Gems in Bruges

Looking for the best views in Bruges? While the famous Belfry is a must-see attraction, there are so many other hidden gems in Bruges that only the locals know. Let’s explore some of the lesser-known sights and sounds of this breathtaking city.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems to Explore

For a city with such a rich history, it is no surprise that Bruges has an abundance of unique attractions to discover. One such place is the Church of Our Lady, where Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child sculpture can be found. Another hidden gem is the beguinages, tranquil clusters of houses and gardens that offer a glimpse of Bruges’ rich history and architecture.

For those in the mood for a scenic walk, a visit to the Minnewater Lake and the adjoining park is a must. This place represents the romantic side of Bruges with swans and beautiful walking paths. And lastly, the city’s open-air museum, the Groeningemuseum, features fine art, old tapestries, and sculptures from the area’s rich history.

Dining Spots: A Gastronomic Tour of Bruges

Bruges is not only home to historical sites, but it is also renowned for its culinary delights. The city is proudly famous for its chocolatiers, so bring back some of the city’s unique artisanal chocolate as a souvenir.

Besides the chocolate delight, Bruges is also famous for its culinary gems such as Belgium waffles, frites, and beer. The Straffe Hendrik brewery offers visitors a chance to tour the brewery and learn about the brewing process, with tastings at the end. And for foodies, a visit to De Stove is a must, where the chef prepares traditional dishes using fresh local produce and seafood.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing the Sights and Sounds of Bruges

Bruges has a reputation for upholding its traditions, and this is evident in its annual festivals. The city’s festivals are a unique way to experience its culture and traditions. For music lovers, the Cactus festival is a fantastic summer concert experience featuring international and local artists.

The Bruges’ Christmas Market is a winter fairytale experience for visitors and locals alike. This market offers an ice rink, shopping booths, seasonal food, and lots of fun activities. Ferme Brugge is another event that takes place in autumn and celebrates traditional forms of farming, crafts, and architecture.

Local History: Fascinating Anecdotes and Tales from the Past

Bruges has a rich history of art, literature, and intellectual thinking. No wonder the city has been described in various ways by the likes of Victor Hugo, Lord Byron, and other famous poets. One exciting historical tale is that Bruges was once a thriving industrial port. The historic city gate Spinolarei was once the site of the city’s bustling port quarter.

Another fascinating fact is that the Belgian king, Albert I, and his family used Bruges as a hiding location during the First World War. The local Bruges’ administration preserved the royal family’s anonymity by referring to them as “Monsieur et Madame François.”

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Exploring the City Differently

Bruges has many unique explorations to offer, from museums to boat rides. But, another different but unforgettable experience is taking a tour in a horse-drawn carriage through the city’s winding streets. The horse-drawn carriage offers you the chance to see the city in a way that feels like you’re travelling back in time.

For those who love walking, a walk along the city’s cobbled streets in the moonlight is an incredibly romantic experience as well. Bruges is always bathed in the soft light of moonshine that reflects off the water channels from every corner.

In Conclusion, Bruges is a city that will enchant every visitor. With its hidden attraction and culinary delights, stunning architecture and art, traditions, and cultural experiences – every moment spent in Bruges is worth cherishing. So why not add this city to your bucket list and get ready to fall in love with the Venice of the North?