What is the Best Place to Visit in Bruges?

Bruges, known as the Venice of the North, is a beautiful city situated in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is a popular tourist attraction with its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and medieval buildings. The city is also filled with cultural attractions, restaurants and cafes, shops, and museums. With so many things to do and see, many people ask the question: What is the best place to visit in Bruges?

The answer to this question depends on the type of experience the person is looking for. Are they more interested in experiencing the culture, sightseeing, or relaxation? There is something for everyone in Bruges, no matter what they are looking for.

1. Culture

The first place to visit in Bruges for a cultural experience is the Belfry of Bruges, also known as the Belfort. This medieval bell tower has been a symbol of power and wealth in the city since 1240, and the historic character of it can be seen in its Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The Belfry offers a beautiful view of the city and a magnificent 360-degree view of the countryside. Visitors can also climb up the 366-stair spiral staircase to the top of the tower for a closer look at the bells and bells themselves.

For those looking for a taste of history, the Burg square offers a great insight into medieval architecture. Here, one will find many buildings from the 14th century, including an old hospital, the former court of justice, and a wealth of old churches. Visitors can admire grand gothic facades, 14th century guildhalls, and ancient cobblestone streets. The Burg’s fountain with its four-sided sectional basin is especially impressive, providing plenty of opportunity for photography.

For culture seekers looking to take in a unique musical atmosphere and plenty of art, there are plenty of opportunities at the Concert and Country Music Festival at Minnewater Park. This outdoor concert and folk music festival takes place on Saturdays in July and offers visitors a delightful yet relaxing atmosphere to enjoy live music, dance performances, food stalls, and even glow-in-the-dark bubble artists. It is definitely an experience worth checking out if you are interested in music and culture combined.

For an extra special experience, visitors can join a guided walking tour through Bruges’ enchanting canals and take part in various cultural activities such as chocolate workshops or cheese tasting tours.

2. Sightseeing

Bruges is also known as a city of canals and bridges. For those looking to appreciate this quaint city by boat, there are plenty of companies offering canal boat rides through Bruges’ network of waterways. Boat tours are a great way to get to know this romantic city and admire its many bridges, canals, and flowery banks in peace and tranquility.

The historical center is home to some of Bruges’ most iconic sights and landmarks. A popular spot for visitors is the photogenic Rozenhoedkaai (Rose Cross Quay), otherwise known as “Little Venice of Bruges’ due to its riverlike canal connecting with a small bridge in front of beautifully painted houses. Other famous landmarks to check out are the Basilica of the Holy Blood, with its incredible stained-glass windows depicting scenes from the bible; Market Square (Grote Markt), which was once a market for selling goods but now hosts plenty of restaurants; City Hall (Stadhuis); and the famous Belfort (Belfort Tower).

3. Relaxation

Aside from its cultural attractions and sightseeing opportunities, visitors can indulge in some peaceful moments along Bruges’ whimsical canal systems. Wherever you go in this little city, cobblestone streets full of historical buildings await you. Streets such as Ezelstraat (Neighborhood Street), Oud Sint-Janstraat (Old Courtyard Street), and Blekersstraat (Blockers Street) are perfect spots to just wander through while taking in all the beauty that surrounds you. For those who want to relax along the canals without any activity but simply bask in their beauty and serenity, there are plenty of waterfront cafés where you can sit on benches outside with a nice warm Belgian beer or hot chocolate while admiring the view.

Conclusion

No matter what type of experience you are looking for, Bruges has something that will suit your tastes perfectly! With its culture, sightseeing attractions and spots for relaxation, Bruges is one of Europe’s most delightful cities to explore. To learn more about what to visit and do in Bruges make sure to check out this guide from Vlaanderen Nieuws, which provides detailed information for all sorts of experiences.