Location: Bruges
Top Things to do in Bruges
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10 Free Things to do in Bruges That You Shouldn't Miss
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. St. James's Church (Sint-Jacobskerk)
5. St. Walburga's Church (Sint-Walburgakerk)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 176 reviews
Reviewed By specialplant - Singapore, Singapore
400m walk away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Beautiful interior with white marble pillars.
6. 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
7. 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!
8. 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!
9. Bruges Art Route
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 727 reviews
Reviewed By LeeB1551 - Barton-upon-Humber, United Kingdom
This is worth a walk to see the windmills. From coach drop off point near Minnewater Lake it took about 30 minutes to walk around to the windmills. From there it was about a 20 minute walk back into the centre of town. Like many buildings in Bruges, the Windmills are visually very striking and provide excellent opportunities for photographs.
10. Farmer's Market Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 51 reviews
Reviewed By Jonnatan - Falls Church, United States
If you come early Wednesday between 7-10 am you will have the opportunity to appreciate and experience Brugge like a local. Flowers, fresh produce, local products like breads, cheeses and a quick bite (pork, sausages, chicken, potatoes, etc) all very taste and super cheap, and without the hectic tourist traffic that now plagues Brugge. I have visited this place 3 times before and never had the chance to experience the Farmer Market. After 10 am they are gone. The locals that carry on this tradition are super nice and willing to let you try their products. you can't miss it.
