Location: Bruges
Top Things to do in Bruges
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10 Historic Sites 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. Provinciaal Hof
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 59 reviews
Reviewed By a1eksandar - Belgrade, Serbia
Located at the main, and the biggest, square of the city (Markt square) this building is pretty amazing in terms of architecture and impossible to be missed.
5. Huiz Perez de Malvenda
6. Oliebaan
7. Bladelin House (Hof Bladelin)
8. Brugse Vrije
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 258 reviews
The Brugse Vrije is the former law court of Bruges. It now houses written history of Bruges as the city archives are based here. Take a walk through the old court to the renaissance hall, which was once the alderman's chamber. Here, the highlight is a monumental 16th century wood, marble, and alabaster fireplace known as the Emperor Charles V fireplace, designed by Lanceloot Blondeel. (tickets via Stadhuis)
Reviewed By a1eksandar - Belgrade, Serbia
Gorgeous place adjacent to the city hall. Used to be a courthouse apparently. Amazing architecture and attention to details.
9. Smedenpoort
10. Gentpoort
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 269 reviews
The Gate of Ghent is one of four remaining medieval city gates. An entrance for foreigners, a border with the outside world for the townspeople of Bruges. The gate was a part of the city's defences as well as a passageway for the movement of produce and merchandise. Note the statue in the niche above the roadway: this is Saint Adrian, who was believed to protect the city during times of plague. The Ghent Gate is at its most beautiful in the evening, when it is quite literally in the spotlight.
