Bruges

Bruges has everything you need for an unforgettable city break: medieval alleys and canals, world-class chocolatiers, Flemish Primitives in churches and castles, and of course outstanding lace. And all near the sea!

Bruges is a city that reaches straight to your heart. It’s a place on a human scale, but which you will never completely fathom. Made great by its history and awarded the UNESCO World Heritage City label. Medievally mysterious, unashamedly epicurean and for centuries a global city.

Some places are special, breathtaking, unique. You simply have to have seen them . Bruges has numerous atmospheric witnesses of a rich past. Peaceful and picturesque, spiritual or great fun.

Top 5 things to do:

• The Beguinage, on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and founded in 1245 by the Countess of Flanders, Margeretha of Constantinople, is now home to an order of Benedictine nuns.
• Bruges counts no less than 55 chocolate shops and a chocolate museum. Make sure to stop by the renowned Master Shock-o-Latier, Dominique Persoone's chocolate shop, The Chocolate Line.
• Quench your thirst at Halve Maan Brewery, a family-owned brewery and creator of the famous 'Brugse Zot' beer.
• Climb the 366 stairs all the way to the top of the Belfry and enjoy the great view over the Market Square.
• Learn more about the rich history of Bruges in the Historium exhibition which stimulates your 5 senses or embrace the beautiful art of the Flemish Primitives in the Groeninge Museum.

And then there's:

• The Rozenhoedkaai, the most photographed spot in Bruges;
• Burg, the place from which the country was governed in the Middle Ages, with the town hall, the Civil Registry and the Holy Blood Basilica;
• The canals: sailing on Bruges' urban arteries you will discover secret gardens, picturesque bridges and wonderfully beautiful still lives;
• The Hanseatic Quarter, the commercial hub of yesteryear where today you can still breathe that atmosphere;
• The Concertgebouw, an international centre for music and performing arts, which guarantees a wide variety of music and dance as well as ample opportunities for experiencing contemporary art.

photos ©visitflanders ©milo-profi ©westtoer