Things to do in Bruges

Bruges offers a good selection of attractions, with an emphasis on cultural and historic themes. Sites offering classical architecture, fine art and famous Bruges icons are listed among the most popular places in the country. Theme parks and similar manmade attractions are somewhat absent and its probably fair to say that Bruges is not the county to visit if you are looking for fast-paced thrills and spills.

Historic Centre

The historic centre of Bruges is the main focus of all tourist activity here and no visit to the centre is complete without a walking or boat tour to appreciate the wonderful architecture on offer here. The medieval and Gothic constructions can be seen on every corner, and the citys former status as a commercial and trading capital is evident on these stunning buildings. Get a good map and tour on foot, or head to the canals just behind the main square to see the city from a different perspective.

Church of Our Lady

Housing Michelangelos Madonna and Child statue, this church attracts hordes of visitors annually. The richly ornate interior also boasts a beautiful altar and a painting of the Last Supper as well as others by important Flemish painters from the 16th century. The spire stands 22 metres tall, with the exterior incorporating elements of Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Markt Square

Dominating the city, this vast square is the focal point of Bruge, surrounded as it is by magnificent period buildings. In addition to attracting visitors who come to see the characteristic buildings that line the square, it also makes for a popular place to sit and have a coffee and watch the world go by.

The Belfry Tower

Situated in Markt Square, the chimes of the Belfry can be heard all over the city. Overlooking the square, the impressive tower has 390 steps, open to energetic tourists. Built in the 13th century, the tower contains 47 bells and lives up to its reputation for playing some delightful tunes on the hour. Views from the top are impressive and not to be missed.

Bridges

Bruges boasts more than 50 bridges on the citys canals, making for wonderful viewing on a walking or boat tour of the city. The oldest bridge dates back to the 10th century, while there is also a bridge with a novel legend that those who are single and cross it will marry the first person they lock eyes with after crossing the bridge. Nicknamed the Venice of the north, the city is criss-crossed by waterways, which can be toured by boat; only tour boats are allowed on these waterways.

Old Civil Registry

Located in Burg Square, this Renaissance style building was constructed from 1534 to 1537. Much of the decorative elements were destroyed in 1792, but the building has now been renovated to its former glory, with three bronze statues outside representing Justice, Moses and Aaron. Used as a court, this building is one of Bruges fine examples of stunning architecture.

Museums

For visitors looking for a slice of Belgian culture, Bruges has an excellent museum selection covering a variety of different areas. The Groeninge Museum, or the 'Museum of Fine Arts', offers a collection spanning the period from the 14th to the 20th century, with works predominantly from artists originating from Bruges. The Gruuthuse Museum meanwhile is the citys most diverse facility and contains both artworks and antiques that comprise of a collection that was started back in 1865. An archaeological museum houses items from Bruges past found during excavations, while a folklore museum recreates the working and living quarters of bygone days in Bruge.