Bruges attractions

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Bruges, often considered one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, has a city center that has barely changed since the Middle Ages. And there are the swans too! 🙂

First, let’s clarify the spelling: Brugge is the local form, while Bruges is the English version. I’ll stick with the Belgian form.

The city is frequently referred to as „the Venice of the North” because of its numerous canals. Remnants of old fortifications and mills surrounding the old town are located along these canals. Its name likely originates from the Germanic word „Bryggia”, meaning a mooring place or bridge.

Its popularity was further boosted by the film „In Bruges” which featured several famous quotes. This is also where the fairy-tale expression, „are the swans still there?” comes from.

Bruges attractions

Main Square (Grote Markt)

The main square of Bruges is surrounded by stunning buildings, with a statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck at its center.

Its most notable buildings include the Belfry (which I will introduce below) and the Provinciaal Hof. The latter, now the seat of the West Flanders provincial government, was originally built as a post office in the 19th century.

Belfry and Halle

The medieval belfry is one of the most prominent symbols of Bruges’ main square. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.

The belfry was built around 1240 on the market square when Bruges was an important center for the Flemish cloth industry. After a devastating fire in 1280, the tower was largely rebuilt.

The 83-meter-tall structure is accessible by a narrow, steep staircase of 366 steps, offering an excellent view at the top.

The base of the tower is the former market hall, Halle, a rectangular building with an inner courtyard. Accordingly, the belfry is also known as Halletoren (hall tower).

Church of Our Lady (Onze Lieve Vrouw)

Its 116-meter-tall tower is the city’s tallest structure and the world’s third-highest brick tower. Construction began around 1230, with its current form taking shape in the 15th century.

The church houses many art treasures, the most famous being Michelangelo’s „Madonna and Child.” Additionally, the tombs of Charles the Bold, the last Valois Duke of Burgundy, and his daughter, Princess Mary, are located here.

Basilica of the Holy Blood (Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed)

An ancient Catholic church in Bruges, it was granted the status of a minor basilica (basilica minor) in 1923. Tightly integrated with surrounding buildings, including the Bruges City Hall, its ornate entrance may not immediately suggest a church at first glance.

Flanders’ first Count, Baldwin Iron Arm, built a fortress in 862 as a defense against Norman invasions. In its southwestern corner, the Chapel of St. Basil, more commonly known as the Holy Blood Church, was constructed in the 12th century.

It became famous for the Holy Blood relic. This relic is actually a phial, originally made for perfume, containing a piece of cloth believed to be soaked with the blood of Christ.

City Hall (Stadhuis Brugge)

One of Belgium’s oldest buildings, it’s located near the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

Its construction began in 1376 and was completed in 1421. Built in the Late Gothic style, this grand and opulent building is a testament to Bruges’ 14th-century prosperity. The façade features statues of biblical and historical figures, including counts and countesses of Flanders.

The interior is equally stunning, particularly the Gothic Hall on the first floor, where wall paintings depict significant historical events of the city.

Saint Salvator’s Cathedral (Sint-Salvatorskathedraal)

The cathedral of Bruges, dedicated to the Holy Savior and Saint Donatian of Reims.

As the city’s main church, it is one of the few buildings in Bruges that has survived the centuries unscathed. Originally not designed as a cathedral, it was granted this status in 1834.

The interior, measuring 101 meters in length, contains notable furnishings and houses many works of art.

Steenstraat

This street, leading from the main square, takes you to Saint Salvator’s Cathedral.

Not only considered the main street, but it’s also regarded as the most beautiful street in the city. Typical Bruges-style houses along this street host a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Bonifacius Bridge

Located near the Church of Our Lady, this is Bruges’ most famous bridge.

Despite being built in the 20th century, this narrow stone bridge attracts many tourists and offers the best view of the church.

Saint John’s Hospital (Sint-Jansspitaal)

Situated along the river, this former hospital is Bruges’ oldest building, founded in the 12th century.

Exhibitions of documents and surgical instruments in the former wards depict the hospital’s history. The old pharmacy next to the wards is also preserved.

Dijver Canal

A must-do in Bruges is a boat trip along the city’s canals, with the most picturesque part being the houses along the Dijver section.

The 15th-16th century buildings beautifully line the waterfront, offering a glimpse back into medieval times.

Beguinage (Beginjhof)

This complex of white houses has served as a residence for nuns and religious women since the 13th century.

Worth visiting for its beautiful park with flowers and an exhibition about life in the 17th century. The small church is dedicated to Saint Elizabeth.

Sint-Janshuismolen

Located along the eastern canal of the city, there are four windmills that played an important economic role until the 19th century.

Among them, Sint-Janshuismolen in Kruisvest Park is the most famous. It’s the only one still in its original location, continues to grind flour, and is open to visitors.