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.

Best museums in Bruges

Bruges stands out not only for its beauty but also for its museums showcasing the art and history of the city and Belgium.

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Best museums in Bruges

Groeninge Museum

Built on the site of the medieval Eekhout Abbey, this museum displays several centuries of Flemish and Belgian painting.

The museum’s highlights include the collection of early Flemish paintings, such as works by Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and Gerard David. These reflect the rich artistic heritage of 15th and 16th-century Bruges.

In addition, we can see works by a wide range of Renaissance and Baroque masters, as well as paintings from the 18th and 19th-century neoclassical and realist periods.

All information can be found here!

Saint John’s Hospital (Sint-Jansspitaal)

The former hospital on the riverbank is Bruges’ oldest building, founded in the 12th century and now functioning as a museum.

In the former wards, an exhibition of documents and surgical instruments showcases the hospital’s history. The old pharmacy next to the wards has also been preserved.

All information can be found here!

Memling Museum

Located in the old chapel of Saint John’s Hospital, it is one of Bruges’ smallest but very atmospheric museums.

Six paintings by Hans Memling, a 15th-century painter, are on display. His most beautiful work is the Saint Ursula Shrine, where the artist „narrates” the main events of Ursula’s life.

Gruuthusemuseum

Showcasing Bruges’ centuries-old history in the Gruuthuse ducal palace along the Dijver canal.

The palace was built in the 15th century and was once owned by the wealthy and influential Van der Aa family. You can see the ornate reception rooms, bedrooms, and chapel.

The exhibition includes furniture, bobbin lace, gold and silver objects, weapons, musical instruments, and ceramics. The most famous object in the collection is the painted terracotta bust of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, from 1520. Another outstanding value is the collection of 16th and 17th-century Flemish tapestries.

All information can be found here!

Arentshuis

Located next to the Groeningemuseum, in the former Arents house, it showcases an impressive collection of works by British artist Frank Brangwyn.

The house itself is wonderful: built in the 18th century, it has preserved part of its original interiors, giving visitors insight into the lifestyle of the era.

The Arentshuis displays numerous paintings, drawings, and engravings, as well as a furniture collection and other artifacts related to Brangwyn’s work and era.

All information can be found here!

Historium Bruges

Located next to the Main Square, this museum takes you back to medieval Bruges with modern solutions.

With interactive elements and VR goggles, you can truly feel like you’re in the Middle Ages. From the building’s tower, a panoramic view unfolds.

All information can be found here!

Choco-Story

A small museum that presents the history of chocolate through exhibitions.

The museum showcases the journey of chocolate from ancient Mayan and Aztec cultures to the modern European confectionery industry. We can learn how cocoa was used in religious rituals and as currency, and how chocolate became a popular drink and dessert in Europe.

They also offer chocolate tastings, demonstrate praline making, and of course, you can buy from the many types of chocolates.

All information can be found here!

Frietmuseum

Nowadays, they make museums about everything, so why would french fries be left out!?

According to reports, the exhibition is very interesting and informative; you wouldn’t think there’s so much to learn about potatoes and french fries. At the end, you can eat a good meal at a discounted price in the cafeteria.

All information can be found here!

Lamp Museum (Lumina Domestica)

A special museum boasting the world’s largest collection of lamps. This museum presents the history of home lighting using lamps from different eras and cultures.

Its collection of over 6,000 pieces includes historical lamps from all over the world. You can find early oil lamps, gas lamps, and early examples of electric lighting.

The permanent exhibitions show how lighting technology has evolved over the centuries and what innovations have contributed to modern lighting.

All information can be found here!

Best museums in the world

There are many great museums in the world. Here are some of the best!

Read More

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