Bruges is a place that has managed to retain its medieval appearance amazingly. The capital of West Flanders province is a fairytale city in northwest Belgium. It is a captivating destination plucked straight from the pages of a storybook. Be it for sightseeing in Bruges, or simply wandering its charming streets, this alluring city will capture your emotions and heart with its magical charm and timeless beauty. Bruges is touted as among the world's most romantic cities, given its network of canals, cobbled streets, and fairytale buildings.
Let us look at five enchanting places to visit in Bruges, explore their historic sites, indulge in delicious treats, and immerse in the art and culture of this Belgian gem.
Best Places to Visit in Bruges
- Markt Square
- Belfry of Bruges
- Minnewater
- Basilica of the Holy Blood
- Groeninge Museum
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Markt Square
Located in central Bruges, Markt Square is a vibrant and historic place wherein people converge. Surrounded by colourful, ornate buildings, the square is a bustling hub filled with locals and tourists. Markt Square hosts various events, markets, and festivals throughout the year, and is one of the top places to visit in Bruges. The square is a perfect starting point for your Bruges day trip as it is centrally located and has easy access to other Bruges places to visit.
Things to Do at Markt Square
- Climb the Belfry Tower for breathtaking and panoramic views of Bruges
- Indulge in black Belgian chocolates and waffles at the charming cafes and chocolatiers
- Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride around the square and nearby streets, enjoying a unique and charming way to see the fairytale sights
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Belfry of Bruges
The Belfry of Bruges is an iconic bell tower standing 83 metres over Markt Square, offering a glimpse into Bruge's colourful past and commanding mesmerising views of the surroundings. Dating back to the 13th century, the belfry offers panoramic views of the city from a vantage point, rewarding visitors with breathtaking vistas of Bruges' enchanting architecture and picturesque landscapes. In those days, the belfry had a treasury and housed the municipal archives, and a place to spot fires and other dangers.
Things to Do at the Belfry of Bruges
- Ascend the tower to listen to the historic Carillon bells playing enchanting melodies
- Learn about the tower's history and significance at the Belfry interactive museum
- Capturing postcard photos of the tower and the surrounding market square is one of the memorable things to do in Bruges
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Minnewater
Minnewater, also known as the Lake of Love, is surrounded by lush greenery and quaint bridges. It is a perfect spot for a stroll and a serene moment away from the bustling life of the city. Couples often stroll here, adding to its reputation as a symbol of love. People once believed that water nymphs or “minnen” lived in the area. Visiting Minnewater with your soulmate is one of the most romantic things to do in Bruges.
Things to Do at Minnewater
- Take a romantic boat ride on the canal that flows from Minnewater to the city centre
- Admire the graceful swans gliding on the lake, adding to the fairytale atmosphere
- Explore the nearby Begijnhof, a tranquil courtyard with historic houses
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Basilica of the Holy Blood
A place of profound religious significance for Christians, the Basilica of the Holy Blood is a 12th century chapel in Bruges, and one of the top Bruges places to visit. The Basilica houses a vial believed to contain cloth stained with the blood of Jesus Christ. The beauty of the Basilica and the legend of the blood draws huge numbers of visitors all through the year. The vial was supposedly transported from Jerusalem to Bruges and it still remains unopened.
Things to Do at Basilica of the Holy Blood
- Attend the daily procession to behold the vial, a solemn ceremony dating back to the 13th century
- Marvel at the interiors and the beautiful stained glass windows of the Basilica
- Soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the sacred place is the most enriching Bruges Belgium things to do
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Groeningemuseum
For art enthusiasts, the Groeningemuseum is a treasure trove of Flemish and Belgian art. The museum showcases an impressive collection of paintings, including works by noted artists such as Jan Van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch. Spanning over several centuries, the exhibits offer a captivating journey through the evolution of Flemish art and its influence on European masterpieces. The museum also contains several works of modern art from the post-war period, besides masterpieces of Belgian symbolism and modernism.
Things to Do at Groeningemuseum
- Admire the exquisite collection of paintings ranging from the medieval to the modern eras
- Gain insights into Flemish art and its influence on European art history, and spend time appreciating the diverse styles and techniques used by the masters
- Visit the museum shop for art-related merchandise, books, and souvenirs
Best time to Visit Bruges
The best time to visit Bruges is the spring and autumn seasons, or from April to June and September to October. The weather is pleasant during these months, with blooming flowers welcoming you in spring and colourful foliage weaving a blanket of magic in autumn. Swimming, sunbathing, and watching various bird species are among the best things to do in Bruges, Belgium. The mild temperature makes it ideal for enjoying strolls along the canals and outdoor sightseeing in Bruges.
Travel Insurance for Bruges
It is essential to have travel insurance to ensure a safe and stress-free Bruges trip. A comprehensive policy should include medical coverage for emergencies and hospitalisation, protecting you from unforeseen health issues. Additionally, consider trip cancellation or interruption coverage to safeguard your travel investment in case of unexpected events. Baggage loss or delay coverage ensures you are reimbursed for misplaced belongings. With the right travel insurance, you can explore the fairytale city of Bruges with peace of mind.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the relevant industry. It is advised to verify the relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.
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