things to do in bruges belgium

Bruges, Belgium – a medieval town that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. Here are some things to do in Bruges:

Must-see attractions:

1. Belfry Tower: Climb the 366 steps to the top of this medieval tower for stunning views of the city.
2. Begijnhof: A charming courtyard with beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
3. Markt: The main square, surrounded by colorful buildings, cafes, and shops.
4. Church of Our Lady: A stunning Gothic church with Michelangelo’s "Madonna and Child" sculpture.
5. Gravensteen Castle: A medieval fortress with a rich history and beautiful gardens.

Other attractions:

1. Canal boat tour: Explore the city’s canals and admire its medieval architecture.
2. Bruges Museum of Fine Arts: A museum featuring an impressive collection of art and artifacts.
3. Groeningemuseum: A museum showcasing Flemish and Belgian art, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch.
4. Huis de Peellaert: A museum dedicated to the life and work of Belgian artist Paul de Peellaert.
5. Bruges Zoo: A small but charming zoo with a variety of animals.

Food and drink:

1. Try Belgian waffles: A classic Belgian treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
2. Sample Belgian beers: Bruges is famous for its beer, with many breweries offering tours and tastings.
3. Indulge in chocolate: Bruges is home to many chocolate shops and cafes.
4. Visit a local market: Bruges has several markets, including the Saturday market, where you can find fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
5. Try some Flemish cuisine: Bruges is known for its traditional Flemish dishes, such as waterzooi (a fish stew) and stoofvlees (a beef stew).

Day trips:

1. Ghent: A nearby city with a rich history and stunning architecture.
2. Ypres: A town known for its World War I history and beautiful canals.
3. Bruges’ countryside: Explore the rolling hills and picturesque villages of the Bruges countryside.
4. The Belgian coast: Visit the beautiful beaches and seaside towns of the Belgian coast.
5. The Ardennes: A region known for its beautiful forests, mountains, and picturesque villages.

Events and festivals:

1. Bruges Festival: A festival featuring music, theater, and dance performances.
2. Bruges Christmas Market: A festive market with food, drinks, and crafts.
3. Bruges Jazz Festival: A festival featuring jazz music from around the world.
4. Bruges Beer Festival: A festival celebrating Belgian beer and brewing.
5. Bruges Summer Festival: A festival featuring outdoor concerts and performances.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Bruges, Belgium. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities, Bruges has something for everyone.