Bruges is a picturesque medieval city and a prominent tourist destination in Belgium. With its imposing historic structures, meandering canals, and charming bridges, the city presents a romantic atmosphere reminiscent of fairy tales. To truly explore Bruges and take in all its beauty,
renting a car in Belgium is highly recommended. This way, you can discover the city's hidden gems at your own pace. Here's a brief overview of what awaits you in Bruges.
Discovering Bruges
Start your exploration of Bruges by visiting the main market square, the Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful colorful buildings. Here, you can admire the Belfry of Bruges, one of the city's most famous symbols. Additionally, you'll find an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and shops in the vicinity to take a break and enjoy the picturesque setting.
Getting around Bruges
While the historic center of Bruges can be conveniently explored on foot due to its relative small size, there are still other options for getting around more swiftly. For instance, you can opt to rent a bicycle or take a horse-drawn carriage tour. For a distinctive perspective of Bruges' historic buildings, you may also consider taking a boat ride through the city's canals.
Architecture and History
The Medieval Charm of Bruges
The old town of Bruges is home to numerous examples of medieval architecture. Among them, the Saint-Saviour's Cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century and is known for its colorful stained glass windows and magnificent frescoes adorning its walls. Additionally, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, located on the Markt, is another impressive example of Bruges' Gothic architecture.
Iconic Buildings of Bruges
While strolling along Bruges' cobbled streets, you won't miss noticing the impressive facades of many historic buildings. For example, the Provincial Palace, built in the 18th century, is one of the city's most majestic buildings. Additionally, the Bruges City Hall, which now houses a museum, is an interesting example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
The History of Bruges' Canals
Bruges owes much of its beauty to its canals, which offer a unique way to experience the city. By navigating the canals, you can admire the historic buildings from a different perspective and discover the fascinating history of Bruges' canals. Originally, the canals served commercial purposes, but today they are mainly used for tourism.
The Ramparts of Bruges
The city's ramparts are a reminder of Bruges' eventful military history. Primarily constructed in the 13th and 14th centuries, the ramparts were built to protect the city from invaders. The ramparts are still in relatively good condition and offer spectacular views of the surroundings of Bruges.
Art and Culture
Bruges boasts a vibrant art and culture scene that appeals to visitors from around the world. The city is renowned for its collection of medieval and Renaissance art, with prominent museums showcasing masterpieces by renowned Flemish artists such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.
Food and Drink
Food and drinks are an important part of the travel experience in Bruges. Here, you can indulge in Belgian specialties such as Liège waffles, Belgian chocolates, Belgian beer, and much more.Bruges is a must-visit destination in Belgium and a city where it's easy to spend time exploring the treasures it has to offer. By renting a car in Belgium, you can discover all the hidden corners of this
must-visit destination.