Bruges is a very beautiful city, with a very romantic and medieval look. It is considered World Heritage Site since 2000 because its historic center is a very well-preserved example of medieval times. Historically, Bruges became a big city, even bigger than London. Its focus was textile production. At that time, the city had a canal that connected to the sea. When the canal dried up and the city lost access to the sea, Bruges became isolated. At that time Antwerp (today the second-largest city in Belgium) and its port grew, leaving Bruges behind.
You can visit its main attractions in just one day!
Here are the 10 most important things to visit in Bruges
De Halve Maan
Beer lovers should take a guided tour of the De Halve Maan brewery. On this tour, you get to know the history of the place. In the end, you can taste some beers, as well as try the snacks and dishes prepared for visitors at the Brugse Zot Blonde. In the most complete tour, you are accompanied by a beer expert and the tasting is in the cellars of the brewery.
Choco-Story
If you are passionate about chocolate you must visit the Choco Story which is a museum entirely dedicated to telling the story of the transformation of cocoa into chocolate. In the museum, you will discover how the Belgians produce chocolates that are among the most famous in the world.
St Boniface Bridge
This bridge offers one of the most romantic views of the city. St Boniface Bridge is a small bridge built in 1910, which gives a beautiful view of the oldest part of Bruges and is worth a photo.
Grote Markt
This is the most famous tourist spot in the city, with a wide square full of beautiful buildings where you will also find the Bruges Historium. Another building you will find in the square is the Provinciaal Hof, a beautiful neo-Gothic building that is the seat of the provincial government of West-Vlaanderen.
Belford Bell Tower
Visit the top of the bell tower which is a historical tower, having started to be erected in the year 1282, but its completion was only in 1482. It was also created as an observation point to warn people of dangers. You will have access to one of the most beautiful views of the city.
Steenstraat Road
This is one of the busiest streets in the city. Take the opportunity to visit the typical chocolate shops and observe the colors of the buildings on this wonderful street.
Boat trip on the canals of Bruges
I recommend the boat trip in Bruges is simply fantastic. While observing the beautiful canals of this city you will hear the explanation about the buildings and history of the place. The tour departs from several points in the city.
Beginjnhof
A super quiet village, full of greenery, where nuns of the order of St. Benedict currently reside. Beginjnhof is already a Unesco heritage site, built in 1245 by the Beguine order. Enjoy the silence!
Minnewaterpark
The Minnewaterpark and the nearby Lake of Love (Minnewater) are something of an oasis in the city of Bruges. Stroll through the park and enjoy this beautiful landscape. Believe me, you won’t regret it.
Windmills
The mills were built on the city walls and used to turn wheat into flour. Today, four of them are still in operation and are located here.
