What to see and do in Bruges, Belgium

Visited September 2007

Booking through these agencies from here will help support this site at no extra cost to you.

Save on tours & activities with Viator US Ghost Adventures and Haunted Pub Crawls

Bruges is a city located in the northwest of Belgium. It is often referred to as the "Venice of the North" due to its picturesque canals, bridges, and historic architecture.

Bruges is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, and its well-preserved buildings and charming atmosphere attract millions of visitors each year.

We arrived at Zeebrugge and travled by bus to Bruges on 9/22/2007. It is said to have been Walt Disney's model for Disneyland. The first fortifications were built by the Romans in the first century BC to protect the coastal area against pirates. It is a canal based city like Amsterdam. We took a boat ride thru the canals and then did a walking tour of the city.

Bruges received its city charter on 27 July 1128, and new walls and canals were built. Starting around 1500, the Zwin channel, which had given the city its prosperity, began silting up as the sea level fell and its Golden Era ended. The historic city center is a prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bruges was an important center of trade and commerce during the Middle Ages, and its prosperity during this time is reflected in the city's many beautiful buildings and monuments, including the Belfry of Bruges, the Church of Our Lady, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. The city's historic center has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its well-maintained architecture and charming streets make it a popular destination for tourists.

In addition to its historic sights, Bruges is also known for its excellent cuisine, including Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer. The city also has a lively cultural scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and festivals taking place throughout the year.

Overall, Bruges is a charming and picturesque city that offers something for everyone, from its rich history and cultural heritage to its delicious cuisine and lively atmosphere.

Looking for things to do? Viator offers numerous tours in the Bruges area. Click here for details.

One of the many canals in Bruges.

Bruges city hall

The New Parrot Windmill in Bruges was built in 1790 .