Bruges Things To Do

Groeninge Museum

Bruges' flagship art museum, and one of the finest in the country, the Groeninge houses a huge collection of Flemish masters, spanning over six centuries. From classic early works to more contemporary pieces, there's a huge body of art to view here, with the guided tours available offering a good introduction to the history of Belgium art.

Market Square

The market square is the medieval commercial centre of the city. Impressive monuments include the Belfry and Cloth Hall on the north side the Provincial Court. The rest of the square is occupied by restaurants and cafes located in guild houses. The statues at the centre of the square are of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck, who were leading figures in the resistance against the French occupation in 1302.

Belfry

One of Bruges most distinctive landmarks is the bell tower, which dates back to the 13th century and is over 80 metres high. Those who climb the 366 steps to the top are rewarded with panoramic views over the city, with its skyline of spires and domes. The second storey of the tower, one a former medieval treasure room, is now a museum.

City Hall

Built in the 14th century, this is the oldest town hall in Flanders and certainly one of the most beautiful. On the first floor is the stunning Gothic Hall, with its beautiful vaulted ceiling. The historic wall paintings depicting the city's history were added in the late 19th century during the hall's restoration.

The Church of Our Lady

Dating back to the 13th century, this medieval masterpiece is full of impressive woodcarvings and intricate stonework, and is a captivating place or worship. Full of art treasures, the main attraction is the timeless Michelangelo sculpture of the 'Madonna and Child', which draws plenty of crowds to the church.

Basilica of the Holy Blood

Both Lower and Upper Chapels date back to the 12th century and were built in Roman style, but it is the Upper Chapel that was converted into a neo-gothic style in the 19th centuries, and has beautiful stained glass windows, intricate wall paintings and decorated wooden ceilings. The Upper Chapel is also home to the treasured relic of the Holy Blood, a crystal phial containing a few drops of Christ's blood, brought back around 1200 from the Holy Land after the Second Crusade. The phial stored in a silver tabernacle is exhibited every Friday, and the adjacent museum displays a collection of vestments, paintings and artefacts.

St Saviours Cathedral

Work started on Bruges' oldest parish church in the 10th century, but after being destroyed by fire, rebuilt and alterations and additions made in the 13th and 14th centuries, it displays a mixture of styles. Given cathedral status in the 19th century and suffering damage when a fire destroyed the roof, the cathedral underwent extensive restoration and the tower made higher so as not to be overshadowed by the neighbouring Church of Our Lady.

Minnewater Park

Situated by the gates of the Beguinage, this picturesque park used to be a dock for the barges which operated between Bruges and Ghent. Today it has a pretty lake, lawns swans and meandering lakeside walks.

Antiques and Flea Market

Located at the Dijver, the flea market is a Bruges institution, and an ideal spot for leisurely browsing in a picturesque setting. The market is situated on the leafy tree-lined canal side, and a long stretch of stalls line the waterfront, selling antiques, art, trinkets and curiosities, as well as traditional chocolates, beer and authentic Flemish goods.

Christmas Markets

The stunning medieval city is especially appealing at Christmas, when it is transformed into a winter wonderland of lights and nativity displays. There's plenty of seasonal entertainment, such as ice skating, horse and carriage rides and puppet shows, and stalls selling Belgium handicrafts, festive gifts, lace and delightful decorations line the cobblestone streets.

Old Timer Motorcycle Museum

Situated outside the city, the Old Timer Motorcycle Museum is a must for any biking enthusiast, and offers a fun and nostalgic day out. Home to a collection of over 100 motorcycles from the past to the present, visitors can relive the history and glamour of racing, and admire a host of well-preserved bikes, from the 1920's up to today.