Bruges Attractions - The Top 5 Most Popular Sights

Bruges has always inspired travelers and creatives alike.

In the most famous city novel 'The Dead Bruges', dark images prevail. However, in the former European Capital of Culture, there is no trace of the often assumed melancholy and gloom. Instead, millions of tourists flock each year to the Belgian city with its many canals and medieval town center.

The charm of this idyllic small town-home to about 118,000 people-is also reflected in the picturesque views, cafes, and the Flemish tranquility. Travelcircus presents the Belgian city and its most popular Bruges attractions, along with tips for a successful city break in what is perhaps the most beautiful city in Belgium.

UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000

The most famous attraction in the Belgian city and a must for every visitor to Belgium is a walk through the medieval Old Town of Bruges.

Since the year 2000, the historic buildings, gabled roofs, and alleyways have officially been part of the UNESCO World Heritage. In 2002, the year Bruges was one of Europe's Capital of Cultures, it was mainly the beautiful city center that attracted many tourists. Even today, hundreds of visitors still gather every day in the marketplace or in front of the well-preserved ramparts and windmills.

Waterways through the city

A special experience is a tour on one of the many boats and ships along the numerous waterways, the Reien, which wind through the Flemish city. In the 14th century, they also made Bruges one of the largest trading centers in Europe. Today, life in the Bruges Old Town is more tranquil.

Discover our number one Bruges attraction when visiting the city in West Flanders.

In the Heart of Bruges

Burg Square is the heart of the Belgian city. Here you will find the architecturally impressive City Hall with its gothic chamber and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

The square is named after the castle that was supposed to protect the Bruges inhabitants from Norman attacks. Although nothing of the former castle is visible today, the buildings in the square are definitely worth a visit.

The City Hall

Especially the City Hall with its wide stairs and gothic chamber attracts many tourists to Burg Square. The interior is almost entirely preserved and impressively reflects the architecture of the Gothic style.

Basilica of the Holy Blood

Another historic building in neoclassical style is the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which allegedly contains a relic of the blood of Jesus. Just a short walk from the basilica is the old courthouse of Bruges. Our number two Bruges attraction: Burg Square.

Tip: Bruges is nicknamed the Chocolate City. At nearly every restaurant or café, you can try the famous Belgian chocolate, either in the form of pralines or hot cocoa. In over 50 shops in the city center, you will also find exquisite chocolates and praline creations.

During the annual chocolate festival Choc, you can gain insight into the art of chocolate making and taste new and traditional chocolate creations throughout the city, including the famous Brugsch Swaentje, a delicacy made of dark and white chocolate filled with pralines.

The Tallest Building in the City

Another popular Bruges attraction is the Belfry. This 83-meter high tower is integrated into the equally well-visited market halls and towers over all other buildings in the Belgian city.

As early as the Middle Ages, the rectangular tower with its then wooden top made the trading city's dominance clear. To this day, no new building in the city is allowed to exceed the height of the historical tower.

Only in 1822 was the wooden top replaced with a more durable stone crown in the neo-Gothic style. Since 1999, the Bruges Belfry has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Below the tower, you will find the market halls that complete the ensemble.

Tip: The carillon, which rings three times a week at exactly 2:15 PM, and the view from the top of the tower over the city are also impressive.

'Bruges is a golden jewelry box, in which the Church of Our Lady shines as the most precious gem'

This is what the famous painter Hans Memling wrote about the 115-meter-high Church of Our Lady. Even today, visitors to Bruges are enchanted by the sight of the Gothic church.

Gothic Architecture

The beginnings of Gothic sacred architecture date back to the 13th century; construction was only completed in 1480. Visitors can see the tall brick tower from afar. There is also much to admire in the interior.

Today, the Church of Our Lady houses, among other things, the tomb of Charles the Bold, an organ, and a museum with Michelangelo's Bruges Madonna. This early work of the famous artist alone is worth a visit to the church's interiors.

Brewing Beer for 6 Generations

Our Place 5 is not just for beer lovers: Brewery De Halv Maan must not go unseen during any visit to Bruges due to its historical significance and beautiful interiors.

Belgium is known as the cradle of beer production and offers brewery tours with tastings in nearly every city. In Bruges, the family-owned Brewery De Halv Maan is more than just a point of interest.

The Bruges institution has been brewing its famous beer varieties in its own brewery for six generations. You can experience the production of award-winning beers during a tour through the brewery, which was founded in 1856.

The Reie canals and cobblestones are as much a part of the city in Northwestern Belgium as the medieval buildings. But Bruges enchants not only with its historical sights. The city is also known for its delicious chocolate and tasty pralines. And of course, the city cherishes the Belgian tradition of brewing beer.

Learn more about the city's history during your visit and experience life in Bruges.