Bruges holidays and city breaks

Known as the Venice of the North, Bruges is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe!

A city break in Bruges is an amazing experience. In 2000, the historic centre of Bruges became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking along the maze of winding cobbled alleys and romantic canals, you imagine yourself to be in medieval times. The wealth of museums is a striking image of this city's stirring history.

Bruges is also home to contemporary culture, such as the new Concert Hall, which is one of the most prominent music complexes in Flanders.

The restaurants in Bruges which offer gastronomic cuisine and the exclusive hotels are a true treat. If it’s the finer things in life you’re after then Bruges is definitely the city break for you!

Holidays in Bruges

The architecture & art

The Belfry: In Bruges, the best view of the city is from the Belfry. Located on the market square, you can climb 366 steps to the top for breathtaking sights of Bruges. The tower houses the carillon and 47 impressive bells!

Salvador Dalí Museum: Located in the Belfry, you will find a spectacular permanent exhibition on Salvador Dalí. It is not only a homage of his work, but also explores the life of the artist himself. The exhibit features many of Dalí’s original sculptures, aquarelles and drawings.

Old Saint John’s Hospital: This site was once a medieval hospital to treat pilgrims and travellers coming through Bruges. Currently the hospital is home to an art museum where you can see the works of Belgian artists like Pieter Bruegel and Hans Memling, as well as surgical equipment from the past and an old pharmacy depicting what the hospital was like when it was in use.

Basilica of the Holy Blood: Stunning in its simplicity, immaculate decoration, and historic value, the Basilica is absolutely worth a visit. This religious site, constructed in the 12th century, is a stunningly preserved example of Gothic and Romanesque architecture.

Its nature & canals

Venice of the North: Take a break from walking, and hop on a cruise and navigate the city’s canals. See beautiful bridges from the water, pass by historic houses, and take a peek at the secret gardens!

The “Ten Wijngaerde” Béguinage: With pristine white houses and tranquil convent gardens, the Béguinage, founded in 1245, was home to religious lay-women who lived in the small community together. Today, nuns of the Order of St.Benedict continue to live on these beautiful grounds.

Picturesque Rozenhoedkaai: The point where two the Groenerei and Dijver canals meet is an excellent spot for an iconic photo. Surrounded by stately gothic buildings, this spot is especially enchanting. You might even catch one of the boats that go around the canals in your snapshot!

Its unique craft

Windmill walk: There are four iconic old windmills in Bruges. They are situated alongside the old moat and medieval city gates on the original city wall. Two of them have been converted into museums, and one is still actively in use. The walk between the historic windmills is especially lovely.

Rococo Lace Store: Bruges has always been famous for handicraft and lace makers. Making lace since 1834, Rococo has an impeccable collection of old and contemporary lace works.There is a showroom where you can see how these subtle works of art are created.

Beer o’clock at De Halve Maan: Bruges is proud of its beer. There is a family-run brewery in the centre of the city that dates back to 1856. They brew the well-known malt-based beer, Zot, and the brewery offers tours to learn about the brewing process.