Discovering Bruges: A Fairytale City in Belgium

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a real-life fairytale, Bruges, Belgium, is the place to be. Known as the "Venice of the North" because of its charming canals, this city is a magical destination that perfectly blends medieval history with a modern, cozy vibe. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves exploring picturesque streets, Bruges has something for everyone.

So, what makes Bruges so special? Let’s dive into a few fun facts and hidden gems that will make you want to pack your bags and head to this enchanting city!

1. The Belfry of Bruges

You can’t miss the iconic Belfry Tower that dominates the city’s skyline. Climbing its 366 steps is totally worth it for the breathtaking view of the city below. Plus, the bells, which have been ringing for over 700 years, add a magical soundtrack to your visit.

Did you know? The Belfry actually leans slightly to one side! It may not be as famous as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but the tilt of the Bruges Belfry is enough to be noticeable when you look closely.

Tip: If you want to climb the tower, make sure to buy your ticket in advance. There are ticket machines near the Belfry where you can choose a date and time, but same-day tickets are often unavailable. It’s best to plan ahead and secure your spot for the next day!

2. Chocolate Heaven

Chocolate lovers, attention! 🍫 Bruges is home to over 50 chocolate shops, each one more delicious than the last. Fun fact: Belgium is world-famous for its chocolate, and Bruges is the perfect place to indulge in this sweet treat. Whether you’re nibbling on pralines or sipping on hot chocolate, the city’s chocolatiers are ready to spoil you.

Did you know? Belgium produces over 220,000 tons of chocolate every year! That’s about 22 kilograms of chocolate per Belgian citizen. Bruges is one of the best places to sample this sweet tradition.

Looking for fun and unique activities? I highly recommend checking this out!

Join a chocolate-making workshop and indulge in some hands-on creativity! 🍫😊

Find out more here

3. Medieval Charm

Walking through Bruges is like stepping back in time. The medieval buildings are so well-preserved that the entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the cobbled streets to the stone bridges arching over peaceful canals, it’s no wonder the city is a favorite among photographers and Instagrammers alike.

Eager to dive into the city’s rich history and uncover fascinating stories? Don’t miss out on this guided tour! It’s the perfect way to experience Bruges like never before.😊👌

See all the details here!

4. The Canals of Bruges: Venice of the North

One of my favorite things about Bruges is its beautiful canals that wind through the city, giving it the nickname “Venice of the North.” Walking along the canals is lovely, but to really soak in the charm of the city, I’d definitely recommend hopping on a boat tour.

It’s a fun way to see Bruges from a different angle - you’ll drift under old bridges, pass by medieval buildings, and hear interesting stories about the city from the guide. Plus, the entire tour is in English, so you can learn a lot about Bruges’ hidden history.

Heads-up: If you’re visiting during peak season, expect a bit of a line for the boat rides, but don’t worry - it moves pretty fast! The boats are pretty spacious and can fit up to 40 people at a time, so you’ll be onboard and exploring the canals in no time.

Pro tip: My husband and I visited during the first week of December, and even though it was chilly, it was absolutely worth it to get on a boat. Just make sure to bundle up - those canal breezes can get pretty cold!

5. Swans and Legends

Did you know that Bruges has a thing for swans? Legend has it that in the 15th century, after the execution of a local nobleman, the people of Bruges were ordered to keep swans on the city’s canals forever as a punishment. Today, these graceful birds are part of what makes Bruges so charming - plus, they’re always happy to pose for a photo!

6. In Bruges: A Movie Reference You Can’t Miss

If you’ve ever seen the movie In Bruges (one of my personal favorites!), you might remember the characters talking about “alcoves” and “nooks and crannies.”🤭😅 While they specifically mention Koningin Astrid Park, I can assure you that Bruges is filled with charming little spots like these - narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and secret corners everywhere you look. It’s like the whole city is one big “nook and cranny” waiting to be explored!

7. The Perfect Winter Getaway

Visiting Bruges during the holiday season means experiencing the charm of Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and cozy cafes, making the city feel like it’s straight out of a Christmas movie.

Tip: It’s worth visiting as early as the beginning of December if you’re craving that festive Christmas atmosphere, as the entire city will already be beautifully decorated. Just make sure to bundle up - it can get pretty chilly! And don’t forget to warm up with some waffles or a mug of hot chocolate.

Pro tip: Be sure to book your accommodation early, as hotels and other places to stay fill up quickly during Christmas.

It's worth exploring not just on booking.com but also on these sites for great accommodation deals - you might find even better offers that fit your budget perfectly😊

Check it out here: Expedia.com, Hotels.com or Vrbo.com

8. Beer Lovers Rejoice

Bruges is also a dream for beer enthusiasts. Belgium is famous for its beer, and Bruges has plenty of spots to try some of the best. Make sure to check out the local brewery, De Halve Maan, where you can taste traditional Belgian brews and even take a tour of the brewery’s underground beer pipeline (yes, a beer pipeline!).

Did you know? De Halve Maan Brewery came up with a brilliant solution to keep beer flowing smoothly: an underground beer pipeline! This 3-kilometer pipeline transports beer from the downtown brewery to the bottling plant outside the city, which can transport up to 4,000 liters of beer per hour! It's an eco-friendly way to reduce the number of delivery trucks in the historic streets and allows locals to keep enjoying their favorite brews!

9. Michelangelo's Madonna of Bruges

Did you know that Bruges is home to a famous Michelangelo sculpture? The Madonna of Bruges, housed in the Church of Our Lady, is one of the few Michelangelo works to leave Italy during his lifetime. This stunning marble sculpture of the Virgin Mary and child is a must-see for art lovers visiting the city.

10. Bruges’ Love Lake (Minnewater)

For a romantic spot in Bruges, head to Minnewater Lake, also known as the "Lake of Love." The peaceful surroundings and beautiful swans gliding on the water make it a perfect place for a stroll. According to local legend, couples who cross the bridge together will experience eternal love.

11. A City of Lace

Bruges has a long history of lace-making that dates back to the 16th century. At The Lace Center, you can watch demonstrations of this intricate craft and even purchase handmade lace as a special souvenir. Lace-making is a part of Bruges’ cultural heritage, and you’ll find beautiful lace items in many of the city’s boutiques.

12. Holy Blood Basilica

The Holy Blood Basilica in Bruges houses one of the city's most intriguing and sacred relics - the Relic of the Holy Blood. According to tradition, the relic contains a cloth with the blood of Jesus Christ, which was brought to Bruges during the Crusades. The relic is kept in a beautifully ornate vial inside the Basilica of the Holy Blood, located on Burg Square.

Every year, on Ascension Day, the relic is carried through the streets of Bruges during the Procession of the Holy Blood, an event that dates back to the 13th century. Thousands of locals and visitors gather to watch this historic procession, which reenacts scenes from the Bible and medieval life.

The basilica itself is a fascinating visit, featuring two distinct chapels: the lower, Romanesque chapel, and the more elaborate Gothic upper chapel where the relic is displayed. The basilica’s blend of spiritual significance and stunning architecture make it a must-see for anyone visiting Bruges.

This story of the Relic of the Holy Blood adds a sense of history and mystery to Bruges, highlighting the city’s deep religious roots.

Bruges is full of charm and surprises, no matter how long you’re staying. It’s a city that’ll make you fall in love with its history, cozy spots, and sweet treats around every corner.

Ready to explore?😊😉

Useful Links

Check out these useful websites for reliable travel resources:

Accommodations: Expedia.com, Hotels.com or Vrbo.com
Activities: Viator.com
Flights: Expedia.com

Images sources: © Kattravel

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