Things to do in Bruges
Dive into history with only 3 minutes walks
Hotel De Orangerie is perfectly located, just a stone’s throw from the heart of Bruges and all important tourist attractions.
Let`s explore “the Venice of the North” together!
Let's Go:
The Belfry Tower
Eight centuries… That’s how long I’ve been standing here. A guardian. A beacon. A voice in the wind. I saw Bruges grow, flourish… suffer and burn. I heard the merchants touting their wares, the first bells ringing. I saw princes come and go, troops marching, I heard the city laughing, the city crying. Bruges breathed… and I breathed along.
Today is the time to tell my story. Come visit the Belfry Tower!
Boat tour on the canals
Discover the hidden gems of Bruges from a different perspective. Step on board and enjoy a fun boat tour on the Bruges canals for about half an hour. A must-do!
Brewery De Halve Maan
The De Halve Maan brewery recently renovated its visitor center. During the tour you can now discover the brewery in an interactive way using new tools. You enter a virtual world full of beer and receive a fascinating explanation about the underground beer pipeline that connects the brewery in the city center with the bottling plant on the outskirts of Bruges.
Our Lady's Church
The Our Lady’s Church is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. With its 115.6-meter-high tower, the church has the second tallest brick tower in the world. After several restoration rounds, the interior shines brighter than ever. Make sure to visit Michelangelo’s sculpture “The Madonna with Child” inside. A beautifully refined sculpture carved from Carrara marble. Additionally, you can also visit the 15th and 16th-century tombs of Charles the Bold and his deceased daughter Mary of Burgundy.
Beguinage
The Beguinage is the ideal place to relax during your stroll through Bruges. An oasis of peace surrounded by greenery with small, white-painted houses. In 1998, UNESCO recognized the Bruges Beguinage, along with 12 other Flemish beguinages, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bonifacius Bridge
Bonifacius Bridge, absolutely the most beautiful spot in Bruges. From this bridge, you have a magnificent view of the Our Lady’s Church and you can take unforgettable photos.
Bruges City Hall
The Bruges City Hall is one of the oldest in the Netherlands. For 600 years, the city has been governed from here. A must-see is the Gothic Hall with its impressive vault and 20th-century murals depicting the history of Bruges.
Groeninge Museum
6 centuries of Belgian painting, featuring the Flemish Primitives as the highlight. The magnificent works of Jan Van Eyck will forever be etched in your memory.
Museum Sint-Janshospitaal
The Saint John’s Hospital is one of the oldest preserved hospitals in Europe. One of the most remarkable features of the hospital is the medieval pharmacy that is still intact, housing a fascinating collection of medical instruments, pots, pans, and herb jars.
Gruuthusemuseum
The Gruuthuse Museum is housed in the Gruuthuse Palace, a magnificent Gothic building once owned by the influential Gruuthuse family.
One of the museum’s highlights is its collection of Flemish tapestries.
You’ll also find many other objects, each telling its own unique story about Bruges.
Historium Brugge
A very enjoyable, interactive, and accessible way to learn and discover Bruges from the 1400s. Definitely recommended for children!
The Chocolate House Bruges
Discover the sweet magic of The Old Chocolate House in Bruges! In the historic chocolate shop on the ground floor you can find chocolate in all its forms and various tastes.
On the first floor you enter the “Chocolate heaven”. A cozy tearoom where you have a choice of over 30 hot chocolates, coffee, tea and of course delicious homemade Belgian waffles.
Website: www.oldchocolatehouse.be
The Belgian coast
The Belgian coast is not just a destination; it’s a place where you can endlessly enjoy. Relax on the beach, take a long walk, do some shopping, and then be surprised in one of the many restaurants… There’s no shortage of choices! Discover the many seaside resorts at www.dekust.be
Enjoy The Best Events In Bruges
every Wednesday and Saturday morning
Markets in Bruges
Markets in Bruges
In the centre of Bruges you will find 2 authentic markets with their own approach and atmosphere. On Wednesday you can find the market on the Grote Markt. On Saturday it is on the square ‘t Zand. Both from 8am to 1pm
every Saturday, Sunday, bridge and public holiday
Folklore and flea markets
Looking for antiques or second-hand goods, or just want to take an original souvenir from Bruges? Then come and browse at one of the folklore markets in Bruges. These take place on the Vismarkt and on the Dijver. You will find antiques, second-hand goods and handcrafted products.
Discover The Best Restaurants In Bruges
1. Couvert
Enjoying a refined, contemporary seasonal cuisine in the interior of an authentic Bruges house with a stepped gable.
2. In The Mood
Enjoy the romantic atmosphere and surprising flavors of ‘In The Mood’ restaurant in the heart of Bruges in the beautiful setting of the Minnewater Park.
3. Gran Kaffee De Passage
A concept in Bruges and surroundings with a beautiful history. The chef and its family spoil you with delicious classic Flemish dishes, some
of wich also have an innovative international touch.
4. Brasserie Raymond
Contemporary luxury brasserie in the heart of Bruges with delicious French and Belgian dishes.
5. Breydel De Coninc
Located right in the heart of the historic city centre, Breydel De Coninc is a family restaurant with a long and distinguished tradition. For more than half a century local people and tourists have been coming here to enjoy the very best mussels and lobsters.
6. ZET’JOE
With an impressive career and a passion for refined gastronomy, ZET’JOE enchants his guests with a unique and sophisticated culinary experience.
7. Diligence
Restaurant Diligence is an authentic and cozy restaurant in Bruges, located in the heart of the city center. They represent an honest French-Belgian
bistro cuisine with a kitchen that is open until midnight.
Discover The Best Restaurants In Blankenberge
1. Brasserie Montmartre (CW Hotel Collection)
Friendly and professional staff, and a nice warm interior. Everything supper tasty and fresh and served hot.
2. Bel’Air (CW Hotel Collection)
Wonderful place, freely accessible with smooth service. Very friendly staff!