Brugge and Ghent are two of the most interesting cities in Belgium, but often overlooked in favor of Brussels or Antwerp. This article suggests attractions that are worth the tourist's time, and gives an overview of the atmosphere encountered in both towns.
Brugge (Bruges) and Ghent, Belgium have a lot to offer, especially if you enjoy beautiful old buildings and hundreds of years of history and art. The canals in both cities also offer a romance reminiscent of Venice, although the ambience is decidedly Flemish. Both Dutch and French are spoken here, so you can see a lively blending of both cultures – the attention to detail in the food that is so very French, and the love of bicycles and beer that is so very Dutch. You will encounter friendly people, find some of the finest chocolate in the world, and enjoy great food and stunning architecture. What’s not to love about Brugge and Ghent?
Magical Brugge
If you’re limber enough, the very first thing you should do in Brugge is climb the 366 steps to the top of the bell tower belfry, which will give you a fantastic view of the city (and countless photo ops!). It is an exhausting climb, but absolutely worth it. The bell tower itself is one of the most prominent sights in Bruges, and quite old, dating from the 13th century. When you come down, you can refresh yourself at one of the many cafes in the square, and enjoy the beautiful architecture of the Provinciaal Hof.
The Burg is one of Europe’s finest medieval squares. The Stadhuis (Town Hall) is located here, as is the Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed (Basilica of the Holy Blood). Visit the Stadhuis to get a view of the incredible Gothic Hall. The Basilica of the Holy Blood is home to a vial of Christ’s blood, which is brought out every Friday for all to see. The Church of Our Lady (which houses Michaelangelo’s “Madonna and Child”) is also another must-see. Both churches contain plenty of wonderful art, but if your eyes don’t get enough to feast upon, a trip to the Groeninge Museum is also in order. This museum displays some wonderful paintings of the Flemish primitives. Another fun museum in Bruges is the Gruuthuse Museum, which displays remnants of Flanders’ medieval past, including a guillotine.
If you plan to visit many museums, it would be wise to purchase a museum pass, which is available at the ticket counter in most of Brugge’s museums. It will save you a lot of money. You can gain admission to 5 museums for a much lower cost than paying individual admission charges.
A boat tour on the canals is a lovely way to relax and see the city. A horse and buggy ride, which you can catch in this square, is a fine way to see the city while giving your feet a rest. The ride includes a ten minute stop at Minnewater to feed the horse. Leisurely strolling through the city is also a wonderful thing. Every trip needs a little spontaneity, and you’ll discover little nooks and crannies that you’ll want to explore further.
No trip to Brugge is complete without a visit to Minnewater - the “Lake of Love” - and the Beguinage, which is now a Benedictine convent. It is a beautiful and peaceful area where you can enjoy the dozens of swans swimming in the surrounding waters. The Beguinage is also the most photographed location in Bruges.