Bruges © Belgium Tourism
Bruges has the distinction of being Europe's best-preserved
medieval city and Belgium's most popular tourist destination, a
veritable 13th-century 'open air museum'. It is a small town with
lots of character and charm, with cobbled streets and a maze of
waterways inviting exploration by foot, horse-drawn carriage or
canal boat. For a spectacular view over the red tiled roofs the
more energetic can climb the 366 stairs of the central bell tower
(belfort). The winding streets are lined with gorgeous buildings
and churches and among them are a collection of museums housing
some of the country's finest art, notably the Stadhuis and the
Groeninge Museum. A must-see for visitors to Europe, the entire
historic centre has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage
Site. Bruges is also known also as the 'Venice of the North' and as
such attracts many romantics to its intimate streets and canals;
the graceful ambience of its ancient buildings provides the perfect
backdrop for a special weekend away.
