Belgium: picturesque Bruge

If you have only a few hours to spare but you want to see the medieval town of Bruge - it is possible. Bruge is in the Flemish part of Belgium and it’s on UNESCO's World Heritage list. Even on a rainy, overcast day - nothing detracted from its beauty.

There are many impressive structures such as: this church 19th century San Salvador cathedral

with its beautiful altar

and stain glass windows.

There is a lot more beauty to discover by walking around the town center. There is also the option of using a horse-drawn carriage.

The Market Square is in the center of the town with the Belfry of Bruge literally towering over. It takes 366 steps to get to the top. There you will have beautiful views of the town center and beyond.

Despite the weather, there were many tourists -

the City Hall

perusing the charming streets and shops.

With limited time it is best to see the town via a tour boat.

This is highly recommended as Bruge is called the Venice of the North.

Its network of canals is linked to the sea.

The tour takes you under bridges (mind your head),

passing bridge houses

and along picturesque canals.

The tower and spire of the 13-15th century gothic catholic Church of our Lady,

can be seen from many points on the tour.

It is the tallest structure in the city.

The canals are lined with beautiful medieval architectural

wood and brick facade

of various styles.

step gabled roofs

It tells the tale of a historically wealthy town with traders and merchants.

The more windows a building has - the more taxes the owner had to pay.
Hence, these buidings

are a display of wealth!

Many people might have heard about the numerous breweries and beers named after Bruge.

However, the town was also well-known for its cloth industry and it is still known for its lace technique.

There are unique and quaints shops everywhere.

A visit to Brugge would not be complete without trying their famous Belgian waffles and other delicious pastries.

You can enjoy them with coffee or tea in simple or elegant settings.

beautiful chandelier at the pastry shop - Aux Merveilleux De Fred

There are several specialty sweets shop.

marzipans and fudges

The choice is yours.

french macarons

The prestigious Mary Chocolaterie has supplied the royals with chocolate for almost a century.

Bruge is charming and beautiful. I hope you enjoyed the tour.

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All photos are my own and taken with an iPhone SE2020.

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