A Different Touch In Autumn: BRUGES
The Belfry of Bruges, Grote Markt Square, and many more… We are welcoming the autumn in Bruges, a centre of attraction from the first moment you see it with its cobblestone pavers.
Situated in the north of Belgium, Bruges will conquer your heart at first sight. This small and historical city is rightfully on the UNESCO World Heritage List for being a well-protected city and has a cosmopolitan population. Grote Markt Square, where open-air markets, festivals, tournaments, and executions were once arranged has become the most popular meeting spot these days, and the Belfry will welcome you in the city centre and if you happen to be in Bruges on a Wednesday, you can still see one of these traditional markets.
Romance in the canals
No wonder Bruges is called the Venice in the North with its canals surrounding and running through the city! Such being the case, boat cruises are the most enjoyable activity in the city. You should absolutely take your time to go on a boat cruise and discover the secret gardens, elegant bridges, and views you would never discover walking. You will see a differently charming city while touring the canals on a boat.
Flemish artists have a remarkable place in the world art history. Then let's head to the Groeninge Museum where we can see the masterpieces of many Flemish artists like Jan Van Eyck and Hans Memling. The museum hosts countless pieces of art dating between the 14th and the 20th centuries.
If you want a city break, you should add Beguinage, a monastery dating back to the 14th century located among trees and white houses, to your list. You can learn many things about life in the 17th century in this monastery where nuns and unmarried women still live in.
Surrender yourself to the local tastes!
You must be hungry after such a long trip and luckily, Bruges is a generous city offering many gourmet dishes ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to street stalls. Belgium is famous for chocolate and this medieval city is where you can taste many chocolates in shops and cafes. You can find delicious and finest quality chocolate in shops such as Spegelaere and Van Oost. Waffles are also among the best treats. And finally fried potatoes, the ultimate food of Belgium cuisine! There is even a museum for fried potatoes.
Bruges offers many first-class and award-winning restaurants. You can taste food prepared by award-winning chefs in restaurants like De Jonkman, Den Gouden Harynck, Sans Cravate, Zet’Joe, and The Park Restaurant. Places like Craenenburg Cafe, Cuvée Wine Bar, Brasserie Raymond, and Siphon create a magical atmosphere.
Handicrafts
There are many shopping facilities in Bruges from concept stores to famous fashion chains, but we suggest you give local artists a go. Bruges is famous for its history and craftsmen. You can see many local shops selling traditional handicrafts. Laces make a good souvenir, but be careful! There are also many counterfeit products.
This charming, cute, and historical city is the perfect stop to tour around Europe in autumn.
The most magnificent structures in the square is the Belfry of Bruges. The 83 meter high tower gives the best bird's eye view of the city, but you must venture to climb the 388 steps. You might also taste the world-wide famous potato chips if you prefer not to climb the tower.
Rozenhoedkaai is the ideal spot to take a selfie while crying out "Here we are in Brugge!" Although hard to pronounce, it is the most popular and amazing spot of the canals. You can also call it the Quay of the Rosary. A short break here with your beloved one will become an unforgettable memory.
Now, time for parks! They say if you cross the bridge in Minnewater Park with your significant other, your love will be eternal. You can have a picnic facing the windmills there and enjoy the view.
Wednesdays are when local markets are set up all over the city. On Sundays Zand and Markt Squares are closed to traffic and open to shoppers. Of course, a box of chocolate would be a good present for your friends.
We shall continue the tour with Burg, another remarkable square which is surrounded by historical administrative buildings. The Old Court House, a unique example of Renaissance architecture, and the gothic City Hall, built in the 14th century, are a sight for sore eyes! The Basilica of the Holy Blood is said to accommodate the relic of Holy Blood and attracts many tourists.