Bruges in Photos: Get to Know this Storybook Town

Last updated on August 14th, 2024 at 06:10 am

Bruges is that charming little town tucked in the northwestern part of Belgium. Medieval gabled buildings that date back to the earliest centuries dot its landscape, along with narrow cobbled streets, bustling market squares, church spires, and crisscrossing canals with fetching stone bridges.

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In Bruges

Like probably some of you, I’ve been introduced to this town through the movie “In Bruges”. No, it wasn’t the TV series “The White Queen”. That one I’ve yet to see.

Not the best of introductions, I know, but I fell in love with Bruges when watching that film. And probably not the best movie there is too (at least not for me), but if its goal was in marketing Bruges, you could say that it was effective, as I was utterly persuaded that I had to see the real thing. And see it I did.

Related Article: Things to Do in Bruges: Awesome, Fun Activities

Around Bruges

I was finally able to visit Bruges during a summer trip to Europe and what I saw didn’t disappoint. Bruges in reality is postcard-perfect! It’s gorgeous, scenic, and utterly captivating. More colorful than what was in the film, I was mighty glad to be there!

What makes Bruges stand apart from other European towns, I believe, is the quaint, yet charming, juxtaposition of its long winding canals and imposing brick medieval buildings. The blending of those two is just awe-inspiring, and if you reflect on the long history that this place has been through, then it becomes humbling.

Peppered around town are captivating canal scenes.

With buildings looking like they came straight out of the storybooks.

Activities and happenings are mostly found in the market square, where travelers and the rest of the crowd gather in outdoor cafes and restos. Seats are in demand, so you have to order and keep on doing so if you want to hold on to your spot. While this town gets lovely weather during summer, it can get a little bit crowded as well.

People also mill about in Burg Square, where the Stadhuis, the town’s City Hall, as well as the famous Basilica of the Holy Blood are located. In the latter, you can find the vial that purportedly contains Jesus Christ’s blood.

During the middle of the week, this large square is occupied by an outdoor market selling mostly produce like fruits, veggies, and other whatnots.

Getting Around

Since Bruges is a fairly compact town, everything can be reached on foot. Biking is always a great way to see the town since it’s a much faster option. This town is very bike-friendly, so bike rentals are aplenty. Going around, you’ll see scenes like these.

If you want to escape the crowd and find some quiet, there are plenty of inner streets and alleys that offer just as amazing views.

Night Scenes

Bruges is as picturesque at night, too—mysterious, cosmopolitan, romantic, and every inch European.

A walk along the quiet, lamplit cobbled lanes is a nice way to get a feel of this magical burg. While at it, you can wonder what could have transpired on these centuries-old streets.

Activities in Bruges

Klook.com

Wrap Up

When in Bruges, don’t forget to take notice of the doors of most buildings as a lot of them are such works of art. You can see that they’ve been given some prior careful thought. I don’t know why, but Bruges residents seem to have a thing for doors. I had a wonderful time door-watching.

How do you like Bruges? Would you be adding it to your bucket list?

We hope you enjoyed getting a glimpse of Bruges. As always, happy travels, and stay safe!

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