Areas of Interest in Bruges

The botanical Astrid Park is named after Queen Astrid Park of the Belgians of whom a bust stands of in the park. The park also has a neo-Gothic de la Faille castle and watchtower.

The Church of Our Lady dates back to the 13th century. The church has an impressive 122m brick tower and spire which is the highest in Belgium, and a white marble Madonna and Child by Michelangelo.

A Day Out in Bruges

A large collection of Flemish art from painters such as Memling, van der Weyden, Bosch and Pourbus, can be found at The Groeninge Museum. It opens at 9.30am-5pm daily, except Monday and admission is 8 Euros.

The Belfry on Markt is the most prominent feature of the city, where after a climb of 366 steps one can enjoy magnificent views.

Bikes can be hired from many locations across the city, (including the station) for around 9.50 Euros a day. Cycle 6km along the Damse Vaart cannal to the town of Damme. The town hall here hosted the wedding of Margret of York, (sister of Richard III) in 1468. The town also has restaurants within period buildings. Those who don’t wish to cycle can take the train.

For Chocolate lovers, Choco-Story, found at Wijnzakstraat 2, looks at the history of chocolate, with demonstrations and tastings. Admission is 6 Euros and it opens daily 10am-5pm.

The famous Belgian created character Tintin, from author Herge, can be found in the Tintin shop on Steenstraat 3.

Bruges Nightlife

For those with a large appetite, the Den Dijver, found at Dijver 5, offers a variety of three, four, or five-course meals, with dishes such as baby monkfish in lobster sauce with white and green asparagus and tarragon mash. There is also a selection of beer to accompany your meal. Prices start at 41 Euros.

For a lunch, De Medici “Sorbetiere” located at Geldmuntstraat 9 serve a range of salads and pastas.

Dining out in Bruges

For those with a large appetite, the Den Dijver, found at Dijver 5, offers a variety of three-, four-, or five-course meals, with dishes such as baby monkfish in lobster sauce with white and green asparagus and tarragon mash. There is also a selection of beer to accompany your meal. Prices start at 41 Euros.

For a lunch, De Medici “Sorbetiere” located at Geldmuntstraat 9 serve a range of salads and pastas.

Getting to Bruges

Eurostar runs frequent services from London to Brussels Midi, with journey times as little as 2hours 15minutes. From Brussels take a train for Ostend, Blankenberge or Zeebrugge. Bruges is about half an hour away.

Brussels National airport is the closest airport to Bruges, with frequent train links to Brussels Midi, and some running direct to Bruges.