Bruges or Brugge (in Flemish) is a stunning medieval town in the west of Belgium (map). Founded around the 9th century AD, Bruges quickly became a prominent trading hub due to its strategic location along the North Sea. During the Middle Ages, Bruges thrived as part of the Hanseatic League and enjoyed economic prosperity and cultural influence. The city’s iconic canals and well-preserved medieval architecture, such as the Belfry and the Church of Our Lady, reflect its golden age. Over time, Bruges declined in importance, but its historical charm was preserved. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a tourist magnet, captivating visitors with its stunning heritage buildings and picturesque canals. Bruges is certainly one of the most photogenic towns in the world. I’ve listed below beautiful photo spots in Bruges for visitors and photography enthusiasts.
Bruges walking route
The best way to explore Bruges is to walk. You’ll soon discover that the word ‘quaint’ was probably invented here! The lovely centuries-old buildings, cobblestone streets, enchanting squares, picturesque canals and gorgeous step-gabled houses will transport you back to an almost surreal medieval world (if you can block out the droves of day-trippers!). A visit to Belgium would not be complete without spending at least two days in Bruges. I recommend joining a guided walking tour + canal cruise, or this guided walking tour that includes two iconic Bruges products, chocolate and beer!
The pins in the map below denote my favourite photo spots in Bruges. It also includes a suggested Bruges walking route.
When to visit Bruges
Bruges can be visited all year round. Summer is the busiest season. I prefer early-spring or autumn. Bruges is also absolutely enchanting during the winter festive season, with its lights and Christmas markets. My photos below were taken during various summer, autumn and winter trips to Bruges.
Photos of Bruges from a walk around the old town
Rozenhoedkraai
Rozenhoedkraai, or Rosary Quay, is one of the popular departure points for boat tours in Bruges. It’s also one of the most photo-worthy spots, with the 13th century Belfry tower as a splendid backdrop.
Bruges is famous for its beer and one of the most beautiful breweries, Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery, is located a short walk from from Rozenhoedkraai. This brewery is open for visits/tastings.
Braambergstraat & Vismarkt
Stretching from the Rozenhoedkraai is the Braambergstraat, a lovely street full of shops and cafés. Around the corner, you’ll also find the Huidenvettersplein, a beautiful square packed with restaurants and cafés. A stone’s throw away stands the Vismarkt, the old fish market which is now an art market.
Groenerei
Groenerei is arguably one of the most photogenic canals in Bruges. Lined by gorgeous medieval buildings on one side and a tree-lined cobblestone street on the other, it’s an absolutely gorgeous canal.
Burgplein
This large square is home to the Bruges City Hall (Stadhuis), De Brugse Vrije (the old court building) and the ornate 13th century Basilica of the Holy Blood.
Grote Market & the Belfry
The Grote Markt (Market Square) is the pulsating heart of Bruges. Surrounded by various hertiage buildings, including the towering Belfry, the Grote Markt is a busy yet incredibly photogenic place.
Spiegelrei
Another beautiful area in Bruges is the Spiegelrei canal. In this area, you’ll also find the atmospheric Jan van Eyckplein (square), Chocolate Museum (Choco Story) and Belgian fries museum (Frietmuseum). A fun thing to do in Bruges is to join a chocolate-making workshop at Choco Story.
Boniface bridge
The Boniface bridge is another of my favourite photo spots in Bruges. The bridge crosses a quaint canal lined by charming medieval houses. In this area, you’ll also find the Gruuthusemuseum, a museum in a former palace.
St. John’s Hospital
The historic Sint-Janshospitaal or St. John’s Hospital is a short walk away. This hospital was founded around the 12th century and is nowadays a fascinating museum.
Begijnhof & Minnewater
The Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaerde or Begijnhof is a 13th century beguinage in Bruges. Its whitewashed houses form a stark contrast with the brown brickwork of many other buildings in Bruges. A short stroll from the Begijnhof is the Minnewater park, a green oasis with a beautiful lake.
At the end of this walk, treat yourself to a beer at the nearby Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan, a family-owned brewery that produces the well-known Brugse Zot beer. Enjoy!
How to get to Bruges
Bruges is located in western Belgium (map), about a 3-hour drive or train ride from Amsterdam, and about a 1-hour drive or train ride from Brussels. You can also opt for a guided day trip from Amsterdam, Brussels or Paris.
If you’re visiting Bruges, I can also recommend dropping by in nearby Ghent, another gorgeous, slightly lesser-known medieval town. Read about things to see in Ghent.
[…] history and architecture, Amersfoort sometimes reminds me of its more famous medieval sister, Bruges (in Belgium), though it’s a lot quieter and less touristy. Amersfoort lies in the geographic […]
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I spent part of my honeymoon in Bruges. I fondly remember the chocolate, frites and lovely canals. Beautiful pictures!
Aaahaa…the little Venice of the north! I loved Bruges and it would have to be one of my favourite European cities. such wonderful list thanks for sharing.
[…] the accompanying post: ‘Picture Perfect Bruges‘. Wednesday, August 4th, 2010 Europe TAGS: Belgium, city, […]
There’s so much to see and do in Bruges! Loved your photos. We enjoyed our trip there so much that we’ve written this free guide with recommendations on what to see…
Free Bruges City Guide
[…] Picture perfect Bruges […]
Thanks Annika! Glad you like VE! 🙂
Cheers,
Keith
Great post! The photos are gorgeous. I came across your blog through Blogsherpa on LP. I’m a big fan and can’t wait to read more!
Oh yes, a beer & those mussels for lunch. And some chocolate as dessert. Yum! 🙂
I’m glad you liked it! I absolutely loved your photos – but now I’m craving chocolate……or beer! 😉
K
Hi Kathryn,
Woohoo! Thanks for the feature! Really appreciate it. Love your intro! 🙂
Bruges is absolutely a perfect weekend city break.
Cheers,
Keith
Fantastic post – I love Bruges and would love to go back again in 2010!
I’ve featured your post in my newest blog about city break ideas from London…check it out here – http://blog.travelfusion.com/2010/01/21/city-breaks-where-to-go-next/
Cheers,
Kathryn
Aaah…the little Venice of the north! I loved Bruges and it would have to be one of my favourite European cities. I recommend it to any Aussie heading to Europe. #dream #travel 😉
looks a bit like utrecht, nice pictures
Thanks for your comment Melvin! Yup, Bruges is certainly worth a recommendation even if it’s touristic. In the evenings, when all the day-trippers have gone, the town is simply enchanting!
Cheers,
Keith
I’ve been to Bruges for a weekend, too and even if it is/was totally touristic, it was a really nice weekend. I can recommend everyone to visit Bruges.