Best of Bruges
Here you can find detailed information on a selection of the best hotels to stay at and nicest places to visit, as well as those tucked away sites that you may otherwise not know about when in Brugge.
Bruges perhaps has fewer grand monuments than London or Paris, yet so much character and atmosphere to make up for it. If you loose your way around the medieval cobbled streets, the worst that can happen is to find yourself stepping into one of the fine century-old café`s for a tasty coffee, much famed Belgian beer or something stronger.
It is a well-kept secret that Bruges is much more visited during the spring and autumn months than during the height of summer; so if you could come and enjoy the typical 25 to 30 degree temperatures from around the second week of June to the third week of August, you`ll have the place to yourself, so to speak!
Flanders Hotel ****
This city centre hotel and it`s 41 charming rooms come with excellent facilities, including a heated indoor pool and beautiful gardens.
This is further complimented by an extensive daily hot and cold breakfast, included with the room rate! Access Flanders Hotel`s website here for details or to make a reservation.
The Groeninge Museum
The Groeninge Museum also goes by the name of `The city museum of Fine Arts`. The collection was started in the beginning of the 18th century.
The name `Groeninge` refers to the fields near the city of Kortrijk, where in 1302 the army of the Flemish defeated the army of the French king. The art collection focuses primarily on works by painters who lived and worked in Bruges. Find out more from here.
Restaurant De Karmeliet ***
In 1996 chef Van Hecke became the first in Flanders to be awarded the coveted 3 Michelin stars, making `De Karmeliet` one of the top 50 restaurants in the world.
De Karmeliet is a culinary highlight where Special Menus, such as `The Flat Country` allow the diner to experience true gastronomy without compromise. More information is available from the restaurant`s website.
Burg Square with the Basilica and City Hall
Burg Square was the original centre of Bruges, walled and gated until the 18th century. It is surrounded by buildings of stunning architectural beauty.
Found on the south side of the square is the Basilica of the Holy Blood, named after the Holy Relic believed to contain the blood of Jesus. Located next to the Basilica is the gothic City Hall, dating from 1376.
`Het Hemelhuis` Spa & Wellness
Relax after roaming the city, `Het Hemelhuis` offers a regular as well as bio sauna and a bath house complete with plunge bath and steam bench.
Bruges` historic inner city now has it`s very own oasis of peace, quiet and luxury bodycare. Details regarding the affordable rates and other specifics can be found on their website (Dutch language only).
`Minnewater` Park and the Lake of Love
Take a strawl through this leafy green, on the shores of Bruges’ old inner harbour, now known as the `Lake of Love`.
Located at the southernmost tip of the centre, the lake and surrounding park offer an excellent retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city`s sights and streets. The many resident swan couples form the finishing touch to it`s romantic character.
Tavern `Vlissinghe`
This old inn dates back to the 16th century, making it one of the very oldest in the lowlands that is still open to the public.
Amongst the charming authentic interior, light meals are served. For a large part of the year, weather allowing, visitors can enjoy one of the city`s nicest beer gardens. Their (mostly Dutch language) online presence can be found here.
