Bruges (Belgium)

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Country Info (Belgium)

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Bruges (Brugge in Flemish) is the capital of the province of West Flanders and lies about 100kms from Brussels. This splendid medieval city is one of Belgium's crown jewels. The city retains much from its medieval days and few European cities provide a feel and 'throw back' to medieval times. The city is a delight to stroll around (except perhaps in mid-summer) - strikingly beautiful and yet perfectly compact. The cafés are the perfect spot to take in the atmosphere, and there are plentiful shops for chocoholics to gaze at in awe.

Bruges is easy to get to and difficult to leave. It is the most popular travel destination in Belgium and its economy is founded almost entirely on tourism. Despite the number of visitors, nothing can dilute the experience. You will be amazed and only disappointed if you've come here looking for lots of life, activity and adventure.

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Bruges suits those looking for an authentic cultural and sight seeing experience. It is not very suited to families (especially those with small children) due to the lack of entertainment and activity.

Accommodation consists of mid range hotels with a few luxurious options but at a hefty price (relative to prices of other main cities in Belgium).

Bruges main attraction is its wealth of sightseeing attractions and medieval authenticity. It has fascinating museums tucked away in magnificent Gothic buildings, wonderful mediaeval churches containing ancient relics, and traditional breweries that have opened their doors to visitors for tours and tastings.

Bruges incredibly well-preserved medieval architecture makes it one of the most authentic tourist attractions in Europe. Besides architecture, sites to see include several museums:

First is the Groeninge Museum, with six centuries of paintings from different styles, including works by Jan van Eyck, a Flemish Primitive painter.

The Memling museum is also not to be missed, with the wooden Shrine of St. Ursula. Also, the only work of art by Michelangelo to leave Italy during his lifetime, can be seen in the Church of our Lady.

The Chapel of the Holy Blood also displays an ampul reputed to contain the blood of Christ.

Of course a visit to Bruges wouldn't be complete without a canal or carriage ride , sampling the chocolates and waffles, shopping for craft work including Bruges famous lace, visiting art galleries, climbing the belfry or trying several of the more than 350 available Belgian beers .

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Population: 10.364.400
Languages: Dutch (Flemish) 60%, French 40%, German less than
Currency: euro
Currency code: EUR
Local Times:
Belgium - Brussels

Country Dialling Code: +32
Voltage: 230V 50Hz
Electrical plugs:
2 Parallel circular prongs

2 parallel circular prongs with a female earth connector

Nestled between France, Germany and Holland/Netherlands, Belgium is one of the smallest countries on the continent. But its size is no hindrance to its variety. From the wilds of the Ardennes to the mediaeval splendours of Bruges, from the high-octane nightlife of Antwerp to the restaurants of Brussels, there is something for everyone to savour.

It may be little, but it is lovely, and it is sad indeed that Belgium is often overlooked when travellers plan a tour of Europe. Tucked between the desirable and obvious destinations of London, Paris and Amsterdam, Belgium is usually used merely as a stepping stone for crossing the English Channel, or, at most, a quick stop-over for a looksee in the capital, Brussels.

Beyond that city with its historic Gothic buildings and tall European Union office blocks is a treasure-trove of undiscovered lazy seaside towns, and inland the wooded gorges of the splendid Ardennes, sprinkled with medieval castles and steeped in folklore. The medieval city of Bruges has character and charm galore with a rich architectural heritage, graceful canals and waterways and cobbled streets, and is a favourite with visitors. Belgium is a country that has inspired artists and writers with its Gothic cathedrals, town halls, gabled guildhouses and rich museums.

After a busy day exploring it all, spend an evening experiencing Belgium's fantastic cuisine and sampling some of the country's 300-odd brews of beer. Belgians have a reputation for being extremely hospitable; welcoming travellers, no doubt because the country's location has ensured it has always been an international crossroads for commerce and culture. Despite this Belgium and its distinct regions of Flemish Flanders (north) and French Wallonia (south) has proudly preserved its traditions and identity.