For most, the Belgian town of Bruges may be most familiar as the setting for the 2008 action thriller In Bruges, starring Colin Farrell, Ralph Fiennes and Brendan Gleeson. But what all but the most well-heeled traveller may be unaware of is that this tiny village is actually a star in its own right.
Despite having a population of just 117,000 permanent residents, this verdant city punches well over its weight in tourism figures. In 2017 alone, it drew over 16 million visitors, a number that represents the culmination of Bruges’ ever-increasing must-see-ability on the part of eager explorers around the world. It’s also a whopping 50 percent increase from the number of in-bound travellers just five years previously (11.8 million).
So what, exactly, is enticing these millions of Belgian-bound tourists to make the two-hour excursion outside of its capital city Brussels? Well, these four reasons may have something to do with it…
Historic monuments
Bruges’ history dates all the way back to the 9th century, when it was first founded by roving Vikings. Intervening centuries saw it grow into a important trade hub and financial centre. A happy by-product of this legacy is the countless well-preserved historical monuments that punctuate the city’s acreage.
Perhaps the most famous of these is the Belfry Tower, perfectly positioned in the Historic Centre of Bruges, a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another must-see site is the neighbouring Historium museum, which allows visitors a 3D flashback to the city’s Golden Age (12th – 15th centuries).
Verdant greenery
Unlike most urban cities, Bruges retains a tranquil aura thanks, in large part, to the high percentage of greenery that can be found within its boundaries. The most spectacular example of this is the Minnewaterpark, which hugs its southern walls. Those seeking a bit of romance should definitely meander along the rectangular lake here, appropriately dubbed the ‘Lake of Love’.
Beer
Belgian beers are amongst the most sought after in the world, a fact that local Bruges denizens have been keen to take advantage of. Dozens of tiny pubs and bars ring the roads surrounding the central Market area, including the Instagram-famous The Beer Wall, replete with an actual wall-sized display of beer bottles. If you visit the establishment, ask for a Westvleteren 12, a rare ale brewed in limited quantities by Trappist monks.
Canals and bridges
Much like Venice, Bruges boasts countless canalways and medieval bridges that criss-cross its landscape. Hop aboard one of the manycanal boats to gain a new perspective on this historic town. After all, these waterways were once at the heart of the city’s maritime trade network.
Text: Tenzing Thondup