Bruges: The Enchanting Medieval City on Water

Dubbed as the “Venice of the North” in Europe, the city of Bruges tops the list of the most beautiful places in Belgium. This city exudes a romantic charm with its moss-covered ancient bridges over small canals running beneath the underground city and its medieval European architecture.

Being one of the four famous water cities in Europe, alongside Venice, Amsterdam, and Stockholm, Bruges leaves a distinct impression. Bruges captivates with its serene and enchanting ambiance. It is tranquil, peaceful, and exudes an ancient charm that touches the soul.

When you visit Bruges, you feel like you’re in a movie, surrounded by houses that showcase the European architecture of the Middle Ages. As a settlement of the Dutch, the houses here blend Gothic architecture with the distinctive architecture of Tulip Land. The red brick houses or ash gray walls are interspersed with silver-colored wooden houses weathered by time, Gothic-style bell towers… all of which imbue Bruges with a profound and antiquated atmosphere.

Bruges is a city on the water. Only by looking at the city map can you fully grasp the intricate network of canals here. Small, meandering canals envelop the city. From any corner of Bruges, you can admire the image of ancient houses silently reflected in the pristine water. Therefore, the most common way to explore Bruges is by taking a boat ride. The boats in Bruges are small, without roofs or windows, making it convenient for photography enthusiasts. The ticket for a boat tour on the canal costs 6 euros. The boatman, who is also a proficient tour guide in three languages—French, Dutch, and English, will provide commentary on the places you pass by. From the 600-year-old bridge over the river, to churches, palaces, museums, or newly constructed architecture…

Another option to explore Bruges is to wander around in a horse-drawn carriage. The small cobblestone streets circle the city’s squares. Small, beautiful wooden bridges span the mossy green canals. The ancient churches, when you step inside, reveal magnificent and solemn scenes.

The outstanding attractions of Bruges that no visitor should miss, regardless of the reason, include Rozenhoedkaai – an architectural masterpiece resembling a fairytale castle and called the living postcard of Belgium; Beguinage Monastery, with its wonderfully poetic surroundings; Burg Square and the City Hall; Hansa Quarter; Bruges’ canal; Bruges Cathedral; Belfry Tower; the Almhouses row, quietly hiding behind lush greenery; and, of course, the always bustling Market Square, teeming with tourists.

When in Bruges, you cannot miss a visit to the chocolate museum, “Choco-Story,” located at the intersection of Wijnzakstraat and Sint-Jansstraat, to indulge in and purchase exquisite chocolates in various amusing shapes and colors. Choco-Story was founded by Eddie Van Belle and his son, Cedric, who are also the owners of Belcolade, a renowned Belgian chocolate brand.

And definitely, you must try the dish “moules frites” – a famous and quintessential Belgian dish. “Moules” are similar to green mussels in Vietnam; Belgians prepare this dish in various ways, cooking it with white wine, cream, garlic, and serving it with “frites,” which are French fries. Speaking of French fries, which in English are called “French fries,” many people mistakenly believe they originate from France. This misconception frustrates the Belgians because, in reality, French fries originated from Belgium.

Also, don’t forget to enjoy the beer. Many tourists have rated Belgian beer as the best beer they have

ever tasted. Hoe Garden and Kriek are two types of beer you should try. Hoe Garden is a light and fragrant white beer that allows you to comfortably quench your thirst without getting intoxicated. On the other hand, Kriek is a fantastic beer to savor sip by sip, enjoying the sweet taste and aroma of cherries melting in your mouth.