Bruges is one of those European cities you just need to visit. You may have seen it a thousand times on posters, in other peoples’ photos or in movies – but nothing quite compares to the real thing.
This quaint little city bathed in historic richness, oozing with the sweet scent of the most luxurious Belgian chocolate, has much to offer: canals on which you can take a scenic boat ride, horse drawn carriages that trot you around the town, parks rich with beautiful tulips, architecture (some of which is older than the United States of America), pretty streets with adorably quintessential Flemish shops.
And the sweetest bit? It has the highest concentration of chocolatiers in Europe, boasting 50 shops in central Bruges where you can indulge yourself with a sweet treat. And of course, more beer than you could imagine – even a pipeline with the local beer ‘Zot’ flowing just underneath your feet! With all of this up its sleeves you would be mad not to put Bruges on your Bucket List.
And the sweetest bit? It has the highest concentration of chocolatiers in Europe, boasting 50 shops in central Bruges where you can indulge yourself with a sweet treat. And of course, more beer than you could imagine – even a pipeline with the local beer ‘Zot’ flowing just underneath your feet! With all of this up its sleeves you would be mad not to put Bruges on your Bucket List.
Here’s a list of things you simply have to
do in Bruges. Whether you cram it all into one packed day or spread it across a
long weekend, here are BackHackers’ top tips for Bruges:
The Choco-Story Chocolate Museum
You will probably be able to
smell it before you can see it. Upon entry to this museum, you’ll receive a
free chocolate bar which has been made on site, to start you off on your
journey along with a map that you can follow through your visit. The museum
consists of several floors (a lift is available) which take you through the history
of cocoa and how chocolate has become such a large part of our culture.
From learning that, traditionally, hot cocoa would be the drink of choice at a wedding instead of champagne, to watching a full on chocolate-making demonstration (and getting a taste) this museum is both educational and delicious. On each floor you’ll find areas where you can sample the different stages of chocolate throughout its journey through history. Once your tour is over, you’ll have to battle your way through the gift shop – desperately trying not to buy every single deliciously delectable item!
From learning that, traditionally, hot cocoa would be the drink of choice at a wedding instead of champagne, to watching a full on chocolate-making demonstration (and getting a taste) this museum is both educational and delicious. On each floor you’ll find areas where you can sample the different stages of chocolate throughout its journey through history. Once your tour is over, you’ll have to battle your way through the gift shop – desperately trying not to buy every single deliciously delectable item!
Bruges Beer Experience
This is another great museum that is an absolute must on your Bruges itinerary. Upon entry you can decide whether or not to buy your ticket along with a tasting option at the end (we strongly recommend the tasting option). Once embarking on your journey through the museum, along with which you are given a tablet with headphones that allow you to read or listen to information based on your location in the museum; you will find the tour rather interactive.
With quizzes to test you, water fountains to walk through and different scents to identify, you’ll find this museum both educational and aesthetically amazing. Although you may be disappointed to learn that 90% of beer is water – you can soon get over this hard hitting fact by visiting the bar at the end of your visit. You are able to sample a range of beers from the menu, which is written out in a range of languages on various magnums dotted around the bar, before finishing off your experience by buying a bottle of beer with a photo of yourself on it!
With quizzes to test you, water fountains to walk through and different scents to identify, you’ll find this museum both educational and aesthetically amazing. Although you may be disappointed to learn that 90% of beer is water – you can soon get over this hard hitting fact by visiting the bar at the end of your visit. You are able to sample a range of beers from the menu, which is written out in a range of languages on various magnums dotted around the bar, before finishing off your experience by buying a bottle of beer with a photo of yourself on it!
The Beer Wall
The Beer Wall is exactly what
it sounds like – a wall made from beer, which showcases all Belgian Beers. It’s
located in a 15th century mayor’s house and sells a range of
products. After marvelling at the mesmerising wall of beer, you should purchase
one yourself and head to the terrace where you can enjoy an absolutely gorgeous
view of the canals.
The Legends of Bruges Free Walking Tour
These tours are great ways to
learn about the history of the city. Spanning around 2 hours and covering the
top spots of the city, this free walking tour will give you an insight into
beautiful Bruges’ tourist attractions, the best bars and educate you on
everything Bruges! Unlike the bus tours, you are able to navigate around the
streets and get a real feel for the place on the ground. Although the tour is
free, you are expected to tip at the end – but the tour is so rich in
historical information and details about Bruges you are more than happy to
oblige.
Brewery Bourgogne des Flandres
One
of the places mentioned on the walking tour is the Brewery – a great place to
enjoy a beer…or even a flight of beer! With a range of beers, a great little menu
and canal views, you might find you spend more time here than intended.
Alternatively if you’re looking to spend longer here, why not try one of the
Brewery tours and tasting sessions?!
Get a Waffle – Chez Albert
Another must-eat in Bruges is
a waffle. Whether you want it plain, with chocolate or strawberries, cream and
caramel smothered over it you simply have to allow yourself this indulgence.
Why not pick up a waffle on the go from Chez Albert and head to the Markt to
admire the architecture of the Belfry while enjoying your Belgian snack.
Belfry climb
If you’re feeling like you need a bit of exercise after all that beer, chocolate and waffles, why not start the climb of 366 steps up to the top of the Belfry? You’ll be met with stunning views that span miles and give you an unforgettable view of the city. From 272 ft the city looks pretty stunning.
Have a Zot Beer
If
beer isn’t quite your drink of choice, just make sure you at least try Zot.
It’s the locally brewed blonde beer, by De Halve Maan and is transported in the
most peculiar way. In order to remove trucks from the streets, a beer pipeline
was created which runs 3km under the city.
If you don’t believe it, you can head down to the brewery to see the pipeline for yourself – framed with a see through walkway so you can literally watch the beer flow beneath your feet!
If you don’t believe it, you can head down to the brewery to see the pipeline for yourself – framed with a see through walkway so you can literally watch the beer flow beneath your feet!