Charming and full of medieval flavor, Bruges is a timeless city full of architectural treasures and rich history. With cobbled streets and serene bodies of water all around, Bruges will entice you into wanting to explore its secrets more and more. Compiled is a list of ten things you must definitely see or do when in the “Venice of the North”.

1. Markt Square

Markt Square provides its visitors with numerous cafes and restaurants for you to visit and relax in. With its wide and lively area, this is the perfect choice of location to just breathe and enjoy what Bruges has to offer.

2. Basilica of the Holy Blood

When the Crusades came back to Bruges, the count of Flanders returned a relic that is to this day believed to contain the Holy blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. This relic can be found in this 12th century chapel.

3. Groeningen Museum

Although Bruges is a city full of beautiful museums, it is the Groeningen Museum that you must not pass. Belgian and Dutch paintings can be found in this stunning museum, including masterpieces by Jan van Eyck and Hieronymous Bosch.

4. Church of Our Lady

Only one sculpture has ever left Italy in Michelangelo’s lifetime, and that is the beautiful Madonna. Created by Michelangelo himself, this famous marble figure was brought to Bruges in 1506. Today, it is housed in the Church of Our Lady. Read more »