What to do in Bruges

Cultural attractions in Bruges

Our Lady's Church is the highest tower in Bruges and is a popular medieval tourist attraction. Its ruggedly ornate exterior harks back hundreds of years, combining Romanesque with French Gothic for an exciting façade. Inside is the famous Madonna and Child by Michelangelo, an absolute must for any art or culture lover visiting Bruges.

The most important religious feature in Bruges is the Saint Salvator Cathedral, which is not as architecturally impressive as Our Lady's Church, but of greater significance. It was originally intended to just be a church, but the main cathedral, St Donatius, was demolished by the French in the 19th century. After this, Saint Salvator was given a new, awe-inspiring tower, a symbol of revitalised Bruges.

Fine arts can be found at the Groeninge Museum, which started collecting works in the early 18th century and is famous for its collection of Flemish "primitive" paintings. It contains a broad range of art to suit every taste, from the 14th century through to the 20th century. The jewel in the museum's crown is Jan Van Eyck's The Madonna with Canon Joris van der Paele.

Relaxation in Bruges

A holiday in Bruges would not be complete without a trip along the fabled canals of the "Venice of the North". There are regular boat trips and this is a great way of taking in the medieval city.

As with other Belgian cities, there is a thriving diamond business in Bruges. It was here that the technique of diamond polishing was developed in the 15th century and holidaymakers can take a tour Bruges Diamond House, where you can purchase and examine a wide range of the stone that is a girl's best friend.

Nightlife in Bruges

Take in a Belgian ale and a breath of history at Bruges' oldest pub. The Café Vlissinghe serves a large number of local tipples, and in spite of undergoing some necessary refurbishment since it opened in 1515, it retains its old charm.

Café Pick in the Eiermarkt is the place to head for a more kicking night out, with a buzzing atmosphere and the same great Belgian beer.

Café 't Brugs Beertjeis justly popular with its homely atmosphere and impressive selection of Belgian beers - it is reputed to have around 300 beers to choose from.

Sport in Bruges

You can watch the local football team - FC Bruges - at the Jan Breydelstadion.