Welcome to the world heritage city of Bruges
There are places that somehow man-
contain gems ranging from the Flemish
age to get under your skin, even
primitives and beautiful lace work to
though you don’t really know them all
the finest modern art of today. Further
that well. Bruges is that kind of place.
in this chapter, gourmets will be de-
A place made for people. A city whose
lighted by our summary of award-
history made it great, resulting in a
winning restaurants and shopaholics
well-deserved classification as a
by our tips for authentic and high-
Unesco World Heritage site.
quality shops and stores.
In this guide you will discover Bruges’
Bruges is a city with a lot to offer. In
different facets. There are five separate
chapter 3, a number of ‘outsiders’
chapters.
who found their way to Bruges and
1
so much. They also reveal their favour-
must see sights and get a brief summa-
ite addresses for a bite to eat (from
ry of the city’s history. After that, you
classy restaurants to trendy eateries),
will immediately set off to explore the
a glass to drink or a little bit of relaxing
most beautiful places in Bruges during
shopping.
three inspiring walks. The detailed map of the city – which you can simply fold
Staying a bit longer in the region?
out of the back cover of this guide – will
Chapter 4 suggests a number of excur-
make sure that you don’t lose your way.
sions to the other Flemish historical cities, the Bruges’ wood- and wetlands,
Chapter 2 provides a summary of the
the coast and the Westhoek.
many different possibilities for exploring Bruges and gives details of every-
Are you just dying to explore Bruges?
thing the city has to offer in cultural
In chapter 5 we will give you all the
terms: a calendar of the most impor-
practical info and tips you need to pre-
tant events and a complete summary of
pare for your visit.
the Bruges museums, attractions and other sites of interest, including historical, cultural and religious buildings and locations. Bruges’ beautiful squares and enchanting canals are the regular backdrop for top-class cultural events. And few cities have such a rich and diverse variety of museums, which
FO R E WO R D
stayed, tell you why they love the city In chapter 1, you will read about the ten
Groenerei
Discover Bruges 4 History in a nutshell 8 The highlights of Bruges 12 Walk 1 Bruges, proud World Heritage City 22 Walk 2 Bruges, a Burgundian city 34 Walk 3 Strolling through silent Bruges
History in a nutshell
The Market Square in Bruges, 17th century (painting by Jan-Baptist Meunincxhove)
Water played a crucial role in the birth and development of Bruges. At the place where the city was first born, a number of streams flowed together to form a river (the Reie), which then ran northwards through the coastal plain. Through a series of tidal creeks, the river eventually reached the sea. Little wonder, then, that even as far back as Roman times there was already considerable seafaring activity in this region. This has been proven by the discovery of the remains of two seagoing ships from this period, dating from the second half of the 3rd century or the first half of the 4th century. Even so, it would be another five centuries before the name ‘Bruges’ first began to appear – the word being a derivative of the old-German word ‘brugj’, which means ‘mooring place’.
Bruges’ growing importance also re-
their creative niche here. The fine arts
sulted in it becoming the main fortified
flourished, and in addition to wonderful
residence of the counts of Flanders, so
churches and unique ‘nation houses’
that from the 11th century onwards the
(embassies), the monumental town hall
city was not only a prosperous trading
was also completed. Bruges’ success
metropolis, but also a seat of consider-
seemed imperishable.
able political power.
Decline
Taking off
The sudden death in 1482 of the muchloved ruler, Mary of Burgundy, heralded
sea was in danger of silting-up in the
the start of new and less fortunate times
12th century, Bruges went through a
for the city. The relationship between the
period of anxiety. Fortunately, the new
citizens of Bruges and their lord, the wid-
waterway of the Zwin brought relief. As a
ower Maximilian of Austria, turned sour.
result, Bruges was able to call itself the
The Burgundian court left the city, with
most important trade centre of North-
the international traders following in its
west Europe in the following century. The
wake. Long centuries of wars and chang-
world’s first ever stock exchange (‘Beurs’
es of political power took their toll. By the
in Dutch) was also founded in Bruges.
middle of the 19th century, Bruges had be-
These market activities took place in the
come an impoverished city. Strangely
square in front of the house owned by a
enough, its fortunes were changed for
powerful local family of brokers, the Van
the better by the writing of a novel.
der Beurse family. As a result, their name became linked for all time with this kind
Revival
of financial institution. In spite of the typi-
With great care, Bruges took its first
cal medieval maladies, from epidemics
steps into tourism. In Bruges la Morte
to political unrest and social inequality,
(1892), Georges Rodenbach aptly de-
the citizens of Bruges prospered, and
scribes Bruges as a somewhat sleepy,
soon the city developed a magnet-like ra-
yet extremely mysterious place. Above
diation. Around 1340, the inner city num-
all, the 35 photographs included in the
bered no fewer than 35.000 inhabitants.
book made its readers curious about what they might find. Soon Bruges’
The golden century
magnificent patrimony was rediscov-
The success continued. In the 15 cen-
ered and its mysterious intimacy
tury, Bruges’ golden century, business
turned out to be its greatest asset.
was better than ever before. The Bur-
Building on this enthusiasm, the city
gundian dukes rebuilt and enlarged
was provided with a new seaport, which
their residence in Bruges and the pro-
was called Zeebrugge. The pulling
duction and sale of luxury goods
power of Bruges proved to be a great
reached new heights. Famous painters
success and UNESCO added the medi-
such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling
eval city centre to its World Heritage
– the great Flemish primitives – found
list. The rest is history.
th
5 H I S TO R Y I N A N U T S H E L L
When the city’s direct link with the
The highlights of Bruges The 10 classic places that no one should miss! Rozenhoedkaai and the Bruges canals, a typical city view
THE HIGHLIGHTS OF BRUGES
8
The Rozenhoedkaai (Rosary Quay) links the Belfry with the city’s network of canals, the true ‘veins’ of Bruges, and offers a unique and picturesque panoramic view. Hardly surprising, then, that the Rozenhoedkaai is the most popular photographic hotspot in town! You can discover many more special places and hidden gems during a boat trip on the canals. From the water, Bruges is even more enchanting. A classic that you really don’t want to miss.
Markt, an absolute must The vibrant centre of the city has been dominated for centuries by the 83-metre high Belfry. Today, you can climb right to the top of this impressive tower. You will be rewarded with a spectacular view of Bruges and the surrounding countryside. The Markt (Market Square) is also home to the Historium, a top attraction that takes you back in time to the city’s medieval past. Surrounded by colourful houses, the Market Square is also the regular standing place for the famous horse-drawn carriages. (Read more on pages 56 and 63-64)
Medieval splendour on the Burg The Burg is the beating heart of the city. From the 14th century town hall, which is the oldest in the Low Countries, Bruges has been governed for more than 600 years. This majestic architectural square also contains the Palace of the Liberty of Bruges, the former Civil Registry and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. No other location in Bruges bears greater testimony to the city’s former wealth. (Read more on pages 55, 59 and 72-73)
From the 13th to the 15th century, Bruges was the most important trading centre in North-West Europe. Spanish merchants settled along the Spaanse Loskaai (Spanish Quay) and in the Spanjaardstraat. The Germans or Easterners – ‘oosterlingen’ in Dutch – took up residence in the Oosterlingenplein. In this old Hansa Quarter, you can admire the mansions of the wealthy international merchants and the great trading nations of the day. You can almost still smell the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.
The Flemish primitives: timeless beauty In Bruges’ golden century – the 15th century – art was a major issue. Leading artists of the day, like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling, came to live and work in the city. Today, you can marvel at the masterpieces of the world-famous Flemish primitives in the Groeninge Museum and the St. John’s Hospital. Here you can come face to face with the great paintings that were created in the city all those centuries ago. (Read more on pages 62-63 and 69-70)
THE HIGHLIGHTS OF BRUGES
Strolling through the old Hansa Quarter
9
Walk 1 Bruges, proud World Heritage City
Beguinage
Bruges may be, quite rightly, very proud of her World Heritage status, but the city is happily embracing the future too! This walk takes you along world-famous panoramic views, sky-high monuments and centuries-old squares invigorated by contemporary constructions. One foot planted in the Middle Ages, the other one firmly planted in the present. This walk is an absolute must for first-time visitors who would like to explore the very heart of the city straight away. Keep your camera at the ready!
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Alternative route
From ’t Zand to Simon Stevinplein
behind you, walk along the square
B R U G E S , P R O U D WO R L D H E R I TA G E C I T Y
’t Zand (Concert Hall)
This walk starts at the tourist office
and turn into Zuidzandstraat, the
’t Zand (Concert Hall).
first street on the right. Saint Sav-
’t Zand is dominated by the Concert Hall
iour’s Cathedral 23 looms up ahead on your right after three hundred
17 , one of Bruges’ most talked-about
14
Leave
buildings. Clear-cut proof that this
metres.
World Heritage city isn’t afraid of the fu-
Bruges’ oldest parish church is located
ture. The Concertgebouw Circuit 17
on a lower level than the present
will take you behind the scenes and right
Zuidzandstraat, which is situated on an
to the very top of this magnificent build-
old sand ridge. What’s more, in the
ing, where you can find an interactive
Middle Ages people simply threw their
space for sound art. You can also enjoy
refuse out onto the street where it was
the wonderful view over the Bruges sky-
then flattened by passing carts and
line. Don’t forget to drop in at the tourist
coaches. This raised the street level
office
even further. Inside Saint Saviour’s, the
’t Zand (Concert Hall) on the
ground floor: here you will find all the
church tower’s wooden rafters can be
necessary tourist information as well as
lit. The cathedral treasury displays in-
expert advice on all cultural events, and
teresting copper memorial plaques,
you can buy your tickets immediately.
fine examples of gold and silver and
On pages 120-123 you can learn more
paintings by Dieric Bouts, Hugo van der
about the Concert Hall in an interview
Goes and Pieter Pourbus.
with Albert Edelman.
23
BURG SQUARE: AN ARCHITECTURAL SYNOPSIS Art lovers have already noticed that the Burg projects a wonderful cross-section of stunning architectural styles. It is, indeed, a summing-up in one place of all the styles that have caught our imagination throughout the various centuries. From Romanesque (Saint Basil’s Church) and Gothic (City Hall) by way of Renaissance (Civil Registry) and Baroque (Deanery) to Classicism (Mansion of the Liberty of Bruges). There’s no need to go and dash all around Bruges to see it all!
15
Return to the Belfry 05 and walk
Salvatorskerkhof. Walk around the ca-
down Breidelstraat, a traffic-free alley
thedral and take the fourth street on the
on the corner at the left. Continue to
right, the Sint-Salvatorskoorstraat. This
the Burg square.
will take you to the Simon Stevinplein.
Along the road on your right you will no-
This attractive square, lined with cosy
tice De Garre, a narrow alley. This may
restaurant terraces in summertime, is
be the narrowest street in Bruges (try
named after Simon Stevin, a well-known
walking side by side here!), it neverthe-
Flemish-Dutch scientist. His gracious
less boasts a fair number of cosy cafés.
statue naturally takes centre stage.
The Burg is the most majestic square in
Markt and Burg
the city, so take your time to admire its grandeur. The main character in this
Continue down Oude Burg, a street in
medieval story is the City Hall 08 42
the right-hand corner of the square. Be-
(1376-1420), one of the oldest city halls
fore long you will see the Cloth Halls 09
in the Netherlands and a Gothic exam-
on your left. These belong to the Belfry
ple for all its brothers and sisters that
05 . You’re allowed to cross the halls’
were built later, from Louvain to Aude-
imposing inner courtyard between
narde and Brussels. Having admired its
8.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. during the week,
exterior, enter the impressive Gothic
and between 9.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. on
Hall and gaze in admiration at the poly-
Saturday. Markt is at the other end of the
chrome floating ribs of the vaulted ceil-
courtyard. If the gate is closed, turn
ing. Hiding on the right-hand side of this
back and walk down Hallestraat, which
Gothic monument is the Basilica of the
runs parallel to the Halls.
Walk 2 (see pages 25-27) comments
Holy Blood 01 . It was originally dedicated to both Our Lady and Saint Basil,
more extensively on Markt.
and was built as a fortress church on
B R U G E S , P R O U D WO R L D H E R I TAG E C I T Y
Turn right before the cathedral into Sint-
Exploring Bruges
The canals of Bruges
You might want to stroll, amble and saunter down the streets of Bruges all day long. However, why not try to see the city from a different perspective? During a walking or bicycle tour, a guide will show you numerous secret places. Maybe you would prefer a boat trip on the mysterious canals – an unforgettable experience! And a ride in a horse-drawn carriage must surely be the perfect romantic outing. Sport-lovers can even do a guided run around the city. Or perhaps you simply want to tour all the highlights as quickly and as comfortably as possible? That’s exactly what the minibuses do, and along the route you get plenty of explanation as well. Or what about a flight in a hot-air balloon, a ride in a bike carriage or a modern exploration on a segway? The choice is yours!
MYSTERIOUS CANALS AND THE RHYTHMIC CLOPPING OF HOOVES: TWO EXCURSIONS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS The canals of Bruges - the ‘reien’ - are the arteries of the city. Nothing is as pleasant as chugging along in a boat on a sunny day as you sail past all the most beautiful places in the city. From the ‘reien’, it’s almost like you are seeing Bruges for the first time. Unexpected views, hidden romantic corners, secret gardens: you discover them all from your vantage point on the water. There are regular daily sailings from any of the five moorings in the heart of the city. A voyage lasts half an hour and takes you past all the most photogenic spots Bruges has to offer. 47 old squares and charming bridges of the historic city centre? For half an hour, you can sit back and enjoy the rhythmic clopping of horse’s hooves as you take in all the most picturesque spots in Bruges. During your ride the coachman will give you an expert commentary and about half way you make a short stop at the Beguinage.
Bruges by boat OPEN > Sailings guaranteed from
Bruges by horse-drawn carriage
March to mid-November: in principle,
OPEN > Daily, 9.00 a.m. to at least
daily, 10.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m., last sailing
6.00 p.m., but no later than 10.00 p.m.
at 5.30 p.m.
PRICE PER CARRIAGE > €50; max.
PRICE > €8; children aged 4 to 11
5 people
(accompanied by an adult): €4; children
MEETING POINT > Markt, but at the Burg
under 4: free
square on Wednesday morning INFO > www.hippo.be/koets
E X P LO R I N G B R U G E S
Or why not opt for a romantic coach ride through the winding streets, over centuries
Bruges by bus E X P LO R I N G B R U G E S
48
Photo Tour Brugge
City Tour Bruges
Whether you are a photography expert
The mini buses of City Tour provide a
or a novice, during the Photo Tour Andy
guided tour that will take you past all
McSweeney takes you to all the most
the most beautiful places in Bruges.
photogenic spots in the city.
Every half hour, they depart for a
OPEN > Daily: Edges of Brugge
50 minute drive along the most impor-
(10.00 a.m.-12.00 p.m.) focuses on the
tant highlights of the town.
side streets and canals; Essential
OPEN > Daily, every half hour (also on
Brugge (1.00 p.m.-3.00 p.m.) zooms in
public holidays). The first bus leaves at
on the top sights; during Hidden Brugge
10.00 a.m. During the period 1/11 to 31/1
(4.00 p.m.-6.00 p.m.) you will go in
the last bus leaves at 4.00 p.m.; 1/2 to
search of some of the city’s less well-
9/2 at 4.30 p.m.; 10/2 to 28/2 at
known corners; the private tour Shades
5.00 p.m.; 1/3 to 15/3 and 16/10 to 31/10
of Brugge (8.00 p.m.-11.00 p.m.) allows
at 5.30 p.m.; 16/3 to 30/4 and 1/10 to
you to experience the evening delights
15/10 at 6.00 p.m. and 1/5 to 30/9 at
of the city.
7.00 p.m. There are no departures
PRICE > €60 (max. 5 photographers per
at 6.30 p.m.
tour); private tour: €220 (max. 3 pho-
ADDITIONAL CLOSING DATE > 17/9
tographers); children younger than
PRICE > Including headphones with ex-
4 years: free; each participating pho-
planation (available in 16 languages):
tographer can bring along a non-
€20; children aged 6 to 11 years: €15;
photographer free of charge. Prior res-
children under 6: free
ervation is necessary, but is possible
MEETING POINT > Markt
on the day.
INFO > Tel. +32 (0)50 35 50 24 (Monday
MEETING POINT > Basilica of the Holy
to Friday, 10.00 a.m.-12.00 p.m.),
Blood, on the Burg square
www.citytour.be
LANGUAGES > English, but on request
also Dutch and/or French INFO > Tel. +32 (0)486 17 52 75,
www.phototourbrugge.com
Bruges by heart
the way, you should allow 1 to 1.30 hours
Top-quality walk with local guides
for completion.
During this exclusive walk (max. 16 peo-
OPEN > Daily, tours at 7.00 a.m.,
ple), a city guide will take you on a fasci-
8.00 a.m., 9.00 a.m., 5.00 p.m.,
nating journey. Not only will you discover
6.00 p.m., 7.00 p.m., 8.00 p.m. and
many of the great historic buildings and
9.00 p.m. Reservation is required.
sites, but also some hidden gems and
PRICE > €30/person; for 2 runners:
secret places. The walk starts with a
€25/person; 3 runners or more:
breathtaking view of the city from
€20/person MEETING POINT > At the statue of Jan
A unique experience!
Breydel and Pieter de Coninck on the
OPEN > Find out via www.visitbruges.be
Markt. If requested in advance, you can
when you can book a place on one of
be picked up from wherever you are
the walks or pop into one of the
staying (hotel, etc.).
info
offices.
LANGUAGES > English, Dutch, French,
PRICE > (Subject to amendment) €12.50;
German
children younger than 12 years: free
INFO > Tel. +32 (0)473 88 37 17,
MEETING POINT > The walk starts from
www.touristrunbrugge.be
the info office
’t Zand (Concert Hall)
LANGUAGES > English, Dutch, French.
Bruges by bike
During certain periods, also in German
QuasiMundo Biketours: Bruges by bike
and Spanish.
Riding through the narrow streets, you
TICKETS > Info offices
Markt (Histo-
will discover the charming character of
rium) and ’t Zand (Concert Hall) or via
Bruges. The fascinating stories of the
www.ticketsbrugge.be
guide will catapult you back in time to
APP > Another way to explore the city on
the era when counts and dukes ruled
foot (or by bike) is to use the free Xplore
over the city.
Bruges app. You can find more info on
OPEN > 1/4 to 30/12: daily, 10.00 a.m.-
www.xplorebruges.be on page 98.
12.30 p.m. Reservation is required.
INFO > Tel. +32 (0)50 44 46 46,
www.visitbruges.be
Running around Bruges Tourist Run Brugge – guided tours Accompanied by a guide you run – at a gentle pace – through the streets and alleyways of Bruges. The circuit, which ends on the Markt, is 9.5 km long. With the explanation that you receive along
49 E X P LO R I N G B R U G E S
the roof terrace of the Concert Hall.
Bruges: World Heritage city Sonia Papili reveals the Italian side of Bruges
Rozenhoedkaai
During the week, Italian Sonia Papili studies the North Sea with academic sobriety; during the weekend, she guides her fellow countrymen with great passion around her adopted city. A passion that began gradually some twelve years ago, but now burns more brightly than ever.
ID-CARD Name: Sonia Papili Nationality: Italian Date of birth: 17 May 1972 Has lived in Bruges since 2006. Sonia is a geologist with the Ministry of Defence and a tourist guide in Bruges.
Two geologists – him attached to the
ty and temperament. And he was right: Bruges really is my city!’ In the mean-
University of Rome – who met on a ship
time, Sonia learnt Dutch and started
in Istanbul to discuss climate change:
work here as a geologist. During her
there are worse ways to start a
citizenship programme, she became
long-distance relationship. For three
more and more curious about the histo-
years, the pair commuted back and
ry of her new home town. ‘During the
forth between Italy and Belgium before
language course they told us a little bit
finally deciding to settle in Bruges.
about the history of the place. This in-
‘I had only been in Bruges once before,’
trigued me and so I decided to take a
says Sonia. ‘I was much more familiar
three-year course to become an official
with Ghent, but my husband thought
guide in Bruges.’
that Bruges better suited my personali-
‘I was much more familiar with Ghent, but my husband thought that Bruges better suited my personality and temperament. And he was right: Bruges really is my city!’ WHY BRUGES IS A WORLD HERITAGE CITY In 1998, the Bruges Beguinage was recognized as a World Heritage site. A year later, the Belfry received similar recognition. In 2000, this was extended to cover the entire city centre. Since 2009, the Holy Blood Procession has been listed as an item of immaterial World Heritage. Bruges also has a valuable and impressive architectural patrimony and is a fine example of an architecturally harmonious city. In particular, Bruges is famed for its Gothic style buildings in brick. In addition, its authentic and organically developed medieval urban fabric has been perfectly preserved and it is also the ‘birthplace’ of the Flemish primitives. In other words, reasons enough for UNESCO to label Bruges as a ‘World Heritage city’.
97 B R U G E S : WO R L D H E R I TA G E C I T Y
University of Ghent, her attached to the
The other Flemish historical cities
Antwerp (Antwerpen)
T H E OT H E R F L E M I S H H I S TO R I CA L C I T I E S
138
82 km
Brussels (Brussel)
88 km
Antwerp has a lot to offer: a beautiful
The whole world comes together in Brus-
cathedral and numerous imposing
sels, with a different continent around
churches, a magnificent Central Station,
every corner, from the exotic Matonge
the ground-breaking Museum on the
quarter to the stately elegance of the Eu-
River (MAS), the tranquil Rubens House,
ropean institutions. The capital of Bel-
a delightful sculpture garden (Middel-
gium has a vibrancy like no other and the
heim), a zoo with a history and so much
formality of its ‘hard’ metropolitan struc-
more. Antwerp is also Belgium’s fashion
ture is softened by the authentic, work-
capital, home to many internationally
ing-class ambiance of its more popular
renowned designers. That is why in the
districts. In the shadow of the majestic
Scheldt city you will find dozens of ex-
Market Square, Manneken-Pis is perma-
clusive boutiques, rubbing shoulders
nently peeing. This diverse city reconciles
with fun bric-a-brac shops where you
the chic sophistication of the Zavel with
can browse for hours! Not surprisingly,
the folksy informality of the Vossenplein.
the local ‘Antwerpenaars’ – who are fair-
Royalty watchers rush eagerly to the Pa-
ly loud by nature – are extremely proud
leizenplein, art lovers can do their thing
of their city.
at one of the more than hundred muse-
INFO > www.visitantwerpen.be; there
ums and galleries, such as the Magritte
is a direct train connection between
Museum, the BOZAR (Museum of Fine
Bruges and Antwerp (journey time:
Arts) or the Horta Museum, foodies hurry
ca. 1.30 hours; www.belgianrail.be).
to the numerous food temples, and vin-
tage-lovers climb to the top of the Atomi-
month, Damme is transformed into one
um. And in the city where both Tintin and
big book centre!
the Smurfs were born, comic lovers will
INFO > www.visitdamme.be; scheduled
find more than 50 comic-strip walls and a
bus no. 43 (not on Saturdays, Sundays
renowned Comics Museum.
and public holidays, see www.delijn.be
INFO > www.visit.brussels; there is a di-
for the time schedule), bus stop: Damme
rect train connection between Bruges
Plaats; or by the paddle steamer Lamme
and Bruxelles-Central (Brussels-Cen-
Goedzak, www.bootdamme-brugge.be
tral, journey time: ca. 1.00-1.15 hours;
(for more information see page 51).
www.belgianrail.be).
You can also easily cycle to Damme
Damme
6 km
Zwin, Damme was the transhipment port of Bruges. To reach the literary
or hire a scooter to ride there (see page 158 for scooter rental points).
Ghent (Gent)
39 km
home of Tijl Uilenspiegel (Owlglass),
The people of Ghent have always been a
you drive straight along the banks of the
bit rebellious. It’s in their genes. They
Damse Vaart (Damme Canal), one of the
rose in revolt against Emperor Charles.
most beautiful pieces of nature in all
As punishment, he made them walk
Belgium. The canal is lined with mag-
through the streets with nooses around
nificent poplars, some of which are over
their necks. Ever since they have been
100 years old. Their wind twisted trunks
known as ‘noose wearers’, a name they
add to the charm of the setting. You can
wear with pride. In Ghent you can find the
also experience their beauty from the
medieval alongside the trendy. The cen-
water. The nostalgic paddle steamer
turies old Belfry stands majestically
Lamme Goedzak travels to and fro be-
alongside the new City Hall. The pictur-
tween the small medieval town and
esque Patershol district, with its narrow
Bruges’ Noorweegse Kaai (Norwegian
streets and fun restaurants, stands in the
Quay). And every second Sunday of the
shadow of the imposing Gravensteen Castle. The city is creating an international gastronomic furore with its young star-rated chefs and as the veggie capital of Europe. Art-lovers will find their way to the world-famous The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the van Eyck brothers in St. Bavo’s Cathedral or one of the many museums. The S.M.A.K. (contemporary art), the Design Museum, the MSK (fine arts) and the STAM (city museum) will
139 T H E OT H E R F L E M I S H H I S TO R I C A L C I T I E S
Until the silting up of the tidal inlet
(for bicycle rental points see pages 150-151)
Practical information Accessibility
P R A CT I CA L I N FO R M AT I O N
150
If you see the wheelchair icon in this guide, it means that some provision has been made for disabled people. For more details about the different levels of accessibility at different places in Bruges, you can pick up a free brochure (in Dutch or English) from the info-offices.
Bicycle rental points » Bauhaus Bike Rental LOCATION > Langestraat 145 PRICE > 3 hours: €6; full day: €10 OPEN > Daily, 8.00 a.m.-8.00 p.m. INFO > Tel. +32 (0)50 34 10 93, www.bauhaus.be/services/bike-rental B-Bike Concertgebouw » LOCATION > Concert Hall, ’t Zand PRICE > 1 hour: €4; 5 hours: €8; full day: €12. Tandem, 5 hours: €14; full day: €22. Electric bike, full day: €20 OPEN > 1/3 to 31/10: daily, 10.00 a.m.7.00 p.m.; 1/11 to 28/2: open by appointment only INFO > Tel. +32 (0)479 97 12 80, www.bensbike.be Bruges Bike Rental » LOCATION > Niklaas Desparsstraat 17 PRICE > 1 hour: €4; 2 hours: €7; 4 hours: €10; full day: €13, students (on display of a valid student card): €10. Electric bike, 1 hour: €10; 2 hours: €15; 4 hours: €22, full day: €30. Tandem, 1 hour: €10; 2 hours: €15; 4 hours: €20; full day: €25, students (on display of a valid student card): €22 OPEN > 1/2 to 31/12: daily, 10.00 a.m.8.00 p.m. ADDITIONAL CLOSING DATE > 25/12
INFO > Tel. +32 (0)50 61 61 08, www.brugesbikerental.be De Ketting » LOCATION > Gentpoortstraat 23 PRICE > Full day: €8. Electric bike, full day: €22 OPEN > 1/4 to 15/10: Monday to Saturday, 10.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m. and Sunday, 10.30 a.m.-6.00 p.m.; 16/10 to 31/3: Monday to Saturday, 10.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m. INFO > Tel. +32 (0)50 34 41 96, www.deketting.be Electric Scooters » Rental of electric bikes. LOCATION > Gentpoortstraat 55 and 62 PRICE > 2 hours: €10; 4 hours: €18; full day: €30 OPEN > 1/4 to 31/10: Monday, 1.00 p.m.6.00 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday, 10.00 a.m.6.00 p.m. EXTRA > Rental of electric scooters (see page 158) INFO > Tel. +32 (0)50 61 16 46 and +32 (0)475 94 20 02, www.electric-scooters.be Fietsen Popelier » LOCATION > Mariastraat 26 PRICE > 1 hour: €5; 4 hours: €10; full day: €15. Electric bike or tandem, 1 hour: €10; 4 hours: €20; full day: €30 OPEN > 15/3 to 31/10: daily, 9.00 a.m.7.00 p.m.; 1/11 to 14/3: daily, 10.00 a.m.6.00 p.m. ADDITIONAL CLOSING DATES > 1/1, 10/5 and 25/12; closed on Monday in January and December INFO > Tel. +32 (0)50 34 32 62, www.fietsenpopelier.be
Koffieboontje » LOCATION > Hallestraat 4 PRICE > 1 hour: €5; 4 hours: €10; full day: €15, students (on display of a valid student card): €11.25. Tandem, 1 hour: €10; 4 hours: €20; full day: €30, students (on display of a valid student card): €22.50 OPEN > Daily, 9.00 a.m.-10.00 p.m. INFO > Tel. +32 (0)50 33 80 27, www.bikerentalkoffieboontje.be La Bicicleta » LOCATION > Wijngaardstraat 13 PRICE > Full day: €15 OPEN > Daily, 11.00 a.m.-10.00 p.m., book in advance via the website. INFO > Tel. +32 (0)478 33 49 69, www.labicicleta.be Snuffel Hostel » LOCATION > Ezelstraat 42 PRICE > Full day: €8 OPEN > Daily, 8.00 a.m.-8.00 p.m. INFO > Tel. +32 (0)50 33 31 33, www.snuffel.be Steershop » LOCATION > Koolkerkse Steenweg 7a PRICE > Full day: €10 OPEN > Tuesday to Saturday, 8.00 a.m.-
11.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m.-8.00 p.m. (Saturday until 6.00 p.m.) EXTRA > Guided tours (see page 142) INFO > Tel. +32 (0)474 40 84 01, www.steershop.be Most of the bicycle rental points ask for the payment of a guarantee.
Bike taxi A bike taxi will bring you to your destination in an ecological way. BIKE TAXI STANDS » Markt (near the Historium) » ’t Zand (near the Concert Hall) » Stationsplein (Kiss&Ride) PRICE > Rates can be obtained (on-site) from the individual taxi companies. INFO > Tel. +32 (0)472 67 35 25 or www. taxifietsbrugge.be, tel. +32 (0)478 40 95 57 or www.fietskoetsenbrugge.be and tel. +32 (0)478 51 41 15 or www.greenrides.eu
Campers The Kanaaleiland (‘Canal Island’) at the Bargeweg offers an excellent camping site for at least 57 camping cars all year round. Once your camper is parked, you are just a five-minute walk from the city centre (via the Beguinage). It is not possible to make prior reservations. PRICE > 1/4 to 30/9: €25/day; 1/10 to 31/3: €19/day. Free electricity; it is also possible to stock up on free clean water (€0.50) and dispose of dirty water. OPEN > You can enter the site until 10.00 p.m. You can leave at any time. INFO > www.interparking.com
Church services 01 Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed (Basilica of the Holy Blood) Daily, except Mondays: 11.00 a.m.
151 P R A CT I CA L I N FO R M AT I O N
» Fietspunt Station LOCATION > Hendrik Brugmansstraat 3 (Stationsplein) PRICE > 1 hour: €6; 4 hours: €10; full day: €15. Electric bike, 4 hours: €20; full day: €30 OPEN > Monday to Friday, 6.55 a.m7.00 p.m.; 1/5 to 30/9: also during weekends and public holidays, 9.00 a.m.5.00 p.m. ADDITIONAL CLOSING DATES > Closed for a number of days during the Christmas period; please contact the bicycle point in advance for details. INFO > Tel. +32 (0)50 39 68 26, fietspunt.brugge@groepintro.be