Bruges, Belgium (Point of interest)

Set in a poky alleyway, Café Vlissinghe dates back to 1515 and is Bruges' oldest pub. Its authentic Flemish interior boasts Epoque furniture, while the restored two-storey bar offers over 130 beers, notably the potent 'tripel' ale.... Continue reading →

Belgian chocolate is world-famous and the Choco Story museum, housed in a wine tavern dating back to 1480, tells its story in full. Learn about the history, cultivation and preparation of the irresistible confection we all know and love.... Continue reading →

Bruges' concert hall, designed by architects Paul Robbrecht and Hilde Daem, opened in 2002 as part of the city's European City of Culture celebrations. This modern music temple is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, making for excellent acou... Continue reading →

Bruges' De Halve Maan (the Half Moon) Brewery was resurrected in 2005 and is currently the only brewery still working in the centre of this ancient city. It offers the chance to tour the facilities and sample its produce.... Continue reading →

Bruges' Diamond Museum is located in the city where the art of diamond polishing was invented. The museum contains a mock-up of a diamond workshop, a replica of the crown of Margaret of York, old mining equipment and more.... Continue reading →

Bruges' Groeninge Museum boasts a large collection of art from the 15th century to Modern Art. Wander from one period to the next and don't miss the Flemish Masters, including Van Eyck's masterpiece, The Madonna with Canon Van der Paele. The museu... Continue reading →

Guido Gezelle was a noted poet and Roman Catholic priest from Bruges and this museum, located in the house where he was born, traces his story. View the numerous exhibits and documents or enjoy a stroll in the large garden.... Continue reading →

Bruges' Lace Centre keeps the city's tradition alive by running several courses in the intricacies of the trade and offering demonstrations. Explore the museum and, if inspired, enroll on one of the centre's 'blitz' courses.... Continue reading →

Just off Halletoren, Pralinette is Bruges' largest and best-known praline store. Drool over the sweet offerings on display or watch chocolates and pralines freshly and skilfully prepared in the workshop every day.... Continue reading →

The Sint-Jan Hospital Museum, founded in the Middle Ages, saw nuns and monks take care of pilgrims, travellers and the sick. The ward is surprisingly well maintained and features a church and an impressive collection of art and medical instruments.... Continue reading →

Located just off the Markt, Taverne Curiosa is set in a narrow medieval cellar. By day, the bar is a great spot for a chat and refreshing beer, at night it transforms into a buzzing hangout for Bruges' bohemian crowd.... Continue reading →

With over 700 varieties of beer on offer, the Bottle Shop is the perfect place to snap up locally brewed ales. Check out the special Belgian beer glasses - the thick-stemmed Chimay and the cradle-like Kwak make great souvenirs.... Continue reading →

Dating back to 1821, Bruges' bustling Vismarkt (fishmarket) sells fresh fish every morning from Tuesday to Saturday. It is usually pretty busy but can be a lot of fun, with the stall owners shouting merrily and offering free samples.... Continue reading →