Bruges

A stunning historic town, famous across the world, not only for its lace but also for its beautiful architecture. Sadly, its popularity is its biggest problem as it is inevitably always packed with tourists and sightseers but is still a must for a walking tour - a stroll through the tiny medieval streets can be an enchanting experience, especially is parking other than on the out of town Park and Ride car Parks is almost impossible.

In the Middle Ages, Bruges was one of Europe’s most prosperous cities, developing numerous trade links. Today, with an immediate population of 45,000, or 120,000 including its suburbs, Bruges ranks among the important cities of Belgium. It is also the capital of the province of West-Flanders.

Bruges is unique, in the sense that here the town authorities have done the utmost to preserve the medieval-looking image of the city. The 19th century neo-gothic style is quite prevalent due to the renovations made at that time. As a result, some critics have put Bruges down as a 'fake' medieval city. Nevertheless, the combination of old, not so old and new fascinates everyone who first sets foot in Bruges.