Live like a Local

Bruges is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. We’ve listed a few of the most famous sites below but walking around you will soon fall in love with the enchantment of everyday Bruges as we did; its canals, windmills, churches and gables.

We are ideally situated within walking distance of the Markt, shopping streets, museums and the finest bars and restaurants.

On a bike you can see far more of this romantic city and its surroundings and there are boat trips and horse-drawn carriage rides for yet another perspective.

The Grote Markt and Belfry

This is the main square and the largest in Bruges, just 500 yards from The Doghouse.

From the top of the medieval Belfry, having climbed the 366 steps, you will have a fantastic view all the way to the coast. The Christmas Market is centred here, as are other events and concerts throughout the year.

The Burg

Closer still lies the historic centre of Bruges with the stunningly ornate Town Hall, former Court of Justice, Roman Chapel and the Chapel of the Holy Blood.

The Groene Rei

Walk along the Groenerei to reach the Fish Market and Tannery Square. Here there are several good fish restaurants including our favourite The Gouden Karpel.

This area is often referred to as “the famous corner” as it appears so often in photographs. From here you can take a boat trip to see “Venice of the North” from the water, (Adults €8, €4, 30 mins)

Gruuthuse

A lovely walk along the canal takes you to Gruuthuse, a 15th Century manor house, now a museum. Next to it stands the Church of Our Lady, with the highest tower in Belgium, where you can see the Madonna by Michelangelo.

Brouwerij De Halve Maan

Here you can take a tour of both the modern family brewery and their museum, then drink unfiltered Bruges Zot directly from the brewing tank!

Verversdijk

The street where the Doghouse is situated is very old indeed, with records dating back to 1290. It owes its name to the cloth dyers who worked here and traded with the Scotts, for their wool, on the East bank of the St. Annarei canal. In the Middle Ages, Verversdijk formed the heart of the commercial city where many Englishmen had their warehouses and offices.

Museums

Historium; brings Bruges’ medieval past to life
www.historium.be

Groeninge Museum; a varied overview of six centuries of Flemish & Belgian painting from primitive through to post-war modern.

Bruges Beer Museum
www.brugesbeermuseum.com

Folklore; 17th century dwellings accommodate a lace collection & authentic interiors of the time. You can then relax in the museums inn “De Zwarte Kat”.

Choco-Story (the chocolate museum)
www.choco-story-brugge.be