Bruges: Guided Tour In French, Boat Ride And Chocolate!

We continue our walk to the Burg Square, one of the most prestigious and historic squares in Bruges. This is where the city's center of power used to be. On this magnificent square is the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a remarkable building composed of two superimposed chapels. The upper chapel houses a precious relic venerated for centuries: a vial containing, according to tradition, a few drops of the blood of Christ. Right next door stands the impressive Town Hall, built in the 14th century. Its richly decorated Gothic facade testifies to the power and prosperity of Bruges in the Middle Ages. Admire its numerous statues and architectural details: every element tells a part of the city's history. The Burg thus brings together history, architecture, and religious heritage in one place, in the very heart of medieval Bruges.

We then continue to the Old Fish Market, one of the historic places in Bruges. The elegant colonnade immediately catches the eye: it has no less than 126 columns surrounding the square. The complex offers a magnificent historical setting by the water and bears witness to the care given to the architecture of Bruges' public spaces. It is also a pleasant viewpoint to admire the canals and the old facades that line it.

The Tanners' Square (Huidenvettersplein) is one of the most picturesque small squares in Bruges. It is surrounded by beautiful historic facades and welcoming terraces. In the past, this neighborhood was occupied by the tanners, who worked with hides and leather. Today, the square offers a charming atmosphere.

What a magnificent view! The canal, the house of a Spanish nobleman, and the majestic weeping willow compose here a scene worthy of a postcard. It's the ideal place to take an unforgettable photo. In the past, they sold rosaries there, which explains the name Quai du Rosaire. Today, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Bruges, very popular with visitors and photographers. This is where our boat trip on the canals of Bruges begins. For about 30 minutes, let yourself be carried in a boat and discover the city from a completely different angle. To the tranquil rhythm of the water, you will pass under charming bridges and follow historic facades, old houses, and hidden corners that you cannot always discover on foot. A unique and relaxing way to admire the charm of Bruges and fully enjoy its romantic atmosphere.

We continue our walk along the Dijver, a historic street located right next to the Bruges canal. We walk in the shade of the trees, in a particularly pleasant and peaceful setting. Along the way, we can admire the canal, the historic facades and several emblematic buildings of Bruges.

The boatmen call this small bridge the "kissing bridge" and it is easy to understand why! It is one of the most romantic places in Bruges. Take the time to admire the charming canal, the wooden houses, and the peaceful setting surrounding it. The bridge dates from 1910, but fits perfectly into the historical scenery of Bruges. It almost feels like a fairy tale!

This city palace is really impressive. Above the entrance, we see Louis de Gruuthuse on horseback, in armor. He was a knight and a member of the Order of the Golden Fleece, one of the most prestigious chivalric orders of his time. The statue still dominates the impressive entrance of the palace today. The Gruuthuse palace testifies to the wealth and power of this Bruges family. Its elegant facade and numerous details tell part of the history of Bruges. A real gem in the heart of the city!

We pass by the Notre-Dame church, but we are not at a loss to be impressed by its immense bell tower, which rises majestically towards the sky.

These small houses, called "houses of God," were once intended to accommodate people in need, particularly the elderly or widows. They formed small peaceful groups around a courtyard. In Bruges, some of these houses are still inhabited today. They mainly testify to the tradition of solidarity and charity that once existed in the city.

To cross the door of the Princier Béguinage, is to enter a haven of peace in the heart of Bruges. Founded in the 13th century, this place was once inhabited by beggars: unmarried or widowed women who chose to live together, in prayer and work, while maintaining great independence. The whitewashed houses surround a magnificent inner garden where calm and serenity reign. Since 1998, the Begijnhof of Bruges has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The last beghards left the Béguinage in 1927. Today, some single women still live there. The place thus retained its vocation as a female community and its peaceful atmosphere. Take the time to admire the white facades, the large trees, the little church of Saint Elizabeth, and above all, the silence that is an integral part of the identity of this unique place.