Our small city in the north of Belgium packs a serious punch. It’s on every European travel itinerary and should be on everyone’s bucket list of places to visit before you die. The stunning medieval architecture, the unique shopping and the relaxed atmosphere make it a fantastic place to visit no matter the weather. Avoid the crowds and heat of the summer months and visit when the air is cool and crisp in winter. If you’re lucky you might even see Bruges with a dusting of snow. Here are some of the many stunning things to see in Bruges in Wintertime.
Rozenhoedkaai
Rozenhoedkaai is one of the most popular and photographed parts of the city and with good reason. If you’re enjoying a boat trip on the canal, you’ll notice it widens at a certain point, turns into a bend and gives you a stunning view of the Belfry. The impressive medieval tower with the brick buildings framing it is a glorious image, absolutely picture-perfect. By day you’ll likely need to wait for a perfect angle to take a picture but by night it’s quieter and the lights of the buildings and the decorated tree illuminate the canals below for a postcard-worthy shot.
The Bonifacius Bridge
One of Bruges most aesthetically pleasing and romantic spots is Bonifacius Bridge. Pass the entrance to the Groeninge Museum off Dijver Street (which is also worth a visit) will take you into the Arents courtyard which has four sculptures of the four horsemen of the apocalypse by Rik Poot. Continue on and look to your right to see the Heren van Gruuthuse, a fairy-tale like building and another great photo opportunity. Walk on to a more secluded part of the city to visit the beautiful Bonifacius Bridge, one of Bruges most impressive structures. The architecture in this part of town is unique and something not indulged in anymore which makes it a real jewel in our crown.
Minnewater Park
If you need a rest from walking and want to enjoy another picturesque spot, grab a coffee or hot chocolate and head to the beautiful Minnewater Park. Head toward the main train station and toward one of the most open spaces in the city which has an attraction called the Lake of Love. The lake is flanked on one side by the park and by walkways on the other. If you want to stop to rest, the Kasteel Minnewater now operates as a restaurant so you can refuel and admire the view. You’ll also see Powder Tower, which was used to store gunpowder away from the centre of the city in the 15-century – a lesson hard-learned by other cities.
Church of Our Lady Bruges
While the dream is to visit Bruges when it’s crisp and cool without rain, we all know the weather doesn’t always play ball. If you find yourself here during a period of bad weather – note that it will likely pass within the hour! – head indoors to do some cultural and historic exploring in Onze Lieve Vrouw Kerk, Church of Our Lady Bruges. The tower of the church is the highest in Bruges and it contains works of art you’ve only seen in pictures. Above the altar hangs a painting of the passion of Christ by Bernard Van Orley, the tombs of Mary of Burgundy and Charles the Bold from the 16th-century feature beautiful decorations and the jewel in the crown, Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child, a marble sculpture from 1505 steals the show.
Book a winter break in Green Park Hotel Bruges and enjoy great value accommodation on the edge of the city. Our best available rates are only available when you book directly on our website or with one of our reservations team. We look forward to welcoming you.
