5 Stunning Outdoor Spots to See in Bruges

Delia Tugui | January 29, 2016

My dear fellow traveller,

I’ve prepared something very special for you today. We will explore some amazing outdoor spots in Bruges. While the tourist crowds are queuing in front of the museums, cafes and cathedrals, we have other plans — more entertaining and refreshing ones.

We will step into the town’s alluring, medieval, Flemish architecture, we will watch the graceful swans and we will walk a bunch of cobbled streets.

1. Get lost in the Grote Markt

This is the place that clearly wins the most photographed spot in Bruges award. And you’ll notice that as soon as you arrive and notice that those colourful facades look unusually familiar. You’re in Bruges’ main market square, situated right in the heart of the historical city, flanked by medieval buildings and outdoor restaurants.

You’ll also see that some tourists choose to wander through Grote Markt in charmingly trimmed horse-drawn carriages. You can do that or, you can follow my advice and, for starters, just walk. I assure you that there’ll be a bunch of moments when you’ll want to stop and stare at certain jaw-dropping details.

Eddy Van 3000

This vibrant, bustling market has its own unique charm. The cobblestone paving, the breathtaking architecture, the elegant boutiques and the cosy cafes are playing their role greatly, creating a view that you’ll certainly want to see again.

Take a look at the Provincial Court — a Gothic-style building that once served as a meeting point for the West Flanders Government. And I’m sure you’ve already noticed that tall tower that seems to carefully guard the city. Well, that’s the renowned, fabulous Belfry (Belfort) which is about 83 meters tall.

In the square’s centre, Pieter De Coninck’s and Jan Breydel’s statues are waiting for some well-deserved admiration. They were Brugse Metten’s (the nocturnal massacre of the French garrison back in 1302) leading figures. The eastern market is dominated by Provinciaal Hof, a neo-Gothic building hosting the post office.

Francisco Antunes

As amazing as this place is, there are plenty other outdoor spots to be seen, so let’s get moving now!

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