Burg Square Bruges
A grand medieval plaza showcasing Bruges' rich history with stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture, including the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Burg Square Bruges
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand medieval plaza showcasing Bruges' rich history with stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture, including the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
"A wonderful place to visit! It has a big history, and its architecture is very interesting!"
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be tough on your feet. Explore Bruges on foot!
💰 Avoid Market Square Dining
Food on the main squares can be pricey. Venture a few streets away for better value and local flavor.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Basilica of the Holy Blood
Burg Square
Marvel at this stunning basilica, home to a relic believed to be the blood of Christ. A spiritual and architectural gem.
Bruges City Hall (Stadhuis)
Burg Square
Admire the intricate Gothic facade of Bruges' 14th-century City Hall, a testament to the city's rich history.
Old Civil Registry
Burg Square
A beautiful example of Renaissance architecture, this building adds to the square's grand and historic ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Atmosphere, Avoid the Crowds
Beyond the Square: Explore Bruges' Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be tough on your feet. Explore Bruges on foot!
💰 Avoid Market Square Dining
Food on the main squares can be pricey. Venture a few streets away for better value and local flavor.
📸 Capture the Magic
Burg Square is incredibly photogenic, especially with its historic buildings.
🍫 Don't Miss Belgian Waffles
Try a traditional Belgian waffle from a local vendor for a delicious treat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be tough on your feet. Explore Bruges on foot!
💰 Avoid Market Square Dining
Food on the main squares can be pricey. Venture a few streets away for better value and local flavor.
📸 Capture the Magic
Burg Square is incredibly photogenic, especially with its historic buildings.
🍫 Don't Miss Belgian Waffles
Try a traditional Belgian waffle from a local vendor for a delicious treat.
🛶 Canal Tour Essential
See Bruges from a different angle with a scenic canal boat tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Burg Square is a historically rich and architecturally stunning centerpiece of Bruges, praised for its impressive buildings like the Basilica of the Holy Blood and City Hall. Visitors enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the blend of art, religion, and history. However, some find food prices high and public restrooms scarce.
"The paintings inside were beautiful, and the video showing the timeline of how the building was constructed and later expanded was very informative."
N Sen
"De Burg is one of the oldest and most historically significant squares in Bruges, located just a short walk from the famous Market Square. Once the site of a fortified castle dating back to the 9th century, it became the political and administrative heart of the city. Today, De Burg is surrounded by a remarkable collection of architectural styles, reflecting Bruges’ long and rich history. Highlights include the City Hall (Stadhuis), a stunning Gothic building from the 14th century, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which houses a relic believed to contain the blood of Christ, and the Old Civil Registry, a fine example of Renaissance architecture. The square’s peaceful ambiance, intricate facades, and historic significance make it a must-see for anyone visiting Bruges. De Burg offers a perfect blend of art, religion, and politics, representing the cultural and civic pride of this medieval city."
Tiago Camacho
"Great place to visit and take in the atmosphere. Canel trip well worth a try. Food very pricey. Lack of toilets. Plenty of parking. Plenty of shops and you can fill a whole day.. Horse and cart rides 70e."
tony parton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bruges train station is about a 20-minute walk to the old city center, including Burg Square. Taxis or local buses are also available if you prefer not to walk.
There are parking lots available near Burg Square, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Yes, local buses frequently stop near the main squares, making it easy to access Burg Square from various parts of Bruges.
Absolutely! Bruges is very walkable, and exploring its charming streets on foot is highly recommended to discover hidden gems.
The most convenient way is by train, which takes about an hour. From the Bruges station, you can walk or take a bus to Burg Square.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Burg Square itself is a public plaza and is free to enter and explore.
While entry to the Basilica is generally free, there might be a small fee for specific areas or to view the relic. It's best to check on-site.
The Basilica typically has varying hours depending on the season and religious services. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Access to the exterior of the City Hall is free. If you wish to tour the interior or specific rooms, there may be an admission fee.
While not specific to Burg Square, consider looking into city passes if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions in Bruges.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the Bruges City Hall (Stadhuis), and the Old Civil Registry, all showcasing impressive architecture. 
Burg Square can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season and midday. Visiting early morning or late afternoon can offer a more peaceful experience.
Take your time to admire the architecture, visit the Basilica, and perhaps enjoy a coffee at a nearby cafe. Consider a horse-drawn carriage ride for a classic experience.
Public restrooms can be limited in the immediate vicinity. Cafes and restaurants often allow use for customers.
Burg Square was once the site of a 9th-century castle and served as the political and administrative center of Bruges, making it historically vital.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are eateries around Burg Square, many recommend venturing slightly off the main square for better value and authentic Belgian cuisine.
Don't miss Belgian waffles, fries (frites), chocolates, and of course, Belgian beer.
Yes, look for places like 'De Vlaamsche Pot' for delicious traditional cuisine, or try a restaurant specializing in ribs for a hearty meal.
Bruges has many charming coffee bars. Try places like Vero Caffe or Adriaan for a relaxing break.
Food can be pricey, especially in tourist hotspots. Eating away from the main squares and opting for local specialties can help manage costs.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire square is a photographer's dream! Capture the Basilica, City Hall, and the surrounding historic buildings.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, while late afternoon provides a beautiful golden hour glow.
Try capturing the reflections in puddles after rain, or frame the buildings with the sky for dramatic effect.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the buildings, but a standard lens will also work well for details.
Photography rules can vary inside religious sites. Be respectful and check for any signage regarding photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While food options are plentiful, look for kid-friendly treats like waffles and chocolates. Be aware that the square can get crowded, so keeping a close eye on children is important. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the peak crowds and allow for more relaxed exploration.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of a pricey horse-drawn carriage ride, opt for extensive walking. Bruges is a compact city, and exploring its charming streets on foot is the best way to discover its beauty without spending extra.
couples
+1Consider a horse-drawn carriage ride for a classic romantic experience, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand through the square and its surrounding medieval streets. Finding a cozy cafe for a coffee or a glass of Belgian beer offers a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy each other's company amidst the historic ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Tapestry of Burg Square
At the heart of the square's historical and religious significance is the Basilica of the Holy Blood. This unique double church, with its Romanesque lower chapel and Gothic upper chapel, houses a relic believed to contain the blood of Christ. The current Gothic structure dates back to the 15th century, though parts of the basilica are older. The blend of these distinct architectural periods creates a visually captivating ensemble that transports visitors back in time.
Beyond these prominent structures, the square is lined with other historic buildings, many of which now house shops, cafes, and restaurants. These buildings, though perhaps less grand, contribute to the overall medieval atmosphere of the square. Walking through Burg Square is like taking a journey through Bruges' architectural history, with each building telling a story of the city's past prosperity and artistic achievements.
Experiencing Burg Square: Beyond the Visuals
For a truly immersive experience, consider a horse-drawn carriage ride that often departs from or passes through Burg Square. While a splurge at around 70 euros, it offers a romantic and classic way to see the city's historic center, including the square itself.
It's also worth noting that Burg Square is a central point for understanding Bruges' history. It was once the site of a fortified castle and the administrative heart of the city. Understanding this context enhances the appreciation of the buildings and the square's enduring significance.
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