A Journey Through History: Exploring Bruges' Medieval Old Town

Bruges is a city that whispers tales from the past. In its cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and whispering canals, history comes to life. This enchanting city, located in the heart of the Western Flanders region in Belgium, is renowned for its wonderfully preserved Medieval Old Town. Situated just an hour's drive from Brussels, the city invites visitors to take a step back in time and uncover the intriguing stories of a bygone era.

Bruges is just a 1.5-hour drive from Brussels Airport Charleroi. For those interested in exploring this ancient city in their own pace, it's a wise decision to rent a car here. There are numerous car rental companies operating right at the airport, one of the most popular being Cars4Travel. Cars4Travel offers some of the most competitive Last Minute Car Rental Deals in Belgium. For instance, for as low as €24 per day, you can rent a well-equipped compact car to start your journey to Bruges.

The Heartbeat of the Medieval City: Market Square

Your first stop should be the Market Square, known as the Grote Markt in Flemish. Presiding over the square is the iconic Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage monument that offers a panoramic view of the city. A short stroll around the vicinity reveals an array of beautiful medieval buildings, some of which have been converted into boutique stores, restaurants, and bars.

The Soul of Bruges: The Canals

As you venture further, you'll arrive at the picturesque canals that meander through the Old Town. Bruges is often referred to as the "Venice of the North" due to its expansive network of canals. A guided boat tour is a great way to experience the city's breathtaking beauty. As the boat glides through the canals, you'll gain a fresh perspective on the city's well-preserved medieval architecture.

The Culinary Journey: Belgian Chocolate and Beer

Bruges isn't just about splendid sights; it's also a place for taste exploration. The city is famed for its lip-smacking Belgian chocolates and world-class beers. Try some traditional, hand-made chocolates and pair it with a delicious local brew for an authentic Belgian experience.

Art and Culture at the Groeningemuseum

For art lovers, a visit to the Groeningemuseum is a must. This museum showcases a comprehensive collection of Flemish and Belgian art spanning six centuries. The masterpieces of renowned Flemish Primitive painters like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling are particularly enchanting. The museum is conveniently located in the Old Town, just a short walk from the Market Square.

If you're arriving in Belgium via Liege, rest assured that you can still arrange a low-cost car rental with Cars4Travel. By following this link, you can choose from a wide range of vehicles starting from as low as €18 per day.

The Wrap Up

In Bruges’ Medieval Old Town, every stone and every waterway tells a story worth hearing. It’s like stepping into a fairytale, only, this one’s real. So, if you're a history buff or simply a traveler in search of new experiences, a day or two in Bruges' Old Town is time well spent. And with a car rental, you can easily traverse this wondrous city at your own pace. Safe travels!