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In recent years, Bruges has finally become more widely appreciated as a tourist destination, thanks to the various travel options that have allowed tourists to visit the city. While the Belgian capital of Brussels may be best known for housing the EU, Bruges' history stretches as far back as the Vikings, and its impressive architecture and cobbled streets have led to Bruges being praised as the finest medieval city in Northern Europe still standing today.
There's plenty to keep history buffs occupied in Bruges, from ancient guildhalls and merchant houses to the Flemish artworks housed in its magnificent churches. That's not to say that Bruges' legacy lies entirely in the past though, with some of its most popular buildings being its modern theatres and concert halls. Built in contemporary styles, these venues stage an extensive calendar of events throughout the year, making Bruges an ideal cultural destination whether you're interested in avant-garde theatre or family shows. Venues such as the Bruges Puppet Theatre are ideal for children of all ages, with performances being staged in May, June and September.
While classical concerts possess the universal language of music, the language barrier doesn't have to present a problem for foreign visitors attending plays either, with some of Bruges' theatres performing works in other languages, particularly English. Demand for English language productions led to the establishment of the English Theatre of Bruges in 2007, and although financial difficulties meant this venue had to close its doors in 2010, English visitors can still find plays in their native language when visiting the cultural city, as well as enjoying a bite to eat and traditional Belgian beer in convenient restaurants opposite the major theatres.
You won't encounter a language barrier when seeing the sights of Bruges either, with English-speaking tour guides being widely available and eager to show off the city's remarkable beauty. Even if you aren't concerned with the history and minutiae of what you're looking at, you could still enjoy a fulfilling break in Bruges simply by walking its cobblestone streets. Among the essential sights are the gothic Town Hall, the glorious Basilica and the bustling Market Square, which can't be missed.
If you've never visited the city before, you won't find travelling to Bruges a challenge. The city is located around 89 kilometres (54 miles) north-west of Brussels and 14 kilometres from the coast, and it's easily reached by train.
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