Belfry of Bruges travel guide

The Belfry of Bruges, also known as Belfort, is a medieval bell tower in the heart of Bruges, Belgium. Its history dates back to the 13th century when it served as a treasury and observation post.

The original wooden spire, which housed the bells, was destroyed by fire and subsequent versions suffered similar fates. The current 83-meter high tower with its distinctive octagonal lantern was completed in 1822.

Over the centuries, the Belfry has endured several fires and renovations, but its historical charm and significance remain intact. The Belfry's carillon consists of 47 bells and is still in use today.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site draws in thousands of tourists every year who climb its 366 steps for panoramic views of the city. The Belfry of Bruges is not just a tower, but a testament to the city's rich history and resilience.

The Belfry of Bruges, a medieval bell tower, boasts several unique features that distinguish it from other historical landmarks. Its soaring height of 83 meters offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. As one of the city’s most prominent symbols, it houses a carillon with 47 bells, which have been in use for centuries to mark the hours with melodic rings, adding a timeless charm to the city.

The tower's design is unique for its time, with a robust square lower section and an elegant octagonal lantern tower, topped with a Gothic spire. Inside, a challenging climb of 366 steps rewards visitors with a close-up view of the impressive clock mechanism and the carillon. The Belfry also contains a treasury, where the city's charters, seals, and public funds were historically kept, reflecting the Belfry's role as a symbol of the city's autonomy and prosperity in the Middle Ages.

Located in the dynamic Bruges, the popular Belfry of Bruges is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Brugge or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Belgium.

Brugge is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Brugge offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Brugge and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Minnewater Park, Church of Our Lady, Choco-Story, Chocolate Museum, Sint-Salvatorskathedraal, and Basilica of the Holy Blood.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Brugge has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Brugge, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Belgium!

Belfry of Bruges is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Brugge, Belgium. If you're flying in, Lille Airport is approximately 45 miles (72.3 km) away from Brugge. From there, you can easily reach Belfry of Bruges by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Brugge, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Belfry of Bruges, which is located 0.1 miles (0.1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Belfry of Bruges, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Markt 7, 8000 Brugge, Belgium.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Belfry of Bruges!

The best time to explore Belfry of Bruges is during the spring and fall seasons, especially from April to June and September to October. These periods offer more manageable crowd levels and generally pleasant weather conditions. With temperatures around 15-20°C, the climb to the top of the Belfry is comfortable. Fall season is particularly enchanting with its vibrant foliage providing a spectacular backdrop to the medieval tower. Summer (July-August) can be crowded, but it's also when the city hosts various festivals and events, adding to the overall experience. To avoid long queues, it's advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The Belfry opens at 9:30 am and the last ticket is sold at 4:15 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. Remember, the Belfry is closed on Christmas Day and New Year. Visiting during the less crowded seasons or times can enhance your experience at this iconic landmark in Bruges.

To truly enjoy your visit to Belfry of Bruges, joining a tour that features this popular belfry in Brugge is highly recommended. As one of Belgium's most iconic attractions, Belfry of Bruges draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Belfry of Bruges starting at just 2.99 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Belfry of Bruges and other top attractions in Brugge than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Brugge include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Belfry of Bruges's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Belfry of Bruges and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind belfry in Belgium.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Belfry of Bruges and Belgium's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 2 reputable rental car companies near Lille Airport and the city of Brugge, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Belgium cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Brugge and beyond.

Conveniently explore Belfry of Bruges and plenty more captivating attractions in Brugge by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Belfry of Bruges and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Brugge has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Belfry of Bruges below.

Aside from Belfry of Bruges, Brugge is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Brugge, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Minnewater Park, Church of Our Lady, and Choco-Story, Chocolate Museum.

Minnewater Park is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Brugge, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,900 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Minnewater Park is Minnewater 1/15, 8000 Brugge, Belgium.

Another appreciated attraction in Brugge is Church of Our Lady. Like Minnewater Park, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 9,200 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Mariastraat, 8000 Brugge, Belgium.

Choco-Story, Chocolate Museum is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Brugge. This museum and top attraction in Brugge has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,300 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Wijnzakstraat 2, 8000 Brugge, Belgium.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Brugge below.