Church of Our Lady travel guide

The Church of Our Lady, or Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture that has stood in Bruges for centuries. Construction began in the 13th century and continued in phases over the next 200 years, showcasing the evolving styles of Gothic design.

One of the church’s most notable features is its 115.5-meter tower, making it one of the tallest brick buildings in the world. The church houses several priceless works of art, including Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child, which was brought to Bruges in 1504. This piece is one of only a few by Michelangelo to leave Italy during his lifetime.

Over the centuries, the Church of Our Lady has undergone numerous renovations and restorations to preserve its historical and architectural integrity. The interior is adorned with stunning altarpieces, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows, each telling their own story of religious and artistic history.

Visiting the Church of Our Lady offers not just a glimpse into the past, but a deep dive into the rich cultural and religious heritage of Bruges. Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or simply a curious traveler, this iconic landmark is a must-see.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Church of Our Lady in Bruges is its remarkable 122-meter-high brick tower, which is the tallest of its kind in Belgium and the second tallest in the world. This iconic spire dominates the Bruges skyline and is a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the medieval builders.

Another exceptional feature is the church's rich collection of art and artifacts. The highlight is undoubtedly Michelangelo's 'Madonna and Child,' a stunning marble sculpture that is one of the few works by the master to leave Italy during his lifetime. This exquisite piece is housed in the church's southern transept, offering visitors a rare opportunity to view a Michelangelo masterpiece in a unique setting.

The interior of the church also boasts an array of beautiful chapels, intricately carved wooden choir stalls, and a magnificent organ. Additionally, the tombs of Charles the Bold and his daughter Mary of Burgundy, located in the church's choir, are intricately sculpted and adorned with gilded bronze effigies, adding a historical depth to the spiritual experience.

The Church of Our Lady’s combination of architectural marvels, priceless artworks, and historical significance make it an unparalleled destination for visitors to Bruges.

Located in the dynamic Bruges, the popular Church of Our Lady 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 Belfry of Bruges, Minnewater Park, 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!

Church of Our Lady is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Brugge, Belgium. If you're flying in, Lille Airport is approximately 44.7 miles (71.9 km) away from Brugge. From there, you can easily reach Church of Our Lady by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Brugge, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Church of Our Lady, which is located 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Church of Our Lady, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Mariastraat, 8000 Brugge, Belgium.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Church of Our Lady!

The best time to explore Church of Our Lady in Bruges is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly mild, making it comfortable to stroll through the city and visit its attractions. Additionally, the crowd levels are significantly lower compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more serene and intimate experience within the church.

Visiting in the spring offers the added bonus of blooming flowers and vibrant greenery in the surrounding areas, enhancing the overall charm of Bruges. Fall, on the other hand, brings beautiful autumnal colors that create a picturesque backdrop for your explorations. If you prefer a quieter visit, early mornings and weekdays are ideal times to avoid larger tourist groups.

For those interested in unique experiences, consider timing your visit to coincide with special events such as the Bruges Triennial, which features contemporary art installations throughout the city, including near the Church of Our Lady. This can add an extra layer of cultural enrichment to your trip. In summary, the best time to explore Church of Our Lady is during the spring or fall, when you can enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially enriching events.

To truly enjoy your visit to Church of Our Lady, joining a tour that features this popular church building in Brugge is highly recommended. As one of Belgium's most iconic attractions, Church of Our Lady 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 Church of Our Lady starting at just 2.99 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Church of Our Lady 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 Church of Our Lady 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 Church of Our Lady 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 Church of Our Lady below.

Aside from Church of Our Lady, 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 Belfry of Bruges, Minnewater Park, and Choco-Story, Chocolate Museum.

Belfry of Bruges is a bucket-list establishment 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 18,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Belfry of Bruges is Markt 7, 8000 Brugge, Belgium.

Another appreciated attraction in Brugge is Minnewater Park. Like Belfry of Bruges, 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 9,900 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is Minnewater 1/15, 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.