|
Overview:
Visit the unspoiled medieval town of Bruges to appreciate the delights of
Belgian culture. Architecture, chocolates and lace are the crafts which have
kept Belgium on the map world-wide.
From the 11th century, Bruges enjoyed superiority as a capital of
cloth manufacturing and international business, and collected religious
treasures from the Crusades. It led Europe out of the Middle Ages under the
rich and powerful leaders of the Burgundian Empire. Today, Bruges is one of the
most beautifully preserved medieval cities in Europe! Its charming streets and
canals are packed with little restaurants and atmospheric cafes. Bruges looks
like the stage of a fairy tale play – hardly a modern building disturbs the
total picture. Colorful canals, narrow alleys, churches and patrician houses,
lovingly restored facades and museums full of art treasures awaken today’s
travelers to the historic “Pearl of the Middle Ages”.
Itinerary:
Travel directly from the points of departure to start the day with a walking
tour of Bruges, also known as the “Venice of the North”. On a stroll through
the cobblestone streets and alleys of Bruges, see the market square with the
Provincial palace and the magnificent bell tower called Belfort, the Holy Blood
Basilica, the famous Church of Our Lady and the marble Madonna by Michelangelo,
the peaceful Beguines convent, the Lake of Love and much, much more! Explore
daily life in the late Middle Ages with a visit to the Gruuthuse Museum, with
its collection of decorative art, sculptures, tapestries, furniture, silverware,
and ceramics inside the magnificent interior. Visit the Choco Story, Belgium’s
answer to the mysteries and marvels of this tropical delicacy. Belgium
chocolates are considered some of the world’s finest.
Not to leave Belgium’s other culinary specialty behind – your visit also
includes the Friet Museum – the story of the “French fry” and how the potato
became introduced to European culture.
Finish up your
adventure in Bruges with an optional canal boat ride (except February) to see
the city from a different perspective, before returning to the bus park for the
return trip.
|
 |
