Originally introduced in 1972 as a one-time promotion celebrating the 50th anniversary of the International Union of Railways (UIC), it allowed young travelers under 21 to explore 21 countries with a single ticket. The initiative’s success transformed it into a permanent offering, now available to adventurers of all ages, with tailored options to suit different travel needs.

Starting your train adventure

The journey begins with choosing your ticket, which can sometimes be a bit daunting. First, it’s essential to understand the difference between “Interrail” and “Eurail.” Simply put, they’re the same product, but Interrail Passes are for residents of European countries, while Eurail Passes are designed for travelers from outside Europe.

Decide whether you want to explore one country or multiple countries, as this will determine the type of pass you’ll need.

The One Country Pass

If your heart is set on exploring just one country—say, France—the One Country Pass is your go-to option. However, this pass cannot be used to enter or leave the selected country. For example, you can’t use it to travel from Belgium to France; it’s valid for travel within only France.

The One Country Pass is valid for one month, during which you choose how many travel days you need—anywhere from 3 to 8 days.

The Global Pass

Dreaming of a multi-country adventure? The Global Pass is your perfect companion. Before purchasing, consider the duration of your trip and the number of travel days you’ll need. The Global Pass comes in two main varieties, catering to different travel styles:

1. Continuous Global Pass
   This option offers unlimited travel within a chosen period of 7 to 90 consecutive days. With the Continuous Pass, you’re free to explore Europe every day during the pass’s validity. These passes are the most flexible—and also the most expensive.
2. Flexi Global Pass
   The Flexi Pass allows you to select a specific number of travel days—anywhere from 4 to 15—within a validity period of 1 or 2 months. For example, with a pass for “10 travel days within 2 months,” you decide which 10 days to travel within the two-month window.

Important: Your Interrail Global Pass allows one outbound and one inbound journey to/from your home country. For instance, as a Belgian, you can’t zigzag between Antwerp, Eindhoven, Hasselt, and Maastricht using the pass.

What is a travel day?

A travel day starts at midnight (00:00) and ends at 11:59 PM. Within these 24 hours, you can take as many trains as you’d like, making it ideal for getting the most out of your day. For instance, you can easily travel from Belgium to Poland in just one day.

“Does that mean I lose two travel days if I take a night train?” you might wonder. Thankfully, no. If your night train departs on one day and arrives the next, only the day of departure counts as a travel day—provided your arrival falls within the validity period of your pass.

Just trains?

Well, yes—that’s the primary concept of Interrail. However, in some countries, your pass can also be used for ferries. Depending on your destination, ferry rides may be fully covered or discounted for Interrail travelers.

You’ve bought your Pass — What’s next?

After purchasing your pass, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your unique pass number. If you’re using a digital pass, the next step is downloading the Rail Planner app, logging in, and linking your pass with your personal code.

The Rail Planner app will be your indispensable travel companion. It’s not just for planning your journeys; it also serves as your (digital) ticket. The Rail Planner provides all essential details: travel times, transfer points, layover durations, potential supplements, and more.

Supplements and reservations

Yes, you read that right. Sometimes you’ll need to pay a supplement in addition to your pass. This varies by country and railway operator, but it’s most commonly required for high-speed trains. There are two types of supplements you might encounter: a surcharge and a seat reservation. A seat reservation guarantees you a specific seat on the train and must be arranged before boarding. This can often be done through the app, the railway operator’s website, or at a ticket office.

The filter function

Both the Rail Planner website and app feature a filter function, allowing you to avoid routes requiring reservations. You can also select options like “direct trains only” or specify minimum transfer times.

For certain routes, seat reservations are recommended. If you’d rather play it safe or snag a window seat, it’s worth making a reservation. However, budget travelers who don’t mind hunting for an open seat—or even standing for a short while—can skip the reservation. Of course, if a reservation is mandatory, you won’t have a choice.

During my own Interrail journey through Italy and Austria, I traveled on trains without reservations whenever possible, even when recommended. While it sometimes took a little effort to find a seat, I never had to wait long before securing one.

And finally, my last travel tips.

On a budget? The Rail Planner app gives you a clear map of your entire planned route, making it easy to visualize your trip. It also highlights Interrail partners at your destination, offering discounts and deals. For example, I once enjoyed a 10% discount on a hostel stay in Munich!

As you travel, the app also tracks your statistics: how many trains you’ve taken, how many countries you’ve visited, and the total kilometers traveled by train. These stats make for a fun souvenir to look back on and relive your journey.

Sit and enjoy the ride!

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Tourism is an age-old phenomenon. Think of the wealthy Romans traveling to luxurious resorts. Much later, during the Industrial Revolution, tourism development accelerated. Travel became more accessible to a wider audience, partly thanks to improved mobility and, on the other hand, the rise of vacation rights.

Modern tourism, as we know it today, is deeply rooted in our society. In 2023, approximately 1.3 billion international arrivals were recorded, compared to ‘only’ 25 million in 1950. This growth naturally brings significant challenges.

Consider Venice, struggling under its popularity. Or Amsterdam, where finding affordable housing has become nearly impossible. Or the unequal distribution between the local population and investors in Casablanca. Or the waste left behind on the ‘unique’ journey to the top of Mount Everest.

Sustainable vs. regenerative?

According to the United Nations, sustainable travel means making conscious choices to minimize negative impacts on the environment, society, and economy. It’s a noble goal, something we can all contribute to. But… do we need to strive to maintain the current system for future generations? Why would we want to preserve a system, including all its negative consequences?

Isn’t our intention to progress, rather than stand still? The regenerative attitude goes beyond ‘maintaining’. It is a proactive approach in which the traveler focuses on restoring and improving the travel destination. It is therefore not just about reducing the negative impact, as with sustainable tourism, but about actively contributing to the restoration of natural ecosystems, strengthening local communities and economies, and preserving cultural traditions.

By the way, I don’t see sustainability and regenerative practices as conflicting concepts. Instead, I view sustainability as a component of regenerative tourism, part of a systemic change.

Why do I speak of systemic change?

Because we need to revise the core principles of tourism. Instead of solely striving for profit, actors in tourism should also aim for value creation for both local communities and nature. This means that regenerative tourism involves a shift in values and practices. This is the point where tourism breaks out of its silo as an industry solely focused on travelers.

Systemic change requires involvement from all stakeholders in the tourism sector, including governments, travel organizations, local communities, and travelers.

What can I do as a traveler?

As a traveler, you have a certain responsibility. Ten years ago, when I started simplybyjoy.com, I wrote, “traveling is a privilege, therefore we are able to positively change our behavior towards it.” I still feel the same way today.

You might rightly think, ‘easier said than done.’ The good news is that there are already many organizations contributing to this regeneration. You might not know them because they’re not TUI, Hilton, or MSC. In the next part of this article, I’ll introduce you to some regenerative tips and players.

Information is key

Everything starts with making informed choices. Choose destinations that promote sustainability and regeneration, and remove destinations that need breathing room from your bucket list. Travel during the off-season whenever possible to support local economies when tourism is not flourishing. Also, learn about the situation of the destination: what is the history of my host country? What cultural norms should I follow? What about the economy? Is there great inequality? What are the country’s biggest challenges?

In addition to the destination, you can also research the impact of your stay or of the organization(s) you are traveling with. What are they doing to promote a positive impact? Is it truly taking place, or are we talking about greenwashing? How does the tour operator work with local communities? Does the organization also provide an educational framework for its visitors?

Fight against greenwashing

Greenwashing is the deceptive presentation of a company, product, or service as being more environmentally friendly or sustainable than it is. This is often done through marketing and PR strategies that overemphasize certain ecological benefits while obscuring the harmful environmental impact. As a traveler, check if you are not supporting greenwashing and ask critical questions.

Catchy phrases like “Travel Sustainable” from Booking.com and “Cruising the blue in a green way” from MSC Cruises sound great, but the reality is a bit less rosy. These companies often use green slogans that have more to do with marketing than actual sustainability, as it usually goes.

For example, Booking.com’s “green leaf” rating, which claimed to highlight eco-friendly stays, was recently removed in 2024 after discussions with the Netherlands Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM). The ACM found that the system wasn’t transparent enough for travelers to understand, and it was taken down to avoid misleading consumers.

MSC Cruises is another example. They advertise “green” LNG-powered ships, which sounds positive, but LNG (liquefied natural gas) isn’t exactly problem-free. While it can reduce some harmful emissions, it also results in methane leaks—a potent greenhouse gas that can cancel out the supposed climate benefits. Plus, the cruise industry, with issues like water pollution, biodiversity loss, and waste, isn’t winning any sustainability awards. So, slogans like “Cruising the blue in a green way” might look nice on paper, but the truth is more complicated.

Leave Nothing but Footprints: Beyond the Quote

Your personal actions on the road leave a certain mark. I will explain this using two simple, obvious examples. I really like the quote “Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures.” Many travelers also know it and think they are applying it, but in practice, they leave a greater impact than they can imagine.

• Did you know that while your sunscreen might protect your skin, it can harm marine life? Sunscreens containing ingredients like oxybenzone, octocrylene, and octinoxate can damage coral reefs and coral larvae. In fact, Hawaii banned the sale of sunscreens containing these chemicals in 2021 to help protect reefs. To make an eco-friendly choice, look for reef-safe sunscreens made with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—these are usually marked as “reef-safe” on the label. Want to take it further? Support coral regeneration projects, or try a beach cleanup on your next dive trip.
• Have you heard of ‘stonestacking‘? Stacking stones is a popular trend among hikers, but it seems we need to do some awareness work here. Moving and stacking stones disrupts the ecosystem and causes soil erosion. The soil that was once protected by the stone is now vulnerable. It sounds so innocent, but it’s not a sustainable practice.
• On hiking trips, I saw lots of fruit peels along the way. People might think they are biodegradable, but in fact the decomposition of fruit litter takes much longer than you probably imagine. A banana peel could take up to two years to decompose, especially in cooler, less humid forest environments. It may also disrupt local fauna because they’re not a natural part of the animals’ diets. Eat your fruit and take the peel with you, until you find a trash can.

Advocating for Gender Equality

Are women in the community treated equally? According to UN Tourism (World Tourism Organization), women make up 54% of the tourism workforce (2024). Despite being the majority, women remain concentrated in lower-skilled, lower-paid, and often informal jobs. Men are often the visible frontline or management, but the women make sure the beds are made, the rooms are cleaned, and the coffee is on the table. So there is clearly still work to be done on equality in the sector. As travelers, you can therefore choose to join organizations that are actively working on this. For example:

• In Nepal: For 25 years, 3 Sisters Adventure Trekking has focused on empowering women in a traditionally male-dominated industry. By actively involving women in the trekking sector, this organization not only creates jobs and better economic opportunities for women but also fosters a shift in the social structure, promoting gender equality in the region.

• In Kenya: In 2020, The Mountain Lioness Program, launched by Exodus, began training women as professional guides and porters on Mount Kilimanjaro—an area where men have historically held most of these roles. This program opens up new opportunities for women in the tourism industry while challenging traditional gender roles on Africa’s highest peak.

Part two to be continued.

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The main destinations of our train adventure were Northern Italy and Western Slovenia. I struggled when my friend suggested changing the itinerary to stay in Italy due to non-stop rain at our chosen destinations in Slovenia. I kept refreshing the weather app, hoping the forecast might change. Even though I knew staying in Italy was the right decision, I went to bed annoyed. However, after sleeping on it, I finally admitted she was right. We ended up exploring parts of Italy I hadn’t considered, and it turned out to be a great decision (with great weather).

We have 24 hours a day: stop rushing.

It took me a few days to fully switch from my work mindset to a vacation one. At first, I felt like I had to hurry to do everything, whether it was catching the first train or ticking off items on our itinerary. But gradually, I realized there was no rush—if we missed one train, another would come. There’s no need to chase time. Instead, I learned to slow down and savor the moments.

People are inherently good.

For the first time, I hitchhiked—something I’d always wanted to try but never quite had the courage for. Both times we stood on the roadside, thumbs out and smiles on our faces, we were picked up by the most incredible people. One time, we even got a ride up the mountain on the back of a quad, which was an unforgettable experience. Each time, we were pleasantly surprised by the enthusiasm and kindness of our drivers, who even shared local tips with us along the way.

You don’t need to travel far to have ‘authentic experiences’.

I don’t need to travel to the other side of the world—there’s plenty of adventure waiting right here within our borders, or not too far from them. While far-away destinations are undoubtedly exciting, I’ve realized that I can find equally enriching and authentic experiences on the continent where I am from, often in places I hadn’t even considered.

Traveling is a privilege.

This trip reminded me of the true depth of that privilege. The ability to explore new places, try new food, make unfortunate choices when abroad, and immerse myself in unfamiliar landscapes is something not everyone has the chance to do. Travel is more than just personal discovery—it’s a chance to engage with the world thoughtfully and sustainably. As more people have access to global travel, we also have a growing responsibility to ensure the destinations we love are cared for, so they can be enjoyed by future generations.

Unfortunately, people still don’t know how to ‘leave no trace’.

Even though there might be good intentions, I’ve realized that not everyone knows how to truly ‘leave no footprint.’ I don’t claim to be perfect either—I’ve had to learn a lot to travel more sustainably, and I’m still learning every day. But honestly, I thought some things were just common sense, like taking your trash with you. It’s shocking how often I still saw things like toilet paper, food scraps, and cigarette butts left behind. Just because something is biodegradable doesn’t mean it belongs in nature. It’s a reminder for me to keep preaching: we all have a responsibility to leave the places we visit as untouched as possible.

Public transport isn’t only expensive in Belgium.

I used to complain about the cost of public transport at home, but this trip gave me some perspective. I’ll try to complain less… I promise!

The post What Slow Traveling taught me appeared first on Simply By Joy.

I started both mountain bike trips without a plan, renting bikes at different locations. Both shops recommended routes available on AllTrails and Outdooractive. As a beginner, I opted for an electric mountain bike – a decision I didn’t regret.

Conquering the Coastal Trails of Point Rouge

My first adventure began at Evtt Provence, where I had booked an electric mountain bike online. It is a smooth and convenient process, where you can choose the type of bike and all needed accessories.

The staff welcomed me warmly, equipping me with everything I needed: a water bottle, a helmet, and a phone holder. The 27-kilometer-long route they suggested was a blend of a linear path and a loop, leading me from the sandy shores to the dense forests of the national park. I’ve included the link to the trail, but I must admit I very much disliked using the Outdooractive app. I did, however, like the suggested route.

The journey kicked off with a ride to Callelongue (aka the “Calanque at the end of the world”). Despite the heat, the mesmerizing views made every drop of sweat worthwhile. After visiting the Callelongue, I biked back for a bit and veered towards the climbs of Col de Sormiou and Col des Baumettes.

The ascent was tough, but the reward at the top —panoramic vistas of the Calanques and the shimmering Mediterranean— was worth every effort. As I descended into the cool embrace of the forest, the change of scenery was a welcome relief. The trail, mostly smooth, threw a few gravelly challenges my way, but they were brief and manageable.

While I didn’t spot any wildlife beyond the usual birds, the sheer abundance of nature was invigorating. The only real hurdles were the occasional unleashed dogs and a tense moment on the main road, where a distracted driver nearly cut my adventure short at a roundabout.

Reflecting on the ride, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment. The mix of beautiful coastal views, challenging climbs, and the excitement of exploring new trails made it an experience I won’t forget.

Tackling the Rocky Terrain of Cassis

For my second ride, I headed to Cassis: a picturesque town known for its wine and calanques. Getting there was an experience in itself. You need to take the L068 or L078 bus, which feels more like a tour bus rather than public transportation. Onboard, you can pay the fee by card or with cash.

Calank Bike, nestled in a beautiful vineyard, was my starting point. The setting was idyllic, but their suggested route was far more challenging than I had anticipated. Perhaps they mistook my enthusiasm for experience.

Soon after crossing the road, I found myself on a grueling ascent that seemed to stretch on forever. Only the electric assist kept me moving forward, my legs burning with effort.

Despite the struggle, the views during this climb were nothing short of breathtaking—rolling vineyards giving way to the rugged beauty of the national park.

As I pushed on, the trail transitioned from manageable gravel to larger, more treacherous rocks. After reaching kilometer 14 under a relentless sun, up the mountain, with little shade to cool down, exhaustion set in. A minor tumble convinced me it was time to turn back. I didn’t have the technique—or the energy—to conquer the increasingly rough terrain. I had to bike back all the way, as well.

Even though I didn’t complete the full 30-kilometer loop, covering 27 kilometers felt like a victory. The route may have been tougher than expected, but the stunning views more than made up for the effort. Sometimes, knowing when to call it a day is its own kind of achievement.

I recommend this trail for advanced mountain bikers, ideally when the sun isn’t at its peak and with a great water supply. I do think there must be more interesting routes than this one.

Final thoughts

Should you consider renting a bike to discover the surroundings of Marseille? YES.

Both of these mountain biking adventures around Marseille offered unique challenges and breathtaking scenery, each leaving me with a deeper appreciation for the region.

For anyone looking to explore Marseille beyond its urban charm, I highly recommend hitting the trails—it’s a journey that’s as rewarding as it is challenging. There are plenty of routes available on Strava, Komoot, and Alltrails. (I do not recommend Outdooractive.)

Cheers, and enjoy the ride!

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The Flow Line path snaked its way down the mountainside, a ribbon of adventure promising exhilaration and a good dose of challenge. All that separated me from this thrilling descent was a warm-up and a hefty dose of courage.

The first few meters of the 5.2-kilometer downhill track were tentative, my body re-familiarizing itself with the unfamiliar sensation of hurtling downhill. Slowly, the balance returned, and a newfound confidence crept into my movements. Legs in position, feet braced, and hands gripping the handlebars – a smile finally blossomed on my face as I embraced the exhilarating ride.

A quarter of the way down the track, our expert guide called for a well-deserved rest. As we caught our breath, we were able to enjoy the panoramic vista that unfolded before us once more. The beauty of the surrounding landscape could easily be forgotten in the intense focus required by the ever-changing terrain. The Flow Line demanded our full attention, a constant interplay of balance, speed, and control.

Halfway down the track, we reached a cafe hut. This was the perfect pit stop to refill our water bottles, grab a quick snack to replenish our energy, or make a toilet break. Refreshed and revitalized, we hopped back on our bikes, ready to tackle the remaining meters.

Finally, after an exhilarating descent, the path leveled out, signaling the end of our adventure. With a mix of satisfaction and exhilaration, we said goodbye to our trusty steeds and returned them to the rental station along with our gear.

Looking for a more or less challenging downhill path? No worries, Pohorje Bike Park caters to all skill levels! Here’s a quick rundown of the trails available:

• Flow Line: This playful trail offers a great balance of excitement and accessibility, with optional obstacles for those seeking more thrills. The track is about 5.2 kilometers long and has a descent of around 702 vertical meters
• Red Line: This 3.2-kilometer high-octane trail features berms and jumps for airborne adventures.
• World Cup: Embrace the natural elements – roots, drops, and switchbacks – on this ultimate test of skill.
• Fury Trail: Also an ultimate test for the rider, as natural elements such as roots, natural drops and sharp switchbacks will include the trail.
• The Family Line: Perfect for beginners and families, this gentle trail allows you to cruise comfortably. It starts at the mid-station, not the top.
• Ruska Family: Take your family biking skills to the next level with this trail that incorporates gentle bumps and jumps.
• Ruska Flow: Hone your cornering and jumping techniques on this flowy trail that keeps you in contact with the ground.
• Stream Line: Enjoy a scenic ride alongside a stream on this natural singletrack trail suitable for most riders.
• Red Fox Trail: Commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Golden Fox Ski Race with this exciting course.

All info about the trails and the emergency contact can be found on visitpohorje.si.

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About Mežica and its mine

Our adventure began in Mežica with a testament to this region’s mining history. Mt Peca’s cave is entirely carved to extract lead and zinc. The first written proof of this mining activity dates back to 1665, and for centuries, it was a crucial source of income for the surrounding area.

The harsh reality of minework is evident in the history. Men, women, and even children as young as seven toiled in the mines. Boys assisted their fathers, pushing carts laden with minerals weighing up to 200kg. Women separated minerals from stones, and some managed the household. By 1960, the mine employed a staggering 1,000 people.

The vast network of tunnels we explored during the kayaking activity were primarily research tunnels. Due to the unpredictable nature of mineral veins, miners dug extensively, hoping to strike luck. This resulted in a labyrinthine network stretching over 1,000 kilometers. Today, the mine has transitioned from its industrial past to a fascinating tourist destination, sharing the story of the area’s mining heritage and the people who labored there.

Following the miners’ footsteps

Our adventure commenced with a unique 3.5km train ride on an original mining train, venturing deep into the Glančnik tunnel. After disembarking, we descended over 400 steps to reach the 8th floor. These lower levels were once kept dry by massive pumps, but after mining ceased, the water flooded these areas, creating the perfect setting for our kayaking experience.

For one unforgettable hour, we paddled through the dark tunnels, an eerie yet strangely beautiful experience.

Following our spelunking adventure, we were treated to a traditional miners’ lunch. An informative walk back to the miners’ train concluded this unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the challenging past and thrilling adventure in equal measure.

Practical information

The location of the activity: Podzemlje Pece
In low season: 55.00 EUR/person, in high season (from 1.6. to 31.8): 75.00 EUR/person
Other activities: mine tour by train, museum tour, mine tour by bike, and black hole trail by mountain bike

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This proud World Heritage city is best explored on foot so that no detail can escape because there’s nothing better than getting lost in the hidden alleys of Bruges.

History in a (very tiny) nutshell

Bruges’ rise to prominence began with its strategic location. Prone to occasional saltwater floods in the past, the land developed a unique vegetation ideal for sheep farming. This, in turn, fueled a thriving wool industry, laying the foundation for Bruges’ prosperous textile trade.

Further bolstered by its access to the sea, Bruges’ port flourished as a hub of international commerce. The city even hosted the world’s first trade fair, a testament to its enterprising spirit. Over time, Bruges evolved beyond just trade, becoming a renowned center for cultural development. Famed Flemish Primitive artists, like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling, flourished here, leaving an enduring artistic legacy.

De Vesten

Encircling the charming city of Bruges is a 7-kilometer green haven known as De Vesten, or the city walls. This scenic route is a treasure trove of beauty, dotted with Bruges’ most captivating landmarks.

As you stroll along De Vesten, picturesque scenes unfold before you. The Minnewater, also known as the Lake of Love, offers a tranquil escape. Ancient city gates stand sentinel, whispering tales of Bruges’ rich past. Windmills, once numbering 30 and crucial for bread production, stand as silent reminders of a bygone era. The rise of steam engines sadly eclipsed their role, leaving only three windmills to grace the landscape today. Parks and the vibrant harbor on the Coupure Canal complete this captivating tapestry.

The inner city

De Markt, a must-see in Bruges. Towering over the square is the iconic Belfry, a 13th-century masterpiece that has stood witness to centuries of history. At a staggering 83 meters tall, the Belfry offers a panoramic reward for those willing to conquer its 366 steps. This of course not without a reward! At the highest point, you enjoy a panoramic view overlooking the city and its surroundings. Maybe spot your next stop?

De Markt offers more than just stunning vistas. The Historium transports you back in time to medieval Bruges, offering a captivating glimpse into the city’s past. Atop the museum lies the Duvelorium, a charming terrace with a view of the market square. Here, you can unwind and savor a refreshing Duvel beer, a perfect way to soak up the atmosphere. (To access the Duvelorium, simply enter through the Historium’s entrance and follow the signs.)

Adjacent to the Historium stands the Provincial Court, a building rich in history. Dating back to the 13th century, it was originally a “Waterhalle,” which loosely translates to a storage warehouse. Over the centuries, it transformed into a monumental housing complex in the 18th century. Unfortunately, a fire ravaged the building in 1878, prompting its conversion into the present-day Provincial Court (Provciaal Hof).

Furthermore, three things will stand out on the market:

It is the departure point of many horse-drawn carriages. From here the coachmen guide curious tourists around the city with a smile.

Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck proudly look out over the market. Two celebrities from the Battle of Flanders.

Numerous restaurants & cafes and their colorful buildings.

Although the Markt appears to be the city’s most significant square, the 14th-century town hall is located on the Burg, the square behind the Markt. From here, Bruges has been governed for more than 600 years. The Burg is therefore the oldest core of the city.

The town hall shares the square with the Mansion of the Brugse Vrije, the former civil registry, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

With this, we have discovered the heart of the City. Of course, there is much more to see.

The Beguinage (aka the Princely Court Ten Wijngaarde)

Following a tradition seen in many Flemish cities, Bruges boasts its own Beguinage, a tranquil haven known as the Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde. These unique communities were established for beguines, pious laywomen who lived a semi-monastic life devoted to religion and good works. Today, the Bruges Beguinage, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into this fascinating chapter of history.

Jan van Eyckplein

Bruges’ Jan van Eyckplein, named after the famed Flemish painter, is more than just a square. Steeped in history, this area was once the bustling heart of the Hanseatic Quarter. From the 13th to the 15th centuries, it thrummed with activity as international merchants and trading nations converged here. Imagine the scene: a vibrant marketplace filled with exotic goods and the lively chatter of commerce in a multitude of languages. Today, Jan van Eyckplein offers a glimpse into Bruges’ illustrious past, while still serving as a charming spot to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Tip from a local: order a takeaway pasta (from Bocca) and sit at the water’s edge.

Churches & Museums

The city is rich in museums, which is logical since art, culture, and religion were very present in the past. Some interesting things at a glance:

Onze Lieve Vrouwwekerk: One of the iconic towers of the city. It is 115.5 meters high, making it the second-tallest brick church tower in the world. The showpiece on display in this church is Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child.

Concergebouw circuit: Concergebouw offers a unique experience for families with active children. The venue’s circuit trail provides a fun and educational exploration, combining contemporary art with a child-friendly approach.

Diamond Museum: Did you know? Modern diamond-cutting techniques were pioneered by a native of Bruges in the 15th century. The Diamond Museum delves into this fascinating history and the world of sparkling gems.

Groeningemuseum: Art enthusiasts will find a treasure trove at the Groeningemuseum. Housing a renowned collection of Flemish Primitive paintings, this museum showcases works by masters like Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and Gerard David.

Gruuthusemuseum: Housed in the former city palace of Lodewijk van Gruuthuse, the museum’s motto, “Plus est en Vous” (There’s More in You), is reflected in its collection of artifacts that tell captivating stories of Bruges.

Historium: This immersive experience transports you back to the heart of the Middle Ages. Explore exhibits and scenes that bring Bruges’ medieval history to life.

Sint Jans Hospital: One of the oldest preserved hospitals in the region, Sint-Janshospitaal offers a glimpse into the evolution of medical care.

Beer, beer, beer

No Flemish city is complete without its breweries, and Bruges proudly upholds this tradition with at least 3 breweries within its heart. Among these, Halve Maan reigns supreme, the birthplace of the beloved Brugse Zot beer. For beer aficionados, a visit here is a must! But Halve Maan isn’t the only star. Bourgogne des Flandres and Fort Lapin offer their unique brews, enticing you to embark on a delicious exploration.

If you want to delve deeper into the world of Belgian beers, the Bruges Beer Experience museum, conveniently located on the market square, awaits. This interactive museum offers a fascinating journey through the history and brewing process of these iconic beverages.

Shop till you drop

Bruges is a real shopping city. The largest shopping streets are Steenstraat, Geldmuntstraat, and Noordzandstraat. There is something for everyone: it ranges from souvenir shops to large chains to designer shops.

Tip: No time during the week? Every first Sunday of the month, the streets become car-free and the shops open.

Refuel: Coffee

Exploring Bruges can be exhilarating, but it can also be tiring. Thankfully, the city boasts a wealth of charming cafes where you can refuel and reenergize. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

 Olivier’s Chocolate (coffee & artisanal chocolate): Indulge in a perfect pairing – a fresh cup of coffee and handcrafted artisanal chocolate – while soaking up the sunshine on their terrace. Be aware, seating on the terrace is limited, so a bit of luck might be needed! Location: Sint-Amandsstraat 14

 We Are Coffee Makers (specialty coffee roaster): This haven for coffee lovers welcomes you with a smile. Be sure to try their own roasted beans – the aroma and flavor are simply unforgettable! Location: Academiestraat 8

Cherry Picker (record store & coffee): maybe it’s not obvious to look for coffee in a record store, but you’ll find this great combo here! Location: Langestraat 74

Refuel: Drinks

La casita (cocktail bar with snacks): Good vibes en delicious cocktails guaranteed. Location: Sint-Salvatorskerkhof 5

Groot Vlaenderen (cocktail bar): are you looking for a fancy environment? Not a problem! Groot Vlaenderen is known for its appetizing cocktails. Location: Vlamingstraat 94

Basement cafés (bar): the name speaks for itself. In Bruges, you may encounter cafés that are located in a cellar. It sometimes takes some searching to find the entrance, so keep your eyes open. Two examples of cellar cafes are ‘t Poatersgat and Le Trappiste.

De Garre: This hidden gem, tucked away in Bruges’ city center, is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. Make sure to try their signature brew, “de Garre Tripel,”. Be warned, the locals say three is the limit! Location: De Garre 1

Refuel: Food

That’s toast: all-day breakfast. But no bokes with chocolate, this is about delicious and creative dishes. Please note: it is usually a queue for a table. Location: Dweersstraat 4

Sanseveria: A vintage interior and top bagels. Location: Predikherenstraat 11

Hap: Great place for a quick and filling bite. Location: Zilverpand 16

De Republiek: This bar/restaurant is part of the city’s cultural center. Enjoy a dish on their terrace before or after a visit to the city cinema in the same building. Location: Sint-Jakobsstraat 36

Annual events

Bruges is vibrant. Every year there are unmissable (musical or not) experiences. Here are some summarized:

Enjoy!

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