Why Bruges remains the great success story of overtourism in Europe

In their Tourism Strategic Vision Memorandum (sic) 2019−2024the city and tourism authorities give a clear indication of what they hope to achieve: “A positive story that contributes to the well-being of our residents, visitors and entrepreneurs. » The strategy seems to be working. Regular surveys suggest that Bruges residents are generally very supportive of tourism (75 to 90 percent, depending on the question asked).

The authorities remain vigilant in the preparation of tourism policies for 2025-2030. But for now, Bruges can still boast its reputation as a city that has faced the threat of overtourism and found the means to manage it successfully.

On the ground, it’s a tale of two cities. The historic center can certainly seem crowded. Essentially ovoid in shape, it is surrounded by a ring of canals which mark the ancient route of the medieval city walls. The main groups of coach and car parks, as well as the railway station, lie just beyond this perimeter to the south and south-west. Pleasant tree-lined promenades connect these arrival points to the city center in a slender triangle, like a slice of cake, the tip of which is the Markt, the central market square dominated by the Belfort.

Within or very close to this piece of the pie are many of Bruges’ key attractions, such as Lake Minnewater and the timelessly tranquil Begijnhof (Beguinage); the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk, with its Madonna and Child by Michelangelo; the Groeningemuseum, with its priceless early Flemish paintings; the classic canal view from the Rozenhoedkaai (also a hub for canal excursions); and the sumptuously Gothic and neo-Gothic Stadhuis (town hall).

In other words, you don’t need to stray very far from this narrow stretch to see the best of Bruges – and many day-trippers don’t. Those who only see this part of Bruges will be the first to complain about the crowds.

However, beyond the city center, a quieter Bruges quickly reveals itself, with its own attractions, such as the Jerusalem Chapel in the Adornesdomein, the Volkskundemuseum (museum of folk life) and the four historic windmills bordering the eastern dike.

Stay a few days (yes, the city can be digested during a day trip, but it deserves a more languorous look); Check into one of Bruges’ many charming hotels and guesthouses, savor the best of Belgian cuisine in great restaurants and lose yourself in the quiet lanes and canals.

Autumn is a beautiful time of year here, as the leaves turn and a low sun illuminates the medieval horizon. The two Christmas markets (from November 22 to January 5, 2025) bring sparkle to the gloomy end-of-year months. Listen to the tunes of the carillonneur above the joyous hubbub. Busy, yes – but you definitely won’t hear the alarm bells.