About
Market Square, in the Belgian city of Bruges in Flanders, is generally regarded as the beating heart of the old town. It is a large open square, and most visitors find themselves passing through it sooner or later, since it lies at the centre of the city's historic streets.
What you will see
- Colourful guild houses lining the edges of the square
- The Belfry, the tower that dominates the skyline above the square
- Bustling markets that give the square its lively character
The guild houses are the first thing that catches the eye, their facades bright against the sky. The Belfry rises above them and is the landmark that helps orient anyone who wanders the old centre.
What kind of visit it makes
Market Square suits an unhurried visit. It works well as a place to sit, watch the market activity and take in the buildings around you. Because it is busy, it is also a good spot to get a sense of everyday life in the city, rather than only its monuments.
Its real strength is as a starting point. From here it is easy to set out on foot to explore the rest of the historic centre, with its canals, lanes and smaller squares, all within a short walk. Many visitors use the square as a base for their first hours in Bruges before deciding where to go next.
If you are deciding whether to go, the answer is simple: Market Square is where most people begin, and it gives a clear first impression of the city.