Author: Denise Sheppard

Bruges, known locally as Brugge, is an historic city in Belgium. The city is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, canals, and cobbled streets, which have earned it the nickname ‘Venice of the North’ and make a weekend in Bruges a popular choice for many.

Bruges was an important centre of trade and commerce in the Middle Ages, and the many impressive buildings and monuments that have survived to this day give visitors just a hint of the city’s history. In fact, Bruges was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000 in recognition of its cultural and historical significance.

Bruges is a popular city break destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to explore the winding streets, picturesque squares, churches and canals. Plus, come winter time, the Christmas markets that pop up attract even more to see the city looking its finest all festive and lit up.

Where is Bruges?

The city of Bruges sits in the northwest of Belgium, an hours train ride from the capital city of Brussels. It’s conveniently located for car and rail access from mainland Europe, and for access via sea from the nearby port town of Zeebrugge.

Top Sights to See in Bruges

There’s plenty to see and do on a weekend in Bruges, but some sights are ‘must see’ and should make any visitor’s list for the city.

• The Historic Centre of Bruges – The UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its beautiful medieval architecture and picturesque canals, an absolute must see!
• The Belfry of Bruges – the impressive bell tower taking pride of place in the Grote Markt.
• The Church of Our Lady – A stunning Gothic church housing several important works of art, including a sculpture of the Madonna and Child by Michelangelo.
• Top museums – The Frietmuseum, Chocolate museum and Groeningemuseum have a little something for everyone
• Grote Markt – The central cobblestoned square in the heart of the city. .
• The Begijnhof – A former convent that now serves as a tranquil retreat from the bustling city.
• The Minnewater – A charming lake surrounded by picturesque trees and gardens and is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll or, come Christmas, a leisurely skate on the ice rink.

• Breweries – What’s a visit to Belgium without sampling the beer?

How Long to Spend in Bruges

Bruges is the perfect day trip option if you’re limited on time, but if you’ve got the weekend to spend in the city then 2 days in Bruges is a great opportunity to really soak up the place and indulge in the waffles and coffee on offer in so many charming cafes.

How to Spend a Weekend in Bruges
Day 1 – Exploring the Centre of Bruges

With so much to see and do in the centre of Bruges, it’s a great idea to start your Bruges city break focussing on this area.

Grote Markt

The biggest attraction in the city is probably Grote Markt. It’s slap bang in the centre of the city, full of history and home to the impressive Belfry Tower, provincial court and a generous offering of cafes and restaurants. The cobblestone square has been the centre point of life in Bruges for hundreds of years, and was renovated in the mid 1990’s to reduce the amount of traffic passing through.

Belfry Tower

The impressive bell tower is a well known landmark in Bruges, and used to play a key role in the lives of the residents of Bruges using the bells to communicate things like start of work day, celebrations, and also danger like fire or invasions.

These days the Belfry Tower is mostly just a landmark and tourist attraction. Visitors can climb the 366 steps of the Belfry Tower, and even if you just pass near Grote Markt you’ll likely hear the bells ringing. They ring for some time, and usually play a number of different songs through the day.

Shopping

The area around Grote Markt is great for shopping. Head to Steenstraat for a whole street of shopping, both international and local shops. Spend time wandering the smaller streets that branch off from there, or for a charming shopping alley visit Winkel Galerij which you’ll find in a very modest entrance next to Bubbles at Home on Wollestraat.

Burg Square

Smaller than Grote Markt but still worth a visit. At Christmas there’s a huge tree taking centre stage, and the surrounding buildings have stunning architecture to check out. You’ll find the City Hall here, as well as the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Brugse Vrije is another building to check out just next to the city hall, with a history as a courthouse from the 1700s, now welcoming visitors as a museum.

The cobble stone square also plays host to a weekly food market offering fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, cheese and cooked dishes too.

City Hall

Taking pride of place in Burg Square, Bruges’ city hall dates back to the 1400s. The exterior is architecturally stunning and some say it was an indication of the wealth and prosperity of the area when it was built, but once you step inside you’ll be even more wowed. Aside from being somewhere to admire the decor, there are exhibitions inside to share the history of Bruges with visitors.

Basilica of the Holy Blood

One of several churches to check out on a Bruges city break, the Basilica of the Holy Blood is worthy of a visit for a few reasons. The first is that it’s noteworthy for being different to the other churches in Bruges. Instead of being a standalone building in the shape of a cross as we’d expect, it’s built into the buildings surrounding Burg Square. The entrance is unassuming, and once you follow the stairs up to the church, you’re greeted with a modest sized chapel.

Aside from the location, the name gives a huge clue to the key ‘attraction’ at this church. It claims to have a vial of Jesus’ blood, which is brought out for visitors to pass by at certain times of the day. There is indeed a vial, but it’s not the kind or as full as when you have blood taken. Still, it’s quite an experience for those who follow the faith, and it’s interesting to see for those who don’t.

Beer Experience

When in Belgium, right? In a country known just as widely for its beer as for its chocolate, a visit to a beer museum is a must on a weekend in Bruges. It’s not one of those stuffy experience museums though, instead it’s more interactive and engaging, and ends with a visit to the brewery bar where you can sample some of the beers you’ve just been learning about!

The bar is open for visitors even if you don’t want to go visit the whole beer experience.

Jan van Eyckplein

These days, the square is peaceful and a lovely spot to go for a walk, but back in its heyday this was a busy port for the city of Bruges. The buildings surrounding the canal would have been a hive of activity with people from countries all over the world trading.

Now, the square is home to a statue of the famous artist Jan van Eyck, and a bear hides in the facade of the nearby Poortersloge…a small game of hide and seek for visitors to find the bear of Bruges that has been in residence here since the 15th century. Legend says the Count of Flanders killed a bear in the woods near Bruges, and ever since it’s been a symbol of the city.

Pick a Museum

While there are plenty of museums to choose from in Bruges, two of the most popular ones to experience in the centre of Bruges are the Chocolate Museum, or the Frietmuseum. Two staples of Belgian cuisine and often sampled by visitors and locals alike, these museums give you the chance to learn a bit more about the two delicious treats!

Sample Some Chocolate!

It’s not a proper Bruges city break without looking in at least one chocolate shop, and Chocolatier Dumon is a great choice. There are a few across the city, but the branch on Eiermarkt is close by today’s activities and really charming. The chocolates are hand made, the shop is cosy and despite being a chain there’s a homely feeling in the shop.

Don’t Forget the Christmas Markets…
For your fill of Christmas markets on this day, be sure to stop in at the Christmas market in Grote Markt for stunning surroundings and a backdrop of the Belfry Tower. For the foodies, the market in Simon Stevinplein is a must visit to fill your belly and warm your soul.

Day 2 – Explore Wider in the City

Having covered most of the central sights near Grote Markt on the first day in Bruges, the second day of a well spent Bruges city break is concentrated on exploring the rest of the small city.

Churches
With over 30 in the city, there are plenty of churches to check out in Bruges. Other than the Basilica of the Holy Blood mentioned before, there are two more noteworthy churches to check out.

Sint-Salvatorskathedraal is Bruges’ cathedral, is also the oldest church in the city, and takes pride of place in the centre of Bruges. It’s an impressive sight and can be spotted from many places in the city. It’s free to visit during the set visiting hours, so there’s no pressure to spend ages there to make the most of the entrance fee.

For the art lovers, a visit to the Church of Our Lady – locally called Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk – is a must. The church itself is pretty and worth a quick visit, but it is also home to Madonna of Bruges, the first piece of art by Michelangelo to leave Italy. How often do you get to see a Michelangelo piece?

Boniface Bridge
In a city full of canals and bridges, it takes something special to make a specific bridge worth visiting. But, Bonifaciusbrug is something special. It’s a small stone bridge, just behind the Church of Our Lady, and it has a real romantic vibe to it. The stone walls, the pretty views…it’s the perfect photo stop.

Begijnhof
The Begijnhof complex is a tranquil haven from the rest of Bruges. A green courtyard surrounded by white buildings plays host to Begiunes, women who live as nuns but don’t usually take the vows to become fully official nuns. The Begijnhof in Bruges is open for visitors to respectfully explore and visit, and has a church and museum to share the knowledge and history of the site.

Canal Boat Tour

In a city with such gorgeous waterways, a canal tour in Bruges is a must do!

Many tours start from Rozenhoedkaai, which is conveniently thought to be one of the most picture perfect areas of the city, but there are five places around the city you can start your tour. Most last for 30 minutes and run from mid-March to mid-November with a select few running through the winter season.

Diamond Museum

Diamonds have a long history of being traded in Bruges, with evidence showing diamond polishers were in the city since the 14th century. The museum gives visitors an insight into the diamond trading history of Bruges before it moved to larger cities like Antwerp, and there’s even the chance to watch the daily show of diamonds being polished.

It should be noted this is a museum about the techniques and history of diamond trading and polishing in Bruges, and not a museum display of different diamonds.

Waffles
Bruges is famous for many things, but one famous culinary delight that should not be missed when visiting is the classic Belgian waffle. You’ll find many small cafes and street vendors selling these delicious treats, and they are the perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the city.

Belgian waffles are typically made with a light and crispy batter, and are served hot with an array of toppings. Fruit, chocolate, nuts, meat, breakfast…pretty much anything that fits can be enjoyed on top of a waffle!

Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan
De Halve Maan is a brewery in Bruges that boasts a nearly 200 year history. When a place has been brewing beer for that long, you just know they know what they’re talking about. It might be the reason this was one of the things everyone recommended to me to do in the city!

A tour of the brewery gives visitors a chance to learn about the brewing process, sample some of the beer made at the brewery and also to soak up some stunning Bruges views.

Fun fact: De Halve Maan crowdfunded to be able to build a pipe that would send their beer from the brewery to their bottling plant without needing to use trucks over the charming cobble stone streets. Those who contributed to the cost of the pipe are rewarded with free beer!

Bruges Christmas Markets

What makes the cold weather and short daylight hours worth it? Christmas markets! And while Bruges isn’t chock full of markets, those it does have are worth a visit.

For the most impressive surroundings, the Christmas market in Bruges’ central square, Grote Markt, is your best pick. It has the slim, tall buildings surrounding the cobblestone square that are typical of Belgian historic architecture, and the Belfry Tower draws the eye from one side of the square. The Christmas market itself has everything you want from the markets: hot drinks, food, warm woolly clothes, cheese – yes, it deserves a special mention – and the usual arts & crafts.

For the foodies, the Christmas market just off Steenstraat in Simon Stevinplein is full of stalls offering delicious hot food, perfect for keeping warm in the cold weather! The bar at one end has some drinks not often seen at Christmas markets, and while I’m still not sure I enjoyed the gluhwein with amaretto, it sure warmed me up!

A firm favourite with Christmas market goers is an ice rink, and Bruges doesn’t disappoint! Just a little out of the city centre, Minnewaterpark hosts the city’s ice rink.

Got Extra Time? There’s More to See and Do!

Christmas markets aren’t the only ones Bruges has to offer. The city has a collection of food, weekend and flea markets to explore, each offering their own theme of goods to tempt shoppers.

You can also take a walk out to one of the old city gates – there are 4 still standing – to soak up a bit of Bruges’ history. While you’re there, how about trying to spot a windmill or two?

Where to Eat in Bruges

Restaurants, cafes and bars are very easy to find in Bruges. In fact, there are so many it can be hard to choose where to go! The usual rule of ‘move at least one street away from tourist hotspots’ applies, but if you really want to sit in the Grote Markt for a coffee and bite for breakfast, most places offer a coffee and croissant breakfast deal that is reasonably priced.

To enjoy a Belgian waffle while in Bruges, head to Kateijnnestraat where you’ll find more waffle cafes than you can shake a stick at! There are of course plenty across the whole city, but it seems that every second place on that street is a cafe offering delicious waffles of all kinds.

Visiting Bruges at Christmas means you have even more choice of to where to eat with all the Christmas market stalls. Is it cheaper to eat at the Christmas market stall than in a restaurant? Yep. Is it colder? Usually, yep. But worth it if you’re visiting Bruges on a budget or just like to sample the Christmas market goodies.

Aside from that, the world…well, city, is your oyster. There are hundreds of options all within a short walk of the central Markt square. If you really get stuck or just can’t choose, my favourite meal was at t’Brugs Pittahuis, absolutely delicious and very reasonably priced. I’d also recommend Carlito’s, an Italian restaurant that had a great vibe and super tasty options on the menu.

Outdoor dining still an option in colder months with heaters and blankets

Things to Prebook

Visiting Bruges during the winter, and specifically for the Christmas markets, it’s a good idea to prebook as much as you can as it can get busy. Whether you usually book far in advance or like to wing it, accommodation in Bruges can get limited and expensive if you leave it last minute, so it’s a good idea to book your accommodation as early as you can.

In terms of entry tickets, if you know there are sights you really want to visit such as the Belfry Tower or museums, then book your tickets to ensure you’ll get in and don’t have to queue too much. You can also pre-purchase a Musea Brugge card that’ll give you free entry to 11 select sights in the city.

How to Get to Bruges

For such a small city, Bruges is very well connected. With its own train station just a short walk from the city centre, visitors can easily take the one hour direct train from Brussels to Bruges. This quick connection means it’s easy and convenient to arrive in Brussels by plane or Eurostar, then enjoy the short train ride to Bruges.

If you’re arriving by train, the station you need is Brugge.
You can catch a direct train from Brussels Central station, and often Brugge isn’t the final destination so check the train number (usually IC followed by numbers) to find the right train.

From Bruges train station to the city centre, you can either walk, take a bus or jump in a taxi.

Taxis are easy to come by in the city, and reasonably priced. For a transfer from Bruges train station to Grote Markt, you’d be looking at about €10 depending on traffic. You’ll find a taxi rank outside the train station, and in Grote Markt, but you can also ask your accommodation to book you a taxi for a certain pick up time.

Don’t be alarmed if the taxi drives in a direction you’re not really expecting; the city has a lot of one way streets and avoids the main centre so taxis often have to take a longer route around the city centre.

Looking to arrive in Bruges by car? No problem! The city is well connected to major roads in Belgium, and also to the nearby port town of Zeebrugge. Yep, that means you can get the ferry to Bruges too! You probably won’t need your car while you’re exploring the city, so a hotel with a car park would be a great idea.

How to Get Around Bruges

The easiest way to get around Bruges is by foot. It’s a compact city centre and full of charming cobblestone streets that are dreamy to explore. If you prefer to join a walking tour to be guided around by a knowledgable pro instead of just wandering, there are a number of paid walking tours and even free walking tours available.

Buses cover the wider city, and offer an easy transfer from the train station to the city centre if you don’t want to walk. To see which bus you need to get where you’re going check on rome2rio.com or Google Maps.

Bicycles are readily available to hire in Bruges, and with many of the streets designated as no car areas, it’s easy to get around if you can dodge the tourists in the streets. The main attraction of hiring a bike in Bruges is to escape the city centre and venture out to see the sights that are just a bit too far to walk to.

You can hire a bike in Bruges from many places, and the tourist board has recommendations of their best places with opening times. If you’d prefer to join a guided bike tour, there are a number to sign up to.

In a city as romantic as Bruges, of course there’s the option to take a horse & cart tour of the city. They’re pretty pricey, and of course not everyone supports the practice, but it sure is a unique experience. The tours cover a fair bit of the ‘big’ sights, and there’s a short break in the middle to give the horse time to rest and have a drink. As it gets pretty chilly around Christmas, most tour providers will have blankets to hand to keep you warm as you tour the city.

With so many canals and waterways, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the city by boat. Bruges canal tours are popular, and run in both summer and winter, offering a unique way to see the city. It’s not really a public transport option, more of a luxurious alternative to sightseeing by foot. Tickets can be bought on the day, or in advance if you’re interested in a canal tour and walking tour combo.

Where to Stay in Bruges

Bruges is a compact city, so you can’t go too far wrong with where you choose to stay. Saying that, with just 2 days in Bruges you don’t want to spend too much of your time getting in and out of the city centre. For central landmarks to base yourself near, look for somewhere within walking distance of the Grote Markt, Sint-Salvatorskathedraal or Ankerplein.

On my previous visits, I stayed at Martin’s Brugge, a charming, modern hotel just behind the Belfry Tower and most recently at Grand Hotel Casselbergh Brugge. I was very impressed by the hotel, with comfortable rooms and a welcoming hotel bar to warm up in after cold days exploring the city and Christmas markets. Both are conveniently located, but are just a couple of the options available in Bruges.

When to Visit Bruges

Bruges is a city that welcomes visitors year round. This is a guide to spending time around Christmas in Bruges, so December to January would be best time to visit to make the most of this information, but if you’d like to visit at other times of the year then summer is your best option. With less chance of rain and warmer temperatures that don’t often go much above early 20c, the days are still comfortable for walking around and exploring.

Where to Visit After Bruges

Although a weekend in Bruges is a lovely amount of time to really enjoy the city, it is possible to see most of it in a day, leaving you with a spare day that you can use to venture out and visit another Belgian city. Brussels is the obvious choice being the capital city and a quick 1-hour train ride away, but don’t write off a visit to Ghent or Antwerp instead.

If you like Bruges, chances are you’ll like Ghent too. It’s just 25 minutes away by train, though some say they’re quite similar cities and not to do both in the same trip. But, Ghent does have it’s own personality and a castle with the best audioguide – I’d definitely recommend it if you visit Ghent! – so you can decide for yourself if they are similar.

If you’d like somewhere a little different to Bruges, Antwerp is an hour and a half train ride away, offering one of the most stunning train stations in Europe. It’s known for the diamond trade, historic centre and bustling port.

If there’s one thing that tops most people’s must-do list while in Bruges, it’s climbing the Belfry of Bruges. And it made it to my list twice; once for the amazing panoramic views of Bruges and again because it’s been a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.

The Belfry Tower of Bruges, also known as the Belfort, is a medieval bell tower located in the heart of Bruges, Belgium. It’s easily one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city, taking pride of place in the central Grote Markt. It appears on many people’s must-see lists while in Bruges, and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Bruges.

Thanks to the history of the tower that dates back to the 13th century, the Belfry Tower of Bruges was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 as part of the “Historic Centre of Bruges” listing. These days, visitors can climb the 366 steps to the top of the Belfry Tower to soak up the stunning views of the city.

History of the Belfry of Bruges

There’s a ton of interesting history to the Belfry of Bruges, and considering the fact it’s in the centre of a historic city you would expect nothing less. The 83-metre high building was first built in the market square, Grote Markt, around 1240. After a devastating fire just 40 years later, the tower had to be rebuilt.

Over time, the Belfry Tower has slowly grown due to the extensions and additions, which also explains the varying architectural styles. Sadly, due to its impressive height, the Belfry Tower has been the victim of several lightning strikes and fires, but has been repeatedly rebuilt.

The bells in the tower used to dictate life to the people of Bruges – it would ring to signal the start of the working day, lunch time, the end of the working day, the closing of the city gates and even things like fires and important political or social events. The number of bells has grown over the years, and there are now a total of 47 bells which play various tunes throughout the day.

Climbing the Belfry Tower

Climbing the Belfry of Bruges is a popular activity for visitors to the city, and one that offers stunning panoramic views once the final steps have been conquered.

With a total of 366 steps to the top of the Belfry Tower, it’s not for the faint hearted. But fear not, there are places to stop on the way up, with small exhibition areas giving an insight into the history of the tower and the growing number of bells and the all essential time to catch your breath.

Starting the tower climb, the stairs are very manageable and it’s easy to pass other people ascending or descending. With the different architectural styles of the tower come different styles of stairs, and the last section is the one that needs noting.

This was very likely not a building they thought would be open to the public, and the last stairway is evidence of that. Narrow, wooden, spiral stairs guide you through the last section before reaching the top, and it’s really not fun to pass someone on these stairs.

There is a rope to hold on to, and it’s not a huge amount of steps before you’re back at a comfortable descent, but for anyone scared of small spaces or falling down the stairs…probably best to skip that last section.

The views from the top are absolutely worth the climb, with panoramic stunning views of Bruges on offer for those who conquer the 366 steps. If you’re not a fan of heights or don’t feel like tackling the last spiral staircase, the views on the way up are just as good and still worth making the climb.

Overall, climbing the Belfry Tower of Bruges is a unique and memorable experience that should not be missed if you’re visiting the city!

I was told by everyone that I simply had to climb the Belfry Tower! Knowing there’d be places to stop on the way up, I wasn’t too concerned about having to tackle the 366 steps. The small exhibition/museum areas on the ascent were a great opportunity to catch my breath while learning about the tower and Bruges’ history.

I’m a sucker for a good view, and every window I passed on the way up seemed to spur me on to see just how much better it could really be the higher I went. The climb itself wasn’t too strenuous, but the last staircase was definitely my least favourite part. The thought was ever present that just one misplacement of a foot would send me and many others tumbling, and I absolutely threw away any regard for personal space and focused on having something to hold onto, whether that was the rope handle or other people!

The view from the tower

I’m not really scared of heights, but I definitely felt my legs getting a bit wobbly the higher we got, and as much as I kept trying to tell myself I wasn’t that high, my brain obviously wasn’t passing on the message to my legs! As soon as we got to the top, I was so glad I’d made the climb – the views are amazing, and you can see for miles. Although it wasn’t very windy at ground level, the wind at the top was intense and certainly…refreshing.

The room at the very top of the Belfry Tower is home to the carillon, which plays the songs every fifteen minutes to the city. The songs are changed every couple of years, but it’s fun to try and guess the tunes. As the songs are played frequently, chances are that they’ll be playing at least once as you ascend. If you time it right – or in some people’s opinion wrong… – you’ll be at the top while the bells are chiming and it’s crazy levels of loud! So interesting to see it all in motion though.

Is it worth the climb?

Climbing the Belfry Tower is one of the best ways to get those panoramic views of Bruges. For this reason alone, I’d say it’s worth the effort to climb.

Although the tower does have 366 steps to get to the top, there are places to stop along the way to take a rest and learn a bit more about the history of the tower. The views are great but it’s also so interesting to see how the Belfry Tower has played a key part in the life of the small city since the 1200s.

The only thing that would possibly put me off is how narrow it gets near the top, but a little bit of patience and an opportunity to get friendly with people as you pass will get you through the last few steps to the very top where you can soak up the stunning views of Bruges.

Musea Brugge cards can be purchased in advance, and offer free admission to multiple sights across the city – a great way to save money if you’re visiting other museums and churches on your trip.

How Accessible is the Belfry Tower in Bruges?

The area surrounding the Belfry Tower is fairly accessible, with flat, sometimes cobblestoned, pavements in the square and surrounding streets. In that regard, anyone with mobility issues can still appreciate the view of the tower from the outside, and enjoy the bells that ring out frequently across the city.

In terms of visiting inside the tower and reaching the top, this is accessed only by 366 stairs, so not ideal for anyone using a wheelchair or unable to climb a large number of stairs. Due to its age, there’s no lift available.

If you suffer from claustrophobia or a fear of heights, the full climb may not be the most fun experience for you. While the entire climb is enclosed, it does get very narrow at the top and ideally would be just one way access but is in fact two way. The staircases vary in design on the way up, and while most of it is very comfortable to climb and pass people, the last section is a narrow, spiral staircase.

Don’t be fully put off though, you could still enjoy most of the climb and the exhibition spaces on the way up. Plus, the views are spectacular even if you don’t go all the way to the top.

Top tips

• I visited in the winter and it wasn’t that busy. There is a limit to how many people can be in the tower at a time (thankfully!) so there may be a queue in peak seasons. Tickets can be prebooked to secure your slot.
• There aren’t any lockers at the bottom, so whatever you’ve got on you, be prepared to carry it up the tower. And bear in mind it gets really narrow at the top…
• Last entry time is 1 hour before closing.

There’s nothing quite like exploring a city with the sun shining on your face, the scent of sun cream in the air and the prospect of picnics in a park. Summer trips are ideal for a lot of people, but there are a few reasons why the risk of winter rain completely outweighs the glorious sunshine, and makes Europe a better place to visit in the colder months.

Here’s a slight disclaimer: I am most definitely a summer person. I love the warmth, the sunshine and being able to walk around in sandals. But even I have been convinced that there really is something special about European winter city breaks, and so these are just 9 of the reasons that convince me to travel to Europe in the winter, and why it’s the best time for European travels with minimal crowds!

Reasons to Visit Europe in Winter
Crisp Blue Winter Skies

Sure, the weather in winter is a bit more hit and miss than in the summer. But there’s just something about those crisp blue winter skies that makes me so happy. And if you’ve not got the blue skies, those insta filters work wonders on cloudy backdrops!

Lower Travel Costs

As the days get shorter and the chill starts to set in, most people want to spend the days inside tucked up by a warm fireplace, a hot chocolate in hand topped with marshmallows. So the holiday companies and airlines need to give some incentive to get people to use their flights, hotels, services etc. And thankfully for us, this usually comes in the way of cheap deals. If this doesn’t make it the best time for Europe city breaks I don’t know what does! I always try to travel when the weather is starting to turn, purely so I don’t have to pay the premium prices that summer carries.

Other Tourists…or Lack of!

Did someone say queue? I may be British, but if there’s one thing I hate more than people who don’t queue properly, it’s the actual queue itself. Who wants to spend half their time on a city break queuing up to see something? Less other tourists means less queues, way less crowding in museums and attractions, and clearer shots for me to snap a photo or two. I’ve heard people complain about queueing for ages to visit the Belfry Tower in Bruges – I only saw a few other people the whole time I was in there.

Good Light for Photos

If you are blessed with sunshine on your winter city break, the light is somehow softer than in summer and gives photos a lovely effect. Plus, you don’t have to stay out so late to catch the photographer’s dream – golden hour!

Keep Your Sanity

One holiday a year. Two glorious weeks in the summer to relax and lounge by the pool. As much as I love this, I just cannot spend the other 50 weeks of the year waiting for my next holiday. And I know I’m not alone with this! Younger generations are putting more emphasis on life in the work life balance, and a big part of that is heading out to travel more. If finances allow it, people are far more likely to take more breaks away these days.

While I wouldn’t recommend winter as the best time for Europe beach holidays, it’s so nice to still have a break away from the everyday to look forward to. And thankfully Europe has so many amazing winter destinations that you’re spoilt for choice of where to explore, both beach destinations and cosy winter city breaks.

Comfortable Flights

Granted, a plane seat in the summer is not all that different to a seat in the winter. There’s just one noticeable difference – the other passengers. Because less people travel in winter, there are less people on the planes, and therefore more available seats. While this might not make much difference to some – you do only need one seat on the plane after all – it makes a difference to me.

I have frequently had a whole row to myself when travelling in winter, which meant I could sit next to the window without worrying I’d have to clamber over some poor soul in a bid to get to the loo, and I could spread out a bit. Being able to put stuff on the spare seat is such a god send too, because I hate having to rummage in my bag to find things.

There’s also the perk that a lot of things in Europe are within a quick plane or train ride of each other so you can fit a lot in even if you have to travel between cities.

Local Food

While the local food is usually available all year round, there’s nothing quite like tucking into a hearty goulash near a roaring fireplace in the middle of winter. Some food just begs to be eaten on a cold winters day! And I wouldn’t want to eat the carbalicious grub in the summer, because I wouldn’t have my lovely winter coat to hide behind when I’ve eaten a touch too much. And let’s be honest, half of a trip abroad is trying the food, right?

Winter Accessories

Scarf, hat, gloves – the essentials! While I do hate being cold, I love being able to wear my hat and scarf and being all cosy. And how much cuter does everyone look when they’ve got their winter accessories on?

Who even needs to feel their toes anyway…

Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets were what first drew me to visit Europe in the winter, and they are the main reason I try to return each year. There’s enough festive cheer to get even the biggest grinch into the Christmas spirit. Teamed up with delicious and cheap food, drinks and ice skating, there’s not much more you could want.

And there really is something special about standing in the snow, with a warm glühwein in your hands, watching people whizz past on the ice skating rink. Or, you know, slowing shuffling as they hold on to the side.

As the Christmas markets are only on in the winter, it definitely is the best time for Europe city breaks if you want to visit a market or two. Or three, four, five…

Day trips are a traveller’s dream, the ability to get a taste of another place while visiting a city…what’s not to love? If you’re visiting Lisbon or the south of Portugal, taking the time to visit Évora on a day trip from Lisbon is a great choice!

While it may be a compact city with a population of about 55,000 people, it still attracts plenty of tourists due to being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known for its well-preserved Roman and medieval architecture. It’s not a huge distance from Lisbon to Évora, making a day trip to Évora perfectly accessible.

Where is Évora?

Évora is a city in southern Portugal, in the Alentejo region. It’s located about 140km (87 miles) east of Lisbon and 80 km (50 miles) west of the Spanish border and is the capital of the wider Évora District.

Top Things to Do in Évora on a Day Trip

If you’re spending a day in Évora, these are the top 5 things you should be sure to include in your sightseeing. They’re located across the city, but all within walking distance of each other and the journey between them allows you to see the charming white building-lined streets that fill the rest of the city.

Depending how long you spend at those places, you might find you have time to see more and you’re in luck, there’s plenty of things to do and see in Évora to fill your day.

Roman Temple of Évora – Templo Romano de Évora
Dating back to the 1st century AD, this is one of the most well-preserved Roman ruins in Portugal. It takes pride of place in the middle of the square, and although visitors shouldn’t climb it, you can walk around the and see the temple remains for free.

The Roman Temple was dedicated to Diana, the goddess of hunting, when it was built. Just next to the temple are Jardim Diana, a small, tranquil place offering visitors a green space to relax or check out the views of the surrounding area.

Cathedral of Évora – Sé de Évora
This cathedral is one of the most important Gothic structures in Portugal. It was built between the 13th and 14th centuries and is decked out with beautiful stained glass windows.

While the cathedral is an impressive and historic structure, the rooftop is exceptionally noteworthy. To reach it, you climb a narrow single file staircase which is two way despite not being wide enough to comfortably allow people to pass each other. Stepping out on the roof is a mixture of relief at not having to navigate the stairs anymore and awe at the stunning panoramic views of Évora.

Disclaimer: I wouldn’t take children or clumsy people to the roof. There are some parts where you can literally just walk off the edge of the roof.

Chapel of Bones – Capela dos Ossos
Located just next door to the impressive Igreja de São Francisco, the Chapel of Bones dates back to the 16th Century and while it initially seems a pretty dark place to visit, the history and symbolism of the place is actually very interesting.

Capela dos Ossos gets its name from literally being a chapel of bones. The walls and pillars of the chapel are covered in human bones and skulls, all displayed in a very decorative manner. It’s an interesting sight to see, although not a place that everyone would enjoy a visit to.

The chapel came into existence in the 1500’s due to a concern over how many local cemeteries there were. The local monks decided that to be able to save land space while still honouring those who were buried there, they’d move the bones and display them in the chapel. They believed it would also serve as a reminder to the residents of Évora, which was fairly wealthy at that time, the real values in life and not to be too materialistic.

As you leave the chapel, be sure to have a look at the quote written above the door.
Nós ossos que aqui estamos, pelos vossos esperamos which translates as we bones that are here, waiting for yours.

Giraldo Square – Praça do Giraldo
Praça do Giraldo is the main square in Évora, and is named after Geraldo Geraldes. He was considered a hero in his day, saving the region from the Moorish invasion. To thank him for his great deed, King Afonso Henriques made him a governor of the region and the square was subsequently named after him when it was built in the 16th century, 400 years after Geraldo Geraldes’ success.

It’s a great central location, and all roads in Évora lead to Giraldo Square so it really is the heart of the city. There are a number of notable buildings surrounding the square, including the Bank of Portugal and the Santo Antão Church which was built just before the square itself.

There are also a number of shops and cafes in Praça do Giraldo, and the seating stretches out into the square itself, perfect for a bit of people watching! The arches by the shops are known as the Medieval Arches, and are said to have been incorporated into the building to save passing pedestrians from whatever was being thrown out of the windows above before plumbing was installed in houses. Yep, toilet worthy content. These days it’s not such a worry, but the arches provide the perfect cover when it rains, and are also interestingly decorated so worth checking out.

And of course, we can’t visit Praça do Giraldo without seeing the impressive marble fountain taking pride of place near the church. It’s topped with a crown, and has eight water spouts, symbolising each of the roads that lead to the square.

Évora Public Gardens – Jardim Público de Évora
There are a number of green spaces in Évora, but Jardim Público de Évora, or Evora Public Garden, is one of the largest and most centrally located for visiting on a day trip to Évora.

The park was designed by the Italian architect José Cinatti in the 19th century and is home to a variety of trees, flowers, and plants, including many species that were brought to Portugal from other parts of the world. As you wander through the park, you’ll find a number of fountains, ponds, and sculptures throughout.

The Évora Public Garden is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It’s a great place to take a break from the sightseeing, relax and enjoy the outdoors, and is also a popular spot for picnics, concerts, and other events. There’s a cafe to grab a drink, and if you’ve just been to the Chapel of Bones it’s just next door and perfect for a moment of reflection.

Within the park you’ll find the Palácio de Dom Manuel, a former royal palace that now houses a museum. Just behind the old palace, are the Ruínas Fingidas, a set of fake ruins that were created in the 19th century. They look very convincing, but the name literally translates as fake ruins. Fun to visit regardless!

Jardim Público de Évora is open from sunrise to sunset, and it’s free to go in and explore.

Extras to Fit in if There’s Time

If you’ve got spare time, fear not because there are plenty of other things to do in and around Évora.

Almendres Cromlech
Fans of, for want of a better phrase, really old stuff, will enjoy the rock formations that can be found near the city. You’ll likely want to hire a car to get out there as it’s a 25-30 minute drive out and public transport doesn’t cover the area, or you can join a guided tour to venture out to the sites.

The largest and most popular rock formation is Almendres Cromlech, a megalithic structure thought to be one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to 6BC. It’s a short walk from the car park to the structure, where visitors can admire the varying heights of the ~95 stone blocks, some with carvings, others with some kind of decoration on them.

There’s also a lone megalith about 30 minutes walk away, Menhir dos Almendres, that stands about 4.5m tall. Viewed on its own it is just a large stone, but when seen from above with the rest of Almendres Cromlech it becomes clear that they were intentionally placed as such as they line up with sunrise on the summer solstice.

Spa Time!
If you’re not so into the rocks and prefer instead to indulge in a spa session, then the central spa in Évora to check out is In Acqua Veritas. It’s highly rated, and within walking distance of the central Praca do Giraldo.

What to Eat

If you have time to stop for lunch or dinner, be sure to scout out one of the restaurants in the side streets. They’re often small, charming and offer delicious Portuguese food.

Some dishes to keep an eye out to sample are:

• Cataplana – a fish stew, often made with clams, named for the traditional dish used to cook the stew. In a country known for great seafood, this is a popular dish.
• Arroz de pato – duck with rice, this is a dish found all over Portugal but is said to have originated from Alentejo region which Évora sits in.
• Porco a Alentejana – pork and clams in a delicious white wine sauce, commonly found in the south of Portugal and originating from the Alentejo region too.
• Pork in red wine and honey – I’ve no idea what this is called in Portugal, but I had it at a small restaurant just off Giraldo Square and it’s one of the most delicious things I’ve ever eaten!
• Francesinha – a meaty sandwich topped with cheese and an egg in a rich beer sauce. Hearty, very filling and popular with both locals and visitors. The francesinha is traditionally from the north of Portugal, but if you’re only visiting the south and this is your chance to try one, go for it!
• Alentejo wine – ok, not a dish to sample but when in Évora, right? Portugal is known worldwide for its amazing wine production, and the wines that come from the Alentejo region are worthy of sampling. In fact, you can even take a wine sampling tour to a nearby town!

How to Get to Évora

If you’re coming to Évora on a day trip from Lisbon, the easiest way to travel by public transport is by train. It’s about 1hr 20 minutes from Lisbon to Évora by train, and tickets can be bought online directly from the train company website (discounts available if bought a week in advance, priced from €7,50 one way). Don’t worry, it’s easy to navigate and available in English.

From Évora train station to the city centre it’s about 15 minutes to walk, or 5 minutes in a taxi.

If you’d prefer to get the bus from Lisbon to Évora, it’s a journey of about 1hr 45 minutes, and can cost from €4,00 one way.

How to Get Around Évora

Exploring by foot is the easiest way to get around Évora, it really is a compact city. However, it’s a typically Portuguese city: hilly! Add that to the cobble stones and it might not be the best way for anyone with mobility issues. While some areas are pedestrian access only, you’ll also be able to jump on one of the small city buses – from Mon – Fri and Saturday AM – or grab a taxi. It’s not worth hiring a car for the time you’ll be in Évora unless you’d like to venture out to some of the sights that aren’t covered by public transport.

Where to Stay

Évora is an easy day trip from Lisbon, but if you’d like to extend your time in the city and really indulge in the slow travel vibe, then there are a few hotels you can check in to. The standard of accommodation in Évora is high, and you’ll be spoilt for choice for somewhere nice, comfortable and centrally located.

During my time in Évora I stayed at Evora Olive Hotel. It was a very comfortable stay, located on a quiet
street but within minutes of the centre of the city, and I’d definitely recommend checking it out.

Is One Day in Évora Enough?

It’s definitely possible to get a good feel for Évora in one day, and that’s what makes it the perfect day trip from Lisbon. Of course, if you have more time to spare then Évora is a great place to spend a few days for real slow travel vibes, time to indulge in a bit of spa relaxation or to get back to nature and see a side of Portugal not many get to experience.

Is Évora Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! It’s an easy day trip to Évora from Lisbon and you’ll get to see a city awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, full of history and great food while also still retaining the small city charm that isn’t overrun with tourists. Plus, how often do you get to visit a city with a chapel decorated with bones?

La Mercè Barcelona is the city’s biggest festival taking place once a year, with a range of arts and cultural events spread across the entire city. It’s been an official city holiday for over 150 years, dating back to 1871 when the first La Mercè festival was organised by the local government to observe the Roman Catholic feast day of Our Lady of Mercy.

It’s not surprising then that the celebration of La Mercè has religious origins, honoring the Virgin of Grace (Mare de Déu de la Mercè) who is the patron saint of the archdiocese of Barcelona. If you pass through the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, you may find the basilica dedicated to the Virgin of Grace…she’s a big deal in this city!

To find the Basílica de la Mercè, head to Plaza de la Mercè in the Gothic Quarter close to the harbour.

During the Spanish Civil War, the festival was banned by the Francoist government. However, it was revived after the war, and it has continued to grow in popularity ever since.

These days, La Mercè is the biggest festival in Barcelona. Over 2 million visitors from across the globe join the celebrations each year for a wide variety of events, including traditional Catalan dances, music, theatre, street performances, and fireworks.

When is La Mercè?

The dates for La Mercè vary a little each year, but it always take place for around 5 days towards the end of September. As the festival is to honour the Virgin of Grace, whose feast day is the 24th, the festival always coincides with that date.

La Mercè dates 2024: 20th – 24th September.

Where Does La Mercè Take Place?

The festival covers the city of Barcelona, with multiple stages popping up across the city and other venues being repurposed. Many places have ‘open houses’ which means you can visit inside places that during the rest of the year you may not be able to.

The festival takes place in the streets of Barcelona, on stages that pop up across the city and the expansive Parc de la Ciutadella, in repurposed event venues, in the squares, on the beach…everywhere!

What Happens During La Mercè?

Well, what doesn’t happen might be an easier question to answer!

Highlights not to be missed are:

• Castellers: The infamous human towers! There’s a ton of history behind this tradition, but even without knowing that, it’s fascinating to watch. Head to Placa de Sant Jaume for the big, crowded display from the different neighbourhood teams, each competing to build the tallest towers of people, sometimes 6 people high, before sending a child up to the top and back down again.

Top tip: Arrive in the square at least 30 minutes before the start to be sure to get a space. If you’re able to, grab a spot in the shade near a wall or somewhere you can step up without blocking the view of others. It gets busy, and on a sunny day there’s no chance for shade or relief from the heat of the crowd in the afternoon sun.

Come prepared with drinks, snacks and a hat for shade.

• Correfoc: A fire fun! People dress up as devils and run through the streets with fireworks on sticks, spraying the sparks into the crowd. Giant mascots are paraded through the streets too, with fireworks attached. It’s an exhilarating experience, and some people choose to run through the devils and dance in the sparks.

Long sleeves and trousers are recommended if you want to be close, and sometimes you won’t have a choice as they run close to the crowd. There are family-friendly correfocs run earlier in the evening than the lively adult version.

• Fireworks: It wouldn’t be La Mercè without fireworks! Usually there’ll be a few displays during the festival itself, often at the beach, with a final breathtaking display over Montjuic magic fountain on the last evening. Placa d’Espanya and the road to the fountain fills with people, which in itself if is a sight to see. Definitely one not to be missed!
• Music: It’s a festival of culture, art and music, so it’s only right that music plays out across the city at various stages and at all times of day and night. No matter what your taste, you’re sure to find something you like, whether it’s hardcore dance music to rave at or soft classical music to be enjoyed in the park.

• Giants parade: Probably one more for the families but as an adult, I also enjoy seeing the giant figures being paraded through the streets. You can catch the parades several times over the festival, or visit the stationary giants on display to see who they are and what their significance is.
• Sardana: A traditional Catalan dance performed by a group in a circle. The music changes tempo and the teams competing have to adjust their dance to maintain time with the music. It’s a slow dance but interesting to see all the teams competing in the square in front of Barcelona Cathedral.

Who Can Go to the Celebrations?

Anyone and everyone. Residents, visitors, tourists, Auntie Barbara’s neighbour’s cousin…everyone is welcome!

The joy of La Merce being in Barcelona is that the city itself is very open minded and although they might not love the amount of tourists that visit, people are very welcoming to people of all walks of life. Barcelona really is a city where you can be yourself and no-one will really bat an eyelid.

While some festivals are targeted at a certain age range or group of people, La Merce has something for everyone. There are different events happening through the day, from morning to late at night, catering for families with young children, young adults, older adults, solo travellers…everyone!

Where to Stay for La Mercè

As the festival spans across the whole city, there are plenty of areas to stay in Barcelona that would ensure you have good access to a lot of the festivities.

My go to location in Barcelona is around Plaça de Catalunya or Urquinaona. These areas are central and well connected by foot and public transport to the airport, beach and spaces across the city. There are plenty of budget friendly options, as well as places to splurge and treat yourself to a luxury stay here.

My go to hostel in the area is St Christopher’s Inn, while my favourite hotel for a more luxurious stay is Olivia Plaza. There are lots of options in this neighbourhood, but these two I have tried, tested and loved!

If you want to be in the middle of a lot of the hustle and bustle during La Mercè, opt for somewhere close to Placa de Sant Jaume. But just be aware, the crowds will be extensive, and there’s a gun salute to kick things off the first morning of the festival which is sure to wake you with a bang!

La Mercè festival finishes with an impressive fireworks display in Placa d’Espanya. It’s an easy place to walk to – personal mobility permitting – but if you are hoping to catch the firework display from the comfort of your hotel, check out Hotel Catalonia Barcelona Plaza. It’s right on the busy intersection giving you great transport connections to the airport and the rest of the city, as well as a prime view of the closing fireworks display from the rooftop terrace.

What to Wear to La Mercè

There isn’t a dress code for the festival and Barcelona is a very accepting city so you could probably get away with anything and no-one would give a second look. However, for certain events like the correfoc fire run, there is advice given to cover your skin a bit. This is purely from a safety perspective, as there are essentially fireworks being sprayed into the crowd.

The advised dress for a correfoc / fire run is long sleeves, trousers or legs covered and, depending how close you want to get, a hat and glasses. For the family-friendly correfoc, the crowd is kept at a safe distance from the massive sparklers that spray sparks as the devils pass by. For the adult fire run, pretty much anything goes and the sparks being sprayed into the crowd are likely to get you.

Don’t wear clothing that is easily flammable, minimise the hairspray
and be prepared that any skin on show may get burnt.

I have been caught by the fireworks at the fire run and while it stings for a bit, I had no lasting damage. If you are planning to run in the correfoc, you really should cover up.

La Mercè for Families

While most festivals probably aren’t suitable for families and young children, La Mercè really does have something to offer everyone. There is plenty going on through the day in terms of arts and music, plus family-focussed activities like character parades early in the day.

Come evening, the more raucous activities like the correfoc – fire run – have a family friendly version earlier in the evening. While it’s not an activity I would initially think about taking a child to, the kid’s version is a lot more tame and safer than the adult’s version which takes place a couple of hours after.

La Mercè for Solo Travellers

Something that I thought about before my first visit to La Mercè was whether it would be fun to visit as a solo traveller. I quickly realised that yes, it is still incredibly fun to go to alone if you’re already used to travelling solo.

The range of displays, parades, art and music shows can be easily enjoyed on your own, but if you’d prefer to go with someone you could always ask around in the hostel as I’ve often found my roommates will be going to something that is part of the festival.

Is La Mercè in Barcelona Worth Visiting?

Absolutely yes! Barcelona’s biggest festival has so much going on with the cultural events, music, art, fireworks, open houses. Aside from being incredibly fun to visit, it’s also an excellent excuse to spend some time seeing the sights and city of Barcelona!