Bruges

Eurostar travellers between Ebbsfleet International and Bruges have average journey times of 2 hours, 5 minutes; the route passes through Lille, Brussels and Ghent. Highspeed rail is popular when reaching Belgium, because its rail network is so well-developed that visitors can reach any Belgian city via train. The best time to visit is around Easter, as the confectionary shops in Bruges will be full of fine quality Belgian chocolates.

Bruges is in the north western part of Belgium, has a population of approximately 120.000, and is the most visited part of Belgium, especially by English and American tourists. Because of this, visitors are advised to pre-book accommodation, especially during the summer months, to avoid unavailability; room prices vary wildly, but the most expensive is the Marriott hotel for 350€ per night.

Its origins date back to the 9th century; after the 11th century it became one of the most important European centres for its commercial aspect as well as for its production of textile goods, especially linen and cotton, and in 2002 was named the European Capital of Culture. Restaurants in Bruges are extremely reputable, but can cost around 27€ to 35€. The famous Kardinaalshof restaurant, for example, provides a six course menu for an average 88€ per head.

Most inhabitants and visitors park outside the city as most vehicles are not allowed, which reduces internal congestion and retains its charm, but mini-buses are available in the city for tours. It is easy to travel around the city by foot, by visitors are advised to spend a couple of days to take in all the sights. Bruges is approximately 20 minutes away from Brussels by train, and easily accessible by train from Ghent.

Points of interest

Paris Main Attractions

Châteaux de Malmaison Also known as 'the Palace of Malmaison'. Built in the 18th century, it has been owned by wealthy families; the name derives from Norman times.... Paris, France Musée de la Musique Situated within Cité de la Musique, in the heart of the Parc de la Villette. With 1,000 instruments and art objects with rare pieces such as the tortoise guitar, an octobass and a crystal flute, also instruments dating back to the 17th century.... Paris, France Musée du Louvre Commonly known as just ?The Louvre?, it is the most visited and one of the oldest, largest, and most famous art galleries and museums in the world. It was originally a royal fortress.... Paris, France Musée Galliera Also known as the Paris Fashion Museum, with over three centuries of fashion, and an extensive collection of 90,000 pieces.... Paris, France Notre Dame Cathedral Near the River Seine, the famous cathedral is from the Gothic period.... Paris, France Sainte-Chapelle A place of religious symbolism built in the second half of the 13th century by Louis IX.... Paris, France The Arc de Triomphe The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments in Paris. It stands 50 metres in height. It is a tourist attraction and is one of the most famous monumnets in Paris.... Paris, France The Chateau de Versailles The stables at Chateau de Versailles Grande Écurie du Château de Versailles. Jules Hardouin-Mansart (Superintendent of royal works) originally designed the two twin buildings to accomodate the King's 600 horses. The building?s construction began in 1679 and was completed in 1683.... Paris, France The Eiffel Tower See over 40 miles across Paris. The Eiffel Tower, known as the symbol of Paris- a tower built of iron on the Champ de Mars, inaugurated on 31 March 1889 and it was built by Gustave Eiffel. It attracted around 2 million visitors the first year and almost 6 million annually today. It is 986 feet tall and has 704 steps to the second level, where a lift takes visitors to the top and with a view of over 42 miles of the city.... Paris, France The Grande Arche de la Fraternite A monument in the business district of La Defense to the west of Paris.... Paris, France 1 2 Next