Markt & Belfry of Bruges
Markt / Belfort van Brugge
The heart of Bruges, this square is overlooked by an 83-metre medieval belfry. Climb its 366 steps for a view over the whole city.
The Markt has been Bruges' market center since 958. It is surrounded by brightly colored stepped-gable houses (mostly restaurants), the neo-Gothic Provincial Government building, and, in the center of the square, statues of two heroes of the 14th-century Flemish uprising. The belfry on the south side was built in the 13th century and stands about 83 m tall. Its base was once the cloth hall. Inside is a carillon of 47 bells, which plays melodious tunes on the hour. The belfry, together with other belfries in Belgium, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To reach the top, you must climb 366 narrow spiral steps. Along the way you can see the city treasury and the carillon mechanism. From the top, you get views of Bruges' red rooftops and canals. Admission costs about €15, entry is time-limited, and in peak season it is best to reserve a time slot online. The film *In Bruges* made the belfry famous. Just a hundred meters east of the square is the Burg, home to Bruges City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which houses the relic of the Holy Blood. Horse-drawn carriage tours of the city also depart from the square.
Opening hours
Clock tower daily approx. 09:00–20:00 (last entry 19:00)
Nearby sights
- Burg & Basilica of the Holy Blood, Bruges
- Bruges Canals & Rozenhoedkaai
- Groeningemuseum
- Church of Our Lady, Bruges
- Old St. John's Hospital (Memling Museum)
- De Halve Maan Brewery
- Beguinage Ten Wijngaerde
- Minnewater