Belfry of Bruges
The Belfry of Bruges is perhaps the best-known tower in Flanders, rising 83 metres above the Grote Markt. The building dates from the thirteenth century and was rebuilt several times after fires. The Belfry is UNESCO World Heritage and symbolises the power and commercial prosperity of medieval Bruges. The magnificent carillon with 47 bells regularly plays concerts over the city.
Accessibility of the Belfry itself is limited: to reach the viewing platform 366 stone steps must be climbed via a narrow spiral staircase, which is not feasible for wheelchair users. The ground floor with the treasury and the inner courtyard is, however, wheelchair accessible via a level entrance. An adapted toilet is present in the visitor area. The Grote Markt around the Belfry has cobblestones, but smoothed walking paths are provided.
Disabled parking spaces are available in the underground 't Zand and Biekorf car parks, both a short distance away via accessible routes to the Markt. A visit to the Belfry combines excellently with a walk through the historic city centre, the Gruuthuse Museum, and a boat trip on the Reien canals for which some landing stages have adapted boarding points.
Good to know
- Reservation
- No reservation is required for the accessible ground floor with inner courtyard and treasury, but online tickets via Musea Brugge help avoid queues at peak times.
- Busy and quiet times
- Particularly busy in the summer months, on public holidays and during the Christmas markets. Quieter from November to February and on weekdays early in the morning.
- Things to note
- The tower itself is not accessible: 366 steps with no lift to the viewing platform. Around the Belfry the Markt has authentic cobbles that make for a jolting ride for anyone propelling themselves.
- Visit tip
- Combine with the nearby Gruuthuse Museum and a wheelchair-accessible boat trip on the Reien at the Rozenhoedkaai; park in the underground 't Zand car park, which has accessible bays and a lift up to street level.
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