Bruges beyond the tourist trail

Bruges is world-famous for its medieval core, but anyone looking to avoid the crowds and find accessible spots will discover a side of the city rarely covered in guidebooks. This day trip takes you to four locations where locals themselves turn up: a modern library, a romantic park, a sports centre and a theatre. All four are comfortably wheelchair-accessible.

Start at the De Biekorf city library, a contemporary building clearly designed with everyone in mind. Lifts, wide corridors and a spacious reading room make it pleasant to explore. De Biekorf regularly organises talks and exhibitions — ask at the desk for the current programme. Next, head to Minnewaterpark on the southern edge of the old town. Paved paths make the park fully accessible, and the view over the Minnewater with its swans remains one of the most beautiful spots in Bruges — without the crowds that circle the Markt.

In the afternoon, make your way to Sportcentrum Olympia, just outside the core. This modern sports centre has an adapted swimming pool, an accessible fitness room and spacious changing rooms for wheelchair users. It is an ideal place for anyone who wants to stay active while travelling. Round off at the Stadsschouwburg Brugge — even if you are not attending a performance, the building is worth seeing from the outside. If you are planning to see a show: the theatre has reserved wheelchair spaces and an accessible toilet.

Practical tips: the cobbled centre of Bruges is not always comfortable, which is why this route deliberately includes stops outside the main tourist zone. Park at Parking Centrum-Station or Parking 't Zand with a shuttle — both have disabled parking spaces. Distances between stops in the city are too long to roll; prefer the car or the bus, which in Bruges is largely low-floor. Plan your theatre visit for the evening after a rest stop at the hotel.