Bruges Waterways
TIME : 2016/2/22 9:57:04
Bruges Waterways
Bruges is often referred to as the Venice of the north due to its many canals. Though the city is located inland, it is close enough to the coast that several floods resulted in the formation of these waterways. This gave Bruges access to the sea, and the city became an important trading center. By the Middle Ages, the canals had to be enlarged so the cargo ships could reach the city. However, as the main connections to the sea began to silt up, Bruges began to decline as a trade center.
Today commercial ships no longer sail through the waterways of Bruges. Instead the canals are used only by tourist boats. Five families, each with four boats, have exclusive access to provide tours along the canals. Bruges has had a strong connection with the water for centuries, and taking a boat tour on the canals is one of the best ways to learn about this connection and the city's history while taking in the sights. Not every canal runs next to a street, so there are some places you can only see from a boat. Canal boat tours typically last 30 minutes. Practical Info
Brugge is located approximately one hour by train from Brussels. The closest airport is in Brussels, and you can connect to Brugge from the airport train station.
