🇧🇪 Bruges
Belfry of Bruges (Belfort van Brugge)
Must-See
★ 4.7 · 26k reviews
The Belfry of Bruges (Dutch: Belfort van Brugge) is a medieval bell tower in the centre of Bruges. One of the city's most prominent symbols, the belfry formerly housed a treasury and the municipal archives, and served as an observation post for spotting fires and other dangers. A narrow, steep staircase of 366 steps, accessible by the public for an entry fee, leads to the top of the 83 m (272 feet) high building, which leans 87 centimetres to the east. To the sides and back of the tower stands the former market hall, a rectangular building only 44 m broad but 84 m deep, with an inner courtyard. The belfry, accordingly, is also known as the Halletoren (tower of the halls). The belfry is a key component of the UNESCO world heritage site of the historic centre of Bruges. The bells in the tower regulated the lives of the city dwellers, announcing the time, fire alarms, work hours, and a variety of social, political, and religious events. Eventually, a mechanism ensured the regular sounding of certain bells, for example indicating the hour.
Visitor Info
Rating
★ 4.7 26,447 reviews
Visit Time
~30 min
Best Time
Morning to avoid queues
Insider Tips
- · Buy timed tickets in advance if possible
- · Climb early for the clearest views and shortest waits
- · Do the tower before lunch to avoid the worst queue pressure
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Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is the Belfry and when was it built? ▾
The Belfry stands 83 metres (272 ft) tall. The lower sections date from the 13th century, with the octagonal stone top added in the 15th century after fires damaged earlier wooden spires.
Is it worth climbing to the top? ▾
Absolutely — the 360-degree panorama over Bruges's medieval rooftops and canals is unmatched, and on clear days you can see as far as the North Sea coast. Budget about an hour for the full experience.
What is the carillon? ▾
The Belfry houses a 47-bell carillon, one of the finest in the world. A resident carillonneur plays concerts on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays; the bells also ring automatically every quarter hour.
How much does it cost to enter? ▾
Admission is €14 for adults, with discounts for children, seniors, and Bruges City Card holders. Tickets can be bought on site or online in advance.
Why did UNESCO recognise the Belfry? ▾
The Belfry of Bruges is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation covering the belfries of Belgium and France (inscribed 1999, extended 2005), recognised as outstanding symbols of civic freedom and prosperity in medieval Flanders.
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Belfry of Bruges (Belfort van Brugge) — offline map & tips