What to do in Esen

Since 958, the Grote Markt has been at the center of Bruges life. Once packed with merchants and buyers, today the Markt is a hub for tourism. Put aside some time to experience the restaurants, cafés, gift shops, guided tours and enchanting architecture of this lively part of the city.

The Menin Gate Memorial is one of four shrines in Ypres to the missing dead in Belgian Flanders during World War I. The large brick structure bears the names of more than 54,000 servicemen and women who lost their lives fighting for the Commonwealth Forces.

Ypres Market Square (Grote Markt) is a delightful plaza in the heart of the city. The square is surrounded by historical buildings that loom over café terraces, gift shops, fountains and, on Saturdays, market stalls.

You can't miss the Belfort. The city's majestic belfry rises 272 feet (83 meters) above the historical center of Bruges. While it’s awe-inspiring to see from any angle, the Belfort itself offers incredible views of the rest of the city. You'll also pass fascinating features on the way up. Just make sure you are comfortable with heights.

Few cities have such an enchanting entrance as Bruges. If you arrive at the main train station, Minnewater will be one of the first places you encounter. The name Minnewater translates into “lake of love,” appropriate for this romantic stretch of water. Fairy tale-style turreted houses and weeping willows help define this as one of Bruges' most idyllic spots. Parts of the defenses of the city can still be seen, including the Watchtower that looms over the park.