Enter the Basilica of the Holy Blood to view one of Christendom's most revered relics — a vial said to contain Christ's blood — then explore the breathtaking Burg square with a private expert historian at your side.
What to expect
Your guide sets the scene at the Burg, Bruges' original heart, decoding a thousand years of civic and sacred history written in stone. You enter the lower Romanesque chapel — dark, candlelit, and hauntingly atmospheric — before ascending to the richly gilded upper chapel where the Holy Blood relic is displayed for veneration. The reliquary itself, encrusted with gold and gems, is a masterpiece of medieval craft. Emerging back into the sun-drenched Burg, your guide walks you through the Renaissance City Hall, its gilded Gothic Hall among the finest interiors in Belgium.
Good to know
The relic is venerated daily at set times (check basilica schedule at holyblood.com). City Hall (Stadhuis) entry is approx. EUR 6. The Burg is a 2-min walk from the Markt. Combine this 2-hour walk with a canal cruise for a perfect half-day in the historic core.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Brugge — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.