An impressive 8.3 million tourists flocked to the historical centre of Bruges in 2023, matching the record set in 2018.
According to Bruges' Tourism Councillor, Mieke Hoste, these figures validate the long-standing prediction of a persisting rise in international tourism. "This resurgence will, without doubt, continue in the coming years," she stated.
Bruges' museums rebounded, regaining their pre-pandemic visitor numbers in 2023. A significant 12% increase from 2022 was noted, with approximately 770,000 guests being welcomed in total.
Post pandemic and Brexit, British tourists have slowly started trickling back to the renowned 'Venice of the North'. "Bruges has regained its appeal, bouncing back to the pre-Covid-19 level," said Mayor Dirk De fauw.
Among the vast number of visitors, 70% were international tourists, with the primary majority from neighbouring countries and the UK. "After the initial, challenging Brexit years, we are thrilled to see British tourists returning to Musea Brugge," said Nico Blontrock, Bruges' Councillor for Culture. Musea Brugge, a community institution, oversees approximately 15 museums and exhibition spaces in the medieval city.
"Our museums welcomed nearly 2.5 times more British visitors than in 2022, adding up to roughly 69,000 tickets sold," Blontrock emphasised.
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The Belfry remains the most popular attraction in Bruges, drawing in over 220,000 visitors. It is closely followed by the Church of Our Lady's museum, home to Michelangelo's Madonna and Child, and the Groeninge Museum.
The City Hall hosted 60,000 tourists, double the number from the previous year.
