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FAM Trip to Bruges: Surprising event venues in a historic city
Two weeks ago, Zoë had the opportunity to join a FAM trip to Bruges and gather fresh ideas and inspiration for our clients. It turned into an inspiring two-day trip filled with unique event venues, memorable activities and, just as importantly, some excellent food.
Bruges is, of course, famous as a tourist destination, but the city also has a surprising amount to offer as a destination for meetings, conferences and corporate events.
Our introduction to the city began with a warm welcome from Visit Bruges Convention Bureau. The morning kicked off with an extensive programme of venue visits. At Concertgebouw Brugge and the BMCC (Bruges Meeting & Convention Centre), we were given a unique behind-the-scenes look. These visits highlighted the wide range of possibilities for organising a conference in Bruges’ historic city centre. Perhaps not something you would expect from such a compact city.
We also visited Le Bois de Bruges and NH Hotel Brugge, two conference hotels within walking distance of the city’s main conference venues.
Discovering Bruges from the water
For lunch, we headed to De Halve Maan. More than just a restaurant, De Halve Maan is also an iconic Bruges brewery, known for its group packages and, of course, Brugse Zot beer. After enjoying a traditional Flemish beef stew, we explored the city from a different perspective: from the water. The medieval façades and hidden corners immediately show why Bruges is so renowned for its historic charm.
Did you know that international conferences with a minimum of two overnight stays may be eligible for a complimentary reception in the Gothic Hall of Bruges City Hall? A memorable added benefit for anyone organising an international conference in Bruges.
We then continued to La Brugeoise, an impressive event venue with a rich industrial heritage.
From industrial heritage to exclusive event venues
The evening began with a welcome at Grand Hotel Casselbergh, followed by a delicious dinner at Lio’s, beautifully located by the water. The evening ended on a cultural note with a performance at the Concertgebouw.
After an overnight stay at Casselbergh, day two brought another series of venue visits, including Crowne Plaza Brugge, Historium and Duvelorium, the Provincial Court and BRUSK.
For me, however, La Madeleine was one of the most impressive event venues of the day. This former church has been transformed into an exclusive event venue and is part of Flanders Heritage Venues. A character-filled venue that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Bruges as a destination for meetings and events
We concluded our FAM trip at Radisson Blu Hotel Bruges, enjoying a drink on the twelfth floor with stunning views across the city. The space can also be used as a meeting room. A meeting with a view like that? There are certainly worse ways to start a meeting.
In short, these two days showed me just how much Bruges has to offer as a destination for meetings, conferences and corporate events. Historic venues, modern conference facilities, centrally located hotels, excellent gastronomy and original activities all come together seamlessly in Bruges.
Curious about the possibilities in Bruges, or considering the city for your next meeting, conference or corporate event? Feel free to get in touch. I’d be happy to help you create a tailor-made programme for your event.