On any lazy Sunday come to admire the four remaining windmills as well as several medieval town gates.

“Vesten”—Old Fortifications with Windmills

While the picturesque town centre is endlessly fascinating, don't forget Bruges’ city ramparts. The "green lung" encircles almost the entire town and offers a variety of interesting locations worth discovering.

While the picturesque town centre is endlessly fascinating, don't forget Bruges’ city ramparts and windmills. – © Jan D’hondt / Visit Bruges

Smedenpoort, the first Blacksmith’s Gate (Smedenpoort) dates from 1297-1299. The current gate was built on the remains of the old one in 1367. The bronze skull above the left passage recalls the execution of François Vander Straeten, who wanted to let hostile French troops into the city at the end of the 17th century. – © Jan D’hondt / Visit Bruges

Windmills have graced Bruges’s ramparts ever since the construction of the outer city wall at the end of the 13th century. Today four are left on Kruisvest. – © Jan D’hondt / Visit Bruges

While the picturesque town centre is endlessly fascinating, don't forget Bruges’ city ramparts and windmills. – © Jan D’hondt / Visit Bruges

When you visit the Brugse Vesten (Bruges' City Ramparts), you can admire the four remaining windmills as well as several medieval town gates. The modern Conzettebridge spans the entrance to the small marina and is just one of many bridges that frequently open for boats.

The ramparts between the train station and Ezelpoort town gate allow you to leisurely stroll and enjoy nature. A tour along the ramparts is an ideal opportunity to process all your Bruges impressions.