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Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, Belgium

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jun 03, 2023

Summary: People often describe Bruges, Belgium as a charming and picturesque city with a rich history and culture. Expats love the city's cobblestone streets, canals, and medieval architecture, as well as its vibrant nightlife and excellent restaurants. The weather in Bruges is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The average cost of living for an expat is estimated to be around $2,000 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment in Bruges is typically around $1,000 per month, while a two bedroom apartment can cost up to $1,500 per month. The approximate population of Bruges is 117,073.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

What are the pros and cons of living in Bruges?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Bruges responded:

"Expats and digital nomads generally like living in Bruges, for its picturesque scenery, rich history, and well-preserved medieval architecture. They appreciate the city's walkability, efficient public transportation, and the availability of bike lanes, which make it easy to explore the city. The quality of life in Bruges is high, with excellent healthcare, education, and safety. The city also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and events throughout the year. Moreover, expats and digital nomads enjoy the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people, who often speak English fluently, making it easier for foreigners to communicate and integrate into the community. The food and beer culture in Belgium is also a big draw, with a wide variety of delicious local dishes and world-renowned beers to sample. However, there are some aspects of living in Bruges that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The cost of living can be relatively high, particularly when it comes to housing and dining out. The weather in Bruges can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and grey skies, which may be a downside for those who prefer sunnier climates. Additionally, the city can become quite crowded with tourists, particularly during the peak summer months, which may detract from the charm and tranquility of the city. Some expats and digital nomads may also find the job market in Bruges to be somewhat limited, particularly for those who do not speak Dutch or French. Finally, while the city offers a lot in terms of culture and history, some may find it too small or quiet for their tastes, especially when compared to larger cities like Brussels or Antwerp," remarked one expat in Bruges.

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What type of social life can someone expect in Bruges?

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Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.

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Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Bruges, Belgium

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