That we are not mistaken, tourism for a day in Bruges is above all national, even if the share of foreign visitors increases from year to year. To these tourists from abroad are added the Belgian “excursionists” who go to Bruges. It is the largest group of visitors and he continues to grow. These excursionists crossed here and there almost all say the same thing: they are attracted to the cultural heritage of the city or come to shop there. This July 15, many still want to take advantage of the sales and, as long as you do, why not in a charming setting that has a little “holiday” side.
On this point too, the Bruges authorities are trying to weigh. In its 2019-2024 strategic plan, the city of Bruges specifies that “Everyone is welcome in Bruges, but no proactive measure is taken in favor of tourism for a day“. The idea is therefore to brake the”excursionism“.
As for the Bruges themselves, they are mixed. According to statistics from 2018, 80% recognize the importance of tourism for the local economy; Tourism economy is the 3rd economy of the city. But the constant increase in the sector in recent years, despite the actions carried out locally to contain it, exasperates many Bruges. The latter deplore the repercussions on real estate, traffic on foot in the center, car traffic, etc. Some residents simply avoid going to the historic center.
The surcourism in Bruges is not comparable to that of Venice, Dubrovnik or Barcelona, but the pressure is very present. To realize it, even before walking in the historic center, it is enough to borrow the Oostmeers, the street which connects the station to the center of Bruges. A street that could be renamed rue des Trolleys.