Café Vlissinghe

Café Vlissinghe, at Blekersstraat 2 in Brugge, in Belgium's Flemish Region, is generally described as the oldest pub in the city, with a history dating back to 1515. It sits in the quieter northeastern part of the old town, a little away from the busiest squares, near the Sint-Janshospitaal area, and has the feel of a neighbourhood local rather than a tourist bar. The interior is dark and traditional, with wooden beams, old benches, a stove and walls that carry the marks of centuries of use. A garden at the back has a boules court, and it is a popular place to sit in good weather. The crowd is a mix of long-time locals, visitors who come for the history and couples, mostly adults, and the dress code is casual. Music is kept quiet, and conversation and card or board games are typical. The drinks programme centres on Belgian beer, with a selection of draught and bottled options, plus wine and soft drinks. Prices are modest by city-centre standards, typically about EUR 3 to EUR 6 per beer. Simple food such as croque-monsieur, soup or cheese and meat plates is typically served at midday, which makes the cafe as much a lunch stop as an evening one. Opening hours run from Wednesday to Sunday, and the pub is closed on Monday and Tuesday, so visitors should plan around those days. Weekends and sunny afternoons are the busiest, when the garden fills quickly. There is no cover charge and no reservation system for casual drinks, and bottle service does not apply. As a traditional pub, it rewards a slow visit, and many visitors pair it with a walk along the nearby canals and windmills at the edge of the old town. Hours and kitchen times may vary by season, so a short check locally is sensible before a special trip.