Care to catch a movie? Bruges has a highly efficient movie machine called Kinepolis, but if you’re looking for a local classic, head over to Ciné Lumière, one of the last arthouse cinemas in town.
It does showcase some box office hits, but mainly focuses on indie movies, always aired in their original language, and surprising documentaries. At first sight, the place looks a bit derelict and faded, but there is a true cinephile spirit haunting its corridors and the small rooms are super cosy. There is little to no candy to be scored here, so make sure to stock on sweets in the nearby night shop before you go in.
Ciné Lumière closely collaborates with schools, playing documentaries specially for them during the day, and I spent many an afternoon here as a teenager. Nice extra is the downstairs café/restaurant called De Republiek, a true landmark in Bruges. Countless first beers have been tasted here, although nowadays the place has new owners and I must say the kitchen is quite disappointing. Do go, however, as there is no other place to take in the typical Bruges atmosphere.
Sint-Jakobsstraat 36/B, 8000 Brugge
