Belgium: Historic center of Bruges
Score: 76

"The businesses cater to tourists, and while there is a feeling that the buildings are from another time, the place is not sterile; it is a living place, not a backdrop for tourists. You remember the experience because you become part of it; as you walk you peep into houses where people live, you eat at a café; you're not a spectator in a sterile museum."

"The carrying capacity of the inner city is being exceeded and affects the quality of life of inhabitants, as well as the tourism experience. Conservation of built heritage seems to be good, as is the aesthetic appeal, although the presence of advertising signs, of flashy terraces, displays, etc. spoils many beautiful spots. The sense of place and enchantment are gradually lost."

"It is remarkable how successful the burghers of Bruges have been in retaining the historical authenticity and ambience of their town while at the same time attracting many hundreds of thousands of tourists. The future outlook is rosy."

"The quality of the environment, a most attractive scenery with a high density of monuments, protected cityscapes, and museums make this a unique place for cultural tourists to discover."

"There is little sense of the historic importance of the locale."