Because of its canals Bruges is often called ââ¬ËThe Venice of the Northââ¬â¢. In the Middle Ages the ââ¬ËReieââ¬â¢ river had been turned into a network of canals that enabled the traders to bring their products to the large Water Halls at the Market. Nowadays a boat ride on these famous canals provide a great way to see some of Bruges most beautiful sites.