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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Bruges, Belgium

Bruges may be the most photogenic city in Europe — with scenic canals, cobblestone streets, and twinkling Christmas markets.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

• Best Hotels and Resorts

Best Things to Do

Best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Amsterdam may be known for its picturesque canals, but it's far from the only European destination with such appeal. Located in northwest Belgium, Bruges enchants travelers with its scenic waterways, cobblestone streets, and medieval architecture.

Compact and chock-full of photogenic landmarks — notably the Belfry of Bruges and 14th-century Stadhuis (City Hall) — the capital of West Flanders is prime for walking tours and aimless wandering. It’s also a joy for cycling. From the hidden passages with secrets ready to be discovered to the bustling squares, the city exudes a storybook atmosphere . The sweet smell of waffles and chocolate wafts out of confection shops. Cozy bars and quayside breweries pour Belgian beer for tourists and locals. Restaurants give visitors a taste of local cuisine with menus that spotlight cheese croquettes and beef stew. 

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Many travelers opt to visit Bruges as a quick day trip from Brussels (the direct train runs frequently and takes less than an hour). However, it’s certainly worth staying the night to experience the full scope of its charm, from the early morning light that shines over the rooftops to the ambience when the sun goes down.

We talked to local tour guides to discover the best places to see, eat, drink, and stay in Bruges.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Stay at Hotel Van Cleef for picturesque views and posh design that chronicles Bruges through the ages. 
• Admire the beautiful architecture on a scenic boat ride along the canals. 
• Climb 366 steps to the top of the symbolic Belfry of Bruges for sweeping vistas (and a well-deserved sense of accomplishment). 
• If only visiting for the day, be sure to book a historic walking tour to hit all the key attractions.
• Satisfy your sweet tooth with a chocolate-drizzled waffle from House of Waffles Brugge.

Courtesy of The Pand Hotel

Best Hotels and Resorts 

Hotel van cleef.

Housed inside a stately neoclassical mansion on the fringe of the quieter Sint-Anna Quarter, Hotel Van Cleef captures the many charms of Bruges through the centuries. It’s grand and elegant yet intimate, with a mix of vintage and modern decor, eye-catching art, and a glorious canalside terrace that’s perfect for starting the day with Belgian waffles. 

Hotel Dukes' Palace

The only five-star property in the city, Hotel Dukes' Palace oozes opulence with noble pomp and circumstance galore, but it’s not overly stuffy or fussy. The beauty of a stay here lies within the quiet luxury that permeates everything from the regal restaurant to the deluxe suites featuring ornate fabrics, period furnishings, and marble bathrooms. 

The Pand Hotel

Tucked inside an old carriage house dating back to the 18th century, The Pand Hotel , a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World , feels like a nostalgic hidden gem. Precious antiques, collectibles, and art fill the atmospheric library and lounges. Sanctuary-like suites are outfitted with exquisite textiles, fireplaces, and four-poster beds. The patio is the perfect spot for a cocktail. 

Grand Hotel Casselbergh

Located in the heart of the city, Grand Hotel Casselbergh blends past and present beautifully. Occupying carefully renovated historic houses and a newly built annex, the property is a bastion of timeless character with nods to both medieval and modern-day Bruges. In addition to canal-view rooms, it has a subterranean spa, a jewel-box bar, and a breakfast restaurant. 

T+L Backpack Quiz

Hotel de orangerie.

Hotel de Orangerie , a former 15th-century Carthusian convent, is now a boutique bolthole and member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. It possesses a picture-perfect canalside location near Brewery Bourgogne des Flandres and character-filled interior spaces for guests to unwind. There’s a cozy salon for afternoon tea and aperitifs, as well as bedrooms decorated with floral wallpaper, sumptuous fabrics, and antiques. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Canal Boat Ride

A tour along the historic canal is a must when in Bruges. “It’s a wonderful way to discover the city from another viewpoint,” says Rik Callens , a ToursByLocals guide in Bruges. “While cruising along the scenic waterways, visitors will see beautiful architecture and many charming surprises only visible from the water.” Boats depart at regular intervals throughout the day and into the early evening. 

Belfry of Bruges

Built in the 13th century, the towering medieval Belfry of Bruges in Markt is a symbol of the city and not to be missed. “Visitors can climb the 366 steps to the top for incredible views,” explains Albert Casasín , a ToursByLocals guide in Bruges. 

Burg Square

Located in the center of Bruges, Burg Square houses some of the most monumental and magnificent landmark buildings in the city, including the 14th-century City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Afterward, stop by one of the many nearby artisan chocolate shops for decadent, handcrafted truffles and bonbons.

Groeningemuseum

After familiarizing yourself with the key landmarks, Natalie Tall , a ToursByLocals guide in Bruges, suggests visiting the Groeningemuseum ​. “It's quite exquisite with an impressive collection of art by Flemish and Belgian masters that span the course of centuries. Definitely do the audio tour to gain a deeper understanding.” 

Lake of Love

The Lake of Love, which sits next to Minnewaterpark in the southern part of the city, is an alluring and relaxing place that’s steeped in natural beauty. In the winter, visitors spin around the ice rink, which is illuminated by twinkling lights. Summer, meanwhile, means picnics and concerts.

One of Casasín’s absolute favorite restaurants in Bruges, De Stove is small, cozy, and situated in the heart of the city. “It’s a place that transmits charm and authenticity with incredible food and a warm atmosphere,” he says.

“Dining at Bruut is always such a treat,” says Tall. “It’s an elevated dining experience that comprises 10 courses prepared by a talented chef, personal service, and impeccable wine pairings.”

One Restaurant

One Restaurant serves delicious local dishes, plus cocktails, wine, and a good selection of Belgian beers, in a wonderfully gorgeous setting with an intimate dining room and a foliage-framed patio.  

De Twijfelaar

Casasín recommends De Twijfelaar because of its creative dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The colorful, art-filled dining room matches the spirit of the menu. Plus, there’s a lovely terrace for dining in the summer. 

House of Waffles Brugge

Have a hankering for something sweet? You’ve come to the right place. The Flemish capital is very much a dessert mecca. House of Waffles Brugge satisfies cravings with freshly made golden waffles topped with drizzled chocolate and strawberries. 

agustavop/Getty Images

Bruges supplies numerous reasons to visit in every season. Spring brings daffodils. The weather is pleasant in the summer. Want to avoid the crowds? Consider shoulder season in the fall. If you’re keen to get swept up in the yuletide spirit, it’s worth planning a trip in December to experience the famous holiday markets and light displays that turn the city into a real-life Hallmark card. 

Bruges is quite accessible, with direct trains leaving from Brussels regularly. The journey only takes about 55 minutes and costs less than $20. 

It’s easy to navigate Bruges on foot. Free historic walking tours are available, if you’re looking to pack in all the key attractions and gain some valuable insights along the way. That’s certainly not to put anyone off aimless wandering. Boat rides along the canal offer a unique perspective. Cycling and carriage rides round out the list of transport methods. 

Bruges   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Barry O'carroll | EyeEm

Why Go To Bruges

Swans swim its canals; medieval buildings shadow its cobblestones; willow trees weep over its lake; rich chocolates peer from behind its windows; pints of Belgian blondes sit on its cafe tables; and carillon chimes fill its air with music: This is Bruges (or Brugge in Dutch). This idyllic city in northern Belgium is more touristy and yet more quaint than the capital city of Brussels . Plan a trip to Bruges for a taste of medieval Europe in the 21st century, for a friendly small-town feel with world-class charms (the Historic Centre of Brugge , to name one) and, of course, for the beer, fries and chocolate. Whatever your reason for coming to Bruges, you'll be charmed.

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Best of Bruges

Best hotels in bruges.

• # 1 in Hotel Dukes' Palace Bruges
• # 2 in The Pand Hotel
• # 3 in Hotel de Orangerie

Best Things to Do in Bruges

• # 1 in Rozenhoedkaai
• # 2 in Historic Centre of Brugge
• # 3 in Markt

Popular Tours

Round-Trip Shuttle Service from Zeebrugge to Bruges

(666 reviews)

from $ 27.32

Deluxe Bruges Shore Excursion from Zeebrugge Cruise Port

from $ 60.10

Guided boat trip and walk

(224 reviews)

from $ 48.08

Bruges Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Bruges is from June to August, when the weather is mild, and the trees are green. Still, the weather year-round is characterized as chilly and damp – summer temps usually don't climb higher than the 70s. Spring and fall are considered shoulder seasons that see fewer tourists and cooler temperatures, with average highs hovering in the 50s. In the winter, temperatures drop but don't reach freezing, and the city offers a variety of holiday events, including its famous Christmas markets. Fall and winter also bring the greatest chance of rain, so keep an umbrella at the ready.

Weather in Bruges

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Hop on a boat tour Canal tours are a great way to get an overview of Bruges. You'll easily find boat operators departing from jetties around the city offering 30- to 45-minute tours. The famous Rozenhoedkaai is a popular spot to hop on a tour.

Indulge in some chocolate Belgium is known for the sweet stuff, so be sure to pause for a chocolate break at a well-known chocolate maker like The Chocolate Line or Sukerbuyc .

Consider a daytrip to Brussels Brussels is an hour's train ride southeast of Bruges, making it an ideal daytrip.

How to Save Money in Bruges

Get a Discover Bruges Card If you stay at a Hotels Regio Brugge member hotel , you have access to a free card , which offers discounts on area attractions and shops.

Get a Musea Brugge Card This card grants you access to a variety of museums, including the Groeningemuseum , over a period of three days for 28 euros (or about $31).

Rent a bike Bruges caters to cyclists. You'll find that bike lanes dot the city and even head into nearby coastal towns.

Culture & Customs

Once a hub for artists of the Flemish Primitive style of painting, art is front and center in Bruges. There are numerous museums with artwork, as well as churches, convents and even a medieval hospital that each boast their own collection of impressive works.

Make sure to bring some euros with you, which is the currency of Belgium. When eating out, it's unlikely you'll need to tip, as it's included as part of the restaurant bill, and restaurant workers earn better compensation than those in the U.S. It's OK to leave a few euros for excellent service, but generally not more than 10% of your bill.

In Bruges, you'll find the locals speak Flemish natively, but many also speak English well.

What to Eat

Residents of Bruges love their beer, Belgian fries and chocolate – Bruges even has its own official city chocolate: the Bruges swan, or Brugsch Swaentje . Bruges offers plentiful chocolate shops, pubs and a handful of breweries, as well as attractions that tell the story of each of the country's celebrated foods, including the Bruges Beer Experience , Choco-Story and Frietmuseum. But the dining scene in Bruges is much vaster than these three staples.

Gruuthuse Hof , which has been open since the mid-1700s, is popular with tourists and serves traditional Belgian dishes like beef stew and duck, and waffles for dessert. For a casual meal, the De Halve Maan Brewery also has a restaurant on the premises with a limited menu if you want a bite with your beer.

If you're celebrating a special occasion or just in the mood to splurge, consider Le Mystique , which serves a blend of French and Flemish cuisine. The restaurant is historic as well, dating to 1869. Dishes with a Flemish touch include beef with braised chicory and seafood, including sea bass and oysters. Flemish cuisine is known for its fries and waffles, as well as beef stew, Belgian endive, and of course, Brussels sprouts. A meal at Bistro Refter is equally indulgent as it's headed by Michelin-starred chef Geert Van Hecke, who offers a contemporary take on Belgian cuisine with dishes like roasted cockerel, fish, steak and, of course, fries.

When it comes to safety, Bruges generally has a low crime rate, is clean and safe for traveling alone, though as in any tourist destination, be aware of pickpocketing and traveling by yourself at night. The State Department does encourage citizens to exercise extreme caution when visiting Belgium due to terrorist groups continuing to plot possible attacks there.

Getting Around Bruges

The best way to get around Bruges is on foot. The city is small – in fact, you can walk from one end to the other in about 30 minutes. Biking is the second-best way to get around. There's also a bus system, but it's most useful in getting from the train station to the city center rather than for exploring the city. Cars are not recommended, since Bruges' streets are narrow and webbed with canals. You can also hire taxis at several taxi stands. The closest major airport is Brussels Airport (BRU), so most visitors take the train into Bruges. The ride from the airport to Bruges is about 90 minutes; tickets start at 21 euros (or around $23). According to the tourism office, taxis from the airport to Bruges cost a flat rate of 200 euros (or about $222). The train station is located just southeast of the city center, about a 20-minute walk from the historic city center or a five-minute bus ride.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A valid passport is required for citizens of the United States to travel to Belgium. U.S. citizens can stay for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. At customs, you'll have to present a return airline ticket, as well as a passport that is valid for at least three months after the date of your departure. If you're planning to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days, you'll have to obtain the proper visa before leaving the U.S. Keep in mind: The U.S. Department of State issued an advisory for travel in Belgium in December 2018 due to terrorism, warning travelers of potential terror attacks. The State Department recommends registering for the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) so that you'll receive alerts and be easier to locate in the event of an emergency. For more information, visit the State Department's  website .

Considered one of the most photographed areas of Bruges, Rozenhoedkaai , or Quay of the Rosary, is a picturesque spot where the Dijver and Groenerei canals meet.

Explore More of Bruges

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Shutterstock / MarinaDa

If you set out to design a fairy-tale medieval town, it would be hard to improve on central Bruges (Brugge in Dutch), one of Europe's best preserved cities. Picturesque cobbled lanes and dreamy canals link photogenic market squares lined with soaring towers, historical churches and lane after lane of old whitewashed almshouses.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

The heart of ancient Bruges, the old market square is lined with pavement cafes beneath step-gabled facades. The buildings aren't always quite as medieval…

Groeningemuseum

Bruges’ most celebrated art gallery boasts an astonishingly rich collection that's strong in superb Flemish Primitive and Renaissance works, depicting the…

Museum Sint-Janshospitaal

In the restored chapel of a 12th-century hospital building with superb timber beamwork, this museum shows various torturous-looking medical implements,…

Towering 83m above the square like a gigantic medieval rocket is this fabulous 13th-century belfry. There’s relatively little to see inside, but it’s…

Just east of the Markt, the less theatrical but still enchanting Burg has been Bruges' administrative centre for centuries. It's in this area you'll find…

Kasteel van Loppem

Around 10km south of Bruges, Kasteel van Loppem is a mid-19th-century brick castle-mansion which had its moment of fame at the end of WWI when it was…

Bruges’ delightful begijnhof dates from the 13th century. Despite the hordes of summer tourists, remains a remarkably tranquil haven. Outside the 1776…

Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed

The western end of the stadhuis morphs into the Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed. The basilica takes its name from a phial supposedly containing a few drops…

Top picks from our travel experts

17 of the best experiences in bruges.

Try the fabulous Garre draught beer, which comes with a thick floral head in a glass that’s almost a brandy balloon; the pub will only serve you three of…

Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk

Dominating its surrounds, this 13th-century church was reopened in 2015 after extensive renovations. Its enormous 115m spire is unmissable throughout much…

St-Bonifaciusbrug

Stand atop the 20th-century stone Bonifacius bridge, itself amply photogenic, for lovely vistas of the canal and surrounds.

The beautiful 1420 stadhuis features a fanciful facade that’s second only to Leuven’s for exquisitely turreted Gothic excess. Inside, an audioguide…

Concertgebouw

Bruges’ stunning 21st-century concert hall is the work of architects Paul Robbrecht and Hilde Daem. It takes its design cues from the city’s three famous…

Het Zand Square

Under ongoing redevelopment since 2015, ’t Zand is Bruges' largest public square and a major transport hub, fringed with shops, hotels and restaurants…

Frietmuseum

Follows the history of the potato from ancient Inca grave sites to the Belgian fryer. The entry fee includes a discount token for the basement frituur …

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Bruges Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 3, 2024

Bruges is one of the main reasons people visit Belgium . It’s one of the most famous medieval cities in Europe, boasting historic buildings, scenic canals, and attractive cobblestone streets. The entire historic center is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The first fortifications here were built in the 1st century BCE though the city didn’t prosper until the Middle Ages when it became an economic hub under the Hanseatic League. It was also home to the world’s first stock exchange (the Bourse), which opened in the 14th century.

Naturally, I found Bruges to be a very charming place to visit. It’s also expensive and touristy and there aren’t a lot of backpackers or budget travelers in Bruges due to the high prices.

That said, if you pass through Belgium, you’d be missing out if you don’t stop and visit Bruges for at least a night. Feast on waffles and chocolate, cruise the canals, and get your cultural fix while perusing the artwork at the Groeninge Museum. There is enough to keep you busy here for a day or two without busting your budget.

This Bruges travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and ensure you make the most of your time in this picturesque medieval town!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Bruges

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Bruges

1. Take a canal tour

Taking a canal trip down the arteries of Bruges is the perfect way to capture the magic of the city. A half-hour boat trip takes you around secret gardens, picturesque bridges, and ornate medieval buildings. It’s a great way to learn about the city from a different angle. Several companies operate these tours with pretty similar open-air boats that fit 30-40 people and following similar routes. Tours cost around 12-15 EUR, or you can take this combo canal and walking tour for the best of both worlds.

2. Admire Grote Markt

This is the city’s beautiful and medieval central square, dating all the way back to 958 CE. It’s stunning to see, though I’d advise skipping the restaurants here as they are overpriced. Look out for Huis Bouchoute with its giant compass (which points towards the direction of the wind rather than true North), the Provincial Palace, and other museums, including Historium Bruges, the Bruges Beer Experience, and the Salvador Dalí Exhibition – Bruges.

During Christmas, this area is transformed into a gorgeous Christmas market with its very own ice-skating rink which is part of the city’s ‘Winter Glow’, the collective name for the winter activities and decorations. Bruges’ Christmas markets run from late November until the first week of January.

3. See The Burg

The Burg is a city square that was completed in 1376. It boasts Gothic stone décor including the city hall (Stadhuis) which also contains a history museum featuring a small exhibit on the history of the city and impressive vaulted gothic hall with 20th-century murals depicting important historical events. Entry is 8 EUR.

The Basilica of the Holy Blood is also located here (so-called because it supposedly houses a relic of Jesus’s blood). Inside the church, there are two distinct areas: the Romanesque-style lower chapel and the ornate and colorful upper chapel. Entry to the basilica is free, while admission to the associated museum is 5 EUR.

4. Feast on chocolate

With dozens and dozens of chocolate boutiques, a chocolate museum, a chocolate trail, and a chocolate fair, this city is a chocolate-lovers paradise. You’ll find more of the higher-end, refined chocolate in this city — but it’s worth splurging on. Pay a visit to Dumon Artisanal Chocolatiers, BbyB or The Chocolate Line which all whip up a variety of interesting chocolate collections, shapes and flavors in-house. Consider taking a chocolate-making workshop to make your own Belgian chocolates!

5. See the Belfort Belfry

This 83-meter-tall (272 feet) bell tower is one of Bruges’ best-known landmarks. It once housed the treasury and the municipal archives and was used for spotting fires and other threats. After (somewhat ironically) being destroyed by fire one too many times, the belfry was never rebuilt and now only the tower remains. The 47 bells in the tower are played for an hour on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11am and over the summer in special concerts.

If you have 30 minutes to an hour to spare and there’s not much of a queue, it’s worth the climb up the 366 steps to the top to enjoy some spectacular and panoramic views of the city. It costs 15 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Bruges

1. visit the groeninge museum.

The Groeninge Museum, also known as the Fine Arts Museum of Bruges is one of the most popular museums in the city, exhibiting works from Bruges’ own Jan van Eyck (a 15th-century master). There is also a world-famous collection of paintings by the Flemish Primitives (artists active in the Burgundian and Habsburg Netherlands during the 15th- and 16th-century). Admission is 15 EUR.

2. Take a hot air balloon ride

While not exactly budget-friendly (prices are around 200 EUR per person) this is a really neat way to see the city from a new perspective. You can spot Bruges’ most iconic buildings and squares from above and scan the green fields as far as your eye can see. Some operators offer both morning and evening flight options too. It’s a cool option for anyone feeling adventurous or in the mood for some romance.

3. Sample the beer

Like the rest of Belgium, there’s a lot of good beer in Bruges. Visit the Brewery De Halve Maan, which dates to 1856, and tour the facilities, where an underground pipeline carries the beer to bottling plants in the suburbs (tours cost 16 EUR and come with a free beer). There’s also ‘T Poatersgat, an amazing underground cellar bar with around 120 Belgian beers on tap. Or try the house beer at Vlissinghe Café, the oldest pub in Bruges (it’s been around for 500 years!). Some beer tastings and tours even include food pairings with chocolate or waffles.

4. Explore by bicycle

Owing to its smaller size, Bruges is a great city to explore by bicycle. Be sure to get out into the countryside if you have the time as the landscape is very pretty and it will be much quieter. Rentals cost around 10 EUR for 4 hours and 13 EUR for a full day. If you want a guided tour, Quasimundo runs regular tours that cover all the highlights. Their tours last 2.5 hours and cost around 33 EUR.

5. Take a food tour

If you’ve got an unquenchable taste for Belgian beer and waffles, take a food tour. Discover Belgium has a variety of different food tours, including a beer and food pairing tour, a chocolate tour, and a gamified food tour where you have to solve puzzles while you learn about the food and city history. There’s also a classic food tour, where you’ll get an overview of the country and its delicious cuisine, visit several different places, and learn about the history and culture behind each dish. Tours range from 50 EUR and last around 4 hours. If you want to learn how to make some Belgian classics yourself, you can learn how to make waffles in this workshop — and eat all the waffles you want too!

6. Tour some of the quirkier museums

Bruges has several small, quirkier museums that are worth visiting if you have some spare time. The Diamond Museum takes you back 550 years to when the technique of cutting diamonds was first applied right here in the city (admission is 12 EUR). There’s also the Chocolate Museum or Choco-Story (14 EUR), where a tour comes with a delicious tasting session, and the much darker Torture Museum, filled with grotesque instruments of torture that were used during the Middle Ages (9 EUR). Last but not least, the interactive (and delicious) Frietmuseum is the only museum in the world dedicated to tracing the history and culture of the french fry (admission is 11 EUR and advance reservations are required ).

7. Meander around Minnewater Park

This beautiful greenspace is a great place for a stroll. The park is filled with weeping willow trees and swans bobbing around Minnewater Lake, or “Lake of Love” (though it’s more like a wider section of the canals than an actual lake). It’s said that the lake’s name is in reference to a pair of doomed medieval lovers, but that if you cross the bridge with your partner, you’ll experience eternal love. It’s worth stopping at the castle for a drink by the water as part of your walk.

8. See the windmills

Belgium has a long history of using windmills, and in the 16th century, there were over two dozen windmills in Bruges (windmills were used for cutting wood, pumping water, and grinding grain). There are a number of historic windmills from the 17th-19th centuries still standing, including the iconic 4 along the city ramparts where you can stroll or cycle along the canal, or relax on the grass. You can only visit one of the windmills, though: Sint-Janshuismolen. It still grinds flour and has a museum in the base where you can learn more about the windmill and grinding process (admission is 5 EUR).

9. Visit Historium Bruges

This interactive museum offers a unique way to learn about the city’s medieval history and everyday life through film and other multimedia exhibits. You can even do a virtual reality experience where you fly through the medieval streetscapes to see what the city used to look like hundreds of years ago. It’s an impressive merging of history and tech and an especially great place to visit for families with kids. Admission is 20 EUR or 25 EUR including the virtual reality experience. It’s recommended to book online beforehand to avoid the line.

  For information on other cities in Belgium, check out these guides:

• Brussels Travel Guide

Bruges Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Dorms with 6-8 beds cost 25-30 EUR per night.. A private room for two with a private bathroom starts around 75-100 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard though most hostels don’t offer free breakfast or self-catering facilities. Expect hostel prices to double in the summer.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city. A basic plot for two without electricity starts around 20 EUR per night.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 75-100 EUR per night. However, there are more options with three-star hotels, which cost between 110-175 EUR per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and coffee/tea makers.

Airbnb is available here as well, with private rooms starting around 65 EUR per night. You can find whole apartments for around 120 EUR per night. Be sure to book early otherwise prices can double and spots are hard to find.

Average cost of food – Belgian cuisine has been strongly influenced by its European neighbors over the centuries, specifically France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Food here is hearty with chocolate, waffles, fries, and beer being the most iconic cultural staples. Steak and fries, mussels (often with fries), smoked ham, stew, and sausages are just some of the common dishes you’ll find here. Portions are large and filling too (the saying goes that Belgian food takes the portions of German cuisine but adds the quality and delicacy of French cuisine).

Casual meals at cafes cost around 10-20 EUR while fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 8 EUR for a combo meal. Takeaway shops are everywhere, at which you can get a filling cone of fries for 3-5 EUR or a waffle for 3-6 EUR. Pizza is around 15-19 EUR while Chinese food is 16-19 EUR.

A main dish at a casual eatery, especially in the town square, costs around 25-30 EUR (if not more). If you want to splash out on a three-course meal, expect to pay at least 60-75 EUR.

Beer is 3-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 4-5 EUR, and a cocktail is 10-12 EUR. A latte or cappuccino is around 3-4 EUR while a bottle of water is 2 EUR.

If you want to cook your meals, there are some great markets throughout the city. Expect to pay around 40-60 EUR for a week’s worth of groceries.

Backpacking Bruges Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Bruges, expect to spend around 65 EUR per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, cooking your meals, taking public transportation and walking everywhere, limiting your drinking, and doing most free activities like free walking tours and visiting the markets.

On a mid-range budget of 170 EUR per day, you can stay in your own room, enjoy a few drinks, eat out most meals, take the occasional taxi to get around, rent a bike, and do more paid activities like visiting museums and taking a canal cruise.

On an upscale budget of 300 EUR or more per day, you can do whatever you want. The sky is the limit here.

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Bruges Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Bruges, a city that seems designed for older travelers and couples, is not a cheap place to visit on a budget. If you want to save money, here are some suggestions to help you get started:

• Walk everywhere – Walking is the best way to see and get around the city. Most of the city’s main attractions are within 15 minutes of each other. There’s really no reason to take a bus or taxi. Save a few euros and walk everywhere.
• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours are the best way to get the lay of the land, see the main sights, and connect with a local guide who can share their insider tips. Just be sure to tip at the end!
• Get the Musea Brugge Card – This handy little card entitles you to free entry to 27 museums and attractions in Bruges as well as cruises on the canal. You can also get 25% off a variety of concerts, dance and theater performances, and bike rentals. If you are going to do many of the things listed on the card, this pass will save you money!
• Visit the farmer’s market – On a Wednesday morning, the Grote Markt Square is taken over by a market that offers cheaper food and drinks than what you’ll usually find. Restaurants are expensive, so loading up on fresh food at the market will cut down your food expenses.
• Stay with a local – Hospitality networks like Couchsurfing connect you with locals who can give you a free place to share and share their insider tips and advice. It’s the best way to save money and have a more local experience.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Bruges

There are only a few hostels in Bruges and limited choices for budget accommodation. Here are my recommended places to stay:

• Snuffel Hostel
• St. Christopher’s Inn Bauhaus Hostel
• Lybeer Travellers’ Hostel
• Cornerhouse Level Ten
• Hotel Van Eyck

How to Get Around Bruges

Public transportation – The local bus is operated by De Lijn. Single tickets cost 2.50 EUR and are valid for one hour. If you plan on using the bus a few times throughout the day, a day pass costs 7.50 EUR.

Bicycle – Renting a bicycle is a great way to get around town since it’s compact. Hourly rates start at 4 EUR, while full-day rentals start from 13 EUR. There are a handful of bike rental shops, including Fietspunt Station and Ben’s Bike Bruges where you can rent a city bike and even an e-bike.

Taxi – Taxis are expensive here. The base rate is 23 EUR, then it’s an additional 2.70 EUR per kilometer. Skip them if you can as they will destroy your budget. The city is small too so you really shouldn’t need one.

There are no ridesharing services like Uber here.

When to Go to Bruges

Summer is the best time to visit Bruges. This is when the weather is nicest and the city is in bloom. The average temperature in August is 20°C (68°F), and it rarely gets much hotter than that. Since Bruges is on the coast and has a maritime climate, summers are mild and winters are cold and windy.

Spring and fall are the shoulder seasons, with cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. In April and May, temperatures are under 10°C (40s and 50s°F). Temperatures in the fall range from 8-12°C (47-54°F), and it gets rainy around this time, too. If you don’t want to deal with the summer crowds, this is a good time to visit. Just pack a raincoat and sweater.

Most people avoid visiting in the winter as the temperatures drop to near freezing. But if you want this magical city all to yourself, especially when there are Christmas markets, Bruges is worth a wintry visit!

How to Stay Safe in Bruges

Bruges is very safe to visit. Violent crime is incredibly rare here so travelers should feel safe. However, since it is a touristy city, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach when out and about, especially in crowds and on public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here for all those reasons. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply here too (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There are numerous solo female travel blogs that can provide more specific tips.

Scams here are rare, however, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Bruges Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Bruges Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Belgium and continue planning your trip:

The Best Things to Do and See in Brussels

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Bruges Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Trip

Planning your travels to Bruges? Don’t miss this handy Bruges travel guide – what to see, the best time to visit, where to stay and other travel tips for the perfect trip. 

Bruges (Brugge in Flemish) is, quite frankly, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. 

A maze of gorgeous canals twinkling in the sun, quirky buildings with stepped roofs and elaborate patterns – it’s no wonder that it’s an eternally popular city break destination. 

The old capital of Flanders, the interesting buildings and picturesque canals make it easy to picture what Bruges would have looked like in medieval times – and also form the basis of its nickname “ The Venice of the North ”.

I’ve visited Bruges a number of times and yet, I never tire of its views. But don’t just think of this as a pretty place, a bland backdrop for Insta poses and not much else. Once the epicentre of Belgium’s cloth industry and a commercial hub, you can spy relics of the city’s former importance around every corner. 

Add to that a quiet charm and more than its fair share of quirky spots and you have a destination that should go straight to the top of your European travel bucket list . 

It’s time to discover Bruges.

Click here to open my guide to Bruges attractions – complete with an accompanying Google Map for you to save to your phone.

Where Is Bruges? Why Should I Visit?

Bruges is a mid-size city in northwest Belgium. It’s the capital of the West Flanders region, and has a population of around 110,000. 

This means it’s a relatively small city but with a big reputation.

Another reason for Bruges’ popularity is that it is super easy to get to from a number of other cities/ ports both within Belgium at from further afar. Some of the cities within two hours’ travel from Bruges include Amsterdam (Netherlands), Brussels (Belgium) and Dunkirk (France).

How to Plan Your Travel to Bruges: Before You Go

Best Time to Visit Bruges

Overall, Bruges has a pretty mild climate – meaning things can get chilly but not totally freezing, even in the winter. The reverse is also true – summer is definitely on the warm side, but not scorching.

Whenever you can go! Okay, moving away from the travel blog cliches to give you a proper answer.

This means you do have a fair bit of choice as to the best time to visit Bruges. Personally, I like travelling in the spring – around April/May.

At this time, things are warming up and the flowers are out in force. However, the mad crowds that arrive in June/July/August loom further away on the horizon, giving you a little more room to breathe.

The only time I would potentially avoid Bruges is January. You can certainly visit at this time, and it’s a quiet time to go – but some attractions are closed. 

So, if you have anything you absolutely must see, make sure you check it’s open before you book your January journey.

Read Next: When is the Best Time to Visit Bruges? A Step by Step Guide

Handy Resources for Getting To Bruges

Since Bruges is so close to various transport hubs, getting there is pretty much a piece of cake. 

If you’re wondering “how do I get to Bruges”, you’ll be happy to hear that there are plenty of great options.

The nearest airport is Oostende-Brugge International Airport (OST). It’s a half-hour drive to the centre of Bruges or you can get a bus/train combination that takes around 45 minutes (excluding connections). 

By Train 

Bruges’ Centrum station is about a 20 minute walk to the centre of town. It’s connected to the UK via the Eurostar (you need to change in Brussels to a normal train – the cost is included in your ticket) and to many other European destinations by train. 

Here are some handy resources to help you on your way to gorgeous Bruges:

• Skyscanner – the best website for finding cheap flights to Bruges. It instantly compares various booking sites and airlines, and will even let you search the whole month so you can snap up a bargain.
• Eurostar – worried about your carbon footprint or just not keen on flying? I love catching the Eurostar. It’s convenient from central London, fast and you get to admire some scenery on the way.
• Rail Europe – if you’re coming from elsewhere in Europe, then you’ll probably want to book your ticket via Rail Europe. There’s lots of connections from France, the Netherlands and more.

Where to Stay in Bruges

Bruges is a fairly compact city, meaning even if you stay on the outskirts you won’t be hiking for miles to find the main attractions.

That said, I personally recommend staying around the Markt/Burg area when you travel to Bruges. This is the most happening part of the city, and you’ll have tons of cool stuff right on your doorstep.

This means less time walking between destinations and more time spent actually seeing the sights of Bruges.

I understand that staying in the centre can be pricey (and bustling), so if you are looking for a more affordable or quieter option, there are other choices. The area around Minnewater Park is peaceful and relaxing, while Sint Anna is a good choice if you’re looking for value for money.

High End – Hotel De Orangerie 

De Orangerie is the perfect option if you’re looking for a high-end stay in the centre and boasts luxury rooms in a converted 15th century monastery.

Check rates and reviews for Hotel De Orangerie

Mid-Range – Novotel Centrum 

The Novotel isn’t going to set anyone’s world alight but it is contemporary and comfortable, and very well-priced for its location. 

Check rates and reviews for Novotel Centrum

Read more: Where to Stay in Bruges: The Best Neighbourhoods and Hotels in the City

Packing for Your Bruges Trip

Bruges’ mild climate and tendency for rain (ah, just like London) means you’ll probably want to pack a few layers and a brolly any time of year. However, exactly what to pack does depend a fair bit on the season and forecast.

Read more: My Comprehensive Europe Packing Guide.

Bruges City Guide: What to Do During Your Bruges Trip

Top 5 Things to do in Bruges 

Short on time and keen to see the absolute most unmissable spots in Bruges? I’ve got you.

It simply would not be a Brugge travel guide unless I recommended a visit to the Belfort Tower. It’s Bruges most iconic attraction, and a definite must see.

The tower is 86 metres high and was built back in 1240, and then expanded significantly in the 15th century.

Today, it is most famous for the amazing view you can get from the top. You’ll have to climb over 300 steps to make it, but trust me – the sore legs are totally worth it for the gorgeous views.

Markt & Burg Squares

Bruges boasts not one but two gorgeous squares. The first is Markt Square, where you’ll also find the Belfort.

It’s one of the prettiest market squares in Europe – and anyone who’s been to Europe knows that the continent isn’t short on market squares. It’s particularly charming with its Flemish buildings and market stalls.

Within an easy walk is Markt’s little sister, Burg. Archaeological evidence shows that people have lived here for close to 2000 years – although most of the buildings you can see are from the 14th century onwards.

Minnewater Park/Lake of Love

Most Brugge travel blogs describe the city as ‘romantic’ and that’s pretty accurate. But things get sickly sweet over at Minnewater Park.

Local legend says the park is named after Minna, a local girl who’s father tried to marry her off to a man who wasn’t her true love. To escape the wedding, Minna ran away towards the parkland, eventually falling, exhausted, into the arms of her love – and promptly dying.

Romantic? Depressing? You decide. Either way, the park is very beautiful and a must-see in Bruges.

Within the park you’ll find a pretty lake crossed by a bridge. Rumour has it you’ll find everlasting love with whoever you cross it with, so cross carefully.

Canal Cruise

Bruges is one of a couple of cities known as ‘The Venice of the North’ and it’s arguably the most beautiful. 

It makes sense, then, that canal cruising would be an unmissable activity on any Bruges vacation.

Taking a canal cruise will let you see some of the most beautiful views in Bruges from the water. Plus, it’s relaxing and peaceful – so what’s not to love?

Try A Few Local Delicacies

Bruges may not be an obvious choice for one of the great foodie cities of the world, but there are great places if you know where to look.

The city boasts plenty of fabulous local delicacies that you should definitely try while in Bruges, Belgium.

First and arguably most importantly – Belgian beer. If you are even a little bit keen on a good pint, you’ve simply got to try it.

Equally tempting is delicious Belgian chocolate which is a true revelation, particularly when paired with a scrummy waffle or two. If you’re going the savoury route then mussels or Flemish stew are musts.

Read More: Things to Do Bruges, the Venice of the North

Or check out these brilliant guided tours and activities.

Suggested Bruges Trip Itineraries 

Looking for some ideas for how to spend your time during your travels to Bruges? Look no further.

If you’ve got just one day in the city, then pop on your walking shoes and get ready to explore.

I recommend concentrating on the central area, around Markt and Burg squares. You’ll be able to check out Bruges icons like the Belfort and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, as well as soak up the atmosphere of the squares themselves.

Make sure to try some chocolate and beer as you wander.

Read More: A Day Trip to Bruges: What to do in Bruges in One Day

Two Days 

Two days – perhaps a weekend – in Bruges will give you a little more time to explore the city. With two days, you’ll be able to see the central highlights above, as well as head out further.

A little further away from the city you’ll be able to enjoy more unusual sights including the Beguinage, Minnewater Park, Sint Janshospitaal and the City Ramparts. This will give you a pretty good perspective on what Bruges has to offer.

And don’t forget the all important beer, chocolate and mussels. 

Read More: Weekend In Bruges – The Perfect Itinerary

Hidden Bruges – Unusual Things to Do

The crowds can get a tad overwhelming in Bruges, so shake them off by heading out to these hidden gems.

Sint Janshospitaal

Who doesn’t want to spend their holiday checking out a medieval hospital in Bruges?

Lots of people, apparently, which is why this is one of my favourite hidden gems. It’s such a quirky look at history, and a fabulous attraction in Bruges.

Frietmuseum

Whoever dreamed up a museum devoted entirely to French fries was a genius, in my opinion. 

If you’re looking for something different to what’s usually featured in Bruges, Belgium travel guides, then I highly recommend paying a visit to the Frietmuseum . Just maybe not when you’re hungry (or when you are –  you get free fries at the end of your visit).

City Ramparts

If the concrete and crowds of Bruges ever get too much, just head to the city ramparts on the outskirts of town (otherwise known as Windmill Walk).

Here you’ll find plenty of locals jogging and walking, but far fewer tourists. Those who skip over this are doing themselves a disservice if you ask me, as you get a gorgeous view of four old windmills as you walk.

How to See the Best of Bruges for Free 

Trying to save your euros? With my Bruges travel tips, you’ll be able to see the best of the city – without spending a single cent.

• DIY walking tour – Bruges is a compact, flat city that is easily walkable. Take a look at my Bruges tourist map and hit the road – you’ll easily be able to explore the highlights of Bruges without spending a penny.
• While some of Bruges’ attractions have entry fees, plenty don’t. In particular, if you focus on visiting the parks, squares and churches, then you’ll find that Bruges can be very easy on the wallet.
• Once a year on Flanders Heritage Day, many of the attractions in Bruges waive their entry fee. It’s a budget dream come true – although the crowds can be enormous.

Where to Eat in Bruges 

For a pretty small city, Bruges seriously punches above its weight in the food stakes. Here are some of the best restaurants in the city.

• Park Restaurant – if you’re looking for a place to splurge (you are on holiday after all) then you’d better snap up a sought-after table at Park Restaurant. This innovative restaurant serves up classic European fare with a twist, and is mouth-wateringly good. 
• Fred’s Waffles – chocolate, ice cream and waffles – ah, the holy trinity. It doesn’t get much better than enjoying a delightfully decadent dessert from the humble shop of Fred’s Waffles. Prepare to be dazzled by the choice (and the deliciousness).
• ‘T Bagientje – it may be difficult to believe, but one of Bruges’ best (and most affordable) restaurants is hidden away near the train station. Locals and visitors alike love this place, so if you’re looking for some classic Belgian dishes – you better head on over.

Read More: Where to Eat in Bruges – 7 Must-Try Restaurants and Cafes

Where to Drink in Bruges 

Beer is kind of a big deal in Bruges – but even if you’re not a fan, you’ll find alternatives on the menu at Bruges’ best watering holes. 

From chic cocktail bars to grungy pubs (always a winner in my book), there’s plenty to choose from. Here are my favourites.

• The Beer Wall at 2Be – the secret is kind of in the name. A great place to drink beer is a must on any Bruges city guide, and this one will give you a dazzling amount of choice. If you’re overwhelmed, ask the staff for some recommendations for local varieties.
• Bourgogne des Flandres – get right to the source of Belgium’s amazing beer and enjoy it straight from the brewery. This one recently returned to the city after a 60 year absence, and boy am I glad we got it back.
• De Garre – what could  be better than Belgian beer, you ask? Well, how about Belgian beer served up with some delicious cheese to the side. That’s what you’ll get from the cosy bar, De Garre.

Read Next: The Bruges Beer Guide: Where to Find the Best Beer in the City.

Day Trips from Bruges  

Good transport links and proximity to other cities makes Bruges a great base for day trips. Here are some of the best to add to your Bruges tourist guide:

• Antwerp – to experience a different Belgian city, I say make the hour and a half journey to Antwerp. This stylish city has a very different feel than Bruges, not least because it’s five times the size. If you love culture or fashion, this is a great option.
• Domburg – if the sun is shining (or you aren’t deterred easily) then a trip to the seaside is one of my top day trips from Bruges. The picturesque town of Domburg is particularly popular with local holidaymakers, and has some great sandy beaches.
• Lille – funnily enough, the closest day trip on this list is actually in France, not Belgium – but don’t let that deter you. It takes just an hour to get to the picturesque little town of Lille. Although it is distinctly French in character, you may also notice that it has plenty of Flemish influence too.

In need of Bruges day trip inspiration? 

Bruges Travel Guide: Basic Tips and Tricks for Making the Most of Your Stay 

Top bruges travel tips .

• A common piece of Bruges travel advice is to book in advance if you’re visiting in summer – and oh boy, is it true. The city really struggles to deal with the number of tourists it receives, so make sure you snap up some good accommodation early.
• If there are any “must sees” on your itinerary, check their opening hours. In particular, many restaurants close Sunday to Tuesday, while some attractions shut down during the month of January.
• Although mild, Bruges’ weather can be unpredictable. Don’t just rely on general trends, but check the weather forecast before you go.

Tipping In Bruges 

• Tipping is not customary in Bruges or anywhere in Belgium. The bill that you receive will include VAT (tax) as well as a service charge, and it’s fine not to pay anything else. That said, a small tip – around 5% or a couple of euros – is appreciated, especially if you feel the service was exceptional.

Facts About Bruges 

• You probably know that Bruges was the setting for the Colin Farrell film In Bruges . His overall grumpiness about Bruges doesn’t seem to have deterred the crowds, however.
• This year, Bruges has decided not to hold their usual ice sculpture festival or build the usual ice rink, due to climate change.
• Bruges is a city that really values education – it’s home to several world class educational institutions, and you can’t leave school until you are eighteen years old.

Handy Phrases for Travelling to Bruges 

The local language in Bruges is West Flemish, a unique language which is basically the same as Dutch. Luckily, English is widely spoken in Bruges – but you can win some brownie points with the following phrases.

• Hey, oe est? (Hi, how are you?)
• Klappe ghy Ingels? (Do you speak English?)
• Merci (Thank you)
• Santé (Cheers – when drinking beer)

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A Weekend in Bruges: How to Plan The Perfect Bruges City Break

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A Day Trip to Bruges: How to Plan + See the Best of Bruges in a Day

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Best Airbnbs in Bruges: Cool, Quirky & Stylish Spots For Your Stay

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Essential Bruges

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Bruges Is Great For

Historical tours.

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• Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce
• Grand Hotel Casselbergh Bruges
• Hotel Dukes' Palace
• Hotel van Cleef
• Hotel de Orangerie
• Bij Koen & Marijke - In't Nieuw Museum
• That's Toast!
• One Restaurant
• Mozart Brugge
• Historic Centre of Brugge
• Basilica of the Holy Blood
• Minnewater Lake
• Guided boat trip and walk
• Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Bruges
• Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Bruges
• Guided tour of Bruges and Boat Trip
• Evening Tour: The Dark Side of Bruges

A Complete Guide to Bruges, Belgium

Distinguished by its canals and cobblestone streets, Bruges is living evidence that fairytales exist. Old world charm aplenty, there’s no question that this is the most beautiful town in Belgium. If you plan to make the trek to West Flanders, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time in Bruges in our travel guide to Bruges.

Your Guide to Bruges

Arriving in bruges.

Chances are you will arrive in Bruges at the main train station, a short 10-minute stroll from the centre of town. Pre-load your google maps or follow the signs (and crowds) toward the centre of town. This city is best explored on foot or by bicycle, so getting lost is half of the fun. A city as picturesque as this, there really is no harm in going map-less and seeing where you wind up. If it helps, the Bellfry tower is a great point of reference to look up toward and find your way back to the centre of town.

When to Visit

Bruges is one of the most visited cities in Belgium. The other most visited cities are Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent. However, if I dare say it, Bruges is the most memorable. If you don’t like crowds, opt for an Autumn or Winter visit. If you visit in summer then you can expect to experience some crowds in Bruges. Spring is another popular season however not as chaotic summer, plus you’ll have the added aesthetic of fresh blooms. There really is no bad time to visit Bruges, however, each season has its pros and cons.

How long to stay?

This is a debatable question that warrants a few different answers. You can easily see Bruges in one day. That is more than enough time to see all the highlights, enjoy Flanders culture and experience the city. If you prefer to travel at a slower pace, I would recommend two or three nights in Bruges. This is the kind of city you can really slow down time.

What to See in Bruges: The Highlights

Groenerei canal.

As a waterborne city, the canals of Bruges form a network linking the capital of West Flanders to the North Sea. The canals thus form a core of Bruges’ identity and as you wander around the winding waterways, you can’t miss the Groenerei (Green Canal), the most romantic snapshot of Bruges’ canals. The best photo opportunity is from Peerdebrug (The Horse Bridge) on Peerdenstraat.

Bruges’ iconic Gothic square sits at the heart of the city and is a perfect example of quintessential Gothic architecture and Flanders culture + design. The Stadhuis (Town Hall) is a must see with its original 1376 design in tact. Take a tour inside to spot the original wooden ceiling on the first floor.

Minnewater Park

Also known as the Park of Love, this is no destination for the recently broken up with or solo traveller who would prefer not to be surrounded by a stream of couples wandering around the waterways. Should you not be one of the aforementioned, however, this is one of the most romantic locations in all of Bruges.

Rozenhoedkaai

As one of the most stunning postcard-worthy photo spots in all of Bruges, you cannot miss the opportunity to visit Rozenhoedkaai, particularly in the evening when the city lights up.

Walpein Square

This quaint and charming little square is filled with al fresco cafes and one of the most beautiful spots in town that is somehow not flooded with tourists.

Bonifacius Bridge

There are many bridges in Bruges but if we had to pick just one you cannot miss, Bonifacious would be it. The addition of the Church of Our Lady in the background makes this another quintessential photo opportunity not to be missed.

Where to Eat and Drink in Bruges

If you’re staying in town for a couple of days, prepared to be spoiled for choice! Despite the old world charm of Bruges, the restaurant and dining scene is years ahead of its’ time. Here are our top picks:

The Gulliver Tree

This casual coffee shop will quickly become a pit stop on your adventures around town – particularly if you’re fond of homemade baked goods, soups and a cup of tea in the afternoon.

Cordoeaniersstraat 4, Bruges 8000, Belgium

The Olive Tree Brugge

If you’re looking for a mediterranean touch, then look no further than this Greek restaurant. It is one of the most popular spots in town but the meals are huge and the atmosphere hits the spot.

Wollestraat 3, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

Réliva

This is our top pick for vegetarians and vegans as the options are plentiful, the food is incredible and full of unexpected flavour combinations.

Goezeputstraat 6, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

De Bron Vegetarian

This small vegetarian restaurant is open for lunch only, but is a great budget-friendly option for soup and a main meal (the offering changes daily). Note: open only on weekdays, 12pm-2pm.

Katelijnestraat 82, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

One of the best options in town for vegetarians and vegans. De Plaats serve up really fresh, wholesome food and the service is very friendly, making it a great option for a casual lunch or dinner. Note: they close between the end of lunch service and beginning of dinner service, so be sure to check hours before disappointment!

Wapenmakersstraat 5, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

‘t Zwart Huis

Dark and grungy bistro that might just become your favourite place in town. The food is hearty and they cater to dietary requirements, making it a great choice for a casual almost pub-style feed.

Kuipersstraat 23, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

Oyya Waffles & Ice Cream

As the name suggests: the sweet spot in town! Since you can’t come to Belgium without trying at least one waffle, be sure to make a pit stop (and prepare to make it a regular one).

Noordzandstraat 1, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

Schaeverbeke bakery

A lovely little bakery/patisserie serving a range of baked goods, including macarons.

Schaarstraat 2, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

Sanseveria Bagelsalon

This bagel “salon” is the perfect light lunch spot. The decor is casual and they’ve got plenty of takeaway items if you’re planning a picnic in one of Bruges many public parks.

Predikherenstraat 11, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

Carpe Diem Bakery

For old school interior lovers, look no further than the classic bakery that has been around as long as the locals. This typical Flanders bakery is a great way to step back in time and there’s a huge selection of teas, should you fancy a cuppa.

Wijngaardstraat 8, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

More to See & Do in Bruges

Belfry tower.

For a spectacular view over the city and a workout all-in-one, you can’t miss the opportunity to ascend the 366 steps to the top of the Belfry tower. Be sure to plan and book your tickets in advance or arrive early to do so – this is one of the most popular attractions in town.

Groeninge Museum

For a walk through Flemish and Belgian painting styles, look no further than the Groeninge Museum. If you were to pick just one museum to enter, this Fine Arts museum would be our top choice.

Sint Salvatorskathedraal

This impressive church (interior pictured above) is another insight in to a time now passed, with its impressively well-kept 12th-15th century facade and interiors.

Bruges Windmills

Located on the outskirts of town, the windmills around Bruges are where you will capture a great image of the city from afar, particularly at sunset.

Get Out: Elsewhere in Belgium

48 Hours in Ghent

48 Hours in Antwerp

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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Travel Guide to Bruges, Belgium

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Bruges (Brugge in Dutch), the capital and largest city of the province of West Flanders in Belgium, is located in the northwest corner of Belgium. Bruges is a mere 44km from Ghent to the southeast and 145 from Brussels.

The medieval center of Bruges is remarkably well preserved and is a UNESCO world heritage site. Bruges had its golden age around 1300 when it became one of the most prosperous cities of Europe. Around 1500, the Zwin channel, which provided Bruges with its access to the sea, started silting up, and Bruges began losing its economic strength to Antwerp. People began to abandon the center, which helped to preserve its medieval features.

Bruges is an art city. Renowned Bruges painter Jan van Eyck (1370-1441) spent most of his life in Bruges and a statue honoring him is found in the square named after the sculptor, Jan Calloigne.

Today Bruges is once again a thriving community with a population of 120,000 people, and the medieval center is one of the most beautiful in Europe.

Getting There

Brussels National Airport is the main airport for Bruges.

The smaller Oostende airport is just 24km (15 miles) from Bruges on the coast but offers very few flights.

Bruges is on the Oostende to Brussels train line (see our Belgium Map for rail lines). There are frequent trains from Brussels , Antwerp, and Ghent. It is a ten-minute walk from the train station to the historic center.

For detailed instructions, see: How to Get From Brussels to Bruges or Ghent .

If you have a car, don't try to drive around the narrow streets of the center. Park outside the walls (easier in early morning) or head for the main rail station and use the underground parking.

If you'll be in London, you can take the Eurostar train direct to Brussels. Your ticket actually includes onward travel to any city in Belgium: free travel to Bruges! Read more about the  Top Eurostar Destinations from London .

Getting to Bruges the Romantic Way

During the summer season, Lamme Goedzak , a paddle steamer, will take you from the interesting little town of Damme to Bruges in about 35 minutes along the canal. You'll find plenty of parking in Damme, and you can rent bicycles there as well.

The most important detail to remember is that all museums in Bruges are closed on Monday.

The most popular art museum is the Groeninge Museum, covering Low Country painting from the 15th to the 20th centuries, featuring painters such as Jan van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, and Hieronymus Bosch.

Museum times and entrance fees (don't forget to scroll down to the special offers) are found at the Groeninge Museum web page .

You knew there had to be a museum of fries, so yes, there's a Frietmuseum .

Places to Stay

There are many hotels in Bruges since it is a very popular European destination. The highly rated hotels tend to sell out of rooms in the summer, so reserve early.

Compare prices on Bruges hotels with TripAdvisor

You can also peruse our list of recommended Bruges Hotels.

Rail Passes

If you are coming into Belgium on the Eurostar , remember that on the London to Brussels route, your Eurostar ticket (buy tickets direct) is good for continuing on to any station in Belgium.

Don't Miss Attractions in Bruges:

One of the most popular attractions in this medieval city is a canal trip. Boats depart from the Georges Stael landing stage at Katelijnestraat 4 every 30 minutes, daily from 10h00 to 17h30. Closed from the middle of November to the middle of March.

Bruges is known for chocolate, lace, and to a lesser extent diamonds. The diamond museum is at Katelijnestraat 43. You can buy a rock of your choice at Brugs Diamanthuis at Cordoeaniersstraat 5. Chocolate shops are everywhere; you can also pop into the chocolate museum Choco-Story . The municipal lace Museum is on the main canal at Dijver 16.

The Belfort en Hallen (belltower of the market) is a symbol of Bruges and the tallest belfry in Belgium. Climb the 366 steps to top for a panoramic view of Bruges; on a clear day, you'll see all the way out to the sea.​

The 12th-century basilica Heilig-Bloedbasiliek, or chapel of the Holy Blood, on Burg square contains a rock-crystal vial containing a fragment of cloth stained with what is said to be the coagulated blood of Christ. They bring it out on Fridays for veneration, but if that's not your thing the basilica is still worth a visit. On Ascension Day the relic becomes the focus of the Procession of the Holy Blood , in which 1,500 Bruges citizens, many in medieval garb, form a mile-long procession behind the relic.

You probably don't think of visiting sites of early public housing on your vacation, but Bruges has a considerable number of whitewashed almshouses, many clustered around a cozy inner courtyard. They were popular ways of currying favor with God in the 14th century by wealthy townspeople or guilds and then 46 blocks of these have been preserved.

Bruges is a great walking town (or you can rent bicycles and go around like natives). The cuisine is top notch (although a tad expensive), and the beer is some of the best in the world (try the Brewery De Gouden Boom at Langestraat, 47 which has a small but interesting museum).

Like old-time motorcycles? You can see more than 80 motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters at the Oldtimer Motorcycle Museum in Oudenburg (Close to Ostend).

Bruges, Beer, and Chocolate

Bruges hosts a popular beer festival at the start of February that runs through early March. You buy a glass and get tokens used to fill it up with your selected beers. There's also a culinary side--chefs exhibit dishes cooked with beer. This is Belgium after all.

If you miss the festival--don't worry, there are plenty of bars and restaurants brewing and serving Belgian beer. A popular venue is 't Brugs Beertje at Kemelstraat 5, between the Market and the Zand, not far from the Bruggemuseum-Belfort. Opens at 4 pm through 1 am, closed Wednesday.

The Bruges Chocolate Museum is found in the Maison de Croon, which dates from around 1480 and was originally a wine tavern. Inside you'll learn about the history of Chocolate in Bruges. Workshops are held for adults and children as well.

And if you're going to Choco-Late, you might as well stay on the Bruges Ice Wonderland Sculpture Festival starting in late November.

And speaking of festivals, the largest religious festival in Bruges is Heilig-Bloedprocessie , the Procession of the Blood, held on Ascension Thursday, 40 days after Easter. The holy blood relic is carried through the streets and the folks following are dressed in medieval costume.

Photo Guide to Bruges, Belgium

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Let’s explore Bruges

Bruges travel guide

For me, visiting Bruges is like stepping into a real-life fairytale. I love the magic that oozes from every corner of the city and the atmosphere is utterly enchanting.

In my Bruges travel guide, I share my top recommendations for when to visit, how to get around and places to see. Plus my favourite spots for a good beer and a bite to eat!

About the author

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

A pocket-sized European city with a big heart, the quaint city of Bruges is a real-life fairytale destination. As one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in Western Europe, visiting Bruges is a chance to travel back in time. In fact, the historic centre of Bruges is so historically significant that it has been appointed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Full of quaint charm and a fairytale aesthetic, Bruges is an intimate city that doesn’t try to do too much. Known affectionately as the Venice of the North, its 80 bridges frame the meandering canals which intertwine with the winding cobbled streets. Discover pockets of green throughout the city, from small hidden gardens to the larger grassy expanse which surrounds this Belgian city.

The beating heart of Bruges lies in the Markt Square, flanked by gorgeous Flemish architecture and overlooked by the towering Belfry. Architecture and aesthetics aside, the food and drink specialities of Bruges include fries, waffles, chocolate and beer – need I say more?

Whether you’re visiting for the architecture and ambience, the canals and culture, or the waffles and windmills, unearth the beguiling city in my Bruges travel guide.

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How to get to Bruges

If travelling from the UK, the easiest way to get to Bruges is by Eurostar from London to Brussels. Alternatively, travelling by plane is the most convenient option for those travelling from further afield.

By plane:   The closest airport to Bruges is Brussels Airport, approximately 110km from Bruges. Direct flights are available from London, US, Canada, and more.

From the airport, you can get the train to Bruges, which takes around an hour and a half. Or a taxi should take around 75 minutes, although this is likely to be more expensive.

By train:   If you’re travelling from London in the UK, getting the train is by far the easiest option. Catch the two hour Eurostar train from London St Pancras to Brussels Midi. Then it’s a direct train from Brussels to Bruges, which takes around one hour.

Brussels Midi station is well-connected to a number of other European countries, including France, Netherlands, Germany and Luxembourg.

By car:   If you’re travelling from a nearby neighbouring European country then driving to Bruges is another option. If coming from the UK, you can take the Eurotunnel over to France and then drive into Belgium. Note that parking is limited in Bruges and you certainly don’t need a car to get around, as the city is small enough to get everywhere on foot.

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How to get around Bruges

Bruges is a wonderfully compact city. I think that being so small is part of its charming, fairytale appeal. Plus, it also makes Bruges a great option for solo travellers, as there’s no need to navigate any complex public transport systems.

By foot: In my opinion, the only way to explore Bruges is by wandering its unspoiled streets on foot. You can reach even the furthest corners of the city relatively easily by walking. If you struggle with mobility then it’s worth noting that there are cobbles everywhere. It’s all part of the city’s quaint charm, but can make accessibility difficult. 

By bus:  The bus offers a convenient way of getting from the railway station to the centre of Bruges. They leave every 5-10 minutes and take passengers to the Market Square. There’s no need for a bus once you’re in the city centre, but it can be handy for station transfers.

By horse & carriage:  Live out the ultimate fairytale fantasy and make a one-off trip by horse and carriage. The horses are well looked after so there’s no need to sacrifice any ethics for a romantic horse & carriage ride through the city. It’s not the cheapest way to see the city, but it’s definitely the most memorable. 

By bike:  Cycling is a fantastic way to explore the outskirts of the city, where you’ll find quaint villages and rolling green countryside. You can get around the city centre by bike – and many of the locals do just that – although I think the main hub of Bruges is still best explored on foot so you can take in all the sights.

By taxi:  The only time you’ll really need a taxi in Bruges is to get from the station to the centre. If you don’t fancy the bus, there are usually plenty of taxis available at the station. It’s a relatively short journey so prices are generally quite reasonable.

By car:  You simply don’t need a car to explore Bruges. If you’re doing a road trip then it’s no problem to arrive by car. But once you’ve parked up, you’re not going to need it until the end of your Bruges excursion – unless you’re doing a day trip of course!

Best time to visit Bruges

Note that most attractions are closed on Mondays and that a lot of restaurants don’t open until the latter part of the week.

There are still plenty of options for dining out, but you’ll need to book in advance to guarantee a spot. This does mean it’s generally a little quieter from Monday to Wednesday.

Personally, I think it’s worth the more limited dining options for a more peaceful experience of the city.

One of the key shoulder seasons, I think spring is a wonderful time to visit Bruges. The city becomes adorned with colourful flowers in every nook and cranny.

European cities don’t get much prettier than Bruges in spring. If you’re visiting in spring, be sure to stop by Beguinage, as it will be covered in a blanket of white and yellow daffodils. Aim for late spring to benefit from fairer weather.

As you’d expect, summer is the most popular time to visit Bruges. The weather is at its best, although still mild and not scorching. Temperatures tend to hover around 19-20 degrees Celsius and rain is less likely – although still pack an umbrella!

The warmer weather does mean a lot of tourists. As Bruges is such a small city, the high volume of tourists is, unfortunately, very noticeable.

Another shoulder season, autumn is a great time to visit if you’d prefer to avoid the droves of tourists that the summer months attract. As the leaves turn golden brown, the city takes on a cosy charm.

Be sure to visit parks like Minnewater to get the full autumnal experience. If you’re visiting in late autumn, be aware that the weather will be chilly and rain quite likely. So pack accordingly!

The main reason that people visit Bruges in winter is due to the delightful Christmas markets. Wander the pretty wooden chalets, go for a skate on the ice rink, and indulge in traditional street food and drink.

As you can imagine, the weather will be cold. If you’re lucky, you may get to see Bruges covered in a glistening blanket of snow for the ultimate postcard-perfect visit.

DESTINATION GUIDE

20 amazing things to do in Bruges

From museums and markets to waffles and walks, here is my guide to the very best things to do in Bruges, the ultimate fairytale town in Belgium.

Brussels or Bruges: which to visit?

Trying to decide whether to visit Brussels or Bruges? I share the pros and cons of both beautiful Belgian cities to help you decide which to visit.

Browse and book the best activities and attractions in Bruges:

Frequently asked questions, how long to spend in bruges.

I’d say that three nights and two full days is a good amount of time to spend in Bruges. Given its small size, you may run out of things to do if you spend longer there. An alternative option is to add on another night and spend your third day in pretty Ghent, which is just a half hour train ride away.

Is Bruges overwhelmed with tourists?

Due to its small size, the city can feel overwhelmed with tourists during peak times. My recommendation? Do not miss out on an early morning stroll around the city, before the crowds descend. It’s the best time to see the unspoiled streets and remarkable beauty of Bruges in all its glory.

Is Bruges a good destination for solo travellers?

Bruges is an excellent destination for solo travellers. In fact, I often recommend it as a great starting point for anyone new to the world of solo travel. You don’t need to navigate any complex public transport systems, English is widely spoken, and it’s a very safe city with low crime rates.

Is Bruges expensive?

Bruges is a relatively expensive city, especially when it comes to food and drink . Just be sure to eat away from the tourist areas (definitely don’t eat on the Market Square) and the prices will be less inflated.

How many Michelin star restaurants in Bruges?

There are currently two Michelin star restaurants in Bruges: Zet’Joe by Geert Van Hecke and Sans Cravate. Bruges is also home to two Bib Gourmand restaurants and 15 other Michelin recommended eateries.

There are some exceptional restaurants in Bruges by exciting, innovative chefs. If you love a spot of fine dining, you’ll find plenty of options in Bruges. Just make sure that you book ahead of time.

Are there Christmas Markets in Bruges?

The main Christmas market takes place in the central Markt, where there is also a tempting ice rink. A second Christmas market takes place in the Simon Stevinplein square.

Wander the cosy wooden chalets, indulge in delicious home-made treats, and do a spot of Christmas shopping. It’s guaranteed to be an unbeatable festive atmosphere.

What are the food and drink specialities in Bruges?

Belgium is famous for waffles, chocolate, beer and fries – all the healthy treats in life! It follows that all of Belgium’s specialities can be found and sampled in Bruges. 

Bruges highlights

Historic centre.

The historic centre of Bruges is one of the city’s main appeals. In fact, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, owing to its layout being the same as it was in the Middle Ages.

The mediaeval centre is a hub of gothic architecture and quaint streets, all with a lively city feel.

Be sure to wander the historic centre on foot, along hidden streets and romantic bridges. The canals wend their way around the cobbled streets which are lined with recognisable Flanders architecture.

Go shopping, indulge in a traditional Belgian waffle, or pause for a moment in one of the many cafes or bistros.

Explore by canal

A visit to Bruges would not be complete with a journey along the canals. Gain a different perspective on the historic centre by seeing it from the calming waters.

There are plenty of canal boat tours available throughout Bruges, with insightful commentary that brings the city to life.

Try to go relatively early, when they open at around 10am to avoid long queues. I recommend picking one up from the jetty at Rozenhoedkaai, as you can enjoy an alfresco drink in the area afterwards.

Seeking out the hidden pockets of Bruges via the waterways is an absolute must.

Bruges breweries

It’s no secret that Belgium is famous for its beer. What better excuse to get seven pints deep, all in the name of ‘soaking up the culture’!

Bruges has three working breweries: De Halve Maan, Bourgogne des Flandres, and Fort Lapin. For a popular guided tour, head to De Halve Maan to learn more about the process of creating their award-winning beers.

A tour would not be complete without a tasting, so make sure you leave time – and room – for this. If you still haven’t had your fill of beer, you’ll find beer infused dishes in many of the restaurants.

Sound like a dream come true? Book a table at Cambrinus, which offers entire menus prepared with beer (and the longest beer menu you’ll ever see).

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Pocket Wanderings is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand run by London-based content creator, Jessie Moore. Here you’ll find a community of fellow wanderlusters and adventurers.

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18 Best Things to do in Bruges, Belgium in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: January 19, 2024

Looking for things to do in Bruges? You have come to the right place. Belgium travel writer Sam Van den Haute of  Checkout Sam  shares the very best things to do in Bruges. We are excited about this post as we have yet to visit this picturesque town and have always wanted to go since watching the movie In Bruges.

Bruges, also known also as ‘Brugge’ in Dutch,   is one of Europe’s most well-preserved fairytale cities. Located in the western Flemish region of Belgium, Bruges will truly transport you to places you’ve only read about in storybooks while allowing you to indulge in modern comforts and cuisine.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Bruges, Belgium

Imagine yourself strolling down a quaint cobblestone path, past winding canals teeming with swans and cathedrals from the middle ages. Just add some modern shopping spots and the smell of chocolate to that scene and you’ve got the enchanting,  medieval city of Bruges.

Let’s take a look at the top attractions in Bruges that you won’t want to miss on your visit to this bewitching destination.

1. Quay Of The Rosary

Rozenhoedkaai (Quay Of The Rosary) is the most photographed place in Bruges. Located on a sharp bend of the Dijver Canal it offers the loveliest view in Bruges. The medieval buildings are located directly on the canal between the stone bridge and where the Dijver and Groenerei Canals meet. It’s impossible to miss as it is a popular starting point for boat tours.

This guided boat and walking tour follows a local guide as you see Bruges from the Canals on the water. You’ll discover the narrowest street in Bruges, the basilica, and the Fish Market on your walking tour. You’ll then get onto a canal boat tour at the Quay of the Roasary and sail along the canals to view the facades covered in ivy as you float under bridges admiring the beauty of the city. Details here.

Visit the 2Be – Beer Wall

Hot Tip: Make your way to 2Be for a cold beer across the Canal to view the famous beer wall. Belgium is famous for its beer and 2Be houses more than 1000 different beers along its 30-meter-long beer wall.

Beer fans will love this highly rated tour . This Bruges beer experience sets off on foot to learn about and taste Belgian beer. It includes visits to local hidden gems and a popular beer bar. The tour includes Five tasters and three locations including a brewery. Plus a mini chocolate pairing.

2. the Old Town of Bruges

Home to over 117,000 people, Bruges, is often referred to as the “ Venice  of the North. ” With canals weaving through the Old Town surrounded by the grand canal, Bruges is the perfect place to find a mixture of fun things to do and see. But unlike Venice, there’s the option of discovering small quiet corners to relax and soak in the splendor.

The Old Town of Bruges is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and its small area packs a large punch. Many of the top attractions in Bruges are easily accessible as you wander the streets and explore the canals. With its unique historic pathways, churches, and parks, you will discover a city in Europe that stands out from the rest.

This private walking tour is recommended to explore the town center. You’ll see most of the top Bruges attractions such as the Belfry of Bruges and Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk a church containing the Madonna and child by Michelangelo. You’ll wander the canals and alleyways and end with an optional boat trip along the canal to see the sights. More details here

3. Lake of Love

The Lake of Love (Minnewater) is a quiet retreat within Minnewater Park at the south end of Bruges. This picturesque location is perfect for quiet strolls. One of the most photographed places in The Lover’s Bridge spans the canal and it is said that if you cross the bridge with the one you love and sneak a kiss, your love will last forever.

4. Belfry of Bruges

A protected World Heritage site, the Belfry of Bruges is a medieval bell tower in the heart of Bruges’ medieval town. This is a soaring masterpiece that stand 83 meters (272 feet) high it offers some spectacular panoramic views of the city.

The climb up might feel a tad claustrophobic, but the trek will prove to be well worth your while. Within the bell tower, its 47-bell carillon is still tolled manually on any given day.

The Belfort is known as the most important and symbolic tower in Bruges dating back to the 13th century. It is a standing reminder of one of the oldest examples of medieval architecture. You might also recognize the Belfry of Bruges tower which was featured in the well-known movie “ In Bruges” .

5. Bruges Museums

Bruges has many art museums and galleries and the Bruges: Museu Musea Brugge Card gives entry to 12 museums. Prices start at 33 Euro and give access to Belfort (Belfry of Bruge), City Hall, Groeninge Museum, Liberty of Bruges, Sint-Janshuis Mill, Our Lady of the Pottery, Folk Museum, Michelangelo’s ‘Madonna and Child’ and more.

You can activate your card up to one year after purchase. To activate your card you can directly go to the attraction and scan your voucher at the entrance. Get your card in advance here.

One of the more unique places to visit in Bruges is the Torture Museum. This was the oldest prison in Bruges dating back to the 11th century. Today it has been transformed into a museum showing the cruelty of mankind. There are authentic torture instruments dating back to the middle ages. There are wax figures depicting some of the torture devices transporting you into the horrors of this early dungeon. Even though it is difficult, it is sometimes important to see what humans are capable of so that we learn to not repeat the mistakes of our past.

6. Market Square

The Brugge Markt otherwise known as the Market Square (or Bruges Markt) is one of the top spots to check out while in Bruges. Today the square is chock-full of restaurants and shops and is used as a meeting place for locals. Market Square is also where you can catch a ride on a horse-drawn carriage to explore the city!

Each building in Market Square is unique, and you will notice the distinct changes in architecture throughout time as you walk through this historic market. For those yearning for a “life-like” walk into the past, be sure to stop by “Historium” located in the square, which offers a historic experience back to the 15th century!

The medieval market square has been in use since the year 958 and is also the location of the famous Belfry tower. A visit here is one that you simply cannot pass up. Make sure to keep an eye out for the statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck who led the Flemish uprising against the French king in 1302.

One of the most romantic things to do in Bruges is to take a horse drawn carriage tour. Carriages leave from Market Square and take you on a half-hour ride to see the Bruges canals, ancient bridges, and beautiful squares.

7. The Burg Square

For those interested in architecture and history, you’re sure to be dancing with joy throughout your entire trip to Bruges. The Burg is a square that has been inhabited since the 2nd Century and exhibits examples of Renaissance, Gothic, and Neo-classical architecture including the Old Town Hall – a star attraction in Bruges. You will find yourself walking through history with each building you pass on your way into Burg square.

The historic buildings in one of the oldest parts of Bruges include the “Stadhuis” also known as the Bruges City Hall, which is preserved from its original build in 1376, and the Old Civil Registry from 1537. The Old Town Hall is one of the oldest buildings in the entire region and the city has been governed from here for more than 600 years. There is a museum on the ground floor that is worth going into.

You will also see the historic court of Justice, the Church of our Lady, and the Palace of the Liberty of Bruges (Brugse Vrije). You can even pop on over next door to explore the old fish market and many scenic canals!

The Burg Square is a great starting point to explore Bruges. From the square, continue your walk to explore the colorful alleys that lead you to the canal. It’s beautiful, free, and oh-so-photogenic.

8. Church of our Lady

The Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk) is an alluring beauty originating from the 13th century. Complete with a 115.5-meter-high tower, (379 feet) the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk is the highest-standing structure in Bruges and is apparently the second tallest brick tower in the world. And here is a fun fact, it is also  the second tallest brick building in the world.

The Church displays various notable artworks from artists such as the marble Madonna by Michelangelo. It has been expanded and renovated over time, initially taking roughly two centuries to construct. It is currently undergoing further restoration. Some artworks will be unavailable to view due to the renovations, however, the majority of this impressive church including the Madonna should now be available.

9. St. John’s Hospital

Reflecting its over 800 years as a working medical institution, this popular historic museum is found inside of the medieval Saint John’s Hospital.

Sint-Janshospitaal is known for being one of the most well preserved old hospitals in all of Europe. Now a museum, it gives you the chance to see what the old wards and life in the hospital would have been like.

As for art, there are many collections from various houses of worship that were in the old community of Saint Jan’s. Many of those pieces were handed over to Saint Jan’s Hospital after the fall of Napoleon in the year 1815.

Amongst these examples of high-level religious art, you’ll also find donated works from related charities, as well as the famous 16th-century ensembles from Hans Memling inside of the chapel.

10. The Begijnhof 

As a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998, Begijnhofs, or “Beguinages”  are without a doubt a unique feature of Europe, specifically Belgium and the Netherlands.

Dating back to the mid-13th century, these historic complexes were originally inhabited by a collection of religious women, or Beguines, who lived their lives by example of the apostles. The Begijnhof in Bruges specifically counts as one of the best-preserved. Some Beguine’s houses are open to visitors where you can step back in time to get a feel of what it was like to live here!

The Beguines lived in a community consisting solely of women; those who were widowed or single that wanted to live in a pious manner. The Begijnhof is still used today as living quarters for nuns and women who have chosen to stay unmarried.

As you walk down its tiny cobblestone streets, you will leave behind the noisy atmosphere of the city and find yourself in a calm, serene area.

11. Basilica of the Holy Blood

The glorious Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed (Basilica of the Holy Blood) dates back to the 12th century. It is one of the top attractions in Bruges and is not to be missed. Named for Our Lady and Saint Basil, this famous double church is said to possess a vial harboring drops of the blood of Jesus Christ himself.

The blood of Jesus was supposedly delivered to the basilica from the holy land after the crusades in the 12th century. This relic of Jesus is taken out daily at 2 pm allowing visitors to pay their respects.

Being a double church, you will notice two distinct sections on your visit. An upper church, which sports neo-Gothic architecture and is home to the relic of the holy blood, and a lower chapel, which has preserved its Romanesque features. You won’t want to miss the chance to see this unique basilica in person!

The Basilica of the Holy Blood, aka Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed is located in the city center, just west of the city hall. Bruges City Hall is also known as the “Stadhuis.

12. Groeningemuseum

There is no better place for art lovers to learn about Belgian art and history than the famous Groeningemuseum! Bruges has plenty of art galleries but Groeningemuseum is one of the finest. This art museums is built on the former location of the medieval town, Eekhout Abbey, the museum offers an entire visual overview of various aspects from Flemish & Belgian artists, as well as artwork from between the 14th to the 16th century.

This includes neo-classical pieces from the 18th and 19th centuries. Many post-war modern art pieces and examples of Flemish expressionism are also highlighted at the museum and let’s not forget the world-renowned collection of Flemish primitive paintings.

Of course, many of these works were originally created in Bruges itself! It’s also good to note that there are regular showcases of beautiful exhibitions held in the Groeningemuseum.

Don’t forget to check out the apothecaries and herb garden!

13. Loppem Castle

Emphasizing the fairytale-like atmosphere of Bruges, the 19th-century Loppem Castle can be found just 10km south of the city center.

Boasting beautiful neo-gothic architecture, the Loppem Castle combines its original interior and architectural state with its winding garden maze, and a vast collection of art to take you back in time.

The castle was temporarily home to King Albert I after the first world war, even hosting Queen Elizabeth in 1918.

Walking through the corridors of Loppem castle brings to life the footprints left by artists and kings of the past.

14. Hof Arents Park

After that much sightseeing, you’ll be ready for some peace and quiet. Located directly behind the Arentshuis museum, you will find the beautiful Hof Arents.

This charming green park is situated along the canals and offers a small idyllic bridge, outside artwork, and many hidden benches between tall trees.

While the 18-century Arentshuis museum itself is certainly worth a visit, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more tranquil spot as the Hof Arents park.

15. De halve maan

Beer lovers will enjoy stopping in at De Halve Maan Brewery. It dates back to the 16th century and has been passed down from generation to generation since 1856. No European city visit would be complete without a tour of the town’s brewery. De Halve Maan offers daily brewer tours where visitors can enjoy a pint of Brugse Zot Blond Beer at the end of the tour.

Hot Tip: An added bonus is that you can go up to the top of the brewery and experience a panoramic view of the city,  saving you the €10 you would’ve spent going up to the top of the Belfry of Bruges.  

16. Jan van Eyck Square

Located in the Hansa Quarter, Jan Van Eyck Square is named after the famous painter Jan Van Eyck. This is a quieter square than other squares in Bruges but it is quite picturesque.

During the 13th to 15th century, Bruges was the trading center between England, Germany, and Scandinavia and this historic quarter of the Old Town gives you a sense of what this important crossroads was like. It is here that you can view the old mansions of the rich traders who took up residence in Bruges. Jan Van Eyck was supported by the rich patrons of Bruges and there is a statue of him at its center.

17. Go Windmill Hunting

We all know that the Netherlands is famous for its windmills, but Bruges has them too! In fact, Bruges isn’t too far from Amsterdam and many people take day trips from Amsterdam to see Bruges. The windmills of Bruges have become a popular attraction in Bruge with a handful of windmills located just outside the old city. Sometimes referred to as windmill walk, visitors can take a stroll to see the picturesque windmills. You can go inside some of them as well.

18. ChocoStory Chocolate Museum

No trip to any Belgium city would be complete without visiting a chocolate museum. The Choco Story Chocolate Museum Tour takes you on a journey through time to learn about the origins of chocolate and you’ll get to taste it too. Details here.

Did you know that there is 4000 year history of chocolate? This chocolate museum has three phases telling the history of the evolution of chocolate to how it is made and a tasting.

How to Get to Bruges

Bruges is located in the North-West of Belgium in the Flanders region of the country just a few km inland from the North Sea. Bruges is less than an hour’s train ride from Brussels .

It is famous for its canals and narrow streets and the Bruges city centre is a UNESCO world heritage site.  It’s one of Belgium’s most well-preserved medieval towns and is a must-visit when exploring the country.

Because it is relatively small, you can see a lot of Bruges and the medieval town in a short time. Bruges is just a short drive or train ride from Brussels and is well-connected with other cities in Belgium and Europe.

• Bruges to Brussels:  101 kilometers (62 miles)
• Bruges to Ghent:  47 kilometers (29 Miles)
• Bruges to Antwerp:  90 kilometers (56 miles)
• There are also ferries to Bruges from England.
• Traveling by train to Bruges is easy and convenient. Brussels airport has a railway station so you can go directly to Bruges once you land.
• Or you can do what we prefer, rent a car and  take a road trip.  You can compare prices here at RentalCars.com

Bruges Day Trips

Many people take day trips to Bruges from Brussels and Amsterdam, but to really get a feel for this city you should spend the night. For booking hotels, we use  Booking.com  and  TripAdvisor  for comparison shopping, reviews, and deals.

Bruges is located in Flanders and a popular day trip from Bruges is to  visit Flanders Fields . The poppy fields of Flanders are visited on this tour. You may remember the poem In Flander’s Field by John McCrea. The tour takes you to The WWI Battlefields, the Menin Gate Memorial, and the cemetery as well as the poppy fields made famous by the poem. Tickets can be purchased in advance and there is easy cancellation with 24 hours’ notice. Book your  tour here.

While in Flanders, a popular stop is the Groeningemuseum. It displays famous Flemish artists like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.

When is the best time to visit Bruges?

• The best time to visit Bruges is from the end of May to the beginning of September.
• From June to August the weather is mild and sunny and it is the high season for tourists.

Out of every European city you may have had the chance to visit, I guarantee that Bruges will stand out from the rest.

From its tiny canals to its historic markets and museums, there really is no place like it. Bruges will leave you with a charming, nostalgic impression that is sure to last a lifetime.

How to Spend a Weekend in Bruges on a Budget

• Belgium Travel Guide
• The 21 Best Day Trips from Amsterdam
• Facts about Belgium

This Bruges article was originally written by Sa van Den Haute and has been updated by The Planet D team.

Author Bio: Sam Van den Haute is the blogger behind  Checkout Sam ; an English, Dutch, and German travel blog with practical guides and valuable information to help fellow adventurers get the maximum out of their trip. He has traveled to more than 60 countries and plans on visiting many more! Follow him on   Facebook  and  Instagram

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8 thoughts on “18 Best Things to do in Bruges, Belgium in 2024”

If you get to De Halve Maan I’d recomment one or more Straffe Hendrik black! You’ll be amazed.

Brussels is one of the most beautiful places in Belgium and a must-visit place. Thanks for sharing.

He Sam, nice article, thanks of putting our small belgian city on the map!

Thanks alot for this great post Sam, is really nice you put our little small country on the map !

regards Caro

Nice article about one of the most beautifull places in Belgium

I had the opportunity to have a 5 day holiday, it was one of the rare places I would like to see again as soon as possible. it was great!

One should try all the things mentioned above

I had the chance to have 2 weeks of vacation, one of the rare places I want to see again as soon as possible.

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“Somewhere within the dingy casing lay the ancient city,” wrote Graham Greene of BRUGES , “like a notorious jewel, too stared at, talked of, and trafficked over”. And it’s true that Bruges’s reputation as one of the most perfectly preserved medieval cities in western Europe has made it the most popular tourist destination in Belgium, packed with visitors throughout the season. Inevitably, the crowds tend to overwhelm the city, but you’d be mad to come to Flanders and miss the place: its museums hold some of the country’s finest collections of Flemish art, and its intimate, winding streets, woven around a skein of narrow canals and lined with gorgeous ancient buildings, live up to even the most inflated tourist hype. See it out of season, or in the early morning before the hordes have descended, and it can be memorable – though not so much on Mondays, when many of the sights are closed.

Jan van Eyckplein

Kantcentrum & jeruzalemkerk, onze lieve vrouwekerk, st-salvatorskathedraal, the groeninge museum, the hospitaalmuseum and the memling collection.

The obvious place to start an exploration of the city is in the two principal squares: the Markt , overlooked by the mighty belfry, and the Burg , flanked by the city’s most impressive architectural ensemble. Almost within shouting distance, along the Dijver, are the three main museums, among which the Groeninge offers a wonderful sample of early Flemish art. Another short hop brings you to St Janshospitaal and the important paintings of the fifteenth-century artist Hans Memling , as well as Bruges’s most impressive churches, the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk and St-Salvatorskathedraal .

Further afield, the gentle canals and maze-like cobbled streets of eastern Bruges – stretching out from Jan van Eyckplein – are extraordinarily pretty. The most characteristic architectural feature is the crow-step gable, popular from the fourteenth to the eighteenth century and revived by the restorers of the 1880s and later, but there are also expansive Georgian-style mansions and humble, homely cottages. There are one or two obvious targets here, principally the Kantcentrum (Lace Centre), where you can buy locally made lace and watch its manufacture, and the city’s most unusual church, the adjacent Jeruzalemkerk . Above all, however, eastern Bruges excels in the detail, surprising the eye again and again with its sober and subtle variety, featuring everything from intimate arched doorways and bendy tiled roofs to wonky chimneys and a bevy of discrete shrines and miniature statues.

Brief history

Bruges started out as a ninth-century fortress built by the warlike first count of Flanders, Baldwin Iron Arm , who was intent on defending the Flemish coast from Viking attack. The settlement prospered, and by the fourteenth century it shared effective control of the cloth trade with its two great rivals, Ghent and Ypres (now Ieper), turning high-quality English wool into clothing that was exported all over the known world. An immensely profitable business, it made the city a focus of international trade, and at its peak the town was a key member of – and showcase for the products of – the Hanseatic League , the most powerful economic alliance in medieval Europe. Through the harbours and docks of Bruges, Flemish cloth and Hansa goods were exchanged for hogs from Denmark, spices from Venice, hides from Ireland, wax from Russia, gold and silver from Poland and furs from Bulgaria. The business of these foreign traders was protected by no fewer than 21 consulates, and the city developed a wide range of support services, including banking, money-changing, maritime insurance and an elementary shipping code, known as the Roles de Damme .

Despite (or perhaps because of) this lucrative state of affairs, Bruges was dogged by war . Its weavers and merchants were dependent on the goodwill of the kings of England for the proper functioning of the wool trade, but their feudal overlords, the counts of Flanders, and their successors, the dukes of Burgundy (from 1384), were vassals of the rival king of France . Although some of the dukes and counts were strong enough to defy their king, most felt obliged to obey his orders and thus take his side against the English when the two countries were at war. This conflict of interests was compounded by the designs the French monarchy had on the independence of Bruges itself. Time and again, the French sought to assert control over the cities of West Flanders, but more often than not they encountered armed rebellion. In Bruges, Philip the Fair precipitated the most famous insurrection at the beginning of the fourteenth century. Philip and his wife, Joanna of Navarre, had held a grand reception in Bruges, but it had only served to feed their envy. In the face of the city’s splendour, Joanna moaned, “I thought that I alone was Queen, but here in this place I have six hundred rivals”. The opportunity to flex royal muscles came shortly afterwards when the city’s guildsmen flatly refused to pay a new round of taxes. Enraged, Philip dispatched an army to restore order and garrison the town, but at dawn on Friday May 18, 1302, a rebellious force of Flemings crept into the city and massacred Philip’s sleepy army – an occasion later known as the Bruges Matins : anyone who couldn’t correctly pronounce the Flemish shibboleth schild en vriend (“shield and friend”) was put to the sword. There is a statue celebrating the leaders of the insurrection – Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck – in the Markt.

The Habsburgs , who inherited Flanders – as well as the rest of present-day Belgium and Holland in 1482 – whittled away at the power of the Flemish cities, no one more so than Charles V , the ruler of a vast kingdom that included the Low Countries and Spain. As part of his policy, Charles favoured Antwerp at the expense of Flanders, and to make matters worse, the Flemish cloth industry began its long decline in the 1480s. Bruges was especially badly hit and, as a sign of its decline, failed to dredge the silted-up River Zwin , the town’s trading lifeline to the North Sea. By the 1510s, the stretch of water between Sluis and Damme was only navigable by smaller ships, and by the 1530s the city’s sea trade had collapsed completely. Bruges simply withered away, its houses deserted, its canals empty and its money spirited north with the merchants.

Some four centuries later, Georges Rodenbach ’s novel Bruges-la-Mort e alerted well-heeled Europeans to the town’s aged, quiet charms, and Bruges – frozen in time – escaped damage in both world wars to emerge as the perfect tourist attraction.

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Jan van Eyckplein , a five-minute walk north of the Markt, is one of the prettiest squares in Bruges, its cobbles backdropped by the easy sweep of the Spiegelrei canal. The centrepiece of the square is an earnest statue of Van Eyck , erected in 1878, whilst on the north side is the Tolhuis , whose fancy Renaissance entrance is decorated with the coat of arms of the dukes of Luxembourg, who long levied tolls here. The Tolhuis dates from the late fifteenth century, but was extensively remodelled in medieval style in the 1870s, as was the Poortersloge (Merchants’ Lodge), whose slender tower pokes up above the rooftops on the west side of the square. Theoretically, any city merchant was entitled to be a member of the Poortersloge, but in fact membership was restricted to the richest and the most powerful. An informal alternative to the Town Hall, it was here that key political and economic decisions were taken – and this was also where local bigwigs could drink and gamble discreetly.

Beyond the east end of the Spiegelrei canal is an old working-class district, whose low brick cottages surround a substantial complex of buildings that originally belonged to the wealthy Adornes family, who migrated here from Genoa in the thirteenth century. Inside the complex, the Kantcentrum (Lace Centre), on the right-hand side of the entrance, has a busy workshop and offers very informal demonstrations of traditional lacemaking in the afternoon (no set times). They sell the stuff too – both here and in the shop at the ticket kiosk – but it isn’t cheap: a smallish Bruges table mat, with two swans, for example, costs €20–25; if you fancy having a go yourself, the shop sells all the gubbins.

Across the passageway from the Kantcentrum is one of the city’s real oddities, the Jeruzalemkerk (Jerusalem Church; same times & ticket as the Kantcentrum), which was built by the Adornes family in the fifteenth century as an approximate copy of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem after one of their number, Pieter, had returned from a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The interior is on two levels: the lower one is dominated by a large and ghoulish altarpiece, decorated with skulls and ladders, in front of which is the black marble tomb of Anselm Adornes, the son of the church’s founder, and his wife Margaretha. There’s more grisliness at the back of the church, where the small vaulted chapel holds a replica of Christ’s tomb – you can glimpse the imitation body down the tunnel behind the iron grating. To either side of the main altar, steps ascend to the choir, which is situated right below the eccentric, onion-domed lantern tower.

Next door to the Gruuthuse, the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk is a rambling shambles of a building, a clamour of different dates and styles whose brick spire is – at 122m – one of the tallest in Belgium. Entered from the south, the nave was three hundred years in the making, an architecturally discordant affair, whose thirteenth-century grey-stone central aisle is the oldest part of the church. The central aisle blends in with the south aisle, but the later, fourteenth-century north aisle doesn’t mesh at all – even the columns aren’t aligned. This was the result of changing fashions, not slapdash work: the High Gothic north aisle was intended to be the start of a complete remodelling of the church, but the money ran out before the work was finished.

In the south aisle is the church’s most acclaimed objet d’art, a delicate marble Madonna and Child by Michelangelo . Purchased by a Bruges merchant, this was the only one of Michelangelo’s works to leave Italy during the artist’s lifetime and it had a significant influence on the painters then working in Bruges, though its present setting – beneath gloomy stone walls and set within a gaudy Baroque altar – is hardly prepossessing.

Michelangelo apart, the most interesting part of the church is the chancel beyond the black and white marble rood screen. Here you’ll find the mausoleums of Charles the Bold and his daughter Mary of Burgundy, two exquisite examples of Renaissance carving, their side panels decorated with coats of arms connected by the most intricate of floral designs. The royal figures are enhanced in the detail, from the helmet and gauntlets placed gracefully by Charles’s side to the pair of watchful dogs nestled at Mary’s feet. Oddly enough, the hole dug by archeologists beneath the mausoleums during the 1970s to discover who was actually buried here was never filled in, so you can see Mary’s coffin, the urn containing the heart of her son and the burial vaults of several unknown medieval dignitaries, three of which have now been moved across to the Lanchals Chapel.

Just across the ambulatory from the mausoleums is the Lanchals Chapel , which holds the imposing Baroque gravestone of Pieter Lanchals, a one-time Habsburg official who had his head lopped off by the citizens of Bruges for corruption in 1488. In front of the Lanchals gravestone are three relocated medieval burial vaults , each plastered with lime mortar. The inside walls of the vaults sport brightly coloured grave frescoes , a type of art which flourished hereabouts from the late thirteenth to the middle of the fifteenth century. The iconography is fairly consistent, with the long sides mostly bearing one, sometimes two, angels apiece, and most of the angels are shown swinging thuribles (the vessels in which incense is burnt during religious ceremonies). Typically, the short sides show the Crucifixion and a Virgin and Child. The background decoration is more varied with crosses, stars and dots all making appearances as well as two main sorts of flower – roses and bluebells. The frescoes were painted freehand and executed at great speed – Flemings were then buried on the day they died – hence the delightful immediacy of the work.

The earthly remains of Mary of Burgundy and Charles the Bold

The last independent rulers of Flanders were Charles the Bold , the Duke of Burgundy, and his daughter Mary of Burgundy , both of whom died in unfortunate circumstances, Charles during the siege of the French city of Nancy in 1477, she after a riding accident in 1482, when she was only 25. Mary was married to Maximilian , a Habsburg prince and future Holy Roman Emperor, who inherited her territories on her death – thus, at a dynastic stroke, Flanders was incorporated into the Habsburg empire.

In the sixteenth century, the Habsburgs relocated to Spain, but they were keen to emphasize their connections with – and historical authority over – Flanders, one of the richest parts of their expanding empire. Nothing did this quite as well as the ceremonial burial – or reburial – of bits of royal body. Mary was safely ensconced in Bruges’s Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk, but the body of Charles was in a makeshift grave in Nancy . The Emperor Charles V, the great grandson of Charles the Bold, had – or thought he had – this body exhumed and carried to Bruges, where it was reinterred next to Mary. There were, however, persistent rumours that the French, the traditional enemies of the Habsburgs, had deliberately handed over a dud skeleton, specifically one of the knights who died in the same engagement. In the 1970s, archeologists had a bash at solving the mystery. They dug beneath Charles and Mary’s mausoleums in the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk , but, among the assorted tombs, they failed to authoritatively identify either the body or even the tomb of Charles; Mary proved more tractable, with her skeleton confirming the known details of her hunting accident. Buried alongside her also was the urn which contained the heart of her son, Philip the Fair, placed here in 1506.

From St Janshospitaal, it’s a couple of minutes’ walk north to St-Salvatorskathedraal (Holy Saviour Cathedral) a bulky Gothic edifice that mostly dates from the late thirteenth century, though the ambulatory was added some two centuries later. A parish church for most of its history, it was only made a cathedral in 1834 following the destruction of St Donatian’s by the French. This change of status prompted lots of ecclesiastical rumblings – nearby Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk was bigger and its spire higher – and when part of St Salvators went up in smoke in 1839, the opportunity was taken to make its tower higher and grander in a romantic rendition of the Romanesque style.

Recently cleaned, the cathedral’s nave has emerged from centuries of accumulated grime, but it remains a cheerless, cavernous affair. The star turn is the set of eight paintings by Jan van Orley displayed in the transepts. Commissioned in the 1730s, the paintings were used for the manufacture of a matching set of tapestries from a Brussels workshop and, remarkably enough, these have survived too and hang in sequence in the choir and nave. Each of the eight scenes is a fluent, dramatic composition featuring a familiar episode from the life of Christ – from the Nativity to the Resurrection – complete with a handful of animals, including a remarkably determined Palm Sunday donkey. The tapestries are actually mirror images of the paintings as the weavers worked with the rear of the tapestries uppermost on their looms; the weavers also had sight of the tapestry paintings – or rather cartoon copies, as the originals were too valuable to be kept beside the looms.

Entered from the nave, the cathedral Schatkamer occupies the adjoining neo-Gothic chapter house, whose nine rooms are packed with ecclesiastical tackle, from religious paintings and statues through to an assortment of reliquaries, vestments and croziers. The labelling is poor, however, so it’s a good idea to pick up the English-language mini-guide at the entrance. Room B holds the treasury’s finest painting, a gruesome, oak-panel triptych, The Martyrdom of St Hippolytus , by Dieric Bouts (1410–1475) and Hugo van der Goes (d. 1482). The right panel depicts the Roman Emperor Decius, a notorious persecutor of Christians, trying to persuade the priest Hippolytus to abjure his faith. He fails, and in the central panel Hippolytus is pulled to pieces by four horses.

From the east side of the Markt, Breidelstraat leads through to the city’s other main square, the Burg , named after the fortress built here by the first count of Flanders, Baldwin Iron Arm, in the ninth century. The fortress disappeared centuries ago, but the Burg long remained the centre of political and ecclesiastical power with the Stadhuis (which has survived) on one side and St-Donaaskathedraal (which hasn’t) on the other. The French army destroyed the cathedral in 1799 and although the foundations were laid bare in the 1950s, they were promptly re-interred – they lie in front of and underneath the Crowne Plaza Hotel .

The southern half of the Burg is fringed by the city’s finest group of buildings, beginning on the right with the Heilig Bloed Basiliek (Basilica of the Holy Blood) named after the holy relic that found its way here in the Middle Ages. The church divides into two parts. Tucked away in the corner, the lower chapel is a shadowy, crypt-like affair, originally built at the beginning of the twelfth century to shelter another relic, that of St Basil, one of the great figures of the early Greek Church. The chapel’s heavy and simple Romanesque lines are decorated with just one relief, carved above an interior doorway and showing the baptism of Basil in which a strange giant bird, representing the Holy Spirit, plunges into a pool of water.

Next door, approached up a wide, low-vaulted curving staircase, the upper chapel was built a few years later, but has been renovated so frequently that it’s impossible to make out the original structure; it also suffers from excessively rich nineteenth-century decoration. The building may be disappointing, but the large silver tabernacle that holds the rock-crystal phial of the Holy Blood is simply magnificent, being the gift of Albert and Isabella of Spain in 1611. One of the holiest relics in medieval Europe, the phial of the Holy Blood purports to contain a few drops of blood and water washed from the body of Christ by Joseph of Arimathea. Local legend asserts that it was the gift of Diederik d’Alsace, a Flemish knight who distinguished himself by his bravery during the Second Crusade and was given the phial by a grateful patriarch of Jerusalem in 1150. It is, however, rather more likely that the relic was acquired during the sacking of Constantinople in 1204, when the Crusaders simply ignored their collective job description and robbed and slaughtered the Byzantines instead – hence the historical invention. Whatever the truth, after several weeks in Bruges, the relic was found to be dry, but thereafter it proceeded to liquefy every Friday at 6pm until 1325, a miracle attested to by all sorts of church dignitaries, including Pope Clement V.

The phial of the Holy Blood is still venerated and, despite modern scepticism, reverence for it remains strong. It’s sometimes available for visitors to touch under the supervision of a priest inside the chapel, and on Ascension Day (mid-May). it’s carried through the town centre in a colourful but solemn procession, the Heilig-Bloedprocessie , a popular event for which grandstand tickets are sold at the main tourist office from March 1.

The shrine that holds the phial during the procession is displayed in the tiny Schatkamer , next to the upper chapel. Dating to 1617, it’s a superb piece of work, the gold and silver superstructure encrusted with jewels and decorated with tiny religious figures. The treasury also contains an incidental collection of ecclesiastical bric-a-brac plus a handful of old paintings. Look out also, above the treasury door, for the faded strands of a locally woven seventeenth-century tapestry depicting St Augustine’s funeral, the sea of helmeted heads, torches and pikes that surround the monks and abbots very much a Catholic view of a muscular State supporting a holy Church.

The Groeninge Museum possesses one of the world’s finest samples of early Flemish paintings, from Jan van Eyck through to Hieronymus Bosch and Jan Provoost. These paintings make up the kernel of the museum’s permanent collection, but there are later (albeit lesser) pieces on display too, reaching into the twentieth century, with works by the likes of Constant Permeke and Paul Delvaux.

Arguably the greatest of the early Flemish masters, Jan van Eyck (1385–1441) lived and worked in Bruges from 1430 until his death eleven years later. He was a key figure in the development of oil painting, modulating its tones to create paintings of extraordinary clarity and realism. The Groeninge has two gorgeous examples of his work, beginning with the miniature portrait of his wife, Margareta van Eyck , painted in 1439 and bearing his motto, “als ich can” (the best I can do). The painting is very much a private picture and one that had no commercial value, marking a small step away from the sponsored art – and religious preoccupations – of previous Flemish artists. The second Eyck painting is the remarkable Madonna and Child with Canon George van der Paele , a glowing and richly symbolic work with three figures surrounding the Madonna: the kneeling canon, St George (his patron saint) and St Donatian, to whom he is being presented. St George doffs his helmet to salute the infant Christ and speaks by means of the Hebrew word “ Adonai ” (Lord) inscribed on his chin strap, while Jesus replies through the green parrot in his left hand: folklore asserted that this type of parrot was fond of saying “ Ave ”, the Latin for welcome. The canon’s face is exquisitely executed, down to the sagging jowls and the bulging blood vessels at his temple, while the glasses and book in his hand add to his air of deep contemplation. Audaciously, van Eyck has broken with tradition by painting the canon among the saints rather than as a lesser figure – a distinct nod to the humanism that was gathering pace in contemporary Bruges.

The Groeninge possesses two fine and roughly contemporaneous copies of paintings by Rogier van der Weyden (1399–1464), one-time official city painter to Brussels. The first is a tiny Portrait of Philip the Good , in which the pallor of the duke’s aquiline features, along with the brightness of his hatpin and chain of office, are skilfully balanced by the sombre cloak and hat. The second and much larger painting, St Luke painting the Portrait of Our Lady , is a rendering of a popular if highly improbable legend that Luke painted Mary – thereby becoming the patron saint of painters. The painting is notable for the detail of its Flemish background and the cheeky-chappie smile of the baby Christ.

Also noteworthy is the spookily stark Surrealism of Paul Delvaux ’s (1897–1994) Serenity . One of the most interesting of Belgium’s modern artists, Delvaux started out as an Expressionist but came to – and stayed with – Surrealism in the 1930s. This painting is a classic example of his oeuvre and, if it whets your artistic appetite, you might consider visiting Delvaux’s old home, in St-Idesbald, which has been turned into a museum with a comprehensive selection of his paintings (see The Atlantikwall).

The Groeninge also owns a couple of minor oils and a number of etchings and drawings by James Ensor (1860–1949), one of Belgium’s most innovative painters, and Magritte ’s (1898–1967) characteristically unnerving The Assault ; for more on Magritte

Opposite the entrance to the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk is St-Janshospitaal , a sprawling complex that sheltered the sick of mind and body until well into the nineteenth century. The oldest part – at the front on Mariastraat, behind two church-like gable ends – has been turned into the slick Hospitaalmuseum, while the nineteenth-century annexe, reached along a narrow passageway on the north side of the museum, has been converted into a really rather tatty exhibition-cum-shopping centre called – rather confusingly – Oud St-Jan .

The Hospitaalmuseum divides into two, with one large section – in the former hospital ward – exploring the historical background to the hospital through documents, paintings and religious objets d’art. Highlights include a pair of sedan chairs used to carry the infirm to the hospital in emergencies, and Jan Beerblock’s The Wards of St Janshospitaal , a minutely detailed painting of the hospital ward as it was in the late eighteenth century, the patients tucked away in row upon row of tiny, cupboard-like beds. Other noteworthy paintings include an exquisite Deposition of Christ , a late fifteenth-century version of an original by Rogier van der Weyden, and a stylish, intimately observed diptych by Jan Provoost, with portraits of Christ and the donor – a friar - on the front and a skull on the back.

The old chapel inside the Hospitaalmuseum displays six wonderful paintings by Hans Memling (1433–1494). Born near Frankfurt, Memling spent most of his working life in Bruges, where Rogier van der Weyden instructed him. He adopted much of his tutor’s style and stuck to the detailed symbolism of his contemporaries, but his painterly manner was distinctly restrained, often pious and grave. Graceful and warmly coloured, his figures also had a velvet-like quality that greatly appealed to the city’s burghers, whose enthusiasm made Memling a rich man – in 1480 he was listed among the town’s major moneylenders.

Of the six works on display, the most unusual is the Reliquary of St Ursula , comprising a miniature wooden Gothic church painted with the story of St Ursula. Memling condensed the legend into six panels with Ursula and her ten companions landing at Cologne and Basle before reaching Rome at the end of their pilgrimage. Things go badly wrong on the way back: they leave Basle in good order, but are then – in the last two panels – massacred by Huns as they pass through Germany. Memling had a religious point to make, but today it’s the mass of incidental detail that makes the reliquary so enchanting, providing an intriguing evocation of the late medieval world. Equally delightful is the Mystical Marriage of St Catherine , the middle panel of a large triptych depicting St Catherine, who represents contemplation, receiving a ring from the baby Jesus to seal their spiritual union. The complementary side panels depict the beheading of St John the Baptist and a visionary St John writing the Book of Revelation on the bare and rocky island of Patmos. Again, it’s the detail that impresses: between the inner and outer rainbows above St John, for instance, the prophets play music on tiny instruments – look closely and you’ll spy a lute, a flute, a harp and a hurdy-gurdy. Across the chapel are two more Memling triptychs, a Lamentation and an Adoration of the Magi , in which there’s a gentle nervousness in the approach of the Magi, here shown as the kings of Spain, Arabia and Ethiopia.

Memling’s skill as a portraitist is demonstrated to exquisite effect in his Portrait of a Young Woman , where the richly dressed subject stares dreamily into the middle distance, her hands – in a superb optical illusion – seeming to clasp the picture frame. The lighting is subtle and sensuous, with the woman set against a dark background, her gauze veil dappling the side of her face. A high forehead was then considered a sign of great womanly beauty, so her hair is pulled right back and was probably plucked – as are her eyebrows. There’s no knowing who the woman was, but in the seventeenth century her fancy headgear convinced observers that she was one of the legendary Persian sibyls who predicted Christ’s birth; so convinced were they that they added the cartouche in the top left-hand corner, describing her as Sibylla Sambetha – and the painting is often referred to by this name.

The sixth and final painting, the Virgin and Martin van Nieuwenhove diptych, is exhibited in the adjoining side chapel. Here, the eponymous merchant has the flush of youth and a hint of arrogance: his lips pout, his hair cascades down to his shoulders and he is dressed in the most fashionable of doublets – by the middle of the 1480s, when the portrait was commissioned, no Bruges merchant wanted to appear too pious. Opposite, the Virgin gets the full stereotypical treatment from the oval face and the almond-shaped eyes through to full cheeks, thin nose and bunched lower lip.

At the heart of Bruges is the Markt , an airy open space edged on three sides by rows of gabled buildings and with horse-drawn buggies clattering over the cobbles. The burghers of nineteenth-century Bruges were keen to put something suitably civic in the middle of the square and the result was the conspicuous monument to the leaders of the Bruges Matins, Pieter de Coninck, of the guild of weavers, and Jan Breydel, dean of the guild of butchers. Standing close together, they clutch the hilt of the same sword, their faces turned to the south in slightly absurd poses of heroic determination.

The biscuit-tin buildings flanking most of the Markt form a charming architectural chorus, their mellow ruddy-brown brick shaped into a long string of pointed gables, each gable of which is compatible with but slightly different from its neighbour. Most are late nineteenth- or even twentieth-century re-creations – or re-inventions – of older buildings, though the old post office , which hogs the east side of the square, is a thunderous neo-Gothic edifice that refuses to camouflage its modern construction. The Craenenburg Café , on the corner of St Amandsstraat at Markt 16, occupies a modern building too, but it marks the site of the eponymous medieval mansion in which the guildsmen of Bruges imprisoned the Habsburg heir, Archduke Maximilian, for three months in 1488. The reason for their difference of opinion was the archduke’s efforts to limit the city’s privileges, but whatever the justice of their cause, the guildsmen made a big mistake. Maximilian made all sorts of promises to escape their clutches, but a few weeks after his release his father, the Emperor Frederick III, turned up with an army to take imperial revenge. Maximilian became emperor in 1493 and he never forgave Bruges, doing his considerable best to push trade north to its great rival, Antwerp.

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Bruges Travel Guide | Why You MUST Visit in 2024

Even though we only live a 2.5 hour drive away from Bruges, we had never visited this beautiful city before. Bruges is a feast for the eyes and the mouth. There is so much to see, you won’t even get time to put your camera away. Plus, with over 60 chocolate stores, Bruges is a true chocolate city. Let us help you plan your next Bruges citytrip. We tell you everything you need to know before visiting Bruges.

This Bruges Travel Guide is written by Traveltomtom team member Ashley .

Bruges is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium, also known as the Venice of the North. Back in the days it was one of the richest and biggest towns in Northern Europe, and over the decades it managed to preserve its rich history and charm.

Bruges is a beautiful medieval, fairytale and picturesque place to visit in the North of Belgium, in the province of Flanders.

It’s the capital and the largest city of the province of West Flanders. The historic city center is a prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site, which makes Bruges a popular tourism destination in Belgium. Eight to nine million tourists travel to Bruges every year.

It feels like you step back in time when visiting Bruges. The medieval city center, cobble stones streets and old buildings have a lot to do with that. The horse carriages that take tourists to the highlights of Bruges really add to that medieval feeling.

Stay connected when traveling to Belgium and get yourself a local prepaid sim card or an e-sim card for Belgium to safe on high roaming costs! Check out my article for the best way to get connected when traveling to Belgium in 2024.

UNESCO World Heritage

In 1998 the Beguinage was the first site to be recognized as a World Heritage Site in Bruges. One year later the Belfry was added to the World Heritage list. The entire historical city center followed in 2000.

Large parts of the medieval heritage remained practically intact. That alone was reason enough for UNESCO to designate the entire city center as World Heritage Site.

Something that played a big part in the recognition of UNESCO is the fact that Bruges is the birthplace of the Flemish primitives. Nowadays the world-renowned works of Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling and other prominent Flemish Masters can be admired at the several museums throughout the city.

How to get to Bruges

Bruges has a pretty easy to reach location, as it is located fairly close to a few airports but also to the coast and the Zeebrugge harbor.

Bruges is easily accessible by car, as it is located close to the E40 highway, which runs right through Belgium from West to East. Bruges has several car parks just outside the city center, where you can leave your car. Our recommendation is to park at the P&R Station. It only costs €5,50 per day to park your car here. And it’s located right next to the bus station too, so you can easily catch your ride to the center of Bruges.

When you travel to Bruges by plane, both Brussels Airport and Brussels Charleroi Airport are an option. From Brussels Zaventem Airport you can easily travel onwards to Bruges by train. There is a direct hourly train service from the airport to Bruges.

Related: Buying a Sim Card for Belgium at Brussels Airport in 2024 !

Another popular regional airport is Brussels South Charleroi Airport. From here, bus company Filbco offers direct shuttle bus services to and from the station of Bruges, with a frequency of 9 trips a day.

Bruges has a large train station, and daily direct services between Bruges, Antwerp, Ghent, Hasselt, Leuven and Brussels that runs every hour. Bruges is very well connected by train.

International Coach services

There are various coach companies that operate bus services to Bruges from the main international transport hubs and from cities abroad.

With all travel options mentioned above, the central station is involved, either for parking your car or for travelling to Bruges by train or bus. From the Central Station there is a free shuttle service running every day between 7.20AM and 7.00PM. This shuttle runs every 20 minutes according to a fixed timetable. The shuttle has several stops in the city center and is a great way of getting around.

Triënnale Bruges

Triënnale Bruges brings contemporary art and architecture to the historic core of the city of Bruges every three years in a unique setting as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s an excellent opportunity to extend a visit to Bruges with this art and architecture exhibition.

In October 2021, Bruges was the setting for the Triënnale. Thirteen national and international artists and architects presented their art installations to the general public. The theme of the 2021 Triënnale was TraumA. Using artistic and architectural interventions, TraumA brought out the less attractive aspects and allowed them to become part of the image of the city. TraumA balanced between the present and the hidden. With a trail of sculptural, architectural and organic creations, it met a celebration of the versatility and mobility of the city. Between private and public. Between dream and nightmare.

Throughout the city there were 13 art objects to be found and all of them had their own story to tell. You could explore them yourself by downloading the map from the Triënnale website . It showed you the location of all 13 objects. An amazing free thing to do in Bruges.

There were also daily guided walks from the market square every day at 2.00 pm for about 2 hours, and take about two hours and the costs of these walks were €12,50 per person.

The Triënnale Bruges will be back again in 2024 and then theme will be focussing on the future. Let's see what the Triënnale will bring to Bruges in 2024, but surely it will be another reason to travel to Bruges.

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Bruges from the heart city walk

There’s no better way than to explore a city by foot. Just start walking and get lost is always our way to discover a city.

Want to get to know Bruges while walking through the city and discovering some hidden gems and secret places? Then the Bruges from the heart city walk is definitely your thing. We decided to join one of their exclusive guided walks, where a local city guide will take you along a fascinating trail. It includes all of Bruges must-see heritage and architectural highlights.

The guided walk takes about two hours and starts at the Market Square where you will meet your guide. After two hours it ends on the rooftop of the Concert Hall where you can enjoy amazing panoramic views of Bruges after you saw the best places to see in Bruges.

The Bruges from the heart city walk can be done every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday and will cost you €12,50 per person. It’s the money well worth spending as you get a lot of insight information on Bruges and it will show you everything you came to Bruges for!

Places to visit in Bruges

There is so much to see in Bruges with its medieval character and the many old buildings in the city. It’s definitely the place to be if you’re into history, but let’s not forget the art. You can indulge yourself in history, art and architecture in Bruges, you’ll run out of time if you want to see and do it all. Here are some cool places to visit.

Groeninge Museum

The Groeninge Museum is your place to be when you’re into art! This museum offers a varied overview of the history of Belgian visual art, six centuries of Belgian art in one location, with work by Flemish primitives such as Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling and Gerard David. Work by masters who came from the Low Countries and often worked in Bruges and completed assignments there in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. The collection of the Groeninge Museum is one of the most beautiful collections in the world, containing many landmark works from the history of European art.

Gruuthuse Museum

The Gruuthuse Museum displays 500 years of Bruges history in historic objects. What once was the city palace of the lords of Gruuthuse is now an absolute highlight of Bruges! Walking through the museum you will go through three crucial periods in the rich history of Bruges. First you get the time of the Burgundian prosperity, then the less well known 17th and 18th centuries and lastly the historical reinvention of Bruges in the 19th century.

The museum makes these three periods come to life in over 600 collection items which all tell their own story.

Saint John’s Hospital

Saint John’s Hospital is one of the oldest preserved hospitals in Europe, dating back to the mid-12th century. You can visit the medieval wards, the church and the chapel, as well as the impressive collection of archives, art works, medical instruments and seven works of arts by Hans Memling. The oak wood rafter on the Diksmuide attic above the hospital ward is one of the oldest and most monumental in Europe. Make sure you also visit the hospital pharmacy with authentic interior from the middle of the 17th century.

You want to know all about the history of Bruges? Go back in time and experience the bustling city of Bruges in the Golden Age. The Historium Story features the exciting tale of Jan van Eyck’s apprentice. In the Historium Virtual Reality you can take an impressive virtual flight past the 15th century architecture, including the Water Halls. At the second floor of the building you’ll find the panoramic terrace with beautiful views of the Market Square. For some real impressive views you can climb the Historium Tower for unique 360° views.

Nowadays the Beguinage is inhabited by the Sisters of the Order of Saint Benedict and several Bruges women who have decided to remain unmarried. The Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde with its white colored house fronts and tranquil convent garden was founded in 1245. It has to be on top of your list when visiting Bruges. It’s a soothing, quiet and nice environment. And, the Beguinage hosts one of the 13 Triënnale pieces.

Best photo spots in Bruges

Make sure you bring your camera when visiting Bruges, because once you start exploring the cobbled stone streets, winding canals and hidden alleys, you’ll discover one amazing photo spot after the other. You won’t even get time to put away your camera as the city is literally full of photogenic places.

Quay of the Rosary

By far the most popular photography spot in Bruges, a centuries old Instagrammable hotspot. Back in the days rosaries were sold here, today it offers one of the city’s loveliest views. It is called The Bruges Postcard View, and believe me, you won’t stop taking photos.

It’s the perfect shot with medieval buildings, the canals, the boats and the Belfry as the perfect backdrop. Make sure to visit this place by day and by night as it is worth photographing this place all times of the day.

Dumon Chocolate shop

The story of Chocolatier Dumon starts back in 1992, just outside of Bruges. Nowadays they have seven stores in three countries, most of them in Belgium and three of them in Bruges. Their shop at Eiermarkt is a fairytale shop and invites you to come in and have a look, or taste. The building is completely different from the buildings right next to it, but that makes Dumon stand out from the rest.

Boniface Bridge

When visiting the Boniface Bridge you wouldn’t tell that this is one of the youngest bridges in Bruges. In fact, during our guided walk through Bruges we were asked how old we thought the bridge was. We were all way off with our answers. It is actually one of my favorite places in Bruges, as it is tucked away a bit, yet still a very busy and popular place. Its picture perfect from both sides of the bridge. From one end you get the little canal and the overhanging half-timbered houses, but from the other side you get the impressive and stately Church of Our Lady in your backdrop. Perfect either way!

Bruges canals

Wherever you walk in Bruges, there is no escaping the many canals. One is even more photogenic than the other. The Boniface Bridge we mentioned before is a great way to start if you want to capture the canals.

Market Square

It’s the beating heart of the city, with the Belfry at one end of the square and a row of colorful stepped gables at the other end. In between it’s a coming and going of people all day long. Check out the imposing Provincial Court or hop on for a carriage ride. The Market Square is the place where the coachmen wait, another picture perfect!

Belfry of Bruges

It’s the landmark of Bruges, the most striking tower in Bruges dates back to the 13th century. It’s 83 meters high and is protected as a world heritage site. You can climb the Belfry, all 366 steps, and if you do, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view over the city.

It provides the perfect picture from every angle of the Market Square, or from the Quay of the Rosary. Want to climb the Belfry? Costs are €14,00 per person.

Burg Square

Ask someone from Bruges, and they will tell you that the Market Square is the heart of Bruges, but the Burg Square is the soul! For centuries this square has been the center of power in the city, and the 14th century gothic building still serves as town hall. The buildings in the square represent a variety of architectural styles. The Gothic Town Hall is probably the most beautiful building in Bruges.

It’s at this square where another Triënnale object can be found, with the Town Hall as perfect backdrop.

Fun things to do in Bruges

When you think of Bruges and Belgium, it’s often the classic Belgian beer, fries and chocolates that come to mind by many people. And don’t worry, there are many classics in Bruges, that’s why we’re listing our favorite Bruges classics right here.

Brewery ‘De Halve Maan’ – world’s first beer pipeline

It’s the worlds first brewery to have established a beer pipeline. Due to growth and logistical challenges in the center of Bruges, a unique underground beer pipeline, 3 km long, was laid from the brewery to the bottling plant in the suburbs.

This authentic brewery in the center of Bruges is a family-run business with a long lasting tradition dating back six generations to 1856. It’s the place where the Bruges city beer, Brugse Zot, is brewed. There are daily tours at the brewery, and best part, at the end of the tour you’re offered a free glass of Brugse Zot blond beer.

Bruges Beer Experience

After having visited the brewery you might as well be interested in the Bruges Beer Experience. Discover everything you ever wanted to know about the ingredients of beer, the brewing process, food pairing, beers in Bruges, trappist and abbey beers, all in a very interactive way. This tour will make you want to sample some beers for sure. The bar offers 16 different kinds of beer and is open to everyone. Being located at the Market Square it has some great views too!

Choco Story – Chocolate Museum

Get to know everything about the history of cocoa and chocolate. Walking through this museum you’ll walk through 4000 years of chocolate history. At the end of the tour you will get to the demonstration center, and believe me, it’s the best part of the museum. They demonstrate how to make chocolates here, when we visited they demonstrated how pralines are made. At the end of the demonstration you get a sample bag with several pieces of chocolate, delicious!

Fries Museum

It’s quite a small museum actually, but when visiting the country that’s famous for its fries, you have to visit the Fries Museum when visiting Bruges! The museum tells the history of the potato, Belgian Fries and the various sauces and dressings that go well with the most delicious and famous Belgian comestibles.  

In the basement you will find an actual fries shop where you can get a discount by showing your entrance ticket.

If you want to visit both the Fries Museum and Choco Story, make sure to buy a combined ticket for the two of them, and save some money.

Fries for lunch

Talking about fries, eating real Belgian fries is of course a must do and should not be skipped! Throughout Bruges there are many shops where you can get your fries, so pick one and enjoy them!

Buy Belgian chocolates

Belgium is proud of their chocolate, and rightly so! Belgium is the third largest exporter of chocolate and Bruges can also call itself a real chocolate city with more than 60 chocolate shops. Plenty of choice to bring some delicious chocolate, pralines or bonbons.

Bruges by boat

Last, but certainly not least, have you really visited Bruges if you haven’t seen it from the water? A visit to Bruges isn’t really complete without a boat trip on the Bruges canals. Discover the city from a surprising and different perspective. There are five boarding locations where you can embark one of the boats. The tour takes about half an hour and the captain will take you on a tour of the most beautiful spots on the water. These boat trips run from early March to mid-November. Tickets are €10,00 per person.

Traveltomtom’s recommendations

We’ve spent two days in Bruges, which is a good amount of time to explore the city. If you want to visit all museums you might need a bit longer, as those visits can take a lot of time. To make your visit easy and fun we have come up with a shortlist of Traveltomtom’s top recommendations for Bruges. Use it to your advantage.

Quatre Vins

Our number one recommendation, restaurant Quatre Vins. No classic menu, no starters or mains, nothing like anywhere else! All dishes are to share, for diner they recommend 5-6 dishes for a normal meal. They determine the order in which the dishes are served. So even though you know what you ordered, every dish is a surprise. A very relaxed atmosphere, amazing dishes that are a work of art on your plate, and an amazing location just off the Market Square. Just for this restaurant I would go back to Bruges!

Tom’s Diner

We wouldn’t be Traveltomtom if we didn’t recommend this one, Tom’s Diner. A modern and hip hotspot on the edge of the center of Bruges for more than 22 years. No-nonsense cuisine with a touch of rock ‘n roll. A great setting in a historical building. Our recommendation would be their wide choice of tasty and original tapas.

Hotel Marcel

Location is key when searching for accommodation. And location-wise you can’t go much better than Hotel Marcel in Bruges. Located just 150 meters from the Market, so right in the middle of it all. Hotel Marcel offers authentic hospitality and Bruges coziness in a modern jacket. Breakfast is included and basic but very good. Freshly baked bread, croissants and chocolate croissants, juices and fresh fruits, and best of all soft boiled eggs brought right to your table. A unique hotel in Bruges, well priced and top location.

Concert Hall Circuit

Totally unexpectedly one of the nicest things to do in Bruges, and therefore it made it to this shortlist. Discover the Concert Hall, it’s art and architecture during a surprise-filled visitors trail. It’s a playful discovery trail with lots to see and do for all ages. You go behind the scenes of the famous Concert Hall, get to see their music venues and also get to make some music yourself.

Be in for a surprisingly fun and interesting tour, which eventually ends on the rooftop of the building with a lovely view over the city.

Get lost in the streets of Bruges, just start walking, exploring and discovering, you’ll be amazed and want to keep going to see if there’s more to come, and yes there is! Bruges stimulates all your senses, be in for an experience like no other.

A thank you is in order here for Visit Bruges and Flanders Tourism for inviting Traveltomtom team member Ashely to Bruges and organizing this Bruges trip down to the last detail.

This blog was written by travel writer and Traveltomtom team member Ashley . She was invited to visit Bruges on behalf of Traveltomtom, and wrote this blog about her adventures in the city of Bruges.

Enjoy your trip to Bruges!

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• WORLD HERITAGE

Discover Belgium's Beautiful Medieval City

Explore historic canals, stone bridges, and Gothic architecture in this well-preserved historic center.

A visitor to the historic center of Brugge, commonly spelled Bruges, can easily imagine a time when this picturesque Flemish town was bustling with merchants and traders from all corners of Europe , a place where bankers rubbed shoulders with painters and holy men.

The city in northwestern Belgium ’s Flanders region was once a major nexus of trade in medieval Europe, and of art and architecture during the Renaissance. Brugge’s historic center has retained its character through the centuries and is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage site . It represents one of the best-preserved examples of a medieval European settlement.

First settled by Vikings in the early Middle Ages, the town’s strategic location on the North Sea helped it become a major commercial center, where traders from northern and southern Europe met, bringing a hodgepodge of languages and cultural influences. The area’s wealth was further boosted by the thriving Flemish textile industry. The city became known also as a center of the Flemish Primitives painting school and home to masters including Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.

Over the years, however, the city’s fortunes turned. The Zwin inlet, which connected Brugge to the North Sea and had first opened after a storm in the 12th century, began to fill up with silt. Ultimately the passage became unnavigable, and Brugge was cut off from the sea. By the 1500s, Antwerp had supplanted Brugge as a trading center.

By the mid-1800s, the city was one of the poorest in Europe. But its fortunes changed again with the 20th century. The city was spared from major damage in the two World Wars, leaving its architectural heritage intact. As a result, Brugge got a new lease on life as a tourist hub.

Today, visitors flock from around the world to float down the city’s historic canals and under its picturesque stone bridges alongside flocks of swans, to tour its cobblestone streets in horse-drawn carriages, and to sip hot chocolate and beer at sidewalk cafes.

Many of the town’s original Gothic structures remain, including the imposing 13th-century belfry overlooking Market Square. Its bells—now a 47-bell carillon—have been a feature of the city for centuries. Enterprising visitors can climb 366 steps for a panoramic view. The medieval structures blend harmoniously with the neo-Gothic buildings and facades constructed in the late 19th century, preserving the town’s Old World atmosphere.

The city has also preserved its religious and cultural traditions, the most famous of which is the Procession of the Holy Blood. The procession, inscribed by UNESCO on its List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, takes place each spring on Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter.

During the event, officiants from the Brotherhood of the Holy Blood carry a vial believed to hold cloth stained with the blood of Christ through the streets. More than 1,700 participants march through the town center on foot, horseback, or in carts, enacting Biblical scenes and accompanied by brass bands. The spectacle brings tens of thousands of visitors to the city each year.

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HOW TO VISIT

Brugge can be done as a day trip from Brussels and is accessible by train, bus, and car. The city is easily explored on foot. Boat and carriage tours are available, as are rental bicycles. Key sites in the heart of the city include Market Square and the belfry, the Groeninge Museum , and the Basilica of the Holy Blood . For those wishing to ascend the belfry, it’s best to come early, as lines become quite long later in the day.

Belgium has a temperate climate through most of the year, but to avoid both the winter rain and the crowds of peak summer months, consider going in April, May, or September.

Learn more about visiting the Bruges Historic Centre World Heritage site at VisitWorldHeritage.com/Bruges

Related: Beautiful European World Heritage Sites

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A Guide to the Best Things to do in Bruges, Belgium

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 9th March 2023

Categories Belgium

Last Updated on 9th March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Bruges . The name alone probably conjures up visions of fairytale canals, gingerbread houses, and quirky bars serving plenty of Belgian beer. Well, if you’re looking for the best of the city which is known as Brugge in Flemish, then here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Bruges , including insider tips and things to know before visiting for the first time.

For more information, be sure to check out our suggested one day itinerary for Bruges and our perfect Belgium itinerary .

Where is Bruges?

What is bruges known for, how long do you need in bruges, #1 take a boat tour of the canals, #2 sample a waffle, #3 go up the belfry, #4 snap photos of brugge markt, #5 visit the bruges christmas market, #6 de halve maan brewery, #7 seek out hidden gems, #8 admire the view from the quay of the rosary, #9 sample some fries (with mayo), #10 eat some chocolate, #11 visit ten wijngaerde (bruges beguinage), #12 relax in minnewater, #13 discover burg square, #14 visit 2be beer, #15 basilica of the holy blood, #16 st salvator’s cathedral, #17 groeningemuseum, #18 historium bruges, #19 blinde ezelstraat, #20 learn about lace, #21 eat in a local restaurant, bruges travel tips, how to visit bruges, where to stay in bruges, what is the population of bruges, what are the best free things to do in bruges, is bruges safe to visit.

Bruges can be found in Flanders, which is the Flemish speaking part of Belgium. Located not far away from the sea, the city is around an hour’s train journey away from the Belgium capital city of Brussels. A historic settlement, Bruges has enjoyed city status since the 12th-century, when it was an important hub of trade.

Bruges is the largest city in the Province of West Flanders and boasts a population of just under 120,000 inhabitants. The closest cities to Bruges include the quirky city of Ghent (known as Gent in Flemish) and Ostend, which is right by the sea.

Undoubtedly, Bruges is most famous for its picturesque architecture, wealth of canals, and UNESCO world heritage status. The city is also known for its lace making, which was traditionally made my nuns.

Today, there are a number of lace shops around the city, as well as a Lace Centre where visitors can learn all about the history of lace making in Brugge. In terms of nicknames, Bruges is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’ on account of its many canals and waterways.

The name Bruges itself actually derives from the Viking word for ‘wharf,’ and is a true testament for just how long Brugge was an important trade hub in Europe. The city rose to true prominence around 1000 years ago, when it came to be known as the most textile market in Europe.

Bruges is actually much smaller than many visitors first anticipate and so, in truth, it’s fairly easy to see the best of Bruges over the course of a day. If you want to enjoy all of Bruges’ attractions, including by going for beer tastings and visiting the museums, then I would recommend staying in the city for two or three days.

Best things to do in Bruges

Of course, as well as meandering among the waterways of Bruges, one of the best ways to experience the water is by taking to the water yourself. Easily one of the most popular things to do in Bruges, there are plenty of tour companies which offer guided boat tours of the water, whereby you can sit back and relax, listen to a guided commentary about the history of the city, and soak up the sights.

There are five landing stages where the various visits depart from and tours last for around half an hour. In this time, a captain will guide you through the iconic Bruges canals, which were originally constructed to serve as shipping lanes for the city. Book your Bruges boat tour and guided walking tour here in advance.

If I’m honest, one of the best ways to occupy yourself while on any trip to Belgium is to sample all of the local food. Waffles are probably one of the first things that come to mind when you think of Belgian cuisine, but a Belgium fact that you may not know about is that there are actually a number of types of waffle.

The most common type of waffle that you’ll find in every touristic location in Belgium is that of the Brussels waffle, which is famed for being rectangular in shape with cut outs. The waffle is then often topped with sweet additions such as cream or melted chocolate.

The other most common type of Belgian waffle is the Liége waffle, which is more asymetrical in shape and features large chunks of sugar. When it comes to sampling a waffle in Bruges, some of the best-reviewed shops include Chez Albert and Fred’s. For those who want to dive even deeper into waffle culture in Belgium, it’s possible to book a waffle workshop like this one.

If you’re in search of a bird’s eye view of the city, then you simply must climb the belfry, which stands at 83 metres tall, and as a result, encompasses a walk up of over 300 steps (366 steps). From the top, you can see the moated canal that rings its way around the city, as well as all of the other iconic attractions that Bruges has to offer.

The belfry is known as Belfort van Brugge in Flemish and dates all the way back to the 13th-century. The original belfry was constructed in 1240 to act as a watchtower with 47 bells though unfortunately burnt down during a devastating fire before.

Reconstruction began following the 1280 fire, though later 15th-century additions include the octagonal staircase at the top of the tower and Gothic revival style decoration on the roof. Today, visitors can go up the Bruges Belfry for a fee.

The best time to visit the Bruges Belfry is earlier in the day as it’s the most popular tourist attraction in the city. For obvious reasons, the belfry soon reaches full capacity and so it’s not unusual to be waiting up to an hour to ascend the tower (particularly around midday). Book your Belfry tickets on the official website here.

Like most historic cities in Europe, Bruges has its very own grand piazza in the centre of the city, around which the rest of the city is built. Head to the square and you’ll soon discover lively music performances, several buildings of note, and plenty of restaurants and cafés.

With this being said, one of my top Europe travel tips is to actually avoid the most touristy spots for food as they’re often overpriced and you’ll likely find better quality food just a few streets away.

The main square in Bruges itself was founded as a market square in 958 and a weekly market has been held on the square ever since. Nowadays, market day is every Wednesday morning.

At Christmastime, the main Christmas market of Bruges takes place in Grote Markt. Lying in the shadow of the towering belfry, the annual event has dozens of traditional wooden chalets selling Christmas market food and small gifts. There’s often also an ice skating rink. In 2021, the Bruges Christmas market will take place from the 26th November 2021 to the 9th January 2022.

Of course, Belgium is famed for its beers and so one of the more popular things to do in Bruges that has to do with Belgian cuisine is to take a beer tour. The best place in the city to do this is the De Halve Maan Brewery, which also functions as a café and bar serving local fare and beer brewed on site.

The tour itself takes visitors around the brewery and teaches you about the beer making process, as well as the history of beer in Belgium. The price of every tour ticket includes a complimentary beer. There’s also a souvenir shop where you can buy beer to take home with you.

No matter how visited any place is, there are always hidden gems and secret spots worth scouting out and Bruges is no exception. One of the coolest places to discover in the city is a former hospital turned museum which is a true hidden treasure in the very heart of the city.

Yet another is a quiet park named Minnewaterpark which boasts the likes of giant chess boards and a plethora of benches where you can enjoy a picnic on a summer’s day.

For even more inspiration for your trip to Bruges, be sure to check out our guide to the best secret spots in Bruges . If you prefer guided visits, then this hidden gems tour of Bruges will surely reveal more city secrets to you.

If you’re looking for that ‘classic Bruges view’ then you simply need to head to the Quay of the Rosary, which is known as the Rozenhoedkaai in Flemish. The viewpoint is at the precise location where the Dijver and Groenerei canals meet and allows visitors to enjoy a view of classic brick buildings framed with weeping willow trees.

If you happen to be in Bruges in the evening, then it’s also one of the best ways to see the city lights glittering in the reflection of the canal water. Nearby, you’ll soon find the Fish Market (which is still in operation a few days a week) and Tanners Square.

Beer aside, one of the biggest foodstuffs that Belgium is famous for is fries (chips). Known locally as frietjes, the best way to consume these deep fried potatoes is together with fritessaus (which is a kind of creamy mayo).

You should note that the price of mayo is often added onto the price of fries and another popular option of topping is a curry ketchup. Two of the best fries stalls can be found at the foot of the belfry. They’ve been in operation (and in competition!) for over 100 years!

Waffles, fries… and chocolate. If you’re a fan of sweet food then you most definitely can’t miss out on the chance to sample local Belgian chocolate while in Bruges.

The most famous chocolatier to have come from Bruges is undoubtedly Jeff de Bruges, though this famous chocolate shop can be found across Europe and is not exclusive to Brugge. As a chocolate lover’s paradise, when in Bruges there are plenty of other chocolate shops worth checking out as well.

Some of the top rated chocolatiers in Bruges include Chocolate Dumon, Pralinette, and The Chocolate Line. If the shop has a small picture outside or on the door which says ‘Gilde van de Brugse Chocolatiers,’ this means that the chocolates are handmade in Bruges.

Those looking to sample the local sweet treat, as well as learn more about the history of chocolate in Bruges, and Belgium as a whole, should be sure to book onto a Belgian chocolate workshop like this one .

Incredibly well-reviewed, highlights include making at least 30 chocolates to bring home with you, as well as discovering some of the techniques of chocolate making. Find more tour details here.

One of the more calm and quiet spaces to visit during your time in Bruges is the historic beguinage. The term ‘Beguinage’ comes from the French words ‘béguinage’, which is used to denote a housing complex which was constructed so as to house beguines.

These were religious women who lived together as part of a community but didn’t have to take any vows, relinquish their possessions, or retire from the world. Today, beguinages can be found all over Western Europe, but notably in Northern France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

The beguinage of Bruges was founded in 1245 and women voluntarily practiced a life of religious devotion, though they were free to leave at any time. Today, the complex comprises of a central green space courtyard (though you’re not allowed on the grass) , a simple church, and 30 houses that were constructed in the 1500s.

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city crowds, then you might consider visiting the district of Minnewater (Lake of Love), which is where several green spaces can be found, as well as the Bruges beguinage.

Set a little outside of the historic city centre (so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes if you’re planning a visit), here you’ll find wooded areas, peaceful views of the water encircling Bruges, and even a secret castle turned restaurant, Kasteel Minnewater.

After visiting the Grote Markt (the main central square of Bruges) , the next most famous city square is that of the Burg Square. Once the site of the former fortress of Bruges, today the area is home to the town’s Gothic city hall, as well as several other historic buildings. Be sure to bring your camera along because the gilded architecture and fanciful details of the buildings are truly a feast for the eyes.

Bruges actually has a rather unusual claim to fame in that beer literally flows through pipes beneath the city’s cobbled lanes. Around 2 miles worth of pipeline flow at a speed of 4,000 litres of beer an hour betwen De Halve Maan brewery and its bottling plant outside of the city centre.

Well, so iconic is the beer in Bruges that beer connoisseur and amateurs alike will probably enjoy a visit to 2be Beer where they can go beer tasting. The menus include explanations as to what certain beers taste like and the tasting centre also has a small shop selling souvenirs.

Though one of the more touristy things to do in Bruges, if you’re curious about beer culture then this is one of the better places to head to. Not to be missed is the world-famous ‘beer wall,’ which allegedly includes every single type of Belgian beer, all in one place, on shelves set up against a wall. For even more information, check out our Belgium beer guide.

The Basilica of the Holy Blood is so-called because it houses a relic which is allegedly Holy Blood that was collected by Joseph of Arimathea. The ecclesiastical building itself is a Romanesque and Gothic creation that was constructed in the 12th-century.

Yet another church that’s worth a visit during your time in Bruges is St Salvator’s Cathedral (known as Sint-Salvatorskathedraal in Flemish). This is the largest and oldest church in the city.

Rather interestingly, the now cathedral was originally built as a church and was never meant to serve as the main place of worship in Bruges. St Salvator’s has only enjoyed cathedral status since the 19th-century.

If you’re looking for one of the best rainy day activities in Bruges, then you should consider heading to one of the many Bruges museums located across the city. One of the more popular is that of the Groeningemuseum which features six centuries worth of Flemish and Belgian painting.

For those wishing to delve deeper into the history of Bruges, the Historium Bruges is the place to head to. Located within the famed market square, this museum is part experience and part museum and guides visitors through the history of Bruges, with a particular focus on the city’s ‘golden age’ through a virtual storytelling experience.

Steps away from Burg Square, one of the most narrow and charming streets in Bruges can be found in the form of Blinde Ezelstraat. Literally translated into English as the ‘Blind Donkey Street,’ the cobbled lane features several impressive brick buildings and an archway of the City Hall building.

Before visiting, you should note that this is one of the busiest and most crowded thoroughfares of the city and so it can be hard to enjoy its beauty among all the crowds. If possible, the best time to visit Blinde Ezelstraat is as early in the morning as you can and during the week if you’re able to.

Chocolate aside, Bruges is probably most associated with intricate lace making, and for this reason you’ll soon discover lace shops scattered across the city. Before heading to any souvenir shop to purchase some lace, be sure to ensure that it’s actually locally produced as much of the stuff found in the souvenir shops is not created in Bruges. For a more authentic lace experience, be sure to head to the Lace Centre.

Though it’s true that the majority of restaurants and other eateries in Bruges are tourist traps and should be avoided, that doesn’t mean that there are no tasty meals to be found in the city! Indeed, there are actually a fair few decent restaurants in the city.

During my most recent trip to Bruges, I really enjoyed eating lunch at That’s Toast (  Dweersstraat 4 ). This restaurant has plenty of vegan and vegetarian options and serves brunch style food and speciality coffees.

As you can imagine from the name, most of the dishes are based around toast. I personally enjoyed ‘the classic,’ which comprised of a hearty slice of toast topped with a poached egg, avocado, and asparagus.

One of the nicest things about the restaurant is that they also served free water. If you know anything about travelling to Belgium , then you’ll know that this is a rarity when it comes to Belgium restaurants!

One of the top things to know before you visit Bruges is that the city is incredibly touristic despite being very small. This means that if you visit in peak season; i.e. the summer season and especially during the weekend, then you’ll find that the place is incredibly crowded.

As such, the best time to visit Bruges is during the European shoulder season, i.e. during the spring or summer. For even more inspiration, be sure to check out our Belgium travel tips . And to know more about the pint-sized country, be sure to check out these fantastic facts about Belgium .

Next, you should note that, as with many cities in Europe, Bruges is home to lots of cobbled lanes. And as the best way to explore the city is on foot (much of the centre is not accessible by car), then you’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes. Leave your high heels and instead opt to wear a cute pair of sneakers. 

As Bruges is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, let alone Belgium, it’s incredibly easy to reach. From London, you can take the Eurostar to Brussels with a transfer in Bruxelles-Midi. From Paris, you can take an hour and a half Thalys before changing to a local train at Bruxelles-Midi.

Bruges is also a fairly popular day trip from Amsterdam with many tour companies, such as this well-reviewed one, offering day packages. Lastly, Bruges is one of the more popular day trips from Brussels and takes around an hour each way on a local train.

I personally recommend staying overnight in Bruges for several reasons. Firstly, so that you’re not rushed and take your time at all of the Bruges attractions, you’ll have ample time during an overnight trip.

Next, it’s pretty nice to be able to see Bruges without the crowds and you’ll be better placed to do this if you get up in the morning before the day trippers arrive. Check the best hotel prices in Bruges here.

As a very popular city (one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe), you’ll want to plan ahead and book your accommodation well in advance when it comes to visiting Bruges.

Another option if you want to save money could be to stay in Ghent or Brussels and see Bruges as a day trip. Otherwise, here are some of the best places to stay in Bruges based on location and web-reviews:

Snuffel Hostel: Just a ten minute walk away from the Belfry, this hostel offers a variety of different rooms including mixed and female only dorms. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and baggage storage. Check prices and availability now.

Hotel Academie Bruges: A four-star hotel which is fairly affordable is Hotel Academie Bruges. Situated in the Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Quarter, colourful rooms are situated a stone’s throw away from all the major attractions in town. Check prices and availability now.

Hotel Dukes’ Palace: For the crème de la crème of Bruges accommodation, consider staying in the five-star Hotel Dukes’ Palace. Situated against the backdrop of a 15th-century palace, amenities include a spa and hot tub. Check prices and availability now.

Frequently asked questions about Bruges

As of 2021, the population of Bruges is around 120,000.

Those visiting Bruges on a budget will be pleased to know that, while Bruges is certainly pricier than many other Belgian destinations on account of its ever-increasing popularity, there are a number of low cost activities and attractions on offer.

Some of the best free things to do in Bruges include visiting the Basilica of the Saint Blood, wandering along the cbrugeanals of Bruges, discover In Bruges filming locations, and escaping the city to see the last of Bruges’ windmills.

Bruges is generally as safe as most other destinations in Europe, though petty crime can still occur. Visitors should be especially wary of pickpockets (which are present all over Europe, particularly in large crowds) . Never leave your valuables lying around or attended. I personally recommend always wearing a crossbody bag like these ones.

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Bruges? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sunday 7th of November 2021

Hi there, This Bruges info is great but do you know how to book tickets for Ice skating on Minnewater Lake? I have searched and cannot find a website

Sophie Nadeau

Tuesday 16th of November 2021

Thank you! I have done a bit of research and I don't think that you can book tickets in advance. However, I found the opening times and prices. They can be found on the official tourism website as follows: https://www.visitbruges.be/en/winter/artificial-ice-rink

Tuesday 3rd of August 2021

yes, we did almost all of these:) I'd love to go back for some more chocolate! canal boat ride was so beautiful

Monday 2nd of August 2021

hello Sophie you forget something important in Bruges " la Madonna " https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madonna_of_Bruges

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The Complete Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide

LAST UPDATED – 2/16/24 – The Complete Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide

If you have dreamed of visiting the canals of Venice, Italy, but aren’t overly thrilled about having to contend with the large crowds that flock to the beautiful coastal town of Italy, you may want to think about visiting Bruges, Belgium instead.  Located less than an hour away from the capital city of Brussels by train, the small town of Bruges is frequently voted as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe because of its breathtaking canals, unique and wonderful architecture, long and interesting history, and tasty cuisine. 

These are just some of the incredible things that you will learn about the city in my Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide.  The city of Bruges might be small, but it is home to more castles per square inch than any other country on this planet. In fact, roughly 50 of the 470 castles that are found in the Flanders region are located around Bruges.

Bruges’ Beautiful Canals Attract Visitors from Around the World

However, most people who visit Bruges come to see the amazing canals. Bruges has roughly 80 bridges throughout the city that make navigating from one end of the city to the other quite easy.  Although, if you really want to experience Bruges, I would strongly recommend taking a ride through the canals on a boat tour.  No matter what brings you to Bruges, you are guaranteed to be blown away by the beauty, the history, and the kindness and hospitality of the wonderful people who live there.

In this Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide, I am going to give you all of the information you need to plan a successful trip to Bruges, Belgium.  I cover the best times to visit and the best ways to get there so that you can maximize what you can see and do on your trip.  In addition, I outline the top things to see and do while you are there and where the best places to stay and eat are.  With this information in hand, you can be confident that your trip to Bruges will be one that you remember for the rest of your life.

Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide Navigation Menu

At a glance.

Before you start making any travel plans, you need to be sure you meet the country’s entrance requirements. This includes all of the passport, VISA, and immunization requirements for Belgium. 

In addition, you need to make sure you have a clear understanding of what languages they speak in Belgium. This way, you can plan any translation needs you may have. Not only that, but you will need to know what currency they use in Belgium. Knowing this, you can plan to exchange currency before your trip if necessary.

I have included some of this key information in my Bruges, Belgium travel guide below for you to review as you start to make your travel plans.

Passport, VISA, and Immunization Requirements

To assist you in navigating the legal requirements for visiting Belgium, I have included a link to my Belgium Passport, VISA, Customs, and Immunization Requirements Guide below for you to review. 

This guide will give you all of the information that you will need to meet the VISA, passport, customs, and immunization requirements and recommendations for visiting Belgium.

Packing Tips

Outside of knowing the entry and immunization requirements, there is no pre-travel task more important than packing. Don’t worry, I am here to make sure you are packed and prepared for your trip. I have included links to my packing resources in my Bruges, Belgium travel guide below for you to review.

Top Things to See and Do in Bruges, Belgium

Two things that the city of Bruges is definitely not in short supply of are breathtaking views and fun things to do.  If you are looking for a quiet place to get away, relax, enjoy the beauty, and have fun with family and loved ones, then you will be hard-pressed to find a better place in Europe than Bruges. 

Whether you choose to get out on the canals on a relaxing boat ride, take a walk through the beautiful streets and do some shopping, or eat at one of the amazing restaurants in town, you will not have trouble finding things to do to fill your itinerary while in Bruges.  If you are looking for some ideas, I have included a list of my favorite things to see and do in Bruges in my Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide below for you to review.

View Larger Map

Take a Boat Ride Down the Canals

It will probably come as no surprise to you that one of the most popular activities for visitors who come to Bruges is to take a boat ride through the city’s beautiful canals.  It is this extensive system of canals and bridges that has earned Bruges the nickname “Venice of the North”.

As beautiful as they are to look at, the canals were actually built for a more practical purpose.  During the Middle Ages, this extensive canal system served as a transportation system that made Bruges one of the largest commercial hubs in Europe.  While it isn’t the commercial hub that it once was, you can still appreciate both the beauty and the practicality of the canals when you get on the water and explore them by boat.

Try the Delicious Belgian Waffles

One of my absolute favorite things to do while in Bruges is to eat as many of the delightful and delicious Belgian Waffles as my stomach can hold.  Made fresh and topped with either fresh fruit, chocolate, or other delicious toppings, the waffles in Bruges are to die for. 

They are served all day long, so you can eat them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner if you’d like, though I would recommend trying some of the amazing cuisines in the city’s many wonderful restaurants as well.  If you would like some suggestions, I have included some of my top picks later in my Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide.

See the Belfry of Bruges

Near the city center and the famous Grote Markt (more on that in a bit) sits one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city of Bruges.  Towering above the other historical buildings in the market square, the Belfort Belfry is both majestic and beautiful.  Dating back to around 1240, the 47 bells in the tower were once used to announce the time, alert about fires, and celebrate festivals.

If you are feeling up to it, I would highly recommend climbing the 366 narrow, steep spiral stairs to the top of the belfry.  If you have ever seen the movie “In Bruges”, this is the tower where one of the characters of the movie meets their end.  It’s a great movie, but it is even cooler to see the tower in person.

Visit the Church of Our Lady Bruges

With its 400-foot high (122-meter) brick steeple, the Church of Our Lady Bruges is another beautiful landmark that dominates the skyline of the city of Bruges.  Even though the steeple and the intricate stonework on the church are quite captivating, they aren’t what makes this church one of the most famous in Europe.  That distinction goes to the inside.  Or, more accurately, what is stored inside the church.  In case you aren’t aware, the Church of Our Lady Bruges is the home of one of the legendary Michelangelo’s most famous pieces of work.

Although there are many different adaptations of the Madonna and Child, the most famous of all is undoubtedly the marble sculpture named the “Madonna of Bruges”.  Created in his home country of Italy and exported to Belgium in 1504, the statue has been drawing visitors from around the globe to view it ever since.  To see this statue alone is worth visiting the church, not to mention the beauty of the church itself.

Taste Authentic Belgian Chocolate

When it comes to making chocolate, few other countries in the world do it as well as the Belgians.  Some of the creamiest and most delicious chocolate I have eaten during my many travels have been in the countries of Belgium and Switzerland.  If you are visiting Bruges, even for just a short stay, then I absolutely recommend that you stop in a few of the chocolate shops and try some for yourself. 

However, you have to be careful in which shops you choose to make sure the chocolate you are tasting is authentic.  I have included some tips in my Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide below that should help you find the best shops in town to taste some authentic Belgian Chocolate.

• Look for signs that say “freshly made chocolate”.
• Prices may be a bit higher along Katelijnestraat, but the chocolate will be authentic.
• Dumon – Has some of the creamiest (and my favorite) chocolate in Bruges.
• The Chocolate Line – Pricey, but worth it.  It has a wide range of gastronomic   varieties of chocolate.  One of the more famous chocolate shops in Bruges.
• BbyB – Owned by a Michelin-starred restaurateur, this is another one of Bruges’ high-end, popular chocolate shops.  You will pay more for the chocolate, but it is well worth it.

Check out the Shops in the Markt

While you are in the city center tasting the chocolate and searching for Belgian waffles, I would also suggest that you take some time to explore the shops in the historical Markt.  It is located in the historic center of Bruges near the Belfry and some of the other tourist attractions in the city, so it really isn’t out of your way. 

In the shops, you will find some amazing items that are authentic to this region of Europe and to Belgium.  One of my favorite things I got to look at in these shops were all of the neat cuckoo clocks that originated in the German-speaking region of Europe, including parts of Belgium.

Walk Through Burg Square

Named after the fortress that was built by the first Count of Flanders, Baldwin Iron Arm, built in the 9th Century, the Burg Square has been an important political and cultural center for the city of Bruges ever since.  In addition to government buildings such as the Old Court of Justice and the Palace of Liberty of Bruges, the square is also home to one of my favorite buildings in Bruges. 

The Basilica of the Holy Blood is one of the more beautiful ornate churches that you will find in the Flanders region.  Taking a walk through the cobblestone streets of the square and admiring all of these beautiful and historically important buildings is a great way to learn more about the city.

See Bruges City Hall

Speaking of Burg Square, one of the more difficult-to-miss governmental buildings in the Square happens to also be one of the more important buildings in the city.  Dating back to 1421, it is one of the oldest city halls in the Netherlands region of Europe. 

The beautiful, yet flamboyant, design of the building reflected the political and economic power that was centered in this region of Europe at the time.  Its design would go on to inspire similar city hall designs in the cities of Brussels, Ghent, and Leuven.  It is a great building to photograph if you are an architectural photographer, or just to admire if you are taking a casual walk through Burg Square.

Admire the Beauty of Rozenhoedkaai

If you are a travel photographer, one spot that you absolutely will not want to miss while you are in Bruges is the beautiful Rozenhoedkaai, which is otherwise known as the Quay of the Rosary.  It is one of the most popular photography spots in the city, so if you have seen shots of Bruges on Instagram on travel websites, those pictures were most likely taken here. 

With gorgeous weeping trees, ornate buildings that touch the water, and picturesque old bridges, it is one of the most breathtaking spots along the many canals in Bruges.  If you frame your pictures right, you are very likely to capture some postcard-caliber beauty in your shots.

Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood

In my opinion, the Basilica of the Holy Blood is one of the most beautiful and interesting buildings found in Bruges.  Located in the popular Burg Square, the church’s facade is ornately decorated with golden statues and medallions of the Counts of Flanders.  While the facade makes the Basilica one of Bruges’s prettier buildings, the church is actually more famous for what is stored inside of it than what covers its exterior. 

The church is said to house a relic of the Holy Blood of Jesus Christ that was collected by Joseph of Arimathea and brought back to Bruges from the Holy Land by the Count of Flanders, Thierry of Alsace. It’s a pretty church to tour if you have the time.

How to Get to Bruges, Belgium

The city of Bruges is located in Northwestern Belgium in the Dutch-speaking part of the country.  It is a very short train ride from the larger cities of Brussels and Antwerp and relatively close to both Paris and Amsterdam.  In fact, if you wanted to combine a visit to Bruges with a trip to either France or the Netherlands, you could probably even fit a visit to Bruges in as a day trip from those countries. 

However, I would certainly recommend you stay more than a day because there is so much to see and do.  To help give you a better understanding of where Bruges is located in proximity to some of the other popular tourist destinations in Western Europe, I have created a map with estimated travel times to Bruges from various cities for you to review in my Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide below.

There are three primary languages spoken in the country of Belgium, with Dutch being the prevalent language spoken in Bruges and the rest of Northern Belgium.  If you are traveling to other cities in Belgium during your visit, you will want to keep the different lingual regions of Belgium in mind.  To help you understand where each language is primarily spoken, I have included a map for you to review in my Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide below.

Best Times to Visit Bruges, Belgium

Average Temperature (°F)

While the average low temperature in Bruges doesn’t get insanely cold during the winter months or the average high temperature uncomfortably hot during the summer months, there are distinct seasons in Bruges.  During the winter months of December through February, the low temperatures will drop into the lower 30s and on many days a warm jacket will be required. 

During these months, tourism in the city is at its lowest.  In the summer months of June through August, the average high temperatures will range between the upper 60s and lower 70s, making it one of the most comfortable times to visit the city.  However, it is also the busiest time of the year for tourism.  The shoulder months of April and May, as well as September and October, are typically much less busy and the temperatures are still quite nice.

Average Precipitation (Inches)

If you are planning on spending a good amount of time outside while visiting Bruges, then you will want to consider the average precipitation levels in the city throughout the year.  The late autumn and early winter months of October through December are typically the wettest months of the year.

Meanwhile the late winter and spring months of February through May are typically the driest months of the year.  Along with the fact that it’s just before the busy summer tourism months and the temperatures are starting to get comfortably warm, this is why May is my favorite month to visit Bruges.

Where to Stay in Bruges, Belgium

An important decision you need to make when planning your trip to Bruges is where you will stay.  When you travel, the accommodations you choose are oftentimes amongst the biggest expenditures for your trip. 

So, not only do you need to be comfortable, but you need to be able to afford to stay there.  Finding the right accommodations for your trip involves looking at the amenities, the location, and most importantly, the price. 

If you are starting to plan your trip to Bruges, you may be looking for some hotel and hostel suggestions. I included some great options at different price points in my Bruges, Belgium travel guide below. As always, don’t be afraid to expand your search to room-sharing sites such as  Airbnb  or  VRBO  if you aren’t finding a hotel or hostel that meets your needs.

Where to Eat in Bruges, Belgium

When most people plan a trip, the primary focus is on how to get there, where to stay, and what is on the list of things to see and do. What many travelers neglect to plan, is where to eat when you are there.

Granted, it is sometimes fun to be spontaneous when choosing a restaurant while traveling, and it is always smart to get recommendations when you arrive. However, it can also be advantageous to have some ideas of restaurants you would like to try during your trip written down beforehand as well.

This way you can be assured that you won’t miss out on a highly recommended culinary experience that you will regret. To help you decide on some restaurants in Bruges to add to your list, I have included a list of some highly recommended options for you to review in my Bruges, Belgium travel guide below.

Recommended Tours in Bruges, Belgium

There is an abundance of amazing things to see and do in the Bruges area and one of the best ways to experience those things is on a tour.  If you are looking for fun tours and excursions to fill out your trip, I have included some category links to recommended tours and excursions you can review in my Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide below.

There is an abundance of amazing things to see and do in the Bruges area and one of the best ways to experience those things is on a tour.  If you are looking for fun tours and excursions to fill out your trip, I have included some category links to recommended tours and excursions you can review below.

Bruges, Belgium Photo Gallery

When people say that Bruges is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, they aren’t kidding.  I have been to very few cities in my travels that are as naturally beautiful as Bruges.  If you are interested in seeing some of the many beautiful pictures that I was able to take while touring Bruges, I have included a gallery for you to review in my Bruges, Belgium Travel Guide below.

If you would like to see more of my travel photography, I would also encourage you to give me a follow on Instagram . Putting this blog together to pass on my free guides, itineraries, and travel photography tips is a lot of work and your support in the form of a follow-on Instagram would be so very much appreciated!

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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12 comments ›.

Well written and detailed guide. Thank you so much Josh for sharing!

Thank you so much for reading and for the kind words!! 😃

Thanks for sharing your guide of Bruges Josh, it is amazing, wish I had it before I went there eheh all the best and greetings from Lisbon, PedroL

Thank you for reading and for the kind comment Pedro!! I am hoping to visit Lisbon next year. I can’t wait!! 😄

Glad to know it, I’m sure you will love my hometown 🙂 feel free to ask for tips Josh 🙂 PedroL

Will do!! Thanks Pedro!! 🙂

Love love love this town. We stayed right in the middle of town and loved walking the deserted streets first thing. And no where better to sample chocolates 🙂

Thank you so much for reading! I absolutely loved the chocolate as well! 🙂

A great and thorough guide, as always! I’ve been to Bruges twice, both as day-trips. It’s such a beautiful city.

Thank you so much for reading and for the kind comment! It is indeed a beautiful city! 😃

Amazing blog post! That’s insane! You should put this into PDF and let people download.

Great idea!!! Thanks for the feedback Joao!!

[…] Late November or late February are particularly recommended as they offer a balance between good weather and slightly fewer…

I agree!! It is such an incredible place!

Thailand offers a captivating blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, making it a top destination for travelers…

Thank you!!

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You can find the international coach services terminal at the rear of ‘Brugge’ train station, at the roundabout in Spoorwegstraat. You arrive or depart from this coach terminal.

By car or motorbike

Whatever direction you come from, Bruges is ideal to get to by road. The city is close to various major motorways. If you travel to Bruges by car or motorbike, follow one of these routes:

• Coming from the E40, take exit 8 'Brugge', which will take you onto the N31. You then take the exit 'Brugge' and you are immediately on the Bevrijdingslaan.
• From Tournai, Kortrijk and Roeselare, there is a short journey via the E403. The exit 'Brugge' will take you to the Bevrijdingslaan.
• the N49 expressway from Antwerp joins the A11 towards Bruges, at Knokke. You will end up on the N31, and via exit 'Brugge' you will continue to the Bevrijdingslaan.

Motor traffic is not recommended in the city centre, and above-ground parking is discouraged. Several streets are  low-traffic or car-free at specific times .

Ideally park your car at one of the free peripheral car parks or Park&Rides around the city centre . Paid parking is without time limits and most cost-effective in one of the 2 central underground car parks: Centrum-'t Zand car park (a 10-minute walk to the Market Square) and Centrum-Station car park (a 20-minute walk to the Marktet Square). Both car parks are easily accessible via the Bevrijdingslaan. There is a frequent public transport service from the station to the city centre. The bus ride from the Centrum-Station car park to the city centre is included in your car park ticket. 

There is 1 free motorbike parking zone in the city centre for motorcyclists. You can find out more info at ‘ Parking in Bruges ’.

How do you get to Bruges by car or motorbike?

By motorhome.

Whatever direction you come from, Bruges is ideal to get to by road. The city is close to various major motorways. If you travel to Bruges by camper, follow one of these routes:

For motorhomes, there are 2 authorised motorhome car parks for overnight stays: at the Kanaaleiland or at Camping Memling . Where you can park your motorhome depends on its weight. You can find out more info at ' Parking in Bruges '.

How do you get to Bruges by motorhome?

Whatever direction you come from, Bruges is ideal to get to by road. The city is close to various major motorways. If you travel to Bruges by coach, follow one of these routes:

To keep the city centre attractive, coaches are not allowed. Coaches park at the coach parking at the Kanaaleiland, along the Bargeweg. You can find out more info at ' Parking in Bruges '.

Do you prefer to travel in your own car, but you're travelling from the UK? No problem. Various ferry companies operate between the English and French and Dutch coasts. Simply drive your own car onto the ferry and literally hop over to Bruges. From France or The Netherlands, you can easily get to Bruges via motorways.

How do you get to Bruges by ferry?

Via brussels airport.

The national airport receives flights from over 200 destinations in 66 countries every day.

• It's easy to travel from Brussels Airport to Bruges by train. 'Brussels-Airport' train station can be found below the departure and arrival hall of the airport. Every day there is a direct hourly service to Bruges. In addition, many other trains from Brussels Airport regularly stop at Brussels-North, Brussels-Central or Brussels-South (Bruxelles-Midi/Brussel-Zuid) railway stations. From these three stations there are daily three trains an hour stopping at Bruges on their way to Ostend, Knokke or Blankenberge. For more info, a journey planner or fares, check the website of the Belgian Railways (NMBS) .
• Taxi rides to and from Brussels national airport by Bruges taxi firms, with prior reservation, cost € 200.00 (flat rate). Price adjustments are possible throughout the year. Check the contact details of taxi firms in Bruges .

Via Brussels South Charleroi Airport

This popular regional airport welcomes many low-cost flights every day from various cities and regions in Europe.

• The coach company  Flibco.com  is offering a direct shuttle bus to and from the station of Bruges with a frequency of 12 trips a day (there and back). Using this service, you will travel more comfortably, it's cheaper and often also faster than other transport alternatives (train, combination of train and bus). The journey times are aligned as much as possible with arriving and departing flights. The bus stop is at the front of the exit to Terminal 1. The shuttle bus stops in Bruges at the rear of the train station. Booking is cheaper online. You will pay a surcharge on the coach or in the airport. For tickets:  www.flibco.com  & also available at  Information Office Station .
• Taxi rides to and from Brussels South Charleroi Airport by Bruges taxi firms, with prior reservation, cost EUR 250 (flat rate). Price adjustments are possible throughout the year. Check the contact details of taxi firms in Bruges .

Via Ostend-Bruges Airport

Ostend-Bruges Airport is in full development and is systematically expanding its range of services. 

• by public transport: it takes 15 minutes to Ostend railway station by bus. From there, there are at least three trains per hour to Bruges with final stops in Eupen, Welkenraedt, Brussels Airport, Antwerpen-Centraal or Kortrijk between 6.00 a.m. and 10.00 p.m. Travel time to Bruges is approx. 15 minutes. More info, journey planners or fares can be found on the website of the Belgian Railways (NMBS)  and De Lijn .
• by taxi: taxi rides to and from Bruges are provided by Bruges and Ostend taxi companies, subject to prior reservation, at the flat rate of € 70.00. Price adjustments are possible throughout the year. Contact one of the taxi firms in Bruges or Ostend.

Walking is without a doubt the best way to explore Bruges. The historic city centre is compact and on a small scale. And on foot, you don't miss anything.

Explore the winding streets, stroll across majestic squares, wander along the canals, enjoy the city's panorama from one of its many bridges and feast your eyes. Around every corner is a pleasant surprise, and you stumble from one discovery to the next.

If you arrive at Bruges train station or get off the coach at the Bargeplein, the Market Square, in the heart of the city, is a 20-minute walk. On the way, you'll already come across a ton of highlights, museums, sights and attractions. All the 'must-sees' are within a stone's throw of each other.

Do you prefer to follow a specific route? With these suggestions , you can explore the city at your own pace along ready-made routes. Or join a guided walk and get tips from a local, who knows Bruges like the back of their hand.

You want to see a lot of sights without losing the city feel? By bike, you can quickly get from A to B, even off the beaten path. You can cycle at your own pace past the highlights, through quiet city neighbourhoods or across the green city ramparts. Prefer not to go on a bike tour by yourself? Then join a guided cycling tour .

You don't have your own bike? You can rent one for a few hours, half a day, a full day or even several days. We've listed all bike rental locations . Among other places, you can rent a bike at and near 't Zand Square and Market Square in the city centre.

By bike taxi

Don't feel like cycling yourself? Then hop on a bike taxi. They'll take you to your destination in an original and ecological way. You get on at Market Square (near the Historium), at 't Zand Square (near the Concert Hall) or at Stationsplein (near the Carrefour, at the side entrance to the train station). Rates and availability vary from company to company:

• Taxi Fiets Brugge, tel. +32 (0)472 67 35 25, [email protected]
• Fietskoetsen Brugge

By public transport

Every 5 minutes, a public bus runs up and down between the train station and the centre of Bruges. This is a relaxed way to travel to and from the city centre. Buses running to the city centre stop within walking distance of the main shopping streets, historic buildings and museums.

The stops at the station and ’t Zand Square are both important hubs for public transport in the city. All buses pass by these stops.

From the train station to the city centre by bus?

Bus lines 1 and 2 take you to the centre of Bruges.

• Bus line 1: get off at stop ’t Zand, Sint-Salvatorskerk, O.L.V. Kerk or Dijver
• Bus line 2: get off at stop ’t Zand, Sint-Salvatorskerk, O.L.V. Kerk, Dijver, Stadsschouwburg or Jan Van Eyckplein.

Useful info: Line 1 connects the city centre via a loop around the district of Sint-Kruis and a loop to the hospital campus AZ Sint-Jan. Line 2 constantly connects with the city centre in an axis that runs from south to north and vice versa.

From the city centre to the train station by bus?

You can reach Bruges station via the stops Stadsschouwburg (line 2), Zilverpand (line 2) and ’t Zand (lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 20, 21, 31, 35, 40, 41, 42, 47, 49, 52, 54, 55, 60, 72, 74 and 80).

With a ticket for € 2.50 (price changes may be applied throughout the year), you can enjoy unlimited travel and change from stop to stop for 60 minutes. This and other travel tickets for De Lijn can be purchased on the bus (contactless only), at the ticket shop Lijnwinkel (Stationsplein) or at a vending machine (Stationsplein, bus stop 't Zand Square). You can also go to a pre-sales point (only for a 10-journey ticket): tourist office ’t Zand (Concert Hall) , various bookshops, newsagents and supermarkets in the city centre.

Timetables may change unexpectedly due to road works or events. The website of De Lijn bus company features a journey planner with the most up-to-date info.

Vehicle traffic is discouraged in the city centre, as is above-ground parking. If you do need to go into the city centre by car, it's best to keep these guidelines and tips in mind:

• There are various low-traffic or traffic-free shopping streets and squares in Bruges . From Saturday 1 July 2023, this restricted access area will be expanded. A 30 km/h speed limit applies throughout the city centre.
• It's best to park cars at one of the free peripheral car parks or Park&Rides outside the city centre , or you can park cheaply and without restriction in one of the 2 central underground car parks ( Station and 't Zand ). You can find a spot in one of the other city centre parking garages by following the digital signs.
• Are you staying in Bruges’ city centre? If you wish to park near your accommodation, you are advised to contact your accommodation provider in advance.

Motorcyclists will find 1 free motorbike parking zone in the city centre. You can find out more info at ‘ Parking in Bruges ’.

Staying overnight in camper vans, motorhomes, camping trailers, tents on public roads, in the forest, dunes or beach is prohibited in Bruges, except in designated areas. You can however stay overnight at 2 authorised motorhome car parks in Bruges: at the Kanaaleiland or at Camping Memling .

Where you can park your motorhome depends on its weight. Parking is prohibited in the city centre for all vehicles over 3.5 tons. Motorhomes under 3.5 tons can park in the city centre in any spot where this is not specifically prohibited. Motorhomes are also allowed to park outside the city centre where this is not specifically prohibited or where certain spaces are reserved for a specific category of vehicle (e.g., along the R30 ring road in the stretch between the  Gentpoort and the Kruispoort, at the slip road to the Speelpleinlaan).

If you can’t avoid coming into the city centre with your camper, make sure you are aware that various streets have restricted traffic access or are car-free at certain times . A 30 km/h speed limit applies throughout the city centre.

To keep the city centre attractive, coaches are not allowed. Coaches park at the coach parking at the Kanaaleiland, along the Bargeweg.

Groups can safely exit and enter on the reserved drop-off zone at the Bargeplein (also along the Bargeweg) on walking distance from the historic center. The Bargeplein is a much-asked starting point for guided visits. There are toilets and in case of bad weather there is a canopy for shelter.

Only coaches dropping off/collecting passengers with luggage at/from their hotel get exceptional access to the inner city. The driver must be in possession of a document proving the reservation with indication of check-in/check-out. Excursions or contemporary transfers by coach from the hotel are not allowed and are only possible with pick-up/drop-off point at Bargeplein (Kanaaleiland). The police control the strict compliance of these arrangements.

Coaches transporting visitors with mobility issues can be granted special access to the city centre as long as permission is given by the police in advance. Requests should be submitted to  [email protected] .

Don’t forget: coaches must also adhere to the usual rules that apply to ordinary vehicles when entering a low-traffic zone.

Do you prefer personal and safe transport from A to B by an experienced taxi driver? There are a wide range of taxi firms operating in Bruges. Order your taxi in advance, and get picked up where you want. Or hail a taxi at one of the official taxi stands :

• in front of the train station, on Stationsplein
• at the rear of the train station (Sint-Michiels side), at the roundabout on the Spoorwegstraat
• at the coach stop on the Bargeplein (Kanaaleiland)
• in the Boeveriestraat (adjacent to ’t Zand Square)
• on Market Square (near the Provincial Court)
• in the Vlamingstraat (across from the City Theatre)
• in the Kuipersstraat (next to the Biekorf library)
• in Zeebrugge at the ABC building (cruise terminal)
• in Zeebrugge, at the train station Zeebrugge-Dorp (along the Venetiëstraat)
• in Zeebrugge, at the train station Zeebrugge-Strand (along the Baron de Maerelaan)

Sightseeing in Bruges

Would you prefer to get about the city in a more original way? Good news: in Bruges, there's no shortage of options. Get on a Segway, in a bike carriage or a minibus. Or how about a romantic horse-drawn carriage or a gently bobbing boat to take in the beautiful cityscape? View all options for sightseeing in Bruges .

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2.1 From Brussels
• 2.2.2 From Lille (France)
• 2.2.3 General info
• 2.4 By ferry
• 2.5 By cruise ship
• 3 Get around
• 4.1 City gates
• 4.2 More Museums
• 6.1 Chocolate
• 6.3.1 Music
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge

Bruges ( Dutch : Brugge ) is a picturesque city in Flanders , the northern part of Belgium . Once Europe's richest city, now both cosmopolitan and bourgeois in its compact size. It is mainly known for its exceptionally well-preserved historical centre (especially by Belgian standards), which draws over 400,000 tourists annually.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ]

In the 2nd century AD there was a Gallo-Roman settlement, but the city got its foundations in the 9th century when the Vikings landed. The name Brugge indeed likely comes from the Old Norse "bryggja", translating to harbor or jetty, and was first mentioned between 850 and 875. During the following centuries there were strong connections to the north, and Bruges became one of the trading points of the Hanseatic League . Interestingly, the historical Hanseatic harbour of Bergen is also known as Bryggen.

Bruges became the capital of Flanders in 1089, and an 1134 storm created the tidal canal Zwin, improving the connection to the sea. As such the city developed into the economic capital of northwestern Europe in the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance, and this was the golden age of the city. This age saw the construction of many of the city's impressive old buildings, and its second city wall. The world's first stock exchange was formed, the Waterhalle was a lively trading place, and the city of 46,000 inhabitants was a home to painters, architects and other artists and the Duke of Burgundy set up one of his courts here.

The death of Mary of Burgundy in 1482 marked the beginning of the end of the golden days. The royal family soon left, nearby Antwerp became a more important trading point, silting eventually made the Zwin unusable, and the Spanish rule from 1592 to 1713 during which several wars were fought in the region all made the city one of the poorest, rather than richest cities in the region. The city changed hands between the Austrians , French and Dutch before becoming part of the independent Belgium in 1830.

The Industrial Revolution didn't bring much industry to Bruges. Ironically, the poverty that characterized Bruges in the 19th century is one reason the town's historic architecture is so well-preserved: there was usually simply no budget to modify the town on a large scale. However, in the 1890s two events revived interest in the city; on the cultural side the novel Bruges-la-Morte by Georges Rodenbach and on the economic side the construction of the Port of Zeebrugge, one of Western Europe's most important freight ports today. A canal from Zeebrugge to Bruges, the 12-km-long Boudewijnkanaal, was finished in 1905. Also, the 1902 art exhibition of Flemish Primitives (Early Netherlandish painting) helped re-establish Bruges as a cultural center.

However, of much greater significance in shaping the town's highly touristic character, is of course the historical architecture found in virtually the entire historic city centre. Although many monuments and other buildings in the town centre have medieval origins, referring to Bruges as a 'medieval' town is inaccurate, considering most of the architecture in the historic centre dates to the 17th century and later, with many buildings (such as the old Town Hall at Burg square) having undergone serious neogothic-style renovations, chiefly under the influence of the architect Louis Delacenserie (1838-1909). Surviving both world wars mostly intact, the old town was listed as a World Heritage Site in 2000 and two years later it held the title as the European Cultural Capital.

Climate [ edit ]

Even by Belgian standards, Bruges has a poor reputation for its weather. Compared to other western European cities like London and Paris, the weather in Bruges is colder and damper. Even in July and August, average daily maximum temperatures struggle to exceed 21°C (70°F) and rainfall averages 203 mm (8 in) a month. In autumn, temperatures drop off quite rapidly and winter months are damp and chilly.

The summer visitor should always be prepared for rain in Bruges, as warm and sunny weather is not constant during that season. The daily and monthly temperature variations are quite small; average highs and average lows don't exceed a range of 9°C (or 16°F).

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Bruges shares its airport with Ostend ( OST  IATA ). The Ostend-Bruges International Airport has a long runway and a seaside location providing for a picturesque approach, but its passenger traffic is pretty much limited to seasonal flights to holiday destinations. It is also a major hub for cargo airlines, so planespotters may find it of interest.

More viable as a point of entry is the Brussels National Airport ( BRU  IATA ), Belgium's largest, as well as Charleroi ( CRL  IATA Brussels South) and Lille ( LIL  IATA ), so getting to Bruges by train is by far the easiest way. Only one change at one of the three main stations is needed and the entire connection takes about 1½ hr.

By train [ edit ]

From brussels [ edit ].

Be aware that trains are often full to and from Bruges, especially during rush hours, so if you or your travel companions have any problems with mobility you could be standing the whole trip or at best sitting in the entry area of the carriage. There isn't really any solution to this during the tourist season when Bruges is wall to wall people.

From Lille (France) [ edit ]

From the train station of Lille Flanders, there are hourly trains to Bruges. Though crossing the boundary might result in non-available reductions (s.a. the 10-ride card).

General info [ edit ]

From the railway station, all hotels are easily reachable on foot, it can also be done with a backpack. However, if you have a suitcase consider taking a taxi because the cobbled streets make the use of wheeled suitcases or carry-on bags very difficult. Also be sure to wear comfortable shoes, because of the cobblestones.

By car [ edit ]

Buses and camping vehicles are not allowed within the city centre. There is a perfect parking place for them on the south side of the city with a newly designed gangway bringing you directly into the heart of the town. It is in general a bad idea to venture inside with a car, as parking is limited and finding your way difficult. There are multi-storey car parks a five-minute walk from the city centre. Nice city mini-buses cruise the town with high frequency, and in any case, the historical centre must be traversed on foot, by bicycle, by horse-drawn carriage or by boat to enjoy it.

By ferry [ edit ]

DFDS Seaways operates ferries from Dover to Dunkirk every 2 hr. From Dunkirk, Bruges is 75 km away. This can only be done by driving as they do not take foot passengers. A DFDS ferry to Holland from Newcastle sails daily. From its port in IJmuiden, Amsterdam you can reach Bruges is less than 3 hr by car.

The ferry from Kingston upon Hull to Zeebrugge was axed in 2021.

By cruise ship [ edit ]

Virtually all dock at the major harbour of Zeebrugge. In addition to ship's tours, most offer shuttles to Blankenberge, a nearby town offering economical, hourly train service to Bruges, which is 20 minutes or so away.

Get around [ edit ]

The historical centre is not so big and thus quite walkable (be sure to wear comfortable shoes). The only mode of public transport inside the city is bus. They are operated by the Flemish public transport company De Lijn . They frequent nearly all major points of interest plus the train station. Taxis on the market place and station cost about €10 . Bicycles are easy to rent and make getting around the city very speedy, although the cobblestoned paths can make rides a little bumpy and uncomfortable.

See [ edit ]

Bruges was known as a "dead city" for centuries. The sanding of the harbour and the difficulties of digging canals in the sand caused heavy economic burdens on the city between the Middle Ages and the 20th century. The population managed to survive but did not grow as there was no new industrial activity during that period.

Several youth hostels, and probably the train station and tourist information offer a useful map with some very interesting, 'non-tourist' places to see during the day and some unique places to visit at night. It provides a good way of getting an authentic feel for the town whilst avoiding the tourist hotspots and allows you to find some hidden gems.

Some highlights:

• 51.2087 3.22439 1 Grote Markt . The market square is the heart of the old town. It covers an area of 1 ha, and on its southern edge is the city belfry ( Halletoren / Belfort ), which is one of the city's best known landmarks. There are nice views from the tower (see Do below) ( updated Jul 2020 )

• 51.2026 3.22416 4 Brewery De Halve Maan , Walplein 26 , ☏ +32 50 332-697 . Apr-Oct: M-Sa 11:00-16:00, Su 11:00-17:00 . This brewery is the only remaining that's still brewing beer inside the city walls. It's also a beer museum and offers a tour of the beer making process. A history of the brewery is provided, as well as an overview of the city from its tower. The tour lasts for 45min and is a good way to get a feel for Belgian beer making. The tours start at the exact turn of the hour, be at least fifteen minutes early as there is a maximum number of people that can join. The entrance price includes one drink of Brugse Zot or Straffe Hendrik and is served after the tour at the outside terrace or indoor bar. €12 including 1 beer ( €11 if booked online) .  
• 51.2073 3.2271 5 2-be Beer Wall and Bar , Wollestraat 53 . On the court of a former major's house, "all Belgian beers" are exposed permanently. At the back of the wall, it's also possible to drink a lot of those beers.  

• 51.200058 3.229323 7 Simbolik - Open Studio and Expo of Nathalie Beelprez , Katelijnestraat 139 , ☏ +32 495 307056 . Th-Sa 10:00-18:00, other days by appointment . A house, an open studio where thoughts and ideas are born, a place where Beelprez can mix these thoughts and feelings in a symbolic language of forms, her soul, her calligraphy, her world, her language. While she works in her studio, her expo is open for anyone who wants to let time go, read forms and see letters. An open immersion in texts and forms that excite your senses. Selection of handmade letterwork, wall objects, light objects, painted on canvas, letters in ceramics, writing on walls, also work on demand. Also, every first Sunday of the month at 15:00 is Poëziene: a place where poets, musicians or performers bring their own work to Simbolik. Free entrance .  
• 51.212336 3.233679 8 Jerusalem church . M-Sa 10:00 - 17:00 . In a quiet area of the city, a highly unusual church with octagonal tower built by the Adornes brothers, merchants of Italian extraction. It includes a fine black Tournai marble tomb, late Gothic stained glass, and a tiny and rather spooky chapel containing an effigy of the dead Christ. The entrance fee also covers the Lace Museum in the former Adornes mansion, where you can see local women and girls learning this traditional craft. Adult €8 .  

• 51.202727 3.225898 12 Diamond Museum ( Diamantmuseum ), Katelijnestraat 43 , ☏ +32 50 336326 . 10:30-17:30 . Diamond museum has a large range of exhibits ranging from mining all the way to polishing and all the history in between. Everyday at 12:15 there is a live polishing demonstration. Adult €6 , groups €4.50 , student €3 . ( updated Jan 2018 )

Bruges is visited by a huge number of tourists and it sometimes becomes quite annoying, especially around the Markt and Burg squares. Very few tourists venture far away from the main shopping area, so if you want some peace and quiet you should explore the many small cobbled streets away from the main squares.

• 51.2099 3.2282 13 Lucifernum ( Retsin's lucifernum ), Twijnstraat 6-8 ( city centre ). Su 18:00-21:00 . An amazing (private) art gallery with a Gothic cemetery in a subtropical garden located in the old Freemasons temple (1756-1882). 1,000 m² of art and mystery in Bruges' old city centre. €6 .  

City gates [ edit ]

More Museums [ edit ]

Musea Brugge Card covers Groeninge Museum, Belfort (Belfry), Stadhuis (City Hall) , Sint-Janshuis Mill etc.

Do [ edit ]

• Grote Markt and Belfry Climb , Grote Markt ( the big square ). Tu-Su 09:30-17:00 . Climb the 366 steps to the top of the 83-m-high tower. Excellent views of the city, Grote Markt and hear the bells ring up close. €12 for adults 26-64; discounts for children, youth and seniors . ( updated Jun 2022 )

• Canal Tour . To see Bruges from another perspective, take a ride on one of the tour boats around the canals - the multilingual guides provide a potted history of the city in just a few minutes - at only a few euros, it's the best introduction to Bruges. A boat tour will show you places which are otherwise unreachable, as not every canal runs next to a street. Advisable to get there at opening time to avoid the crowds. Cannot be reserved online and all boat tours cost the same. €12 plus almost obligatory tip to the driver/guide . ( updated Oct 2022 )
• Horse drawn carts , Grote Markt . Carriages can be hired for a romantic 30-minute trip around the old city of Bruges. Carts can carry up to 5 passengers. €50 .  
• 51.20838 3.22463 1 Ambassadors Tours | Free Walking Tours, Private Tours & Activities , Markt Square ( in front of the Belfry Tower, look for the yellow umbrellas ), ☏ +324844935878 , [email protected] . 10:00 - 22:00, 7/7 . Passionate local storytellers offer tours in the medieval city center. No old-fashioned tour focussing solely on historical details, but engaging stories to bring the history to life. Reservations advised.   Tell Me About Bruges | The Original Free Walking Tour, daily at (10:00), 11:00, 14:00 & (17:00) (operated in English and Spanish).   Bruges at Night: Untold Stories & (Haunted) History | Alternative Free Tour, selected days at 20:00. Pay-what-you-want . ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 51.2 3.2 2 Bruges Ballooning , Markt , ☏ +32 47 597 2887 . Morning and afternoon . Daily hot air balloon flights over the historic centre and its surroundings. The best way to enjoy the romance of Bruges, and its stunning views, from a few hundred metres up in a balloon basket. €170 .  
• HelicopterFlight : Morning and afternoon. Helicopter flighs over Bruges and its surrendings.
• Cycle , Burg Square . There are many rental shops near the main square, shop around for the best prices. You can also rent right at the train station and get to the city centre quickly; remember to return them by 19:30. Cycle 5 km to Damme, a picturesque village on the river with a windmill and excellent pancakes, and optionally follow on to the coast (another 15 km). €8 for 4 hr at most places, €12 for the day .  
• Running . If you are a runner, try running the 7-km circle around the old centre. Walk along the canal and see all of the medieval gates that used to control the traffic in and out of Bruges. Simply stunning!  
• Compare the real Bruges to the one depicted in the movie In Bruges .
• Football at 51.1934 3.1805 3 Jan Breydel stadium . The city has two teams playing soccer in First Division A, the Belgian top tier: Club Brugge KV and Cercle Brugge KSV . They share the Jan Breydel stadium, capacity 29,000, in Sint-Andries district 2 km west of the centre. ( updated Jun 2022 )

Buy [ edit ]

Chocolate [ edit ].

Chocolate shops are plentiful and the standard is always high. Word on the street is, that you can get anything covered in chocolate and moulded. A few chocolate shops also let you have a seat an order a homemade chocolate milk or other drink. There is a particularly vast number of chocolate shops at the Katelijnestraat.

• 51.20861 3.22577 1 Stef's , Breidelstraat 18 ( between Markt and Burg ). A fairly cheap option. ( updated Aug 2020 )
• 51.20819 3.2254 2 Chocolatier Van Oost , Wollestraat 11 . If you are willing to spend a little more, Chocolatier Van Oost on Wollestraat is a must for high-quality artisanal chocolate. ( updated Aug 2020 )
• 51.209382 3.223003 3 Dumon , Eiermarkt 6 , ☏ +32 50 34 62 82 . Excellent, very high-end chocolate creations. They also make chocolate drinks.  
• 51.208057 3.225505 4 Het Chocoladehuisje , Wollestraat 15 , ☏ +32 50 34 02 50 . Artisan chocolates. Place where you can buy the original chocolate breasts. Has a nice piece in their window on special occasions.  
• 51.206541 3.222448 5 The Chocolate Line , Simon Stevinplein 19 , ☏ +32 50 34 10 90 . Almost always has original and funny chocolate-art in their window. Run by a (locally) famous chocolatier, Dominique Persoone. Fame comes with a price: The Chocolate Line is quite expensive compared to the many other chocolate stores in Bruges. ( updated Jun 2017 )

For those who do not wish to buy chocolate in the chocolate shops, the local supermarkets also sell a good variety of mass-produced chocolate at fairly low prices. For the frugal, you can buy 100-200 g gourmet bars of chocolate for about €1 each. Good brands to buy are Côte-d'Or and Jacques, both are Belgian.

Beer [ edit ]

If you don't want anything more than a sampling of the most famous Belgian beers , supermarkets (not night shops!) are probably your best choice. They even have gift packs with glasses. There are also many boutique-style beer shops that sell high-quality gift packs of Belgian beer, as well as beer-focused cafés (such as 't Brugs Beertje which has over 300 different types of beer to offer).

Art [ edit ]

There are plenty of arts and crafts shops too, with some excellent local artists. The lacework is risky: if everything sold was produced locally, the entire town would be working in the lace industry! There is a school for lace though, where you can still get "the real thing".

Most European tourists come for the weekend, so shops are open Tuesday through Sunday, but many shops and museums are closed on Mondays. Be sure to plan ahead.

Music [ edit ]

• 51.209363 3.227623 6 Rombaux , Mallebergplaats 13 , ☏ +32 50 33 25 75 . A record, guitar and piano store, run by a friendly family in a landmark building, incredible atmosphere with a huge collection of jazz, classical but also modern records. They further have a guitar and piano instrument department and a good collection of sheet music. ( updated Sep 2021 )

Eat [ edit ]

If you are looking for a great place to eat in Bruges, avoid all of the restaurants in the central market square ("Grote Markt"). No matter how pleasant the view from there may look, they will offer you low-quality, overpriced food, served to you by waiters who are as rude and as slow as they are underpaid. One tactic used by such tourist trap restaurants at the central market is to present items (e.g. bread) as if they were free with your meal, then charge you for them. Even water may be charged at an exorbitant €6 or more for a small bottle. Another scheme to bilk the traveller is to quote absurdly-high prices (such as €7 for a single serving of fries), then claim to be offering "a 10% discount for locals".

You will, however, find great food if you wander off the beaten track. The historical centre of Bruges does have many pleasant and cozy restaurants with affordable and high-quality food to offer if you know the right addresses! Find a street with more locals than tourists and ask somebody about a good place to eat at. The locals will be glad to help (English proficiency in Dutch-speaking Belgium is generally quite good).

Budget [ edit ]

• 51.204387 3.229498 1 Books & Brunch , Garenmarkt 30 , ☏ +32 50 70 90 79 . Tu-F 08:30-18:00, Sa 09:00-18:00 . An ideal combo of second hand book store and a brunch/dessert-eatery (but you can just have a cup of coffee or a tea too). ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.207577 3.226016 2 The Olive Street Food , Wollestraat 12 , ☏ +32 50 41 50 96 . W-M 12:00-20:30 . An authentic Greek takeaway place just a minute of walking away from the Belfry/Grote Markt. They offer food that is not only well-seasoned and extraordinarily savoury, but also very affordable, especially compared to other places to eat at in the Bruges' historical centre. €6.5 for a medium-sized wrap, €11 for a larger box of food (Sept 2021) . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.208543 3.222594 3 Brasserie Medard , Sint-Amandsstraat 18 , ☏ +32 50 34 86 84 . Huge deal for low budget just near the centre: a mountain of (tasty) spaghetti with tomato sauce, cheese, and mushrooms for €3 . Two options on the menu: vegetarian, non-vegetarian - both at the same price. Double its size for just €2 extra. Very cheap beer too (kriek at €1.50 ) (all prices as of July 2010). Most tables order the spaghetti. Tourists aren't welcome until they sit: be sure to sit down and impose your presence to be served. If you wait to be seated, you are likely to be sent away for no reason. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.206386 3.22264 4 Le Pain Quotidien , Simon Stevinplein 15 , ☏ +32 50 34 29 21 . A sandwich chain founded in Brussels but now found in the US, France and a number of other countries. Most of the food is organic, and the sandwiches (in particular the Tartine Bouef Basilic) are delicious. Somewhat expensive. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.208357 3.216875 5 The Potato Bar , Sint-Amandsstraat 31 , ☏ +32 50 33 91 19 . One of the better fries shops (frietkoten/frituren) Bruges has to offer. Both classic fries with mayonnaise as well as burgers and fries with a variety of toppings available. Vegetarian options. €3-4.5 for fries with toppings, €8-11 for a burger (Sept 2021) . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.208799 3.222102 6 Cropains , Geldmuntstraat 21 . Not much indoor seating, but delicious "croque monsieurs" (grilled sandwiches) and wraps, with vegetarian options. €6-€8 for a grilled sandwich or wrap . ( updated Aug 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 51.211416 3.224575 7 Brasserie Forestière , Academiestraat 11 . Nice and calm restaurant, good food, not too expensive. Good menu for vegetarians. Meal of the day (soup, main dish, dessert or coffee/tea) costs €14 (May 2019) although this is the cheapest menu it has little choice. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.207214 3.230142 8 L'Estaminet , Park 5 , [email protected] . Good food, nice terrace, cool bartender. Try the renowned spaghetti for €8 or the delicious croque monsieur .  
• 51.211342 3.220598 9 De Bottelier , Sint-Jakobsstraat 63 . A favourite restaurant of many of Bruges' residents. Very reasonable prices and excellent food. Closed Sunday and Monday nights. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.214209 3.224406 10 Tom's Diner , West Gistelhof 23 . Fantastic upmarket take on satisfying, home cooked food. Prices are reasonable, as well. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.21174 3.211225 11 Petite Aneth , Maria van Bourgondiëlaan 1 , ☏ +32 50 31 11 89 . With only 7 tables, small and cosy, with a personal touch. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.209598 3.226134 12 Cambrinus , Philipstockstraat 19 ( near the market place ), ☏ +32 5033 2328 . 11:00-23:00 daily . This is a very popular place, and for a reason. They have some of the best selection of Belgian beers, more than 440 in total. Some beers have really odd names like Satan, Lucifer, Nostradamus, or the Brunette. It's primarily a restaurant though, as all their hearty food are prepared with a special kind of beer. It's really delicious. Mains go for €17-19 , but they also have the €26 prix fixe "Menu van de Brouwer", which features several Trappist beers. Make a reservation in advance, as else they might not have any seats available. €25-30 .  
• 51.205929 3.219333 13 Grand Cafe Passage , Dweersstraat 26 , ☏ +32 5034 0232 . Attached to the Passage hotel/hostel (see below) is the atmospheric Grand Café, serving traditional Belgian cuisine and beers. Prices are slightly lower than the tourist traps and well worth it. Try the beef stew (very tender) or the ribs. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.211498 3.225118 14 Trattoria Trium , Academiestraat 27 , ☏ +32 50333060 . This is a great spot to have a nice dish of pasta or pizza and is fully Italian. They also sell olive oil, pasta sauces and other authentic products. The decor has a warm home feeling. Try out their antipasto and the excellent house wine. €15-20 .  
• 51.209935 3.2247 15 Curiosa , Vlamingstraat 22 ( just off the main square ), ☏ +32 50 34 23 34 . A good place for a lunch and a beer. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.201746 3.224219 16 Maximiliaan van Oostenrijk , Wijngaardplein 16 , ☏ +32 50 33 47 23 . Midrange restaurant offering plenty to eat including oysters and meat cooked several ways plus, of course, frites. There is not much for vegetarians. ( updated Aug 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 51.20791 3.236089 17 In 't Nieuw Museum , Hooistraat 42 , ☏ +32 50331280 . Belgian grill restaurant, well off the tourist track. Excellent steaks, reasonable prices. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.211958 3.219633 18 Kok au Vin , Ezelstraat 19/21 , ☏ +32 50 33 95 21 . Memorable Kok au Vin (both the appetiser and the restaurant); the prices are reasonable for the high quality. Family owned and run. Reservations recommended. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 51.204903 3.225778 19 Den Gouden Harynck , Groeninge 25 , ☏ +32 50337637 . Gastronomic restaurant which offers three course meals. ( updated Jul 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

• 51.2085 3.22611 1 De Garre , 1, De Garre ( When walking from De Markt to De Burg via the Breydelstraat, find a small door between two shops on your right side to enter De Garre street. The pub itself is the only door inside that street. ), ☏ +32 50 34 10 29 . Hidden in a backyard, this pub offers a nice atmosphere and about 100 kinds of beer, including home-brewed ones. The house beer is called 'Triple de Garre' and is 11% strong, a good way to start the night. The pub is very often full, but there's a limit of two drinks per person, which means that new places become available pretty quickly.  
• 51.206819 3.221711 2 't Brugs Beertje , Kemelstraat , ☏ +32 50 33 96 16 . This excellent pub (recommended in the CAMRA guide to the Benelux region) has hundreds of different beers and an authentic beer-cafe atmosphere. Clientele is majority tourists. The front bar is crowded; what looks like the door through to the restrooms opens on another bar area. In 2005 it was closed for most of July - this might be an annual occurrence.  
• The area just north of the performing arts centre has various cafes, most with sufficient beer selections, such as Café Leffe .

Sleep [ edit ]

During the summer Bruges is a very popular tourist destination; reservations are probably preferable.

During the winter (Nov-Mar) a number of hotels offer a midweek promotion: 3 nights for the price of 2, if you arrive on Sunday, Monday or Tuesday.

• 51.207013 3.262979 1 Camping Memling , Veltemweg 109 , ☏ +32 50 35 58 45 . The only camping-site in Bruges, 3.2 km from the Markt.  
• 51.20485 3.21924 2 Lybeer Travellers' Hostel , Korte Vuldersstraat 31 , ☏ +32 50 33 43 55 . In the city centre. Has a mixture of private rooms and dorms. Good common area and bar. Pub crawls and beer tasting are available.  
• 51.205903 3.219338 3 Passage , Dweerstraat 26 , ☏ +32 50 34 02 32 , [email protected] . Very clean and quiet, centrally located Hotel/Hostel with a restaurant-bar downstairs. The name "Passage" comes from the little alley-way right next to the building which you have to pass through in order to reach the reception. Prices for the hostel are around €14 and breakfast costs an extra €5 .  
• 51.213174 3.218625 4 Snuffel Backpacker Hostel , Ezelstraat 47-49 , ☏ +32 5033 3133 , [email protected] . Check-out: 10:00 . Friendly, a straight line from the central Markt and cheap. Breakfast is included and cheap internet available, with free Wi-Fi. And the bunk beds have ladders. Live music on regular basis, in the bar with the cheapest beers in town where tourists and locals get together! €15 .  
• 51.212 3.23774 5 St Christopher’s @ The Bauhaus Hostel , 133-137 Langestraat ( Métro: Crimée ), ☏ +32 5034 1093 , fax : +32 5034 1093 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 11:00 . Part of the St. Christopher's Inn hostel chain. Beds include locker, privacy curtain, reading lights and individual power-points. €16 .  

• 51.186017 3.1902 6 Atlas Guesthouse , Zevenbergenlaan 1 , ☏ +32 494 39 32 94 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 11:00 . Located between the forest and the historic city of Bruges, this cottage offers spacious accommodation with modern facilities including free Wi-Fi. Atlas Guesthouse has bicycles available to rent and a large terrace with a barbecue. Flat-screen cable TV with a DVD player is provided in the living room which includes a large sofa. The cottage features a kitchen with a hob and an oven. Atlas Guesthouse also has a washing machine and a bathroom with a bath/shower combination. For stays longer than 4 days guests benefit from a 15% discount on the price. From €85 per night for a double room .  
• 51.204461 3.207176 7 Aquarius Guestroom , Witte-Beerstraat 31 , ☏ +32 50 31 19 26 .  
• 51.208142 3.222007 8 Hotel Acacia , Korte Zilverstraat 3A-5 , ☏ +32 50 34-44-11 , fax : +32 50 33-88-17 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 11:00 . Ideal location behind the Market Square and Belfry (car free area) situated between the two main shopping streets of Bruges. Free wifi, a cosy lounge and terrace. Must see the parrot Coco who greets the guests every day! From €98 per night for a double room .  
• 51.213046 3.218365 9 Asinello B&B , Ezelstraat 59a , ☏ +32 478 38 86 47 . Check-out: 11:00 . Lovely bed & breakfast with 3 private rooms, each with their own bathroom. A hammam is also onsite. This is a great option for a romantic weekend. €100-150 .  
• 51.213178 3.251109 10 De Notelaar , Schaakstraat 17 , ☏ +32 50 37 31 97 . Bed and breakfast outside of the city centre.  
• 51.216814 3.219455 11 Eleven B&B , Elf-Julistraat 37 , ☏ +32 475 59 51 49 . Check-in: 12:00 , check-out: 10:00 . They can host up to 11 people, ideal for families, ask to cook you their lobster meal. €70-140 .  
• 51.206415 3.226646 12 Hotel De Tuilerieën , Dijver 7 , ☏ +32 50 34 36 91 . Famous hotel.  
• 51.20436 3.22075 13 Hotel de Goezeput , Goezeputstraat 29 , ☏ +32 50342694 , [email protected] . Modern and comfortable rooms in a traditional building. Relatively close to the station. €60 for a single .  
• 51.20007 3.220281 14 Hotel 't Keizershof , Oostmeers 126 , ☏ +32 50 34 26 94 , [email protected] . On a quiet street near the station, has rooms starting at €50 and is not far from the centre. Basic breakfast is available.  
• 51.205086 3.220861 15 Hotel Salvators , St.-Salvatorskerkhof 17 , ☏ +32 50 33 19 21 , fax : +32 50 33 94 64 , [email protected] . Quirky art hotel in the centre, next to St Salvators Church. This traditional Bruges townhouse has been thoughtfully renovated, with each of the rooms decorated in its own style. Some of the rooms have en-suite jacuzzi, and some sleep up to 5 people. The hotel offers internet access and cycle hire for guests. From €70 per night for a double room .  
• 51.214474 3.2264 16 Hotel Asiris , Lange Raamstraat 9 , ☏ +32 50 34 17 24 . A restored patrician residence in the shadow of the 15th century St-Gillis church, with 13 rooms, €75 for a double room. You can also reserve a parking place for €15 / night.  
• 51.206921 3.224595 17 Hotel 't Voermanshuys , Oude Burg 14 , ☏ +32 5034 1396 . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 11:30 . Clean, spacious rooms in the centre. Very friendly staff and includes a substantial breakfast. €60 for a double with shared toilet/shower .  
• 51.207759 3.220105 18 Hotel Prinsenhof , Ontvangersstraat 9 , ☏ +32 5034 2690 , fax : +32 5034 2321 , [email protected] . This elegant and friendly four star hotel is perfectly situated near the Grand Place & historic town centre of Bruges, with secure private parking. From €189 .  
• 51.20471 3.218564 19 Hotel Bliss , 't Zand 21 . Check-in: 15.00 , check-out: 11.00 . Small hotel with 19 rooms, situated in centre. It is easily reached via the E40 (exit8) and you will find the hotel right opposite the main exit of the underground car-park.  
• 51.207916 3.21536 20 Hotel Floris Karos ( address= ), Hoefijzerlaan 37 , ☏ +32 50 34 14 48 . 3 star hotel a few minutes away from market square. €71 .  
• 51.203974 3.216689 21 NH Hotel Brugge , Boeveriestraat 2 , ☏ +32 50 44 97 11 . Good food and comfortable beds near to parking on the inner ring road, the concert hall and main bus station, in an attractive and completely modernised old building. The staff are obliging and helpful and food is excellent at all meals. Salads, main courses and desserts were all a delight, with the desserts scoring particularly high for attractive presentation. If there was a weak spot, it was the quality of the orange juice at breakfast. Rooms are spacious, perhaps 50m² or more and the beds have crisp white sheets, duvets and comfortable mattresses. Wireless internet in the rooms needs an Orange subscription but this is modestly priced compared to many hotels. However, some rooms did not seem to have good Wi-Fi reception.  
• 51.210036 3.219453 22 Hotel Monsieur Maurice , Leeuwstraat 8 ( next to Leeuwebrug ), ☏ +32 50 61 63 60 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Within the oldest ramparts of the medieval city, in the heart of the city, but in the middle of a green area. dbl €125 (Breakfast and taxes included) .  
• 51.209807 3.23153 23 Hotel Ter Reien , Langestraat 1 ( Located on the Groenerei canal, just east of the town centre. ), ☏ +32 50 34 91 00 .  
• 51.202482 3.227145 24 Ibis Brugge Centrum , Katelijnestraat 65 , ☏ +32 50 337575 , [email protected] . This chain hotel is conveniently located and comfortable. ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 51.204745 3.225493 25 Boniface Hotel , Groeninge 4 , ☏ +32 50 49 00 49 , fax : +32 50 49 00 46 , [email protected] . The charm of a private home and the comfort of a deluxe hotel.  
• 51.206996 3.228044 26 Hotel The Pand , Pandreitje 16 , ☏ +32 5034 0666 , fax : +32 5034 0556 , [email protected] . Located in an 18th-century building.  
• 51.2044 3.2261 27 Canalside House , Groeninge 16 , ☏ +32 50 977 900 , [email protected] . Built in the 17th century as a gracious townhouse, it now provides the guests two luxurious suites with unrivalled panoramic view of the canal and the imposing church of Our Lady's. €191 .  
• Novotel Brugge . The Novotel forms a complex with the Ibis, cleverly hidden within the very heart of the old town of Brugge, and offering the usual Novotel family-friendly facilities, including even a small outdoor pool. ( updated Sep 2020 )
• 51.208966 3.227328 28 Crowne Plaza Brugge , Burg 10 , ☏ +32-50-446844 , [email protected] . A regular Crowne Plaza with some top-level rooms under sloping wooden roofs. Room rates from €120 . ( updated Sep 2020 )

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As of June 2022, Bruges has 4G from Base / Telenet and Orange, and 5G from Proximus / Scarlet.

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The most popular day trips from Bruges:

• Damme is a small town near Bruges. A seasonal riverboat goes there on a cruise of 35 minutes each way. It's a very scenic trip, the landscapes are picturesque, and the village of Damme even more so. You can also go there by bike (special route). Local bus service to Damme is very limited and a trip from the Bruges railway station takes 24 minutes.
• Sluis is a charming small historic city just across the Netherlands border, where the Damse Vaart (Damme Canal) terminates. Very popular among Belgians to go shopping on Sundays, as the shops are all open there then. A direct bus (line 42) connects Bruges to Sluis, or you could go there by bicycle on the bike path along the Damse Vaart (17 km).
• Ypres ( Ieper ) is an important site of Great War battles, cemeteries, monuments and traditions such as the Last Post (every evening). Very popular among old veterans and young boys interested in wars. Sadly the public-transport connection between Ypres and Bruges isn't great, a train ride takes 1 hr 30 min, and a combination of train and bus still takes at least 1 hr. So trips to Ypres are only advisable when you have a car available.
• Ostend ( Oostende ) is the monumental beach resort, called queen of the coastal cities resort. King Leopold II (1865-1909) built before his attention turned to inner-city Brussels to build his new capital. The quintessential cosmopolitan 19th-century beach resort, full of endearing villas that have been classified as official monuments. Less than 15 minutes by train. Close by, about 10 min by tram towards Raversijde, you can find the Atlantic Wall, two kilometres of trenches and galleries dating from both World Wars.
• De Haan is a beach resort with many fanciful buildings in the belle époque style. Residential streets are lined by many quaint houses. De Haan is an easy side-trip from Bruges by train to Ostend and then by the coastal tram ( Kusttram ) to the station De Haan aan Zee.
• Ghent , Brussels and Antwerp are great tourist destinations in their own right, and very easy to reach by train (30 minutes to Ghent, 1 hr to Brussels and Antwerp).

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Bruges travel blog — the fullest bruges travel guide for a perfect bruges on a budget trip for the first-timers.

Dubbed the “Venice of Nordic”, the city of Bruges (Brugge) tops the list of the most beautiful places in Belgium. Anyone who has ever been to Belgium must definitely visit this place that ‘In Brugge’ movie was filmed. Bruges has a romantic beauty with many mossy ancient bridges across on small canals and beautiful medieval European architecture. Bruges is a dream destination not only for couples but also for many solo travelers. Here you will see the signature beauty of Bruges in many beautiful and small ancient buildings, enjoy delicious food, walk or cycle through the alleys of the old town. So, is Bruges worth visiting and what to do in Bruges? Let’s check out our Bruges travel blog (Bruges blog, Brugge blog, Brugge travel blog) with the fullest Bruges travel guide (Bruges city guide, Bruges visitor guide, Brugge travel guide, Brugge city guide) for a perfect Bruges on a budget for the first time from best places to visit, top things to do, where to stay, what to eat… to find out the answer!

• Bruges 1 day itinerary — How to visit Bruges in a day & What to do in bruges in one day trip?
• What to eat in Belgium? — 23+ most popular, must try & best food in Belgium
• What to buy in Belgium? — 15+ best souvenirs from Belgium & best things to buy in Belgium
• Where to go in Brussels? — Top 12 must & best places to visit in Brussels
• Dancing House Hotel Prague review — Once experience the masterpiece of architecture of Prague

Bruges travel blog: Getting to and around Bruges

Means of transportation from major tourist cities in Belgium such as Brussels, Ghent to Bruges is extremely convenient. You can easily catch the train, bus or blablacar to getting here for just under EUR 10/way. Note that for young people under 26 years old when traveling by train will be discounted with GoPass only €6/way when traveling from anywhere in Belgium. If you go to Belgium from other cities, you can also take a plane, train or bus. I usually find deals on RyanAir and GoEuro, see more here .

• Ghent and Bruges Day Tour from Brussels

The best way to discover Bruges is to walking around the roads and alleys and visiting many chocolate shops everywhere. You can also rent a bicycle to cycle around, go to the nearby beach in the summer or further to the Northeast to explore the windmill fields. If you prefer to be more luxurious and romantic, you can take a boat along the canals of Bruges, passing the In Brugges filming spots located next to the beautiful, luxurious restaurants. Tourists in Bruges often go to these locations to take photos and check-in which are very crowded. Riding by horse-drawn carriage around the city is also an interesting experience.

• Bruges Day Tour from Brussels

Brugge travel blog: When is the best time to visit Bruges?

Bruges is always crowded with tourists, so you should avoid going to in June, July, August and Christmas (December) when traveling here. This is also true for other extremely hot tourist destinations in Europe such as Venice, Santorini, Pisa, … The good time to travel to Belgium is in the spring (March, April) when the climate has warmed, or in autumn (September, November) when the weather in Bruges is very beautiful. I came here at the end of November and throughout the city, especially in the evening, magically decorated for Christmas. At this time, tourists in Bruges are not too crowded, so you can enjoy all the magical atmosphere characteristic of Bruges, and also do not disturb the locals.

Bruges travel blog: Best places to visit, top things to do in Bruges

Bruges is a tiny city in the small Kingdom of Belgium, but there are countless things to do and experience here. The sights and attractions not to be missed are concentrated around Burg Square (City Hall, The Golden Palace of Justice, Brugse Vrije Museum, Basilica of the Holy Blood); and Grote Markt Central Square (Historium Bruges Museum, Belfry bell tower). Some of the other impressive attractions that only Bruges has are its beer museum and mossy old bridges.

Wandering in the old town

Or you don’t need to have a specific plan to go anywhere. You can wander here all day without getting bored, walking along the canal, watching the architectural works create a scene even more beautiful than a picture.

Burg Square

Burg Square is one of the most beautiful architectural places in Bruges, located right next to the central square. Visit the magnificent City Hall (free admission to the museum on the first floor), the Golden Palace of Justice next door (€ 4 for people under 26), Brugge Vrjie museum , Basilica of the Holy Blood (known as the place where Jesus’ blood is kept).

Grote Markt Central Square

Belfry bell tower is one of the tourist attractions in the square, because from here you can enjoy the panoramic view of the city of Bruges. However, the entry tickets are quite expensive and the view is not beautiful on bad weather. In front of the tower are two famous shops selling fries of the city, worth a try. Grote Markt is surrounded by many restaurants, and cafes with the price quite expensive, but in return, you can watch the flow of people crossing the square and the colorful old houses.

If you want to learn more about Belgian history, culture, art, you should visit the Historium Museum , the Groeninge Museum (art museum), Frietmuseum (potato fries museum), … If you like learning about the history of Bruges, you should go to Historium museum. There are three floors of interactive electronic exhibition showcasing the city from its inception, experiencing its golden age and long history to this day. Bruges was once one of the major ports – the largest trading center in Europe before. The city is also famous for its embroidery.

Joining free walking tour

Bruges is one of the most expensive cities in Belgium because it is the best tourist city in Belgium and locals mainly earn their income based on tourism services. In order to discover Belgium quickly and save the optimal cost, I joined in Can You Handle It walking tour. Tour itinerary: Old bridges – Queen Astrid Park – Old House – Fish Market – Burg Square – Chocolaterie de Burg – Grote Markt – food street of Sint Amandsstraat. When you join this tour, you immediately receive a 15-20% discount when you visit the Beer Museum and buy chocolates in Marleen shop (read more about Marleen below). This is one of the best of the dozens of free walking tours I’ve ever experienced. This tour also departs in other major tourist cities in Germany and Belgium (Ghent, Cologne, Stuttgart). In Cologne, I also took this tour and still stay in touch with my guide who is very cute. See details here: http://cyhitours.com

Brugge travel blog: Where to stay in Bruges?

Bruges is one of the cities attract the largest number of tourists of Belgium. Therefore, even the cost of a hostel or guesthouse in this city is extremely expensive compared to the average price of the region. Couch-surfing and AirBnB are also always full during the peak tourist season (June to August – a time when it is estimated that the number of tourists is greater than the locals here). Some of the hostels I’ve used to stay at an affordable price, nice bars and very good atmosphere are St Christopher’s Inn Hostel at The Bauhaus and Charlie Rockets . From Charlie Rockets, you can also take a free walking tour around the city that departs several times a week.

Charlie Rockets Youth Hostel : Formerly the largest cinema in Bruges, Charlie Rockets is now one of the best hostels in Bruges decorated in an impressive vintage style (wallpaper newspaper, European-style chandelier, live music stage, …). In the lobby, there is a magnificent bar, a billiard room with 5 large tables, inside of all 19 rooms equivalent to 76 beds. Dorm bed price starts from € 18/night. The double room price is € 55/night, including breakfast. Choose stay here, you will be given a Bruges card to get ticket discounts at many attractions and restaurants around Bruges. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

St Christopher’s Inn Hostel at The Bauhaus : If you are a true backpacker that love Belgian beer, you should experience 1 night at Bauhaus. The hostel bar has over 25 Belgian beers, including the region’s rarest specialties such as Trappist and Brugge Rot. The location of this hostel is convenient for traveling. Although the building and lobby are somewhat ancient, the interior room is designed in a modern style, ensuring comfort. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

Botaniek Hotel , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $114/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $174/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Jan Brito , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $139/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel De Medici , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $147/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Grand Hotel Casselbergh Bruges , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $138/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Navarra Brugge , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $124/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Check out more top and best hotels in Bruges on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Bruges blog: What and where to eat in Bruges?

Although not as famous as France or Italy, but it would be a big mistake if you miss the opportunity to enjoy Belgian cuisine. In this small country, you will find a harmonious combination of French, German and Dutch cuisines.

Fastfood: The famous Belgian fast food is waffle (combined with a variety of creams and fruits, just looking will make you mouthwatering !) And chips (deep-fried in Belgian style, big and crunchy fries, served with ketchup or mayo).

Big meals: Definitely salty foods to try are moules, beer stew beef served with bread or chips and mustard (Carbonade Flamande) at ‘t Vagevuur restaurant (Address: Sint-Amandsstraat 23, 8000 Brugge, Belgium / Hours: 10:30AM–10PM) . I got a free glass of wine only with meal of EUR 15.

If you want to discover more about Belgian cuisine, you should avoid eating in the main square of Grote Markt because the restaurants here are extremely expensive. Another restaurant with cheap Western food is Pasta Presto (Address: Sint-Amandsstraat 17, 8000 Brugge, Belgium / Hours: 11:30AM–8:30PM; Monday, Sunday: Closed) that serving take-away fast food such as pizza, spaghetti, hamburger, …

Belgian chocolates: Belgian chocolates are plentiful, the best to buy is in chocolate shops but it is cheaper to buy in supermarkets, just buy the famous brands such as Côte d’or, Godiva or Neuhaus is OK.

In Bruges there is also a chocolate road (Chocolaterie de Burg). Here you can taste a dozens of different hand-made chocolates such as Choco Beer (chocolate filled with beer), Speculoos Cookies (chocolate biscuits), Florentine (dark chocolate or caramel-filled milk and almond specially made from Bruges), … I bought chocolate at the Marleen shop (Address: Burg 15, 8000 Brugge, Belgium) because of the affordable price, discount after take the walking tour and they even give me try it before I buy.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Bruges you can refer to

• Bruges Day Trip From Amsterdam
• Bruges Day Tour from Paris
• Highlights of Bruges 2-Hour Rickshaw Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Bruges: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Bruges 1 day itinerary — How to visit Bruges in a day & What to do in bruges in one day trip ? And Belgium guide here .

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