Is Bruges Worth Visiting? Things to Do and Reasons To Visit
ARE YOU WONDERING WHETHER THE CITY OF BRUGES IS WORTH VISITING? HERE’S WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW!
After spending three fantastic days meandering through the beautiful streets of Bruges in the fall, I can confidently say that Bruges is absolutely worth visiting. In fact, it was honestly my favorite of the Belgian towns we visited, and I’d argue that it’s a must-see destination if you’re headed to Belgium.
Bruges stunned me, if I’m being honest. I did not expect it to be as stunning as it was. Walking through the city was like stepping back in time, with its cobblestone streets, beautifully preserved architecture, and massive amount of historical landmarks and things to see. It’s no wonder that Bruges has earned the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage site status; every corner of the city holds something to explore.
What makes Bruges even more worth visiting is its convenient location. It’s the perfect place to call home base as you visit Belgium and then take exciting day trips to nearby cities like Brussels and Ghent. Bruges is even a pretty short trip from Amsterdam, so you can really see a lot if you’re in the area.
So, if you’re wondering whether Bruges is worth your time during your next jaunt to Europe, here are a few things that made it a place I would absolutely come back to:
Is Bruges Worth Visiting?
Yes! Bruges is absolutely worth a visit! Somehow, this beautiful town has managed to retain all of its character. And it has yet to sell out to the tourism that has overtaken so many of the magnificent European cities.
⭐ You’ll likely find people suggesting that Bruges be just a stop on your overall Belgium itinerary- a quick day trip.
But I’d actually argue that you should spend quite a bit of time in Bruges; I found it to be much more welcoming, charming, and interesting than other cities like Brussels.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Bruges?
Bruges is a fairytale destination year-round, but each season brings something special to the city. Whether you’re after blooming gardens, lively summer vibes, crisp autumn scenery, or cozy winter magic, there’s no wrong time to visit. Here’s what to expect in each season.
🌷 Spring
Spring is when Bruges starts waking up from its winter slumber. The weather gradually warms up, with temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) in March to a pleasant 17°C (63°F) in May.
The city’s parks and canals burst into color as tulips and daffodils bloom, making it the perfect time for a scenic boat tour. It’s also a quieter time before the summer crowds roll in.
If you visit in April, don’t miss the the Tour of Flanders, the cycling event which brings about all kinds of other activities during the festivities.
🌞 Summer
Summer brings long, sunny days and a lively atmosphere to Bruges. Expect temperatures between 18°C (64°F) and 25°C (77°F), making it ideal for strolling through Markt Square or enjoying a cold Belgian beer at an outdoor café.
The city is at its busiest, but for good reason—there’s a buzz in the air, and everything is in full swing.
July and August are packed with events like the Cactus Festival, an intimate music festival with indie and alternative vibes, as well as the Ma Festival, which fills the streets with free concerts and performances.
🍂 Autumn
If you love crisp air and golden leaves, autumn is a fantastic time to visit. Temperatures start around 19°C (66°F) in September and drop to 9°C (48°F) in November, making it sweater weather season.
The crowds thin out, and the canals take on a dreamy, misty quality that’s perfect for photographers. This is also the time to indulge in Belgian hot chocolate and hearty stews at a cozy café.
Don’t miss the famous Bruges Beer Festival in September, and in October, it also hosts the Kookeet Festival. It’s a must for food lovers, where top chefs serve up incredible dishes in an open-air setting.
❄ Winter
Bruges in winter is pure magic. With temperatures hovering between 2°C (36°F) and 7°C (45°F), it’s chilly but not unbearable—just bundle up and enjoy the festive charm.
The city’s Christmas markets light up in December, filling the streets with twinkling lights, mulled wine, and holiday cheer.
The Bruges Ice Sculpture Festival (if it’s running that year) is another winter highlight, showcasing incredible frozen art. January and February are much quieter, making it a great time to explore the city’s museums and medieval streets without the crowds.
Best Things to Do in Bruges
1. Take a Historical Walking Tour
Visiting Bruges is like traveling back in time. It’s one of those amazing places in Europe that has somehow managed to retain its original culture.
It does not feel like visiting a city- like New York City or Boston, for example- but rather like you’re really getting a chance to know and experience what Old Europe might have been like.
The entire town of Bruges is littered with places to stop and learn about history.
⭐ The best way to see Bruges is to take a walking tour of the city. This highly-rated tour will show you past all of the main sights including the Belfort, the Church of Our Lady, and the Gruuthusemuseum.
2. Take a Boat Tour to See the Canals
Bruges is known as the “Venice of the North” due to its large (and beautiful) network of canals. These waterways swirl through the heart of the city, creating a sense of timeless beauty and a kind of peacefulness that is difficult to put into words.
A boat trip around these canals is absolutely a must when visiting Bruges (you cannot leave without trying this!). It’s the perfect way to see some of the city’s most fantastic architecture from a different and unique perspective.
You’ve definitely seen photos of the famous canal in Bruges surrounded by historic buildings and an almost glass-like water…that’s Rosary Quay. A boat tour in Bruges will take you right past the Rosary Quay for some prime picture-taking opportunities.
These guided canal tours include narrated history, stories, and facts about the city. You’ll feel like you’ve slipped into your favorite book as you glide past historic buildings and under stone bridges.
There are a few options for departure points on your Bruges canal tour, but all of the tours cost 8 Euros, follow the same route, and take about 30 minutes.
Take one of these public ones in the morning for smaller crowds, or opt for a private sunset canal tour in the evening if you’re looking for a romantic setting!
3. Visit a Museum: Art and Culture
Bruges is filled to the brim with plenty of places to experience art and culture all around.
The city is home to many famous pieces of art, including the masterpiece “Madonna and Child,” a work of art created by none other than Michelangelo himself. Standing in front of this magnificent piece in The Church of Our Lady is a breathtaking experience that alone makes the trip worthwhile.
BUT, the art doesn’t stop there! Bruges boasts museums like the Groeningemuseum and St. John’s Hospital, which are both home to famous collections of Flemish art. The Groeningemuseum, in particular, is extremely well-regarded among art enthusiasts. It features works by Flemish masters like Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch.
Even if you’re not an art person, persay (I’m certainly not!), these paintings are still worth seeing.
4. Explore Burg Square
Burg Square is one of the most well-known squares and is located right in the heart of Bruges. As soon as I walked into the center of the square, I was in awe. You immediately feel dwarfed by the beautiful medieval and Gothic architecture that surrounds you on all sides.
The Stadhuis, or Town Hall, is one of the pieces of architecture that sits along De Burg (or Burg Square). It still stands from the 14th century!
The Basilica of the Holy Blood is another gem in Burg Square’s crown. This church is not only a place of worship, but a place to view one of the oldest relics of Christianity. Here, there is an artifact that claims to be a piece of cloth with Christ’s blood on it.
Take a visit to the church and see for yourself!
5. Visit Markt Square (Grote Markt)
Markt Square (Market Square) is one of my favorite spots in all of Bruges. It is the largest historic square in Brugge, and we spent almost every evening here during our visit!
More than anything, the square is grand- with historic buildings and gabled row homes that you couldn’t imagine in your wildest dreams.
Explore the magnificent Our Lady of Bruges church, with its massive, climbable Belfry tower that dates back to the 13th century. Or, take a (super touristy but still fun) horse-drawn carriage ride around the historic city center.
Markt Square is lined with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and stores for you to visit. Definitely grab a bite and a Belgian beer and sit in one of the many outdoor seating areas along the walkways. Even in Europe’s cold, winter months, heaters, blankets, and cozy chairs make this people-watching dinner spot a possibility!
Grote Markt Square is particularly stunning in the evenings and at Christmastime!
6. Go Up the Belfry Tower
The Belfry Tower, a medieval bell tower that has stood in Markt Square since the 1200s, is undoubtedly a must-see in Bruges if you want to see a panoramic view of the city!
But let me tell you- climbing the Belfry Tower is not an easy feat. I was sweating something fierce by the time I reached the top! And, yes, each step on the spiral staircase is absolutely a workout, but what waits at the end is worth it!
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of Bruges. The city spreads out before you, with its beautifully preserved old buildings and winding canals. You’ll have more appreciation for the city’s beauty and charm from this perspective, and you might even hear the carillon that is housed inside the tower.
Plus, you’ll be able to capture Instagram-worthy photographs and make memories that will last a lifetime.
7. Shop the Local Markets
Like many European cities, Bruges has its fair share of markets that pop up around town. I always make it a point to visit these, since I find it is a great way to immerse yourself more in something that is less touristy!
Bruges’ local markets are a fantastic way to get a real, local taste of Belgium. Here, you can peruse stalls, find unique gifts, and pick out some ridiculously fresh produce from some Belgian locals.
The Markt, which is of course located in Markt Square, dates back to the 1200s, and has always been a staple of Bruges. On Wednesday mornings, you can find fresh produce, delicious foods, and various other vendors.
If you’re visiting during the holiday season, you’ll also luck out with Belgian waffle stands and some mulled wine or cider!
If you’re a seafood lover, I highly recommend visiting the Vismarkt (Fish Market), which runs from Tuesday to Saturday. Savor the catch of the day or grab a few tapas as you relax. Even if you aren’t looking for something to cook up, it can be a unique experience to walk the stalls!
8. Go on a Day Trip to Brussels or Ghent
Bruges’ strategic and central location in Belgium makes it the perfect base for exploring nearby towns, and that alone is a great reason to visit.
Imagine waking up in Bruges, with its medieval charm and meandering canals, and then setting off to discover other Belgian cities like Brussels and Ghent.
By making Bruges your home base, you can simply take day trips to these nearby cities. Since Belgium is a relatively small country with an excellent rail network, it is a breeze to hop from one city to another. The main train station, Bruges Railway Station (Brugge Station) connects to pretty much anywhere.
In less than an hour, you can find yourself in the heart of Brussels, exploring grand squares or savoring its world-famous chocolate. Then, you can come back to the quieter streets of Bruges and have the best of both worlds in just a day!
9. Try the Belgian Beer
It’s no secret that Belgian beer is fantastic. And, of course, Bruges has plenty of it.
One of the highlights of a beer lover’s journey in Bruges is a visit to the historic De Halve Maan Brewery. This brewery walks you through the traditional Belgian beer-making process and provides an opportunity to try some of the most well-known beers the country has to offer.
Of course, De Halve Maan is just one of many beer destinations in Bruges. Throughout the city, you’ll find cozy pubs and bars that offer a wide variety of delicious Belgian beers. Try a few of the local Trappist ales or a unique and fruity lambic!
⭐Take a guided beer walk in the city, where you’ll try various Belgian beers, and visit the Bruges Beer Museum as you learn about this piece of history!
10. Eat a Belgian Waffle
If you’re in Bruges, you cannot leave without trying one of the (very) famous Belgian waffles- especially if you have a sweet tooth!
The Belgian waffles you’ll encounter in Bruges are to die for! Whether you prefer your waffles topped with fresh fruit, dollops of whipped cream, or fresh Belgian chocolate drizzles…there’s something for everyone.
As you walk around Old Town Bruges, you’ll undoubtedly run into street vendors selling waffles all over. The scent of freshly baked waffles drifting through the air will lead you right to them.
I recommend stopping to try a few different ones!
11. Gorge on Belgian Chocolate
It’s not a secret that Belgium is famous for its chocolate. The country has been perfecting chocolate-making for as long as anyone can remember.
Thankfully, there are chocolate shops littered all over Belgium, and Bruges is no exception. You’ll find them on basically every corner, with pralines, truffles, chocolate bars, and a million other treats tempting you from the shop windows.
Look, I’m not even a “chocolate person” (I know, horrible, right?), but the quality of Belgian chocolate is amazing…even I can admit it.
But what sets Belgian chocolate apart is not just its taste, but also the way that chocolate-making has become an art in Belgium.
Many chocolatiers in Bruges have been perfecting their craft for generations, and their creations are nothing short of delectable pieces of art. So, make sure to pick up a box of chocolates as a souvenir or indulge in a hot cup of Belgian hot chocolate!
Where to Stay in Bruges
Bruges has some seriously charming places to stay, and you’ll find budget-friendly spots, cozy mid-range hotels, and full-on luxury. Here are some great options, no matter what your budget looks like.
Budget Stays
💰 St. Christopher’s Inn Hostel – If you’re backpacking or just looking for a fun, social vibe, this hostel is a solid choice. It’s affordable, has a bar on-site, and is just a short walk from the city center. Plus, you’ll meet plenty of fellow travelers over Belgian beers!
💰 Hotel Bla Bla – Despite the funny name, this little boutique-style budget hotel is a fantastic find. It’s right in the heart of the city, the rooms are simple but stylish, and it won’t break the bank.
Mid-Range Stays
🏡 Hotel Ter Brughe – If you love that old-world charm, this canal-side hotel is perfect. It’s got cozy, historic vibes, a breakfast room in a vaulted cellar (how cool is that?), and it’s just a short stroll to Markt Square.
🏡 Hotel Navarra Brugge – A great mix of history and modern comfort, this place is set in a gorgeous 17th-century mansion. It even has a pool and sauna—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Luxury Stays
✨ Hotel Dukes’ Palace Brugge – If you want to feel like royalty, this is the place to stay. It’s set in a former ducal palace (yes, a literal palace), with stunning gardens, an elegant spa, and some seriously fancy rooms.
✨ Hotel De Tuilerieën – Right on one of Bruges’ prettiest canals, this hotel is all about boutique luxury. Think unique, stylish rooms, personalized service, and major romantic vibes—perfect for a special getaway.
Where to Eat in Bruges
1. De Jonkman
For a special treat, head to De Jonkman, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by Chef Filip Claeys. Known for its innovative Belgian cuisine, this spot offers a memorable dining experience.
2. Bistro Bruut
If you’re into modern Belgian dishes with a twist, Bistro Bruut is a must-visit. Their seasonal menu showcases local ingredients, and the cozy atmosphere adds to the charm.
3. Le Chef et Moi
For a romantic dinner by the canal, Le Chef et Moi offers classic French cuisine with Flemish influences. Guests rave about their shrimp croquettes and Flemish beef stew.
4. Nomad
Looking for a great brunch or lunch spot? Nomad serves up delicious European dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Their Nomad Royale is a crowd favorite. christinaintheclouds.com
5. Atelier Flori
For vegan travelers, Atelier Flori offers a unique dining experience with their 14-dish sharing tray, highlighting seasonal, plant-based dishes.
Where to Drink in Bruges
1. Groot Vlaenderen
For a classy cocktail experience, Groot Vlaenderen is the place to be. Set in a beautifully restored building, this bar offers an extensive cocktail menu in a chic setting.
2. ‘t Brugs Beertje
Beer enthusiasts will love ‘t Brugs Beertje, boasting over 300 Belgian beers. The cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a must-visit.
3. Le Trappiste
Set in a 13th-century cellar, Le Trappiste offers a unique ambiance to enjoy a wide selection of Belgian beers. The historic setting adds to the charm.
4. Bar Ran
For artisanal cocktails in a cozy setting, Bar Ran is a top choice. Known for its creative drinks and intimate atmosphere, it’s a great spot to unwind.
5. Salon Lapin
Located in a charming little castle along the city’s medieval rampart, Salon Lapin is a fancy lounge and apero bar. It’s a pleasant place to enjoy fantastic cocktails in a quiet, green surrounding.
FAQ: Is Bruges Worth Visiting?
Here are some questions you might have about your trip to Bruges and what makes this destination an absolute must-visit!
Is It Better to Go to Brussels or Bruges?
The choice between Brussels and Bruges is one that many people struggle with. Overall, I would recommend visiting Bruges over Brussels.
My heart couldn’t help but be won over by Bruges. It was honestly like stepping into an old fairy tale village. Everything had character- the people, the food, the buildings. I could not get enough of it.
In contrast, Brussels was basically just another bustling city, somewhat similar to the streets of New York City. Sure, there was some great architecture there- beautiful buildings, some decent food…but it didn’t feel like I was in another country. It just felt like a city.
However, keep in mind that the choice actually depends on your specific preferences; if you’re into old historic towns and a more relaxed getaway, Bruges is definitely where you want to be. But if you crave the thrill of city life and busy streets, you might love Brussels!
You can even consider experiencing the best of both worlds by exploring both cities during your time in Belgium, since they are so close to each other!
How Many Days Do You Need in Bruges?
To truly soak in the beautiful, old-world atmosphere and explore Bruges’ Old Town streets to their fullest, stay at least two days in Bruges.
With just one day, you can get a glimpse of Bruges’ highlights, including the Belfry Tower and Burg Square, along with trying Belgian waffles and chocolates. But extending your visit to two days allows you to better understand the city’s culture, with visits to museums like the Groeningemuseum and a leisurely canal tour.
What is So Special About Bruges?
Bruges is magical. You can wind your way around its streets, alleyways, and canals for what seems like forever. And you’ll always encounter something new.
Bruges is also one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in existence. It is truly an Old Town in Europe, and you’ll feel that history in every corner of the city. It’s the perfect place to walk around and get lost during your next trip!
How Do You Get Around Bruges?
Bruges is one of those European cities where you’ll want to walk as much as possible! The local train station is pretty centrally located, and while you may want to initially take a taxi or an Uber to your hotel, there’s not much need for transportation following that.
You’ll definitely want to stay within the city limits of Old Town Bruges, but if you do that, you won’t need a car or anything. You’ll be able to walk just about everywhere!
Final Thoughts: Is Bruges REALLY Worth Visiting?
Now that you’ve got all the reasons to make Bruges your next travel destination, it’s time to get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Get ready for a trip that feels straight out of a fairy tale, with its medieval atmosphere, stunning canals, and, of course, delicious food.
Bruges is honestly just a one-of-a-kind place. It was some sort of magic, being able to sip on some hot mulled wine and walk around the city in the evening…I felt like a local!
Even if it’s not somewhere you’ll be spending a ton of time, Bruges is absolutely worth visiting!
