2025 Bruges Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

Bruges (Bruges) ~ Belgium ~ 🇧🇪 The old town, registered as a World Heritage Site under the name 'Historic Centre of Brugge', is truly a fairy tale land. In this historic district, medieval buildings such as the town hall, museums, and churches remain in their original form, and just strolling along the cobblestone paths makes you feel like the protagonist of a movie! There are also a plethora of enchanting activities, such as a canal cruise to experience the 'City of Water', a view of the entire city from the 83-meter-high belfry, the beer experience at the town hall, a horse-drawn carriage ride in Markt Square, a tour of the over 200 chocolate shops, and antique hunting. And one of the pleasures is tasting the 'Brussels Waffle', which is different from the famous 'Liège Waffle' in Japan. The crispy waffle topped with fruits and cream on a mildly sweet dough will undoubtedly be an impressive gourmet experience 🧇 📍Location: Markt, 8000 Brugge, Belgium 🚃 About 1 hour by train from the capital Brussels, and about 1.5 hours from the second city Antwerp. ✍️ A separate introduction will be provided for the 'Canal Cruise', which offers a different view from walking.

#europetrip Brugge, often called the “Venice of the North,” is a captivating city in Belgium that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Its cobblestone streets, winding canals, and medieval architecture create a magical atmosphere. Highlights include the iconic Belfry Tower, the serene Minnewater Park, and the charming Markt Square. Brugge is a haven for art lovers with its museums showcasing Flemish masterpieces. The city is also renowned for its chocolate, waffles, and local beers, offering a true taste of Belgium. Whether wandering through its quaint alleys or enjoying a canal cruise, Brugge enchants visitors with its timeless beauty and charm.

It was a trip to Bruges, Belgium. We visited many places such as Market Square. The heart of Bruges, Markt Square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Belfry of Bruges. The square has been a central marketplace since 958. 📍Markt, 8000 Bruges, Belgium. We climbed the to Belfry of Bruges for panoramic views, admired the Provincial Court, and explored the surrounding streets filled with shops and cafes. 💰€14 for the Belfry We also visited the Basilica of the Holy Blood. A 12th-century chapel that houses a venerated relic, believed to be the blood of Jesus Christ. We admired the architecture, and see the relic of the Holy Blood. 📍Burg 13, 8000 Bruges, Belgium. 💰Free to enter, but donations are appreciated. We then had lunch at “Den Dyver”. They serve mainly Belgian Cuisine. We ordered Flemish beef stew (Carbonnade Flamande), mussels with fries, Waterzooi (a creamy fish), and Belgian waffles for dessert 🧇 📍Dijver 5, 8000 Bruges, Belgium. 💰€20-€35 per main course. We then explored The Beguinage (Begijnhof). It was founded in the 13th century, this peaceful enclave was home to a religious community of women. It's now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We walked around the serene courtyard, visited the museum, and enjoyed the tranquility. 📍Wijngaardstraat, 8000 Bruges, Belgium. We also stopped by the Groeninge museum. This museum houses a fine collection of Flemish and Belgian paintings, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling. We discovered Flemish Primitive art and other collections from the 18th to 21st centuries. 📍Dijver 12, 8000 Bruges, Belgium. 💰€12 for adults. Last but not least, I would alsp recommend you to check out tge restaurant, De Halve Maan Brewery. We tried out the house specialties like Flemish Beer Sauce pair with local beers such as Brugse Zot. 📍Walplein 26, 8000 Bruges, Belgium. 💰 €15-€30 per main course. #europetrip #vacation #trip

💖Highlight 📝Here is the travel guide for Bruges, Belgium ❣️Save it quickly ⛲️Travel guide for Bruges, Belgium ✨️Basilica of the Holy Blood A Roman Catholic basilica built in the 12th century It houses the relic of the Holy Blood collected by Joseph of Arimathea and was elevated to the status of a minor basilica in 1923. ✨️Belfry of Bruges Located in the Market Square in the center of Bruges, it is a medieval bell tower built between the 13th and 15th centuries It is the most prominent landmark of Bruges. The belfry was once used to store treasures and municipal archives, and to observe fires and other dangers. ✨️Bruges Train Station Bruges Central Train Station is about a 10-minute walk from the city center There are buses and taxis outside the station, making it very convenient to travel to other districts. ✨️Memling Museum Located in the oldest surviving medieval hospital in Europe The museum recreates daily life in the hospital through collections of paintings, sculptures, furniture, and decorative arts The museum houses several outstanding 15th-century paintings and the Shrine of St. Ursula, all works by Memling. ✨️Lake of Love Located in a long canal lake in the southern part of Bruges, it is used to control the water flow of Bruges. Love at First Sight Bridge: Located on the east side of the Church of Our Lady, it is said that when you step on this bridge, the first person of the opposite sex you meet will fall in love with you at first sight.

🌎Bruges is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Its architectural style, canal network and unique atmosphere make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Belgium. When you come to Bruges, you might as well stroll around the beautiful city center square and enjoy the magnificent view of the Bruges Bell Tower; drive along the ancient buildings, stone bridges and windmills on both sides of the river bank to feel the tranquility and romance. In addition, you can also drive into the countryside around Bruges to explore the beautiful countryside and taste local food and beer in country taverns. Let’s explore the city freely with Chechejun and start an exciting self-driving trip to Bruges! 🌼Daily schedule DAY1: Bruges Provincial Palace - Bruges Belfry - Bruges Library - Basilica of the Holy Blood DAY2: Lake of Love-Groninger Museum-Royal Beguinage in the Vineyard-Cactus Muziekcentrum vzw DAY3: Beer Museum-Crossgate-Canal Mill-Water Sports Activity Center (Sint-Pietersplas)-Entrepot 🌸The self-driving mileage is about 25 kilometers, and the recommended travel time is 2-3 days. It is suitable for tourists who like humanities and history. 💖Overview of attractions ✔️Bruges Bell Tower: Located on the Market Square in the center of the city, it is one of the famous landmarks of the small town. If you want to reach the top of the bell tower, you need to go through 366 narrow and steep steps. There is also a carillon with 47 bells on the bell tower, which will sound melodious every 15 minutes. After climbing to the top, you can overlook the scenery of Bruges and take in the beauty of the beautiful waterside town of Bruges. ✔️Lake of Love: Located in the south of Bruges, the park has a very beautiful environment, and the idyllic scenery also adds to the beauty of Bruges. There are many elegant white swans in the lake, so it is also called "Swan Lake". There is a place where you can rent bicycles in the park. Renting a bicycle and going around the lake will definitely make you feel relaxed and intoxicated by the charming scenery. ✔️Beer Museum: Located in the center of Bruges, it is a historically famous beer workshop. The museum has dedicated staff to explain the beer making process and history. There are also tens of thousands of beers on display in the museum, the more delicious ones are cherry and raspberry flavors. There is also a souvenir shop in the museum selling a variety of beers. #trip # Self-driving # Car rental # Self-driving tour

#Overseas travel Martens Releis is a charming hotel in Bruges, Belgium. My stay there was wonderful. The hotel combines historical beauty with modern comfort. The rooms are elegant and well-appointed. The hotel is close to the picturesque canals and the central market square, making it easy and enjoyable to get around. I enjoyed relaxing with a great view and tasting delicious food at the local restaurant. I visited Bruges’ landmarks such as the Bourgès Tower and the Basilica of St. Salvatore and enjoyed walking through the narrow streets and old buildings. My experience at Martins Reley was memorable and I recommend it to anyone visiting Bruges.

Bruges is a bewitching city in Belgium that is renowned for its medieval architecture, flagstone streets, and waterways. It is a popular tourist destination and has been dubbed the "Venice of the North." The city center of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is replete with historical landmarks, such as the Church of Our Lady, the Belfry, and the Markt (market square). There are also many museums and art galleries in Bruges, as well as a lively nightlife scene. If you are seeking a romantic escape, Bruges is a superb option. The city is also a popular destination for foodies, with many outstanding restaurants serving traditional Belgian cuisine.

#timetotravel #bruges #trip Bruges is easily accessible from Brussels and is small enough to see in a weekend but enchanting enough to linger in. Add in traditional restaurants serving Belgian beer, a handful of museums and tempting chocolate shops and it’s clear why the city has a special appeal. If you set out to design a fairy-tale medieval town, it would be hard to improve on Bruges, 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.

A visit to Bruges (Brügge) is an enchanting journey into Belgium's past. With its picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets, the city exudes timeless charm. Quaint squares, like the Markt, showcase stunning buildings and bustling markets. Whether you're taking a boat ride along the canals or admiring the intricate details of the Belfry tower, Bruges offers a captivating blend of history and beauty that makes it a must-visit destination in Belgium.

There are three major tourist cities in Belgium: the international Brussels, the quaint Bruges, and Ghent, which is close to the lives of residents. If you want to learn more about the history of Belgium and its roots in Europe as a whole, you might want to visit Bruges, which has been famous for its canals since the 12th century. The roads, houses and canals here are close to the medieval appearance. However, due to the siltation of the canal, this canal city gradually declined and lost its status as a trade center, but fortunately it also avoided the German artillery fire during World War II💥 and successfully presented the appearance of the old city to everyone. The Belfry of Bruges can be climbed by stairs. You can overlook the panoramic view of Bruges while looking up at how the giant hanging bell produces pleasant bell sounds through a series of mechanical operations. Within a ten-minute walk, you can also visit the Bruges City Hall to clearly understand the rise and fall of the city of Bruges, and go to the Grand Place in Brussels to admire the historical buildings while tasting the famous mussels in the restaurant. You can also go to the Rose Pier to board a boat to travel between the canals, and go to the Lake of Love to enjoy the beautiful lake view. There is a sad story behind the lake view. If you are interested in visiting Bruges, you may wish to explore it☺️ #Belgium #Bruges#Historical Buildings

Bruges is one of the famous destination in Belgium and this place is as known as another Venice of Belgium! In here, the city is surrounded by the river and the historical buildings. The view in here is spectacular and you can see the reflection with the building and the river. Moreover, Belfry tower is one of the highest building in Bruges and you can easily see it from far away from the Bruges station. The sunset is beautiful in Oostende beach and listening to the sea wave is the best way to close the journey. #awesomepic #awesomepic #belgium

A waffle shop in the center of Bruges, Belgium. It is not difficult to find people queuing outside the shop for a long time. The waffles are made immediately after payment is collected. They are not only hot, but also crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They taste great when paired with chocolate sauce. If you are visiting Bruges for a day, I suggest you come and try it! Note⚠️No cash accepted! Address: Chez Albert Breidelstraat 16 , 8000 Brugge #Belgium #BelgianFood #Bruges #waffle

A stunning piece of European culture, beauty, and history. Be sure to visit both the ground level and the first floor; they are both interesting and impressive in their own distinctive and different ways. In the church on the first floor, you can see a vial holding a piece of cloth with the blood of Jesus Christ on it. Free to visit the church, small fee to visit the treasure room. I didn’t do the latter so I can’t comment on that part. #valentinescape #awesomepic

When planning a trip to Belgium, getting beyond historic Brussels is a good idea, if time allows. Even people who know very little about visiting Belgium can probably tell you that this city near the North Sea coast is reported to be one of the most charming places in Europe. Like the pastel-hued half-timbered houses of Colmar, France, and the picturesque walled city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, Bruges is accurately known as a place that looks like it was pulled from the pages of a fairy tale. While there are lots of fun things to do in Bruges, the city itself is the main attraction. There’s just so much to see.

Belgium chocolate - sounds familiar? That's where I first know about this city. I began to research what's the place offer. As expected, it's a beautiful city. Being reminded of Scotland where there's castle, museum, and many beautiful place. It was sunny and sun shine brightly. Walking around the city to capture this beautiful moment. Although it may be very tiring to walk around because the area is too huge to explore by legs, but the beauty around covers my tiredness. You should visit and explore Belgium especially Bruges. #exploreeurope #belgium #triptoeurope #europe #castle #historicalsites

Belgium is the country of chocolate. 🎉There is a chocolate museum called "Choco-Story" in Bruges, which allows everyone to learn about the history and production of chocolate. It also displays past chocolate utensils, gift boxes, posters, etc. wait. 🎉Every chocolate fan, don’t miss it! #外游 #Belgium #goout #goout

#tripaway what an enchanting city is Bruges in Belgium! it’s streets and buildings are like taken from a fairytale or a movie! the food you find there, specially in the downtown is so delicious! it’s just like 1 hour by train from Brussels #tripaway

Bruges, is located in the West Flanders area of northern Belgium. it is not a well traveled tourist area, but is a lovely little city. This belfry was built in the 13th century and when decorated for Christmas the town square is so pretty. #happynewyear #happynewyear

Bruges is a romantic city, famous for its canal and of course waffle as we are in Belgium!!! Walk around the old part of the city, get a hotel in it too, and climb the tower to get the amazing view. #happynewyear #Bruges #happynewyear

👋Today I will take you to the medieval fairytale town - Bruges, to experience a classic and hilarious journey! 🏰 First stop: Bellevue Castle🏰, standing on the city wall, I felt like I was traveling through time and space. Then stroll along the old canal and ride a vintage Gondola🚣♀️, feeling the breeze. At lunch time, I checked in at the super famous "Old Market" seafood restaurant 🦞. The freshness and deliciousness were praised by everyone. In the evening, don’t forget to feed the ducks at the Lake of Love! 🦆👩👧👦 Bruges is even more charming under the night sky. Walking on the cobblestone road, every step echoes the history! 📸 This trip to Bruges was full of laughter and surprises. If you also want to go on a spontaneous and fun trip, remember to follow me! 😘For more interesting things, see the homepage! ✨ #Bruges Travel Guide #Funny Moments During Travel #Medieval Fairy Tale Town #Bellevue Castle Adventure #Old Canal Cruise Fun #Happy Time on the Lake of Love #belgium #bruges #brugge #Bruges

#favouriteitinerary Step into the charming streets of Bruges, where medieval architecture, scenic canals, and rich history create an unforgettable experience. Start at the Markt Square, the heart of the city, surrounded by colorful guild houses and the towering Belfry of Bruges. Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the historic rooftops and winding canals. Wander through the quaint cobblestone streets to the Church of Our Lady, home to Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child, a rare masterpiece outside Italy. Then, take a peaceful stroll along the Rozenhoedkaai, Bruges’ most picturesque canal, perfect for capturing postcard-worthy photos. Indulge in Belgian chocolates, waffles, and local beer at a cozy café before ending the day with a serene canal boat ride, offering a unique perspective of this enchanting medieval city.

💞Reasons to Recommend: Visited Bruges Christmas Market. Travelled from Dunkirk using the £39 return deal from Dover on the ferry. A small Christmas Market but a great vibe with great food, drink and gifts. #travel #ferry #belgium #bruges #christmas #market #EDT #thingstodo #citydaytours

#favouriteitinerary Out of all the amazing places I’ve visited in Europe, Bruges has a special place in my heart. This charming medieval town is like stepping into a fairytale with its cobblestone streets, serene canals, and stunning architecture. If you’re looking for the ultimate itinerary for a day in Bruges, here’s how I’d recommend spending your time in this picturesque gem of Belgium: 🏰 Morning: Exploring the Historic Heart Start your day in Markt Square, the vibrant centre of Bruges. The towering Belfry of Bruges is the perfect first stop—climb the 366 steps for a stunning panoramic view of the city. From here, you can stroll around and admire the colorful guild houses that line the square, each one more charming than the last. Make sure to visit Burg Square, where you’ll find Basilica of the Holy Blood, a beautiful church that houses a relic said to be the blood of Christ. The mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture around this square is just mesmerizing! 🚶♂️ Afternoon: Canal Cruise and Hidden Gems The best way to experience Bruges’ magic is by hopping on a canal boat tour. As you drift through the peaceful waterways, you’ll be able to admire the medieval buildings reflected on the water—an experience that’s almost too beautiful to describe! Afterward, wander through the quieter parts of the city. I love strolling along the Lange Rei canal and getting lost in the peaceful streets that feel frozen in time. Take a detour to Rozenhoedkaai, one of the most photographed spots in Bruges, for a picture-perfect view of the canals and historic architecture. 🍺 Late Afternoon: Belgian Delights No visit to Bruges is complete without indulging in some delicious Belgian food. Grab a warm Belgian waffle topped with whipped cream and strawberries for a sweet treat, or opt for some crispy Belgian fries served with mayo. If you’re a fan of beer, try a glass of local Brugse Zot at one of the cozy cafés along the canals. 🌅 Evening: Sunset and Tranquility End your day with a peaceful walk through Minnewater Park (the “Lake of Love”). The park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the town, and the view of the lake at sunset is simply magical. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on the beauty of Bruges and all the memories you’ve made during the day. 💡 Why Bruges is My Favourite Itinerary: ✔️ Unmatched charm—every corner feels like it’s out of a storybook. ✔️ Rich history—you can explore centuries of architecture and culture. ✔️ Picturesque canals that give Bruges its signature, fairytale atmosphere. ✔️ Delicious food—from waffles to fries and local beer, Bruges has it all. Bruges is my go-to destination whenever I want a perfect mix of history, beauty, and relaxation. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or photography enthusiast, Bruges offers something for everyone. I can’t recommend this place enough! 💙🏰✨ #Bruges #Belgium #MyFavouriteItinerary #TravelDiaries #FairytaleTown #ExploreBruges #TravelGoals

#solotrip One of the highlights of my solo trip to Belgium was, without a doubt, the Belgian waffles! As I wandered through the picturesque streets of Brussels and Bruges, I couldn't resist stopping at every waffle stand I passed—each offering a tempting array of sweet and savory options. 🧇 The Classic Belgian Waffle First up, I tried the famous Brussels waffle, which is light, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. Topped with powdered sugar, it was the perfect treat to enjoy while strolling around the Grand Place in Brussels. The sweetness was just right, and the texture—crispy yet fluffy—was like nothing I’d ever tasted before. 🍫 Decadent Toppings Galore In Bruges, I indulged in a Liège waffle, which is richer and sweeter, made with a caramelized sugar coating that gives it a unique, crunchy exterior. I topped it with fresh whipped cream, strawberries, and a drizzle of Belgian chocolate. Every bite was a heavenly mix of textures—crispy, creamy, and fruity. It was pure indulgence and totally worth the calories! 🍓 The Ultimate Solo Treat One of the things I love about solo travel is the freedom to treat yourself to little pleasures without any rush. Savoring a freshly made waffle while sitting on a park bench or by the canal was the perfect way to take a break and appreciate the moment. It’s the little things, like enjoying a warm waffle in a beautiful setting, that make solo travel so special. 💡 Tips for Enjoying Belgian Waffles: ✔️ Don’t be afraid to try both the Brussels and Liège waffles—each has its own charm. ✔️ Pair your waffle with a cup of rich Belgian hot chocolate for the ultimate treat. ✔️ Don’t forget to explore local waffle shops—they often have unique toppings you won’t find elsewhere. ✔️ Enjoy your waffle slowly, savoring each bite, especially when in a scenic spot like Grand Place or the canals of Bruges. Waffles became my go-to snack throughout my journey—whether I was exploring ancient town streets or relaxing by the canals. I’m already dreaming of my next waffle adventure in Belgium! 🧇💛 #Belgium #Waffles #SoloTravel #Brussels #Bruges #FoodieDiaries #TravelEats

#ancienttownvibes If you’re ever in Belgium, Bruges is a must-visit for a perfect day trip! Just an hour from Brussels by train, this medieval town feels like a fairytale frozen in time—cobblestone streets, dreamy canals, and stunning historic buildings at every turn. 🚶♂️ Morning: Exploring the Historic Heart The best way to start the day in Bruges? Get lost! Wandering through the Markt Square, I was greeted by the sight of colorful guild houses and the towering Belfry of Bruges. The climb up the 366 steps was totally worth it for panoramic views of the city! 📍 Burg Square – A stunning mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, home to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, where a relic said to contain Christ’s blood is kept. 📍 Rozenhoedkaai (Quay of the Rosary) – The most photogenic spot in Bruges! The reflections of medieval buildings on the canal made for postcard-perfect views. 🛶 Afternoon: Canal Boat Ride & Belgian Delights No trip to Bruges is complete without a canal boat ride! Gliding through the narrow waterways, I soaked in the peaceful vibes and admired the historic bridges and charming brick houses. After that, it was time to indulge in some Belgian treats: 🧇 Warm Belgian Waffles dusted with sugar 🍟 Crispy fries with mayo (yes, it’s a must-try!) 🍺 A glass of Brugse Zot, a local beer brewed right in town 🌅 Evening: Windmills & A Sunset Walk Before heading back to Brussels, I took a quiet walk along the Lange Rei canal and visited the windmills at Kruisvest—a peaceful spot to end the day. As the sun set, Bruges looked even more magical, with its old-world charm glowing under the evening lights. 💡 Why Bruges Feels Like an Ancient Town: ✔️ Well-preserved medieval buildings & cobbled streets ✔️ A rich history dating back to the Middle Ages ✔️ Horse-drawn carriages & boats instead of modern cars ✔️ A peaceful, fairytale-like atmosphere Bruges is one of the most beautiful and enchanting towns I’ve ever visited. Whether you're a history lover, foodie, or just looking for a scenic escape, this town will steal your heart. Can’t wait to visit again! 💙🏰

Stepping into Bruges feels like traveling back in time. This UNESCO-listed medieval town, often called the “Venice of the North,” is one of the best-preserved historic cities in Europe, known for its cobblestone streets, serene canals, and Gothic architecture. Once a thriving center of trade in the Middle Ages, Bruges’ wealth is still reflected in its stunning guild houses, churches, and market squares. At the heart of the city is the Markt Square, dominated by the Belfry of Bruges, a 13th-century bell tower offering breathtaking panoramic views from its 366-step climb. Just a short walk away, the Basilica of the Holy Blood houses a revered relic believed to contain drops of Christ’s blood. The city’s canals, lined with charming medieval buildings, invite visitors to explore Bruges by boat, revealing hidden courtyards and ivy-clad bridges. Bruges is also famous for its chocolate, waffles, and beer. Visitors can sample artisanal chocolates from historic chocolatiers, indulge in Belgian waffles at a street café, or visit the De Halve Maan Brewery, where beer has been brewed for centuries. For art lovers, the Groeningemuseum showcases Flemish Primitive paintings, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling. Whether wandering through the Beguinage, a tranquil convent garden, or admiring the swans gliding along the canals, Bruges captures the essence of a romantic medieval town. Its blend of history, charm, and fairytale-like beauty makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking a glimpse into Europe’s medieval past. #ancienttownvibes

#europetravel The Markt and the historical city center in Bruges are the absolute highlights for a day trip from Brussels! The colorful medieval buildings surrounding the Markt square are simply STUNNING, especially the iconic Belfry tower with the gabled walls! The streets around the Markt are best for photography. The lively market stalls offered everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, making it a great spot to pick up some souvenirs. After exploring, I took a leisurely walk just oaking in the beautiful views. The whole experience felt like stepping back in time, and I left with a heart full of memories. Bruges is truly magical!

#europetravel The Church of Our Lady in Bruges is a stunning gem! The tall brick tower, reaching 122 meters, immediately caught my eye. It is a must-see! When I got there, the tall tower stood out against the sky, making it hard to miss. Inside, it was even MORE impressive. The artwork is stunning, especially the Madonna and Child by Michelangelo. I loved the peaceful vibe inside, with the soft light coming through the stained glass. The details in the architecture were amazing, and I found myself just wandering around, soaking it all in. There are also some cool chapels with their own unique art. If you're in Bruges, definitely check it out! The surrounding streets are also nice to walk around and photoshoot. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Bruges!