BRUGES TRAVEL GUIDE

Bruges, Belgium is a beautiful medieval city, with historic canals, Gothic architecture, and is World Heritage city. Yes, you read that correctly- the entire historic city has been included as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Set right out of a fairy tale in the middle ages. Bruges is one of Belgium’s most beautiful and best preserved cities that is  also known for its beer, lace and chocolate.

When planning our vacation, we considered spending most of our time in Brussels, but redirected to spend a good amount of time in Bruges. (and I am so happy we did!) We ended up spending three days, and for such a small city, we saw multiple waves of crowds come just to visit for a few hours.

The intentional decision was to help us slow down during travel, and enjoy the fairy tale a little longer. This is one of the best cities to let yourself explore. Sometimes it is important to just skip the typical tourist sites, and spend your days wondering the picturesque streets.

MUST SEE

• THE MARKT

  A historic trading center, The Market Square remains the heart of Bruges since 958! This main plaza is the best place to begin your adventures.  

• BELFRY (Belfort)

  One of the most iconic structures in Bruges is its belfry. Visitors can climb 366 steps to the top of the tower to get some commanding views of the city. Over seven centuries, the halls and belfry have been continuously restored, renovated and refurbished. This imposing structure symbolizes the wealth and success, and above all a free mercantile city of Bruges. I recommend starting your day with the climb to try and skip longer lines.

• BURG SQUARE and the CITY HALL (Stadhuis)

  The square is one of the earliest inhabited place of the city, and continues to tell the history of Bruges. The square also includes the Basilica of Holy Blood, with its combination of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

• WINDMILLS

  Situated on the north east ramparts of the city, along the canal see the four remaining historic windmills dating back to the 13th century.

• MINNEWATER (Lake of Love)

  Walk through the park and experience the lush greenery around the tranquil and serene lake. This is perfect spot to see flocks of Swans (a symbol of Bruges), and walk over St. Bonifacus Bridge, affectionately referred to as Lover’s Bridge located in the central part of the park.

  PRO TIP: This is a favorite for many visitors in Bruges. Go early in the day or later in the evening to avoid crowds and tourists.

• BEGIJNHOF

  Currently a Catholic Benedictine convent, the unique and modest white-painted homes create an architectural complex that take you to another world. Silent and peaceful, this space is a nice break from touristy Bruges.

ON MY NEXT VISIT

• Explore the St. John Hospital

• See Michelangelo’s sculpture at the Church of Our Lady in Bruges

EAT + DRINK

• FRIES

  Sample the famous Belgian staple! Flemish fries are an institution, typically served with a mayo sauce called ‘Andalouse’.

• WAFFLES

  Another Belgium must have: the Belgium Waffle. We tried Chez Albert, and went back the second day! The famous waffle stand tucked between Markt and Burg squares offers freshly baked waffles with classic toppings and a tiny Belgian Flag.

• CHOCOLATE

  With an abundance of chocolate shops, it will be hard to choose. Look for chocolate outside of the city center- for prices that are a little bit cheaper. We picked the notable Dumon Chocolatier.

• BEER

  • Bourgogne de Flandres : Explore the brewery with a tour, and sit out in the sunny terrace with a beer or two!

  • Pub de Halve Maan The oldest brewery in Bruges, try a traditional Bruges Zot!

ADDITIONAL FOOD RECOMMENDATIONS

Pomperlut, Minderbroedersstraat 26, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

A fantastic and intimate restaurant. The atmosphere, service and food was wonderful. It is a small and cosy space so if you are interested, I would encourage reservations.

't Gulden Vlies, Mallebergplaats 17, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

A traditional Belgian restaurant with classic cuisine with main courses such as Flemish beef stew.  

't Poatersgat, Vlamingstraat 82, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

A hidden but charming cellar bar, full of locals and a comfortable atmosphere.

SLEEP

We picked a charming Airbnb, to complete our fairy tale setting for our stay. Perfectly located within the city with easy walking distance from all the sites. The Airbnb looked out onto the photographic canal, and each morning you could see swans and boats floating by.

GETTING AROUND (Transportation)

• WALK

With the compact city center, Bruges is effortlessly explored by foot.

• BIKE

Rent a bike and cycle on the old city walls or Minnewater park.

• CANAL RIDE

A visit to Bruges is not complete without experiencing the city by boat. Pick up a ticket from Roezenhoedkaai (one of the most photographed locations in Bruges). Take the half hour boat ride through the city’s canals. While cliché, I highly recommend it. The canal tour allows you to float through the city, while listening (in multiple languages) about medieval architecture and the history of the iconic and notable sights of Bruges!

Bruges is a present day fairy tale to all visitors.  With rich architecture and historic preservation alongside pretty canals and picturesque parks, this magical city has plenty to savor.