Last updated on November 9th, 2024 at 08:12 am
Are you wondering ‘Is Bruges Worth Visiting?’ Here’s our guide to the city to help you decide.
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Bruges in Belgium is often referred to as the “Venice of the North.” An attractive medieval city with pretty cobblestone streets, it has plenty of history to soak up and activities to partake in! Plus great snacks.
We visited over the Christmas period and were pleasantly surprised by how much there is to do in Bruges with kids.
So, if you’re wondering whether Bruges is worth a visit, this guide should help you decide. We highlight the city’s top attractions, foodie delights, and practical travel tips.
7 Reasons to Visit Bruges
There are many reasons to visit Bruges, but here are my top seven:
1. The Fairytale Architecture
Bruges is often described as a fairytale city, and it’s easy to see why. The city is filled with medieval architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and pretty canals.
Look out for the stunning Belfry of Bruges, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Market Square with its colourful guild houses.
Wandering around Bruges and soaking up its historic charm is a must, especially if you’re on a fleeting visit and you’re looking for things to do in Bruges in 1 day.
✅ Book HERE for some great walking tours of Bruges
2. The Canals
One of the reasons Bruges is sometimes referred to as the “Venice of the North,” are its canals which are a central part of its charm.
Take a boat tour to experience the city from another perspective and admire the beautiful bridges and medieval buildings as you float past.
✅ Book HERE for boat tours on Bruges’ canals
3. The Art and Museums
Bruges has some great museums and galleries showcasing Flemish artwork.
The Groeningemuseum, which houses works by Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling, is a highlight.
✅ Book HERE for tickets to Bruges’ museums and galleries
4. The Yummy Belgian Chocolate
Bruges is heaven for chocolate lovers. The city is home to a number of high-end chocolate shops offering a mouthwatering array of handmade Belgian chocolates.
Don’t miss visiting Choco-Story, the chocolate museum, to learn about the history of chocolate and indulge in some tastings. They have chocolate dispensers throughout – so make sure you go hungry.
✅ Book HERE for Bruges chocolate tours and workshops
5. The Local Food and Beer
Belgian cuisine is hearty and delicious, and Bruges is one of the best places to sample it. Make sure you try some of the local dishes: Flemish stew, mussels with fries, and waffles.
If you’re into beer (I’m not a fan), try the Belgian beer – Bruges boasts a fantastic selection. If you want to learn more, visit the Bruges Beer Museum or book a brewery tour.
✅ Book HERE for food and beer tours in Bruges
6. The Beguinage (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
For a moment of tranquillity and peace, visit the Beguinage, a serene enclave with white-painted houses and a beautiful garden.
This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city and a glimpse into the lives of the Beguines (holy women)who once lived here.
✅ Book HERE for guided tours which include the Beguinage
7. Bruges Christmas Market
We visited Bruges around Christmas time (definitely recommended, but be aware of higher prices for accommodation) and were lucky enough to experience the Christmas markets in the main square (Market Square).
It transforms the city into a winter wonderland, complete with ice skating and festive food (and plenty of opportunities to taste those Belgian waffles).
✅ Book HERE for a private Christmas Market tour
Top Things to Do in Bruges
Bruges offers some great activities whether you’re travelling with kids or not. Key attractions include:
- Belfort of Bruges: This iconic bell tower provides a seriously impressive view of the city. Climb the 366 steps to the top. It’s worth it.
- Historium: Travel back in time to see how lively Bruges was during the Golden Age and enjoy a unique VR experience where you fly over the City. We loved this activity which is perfect if you’re travelling to Bruges with kids.
✅ Book HERE for tickets to Historium
- Boat Tour in Bruges: Exploring the city via its canals offers a different perspective plus it’s a relaxing way to see the sights.
- Bruges Chocolate Shops: Bruges is famous for its Belgian chocolate. Visit shops like The Chocolate Line and Dumon Chocolatier for a little taste of heaven.
- Bruges Christmas Market: If you visit during the holiday season, the Christmas market is a magical experience with festive stalls and ice skating.
Things to Do in Bruges with Kids
We found Bruges really family-friendly. In addition to the activities listed above (all of which are great for families), these ideas are also worth popping on your itinerary if you’re specifically looking for things to do in Bruges with kids:
- Choco-Story: This Chocolate Museum is both educational and edible! It provides a fun learning experience about the history of chocolate, as well as a lot of free samples to try. Look out for the section of the museum featuring things made out of chocolate (we loved Lady and the Tramp).
✅ Book HERE for tickets to Choco-Story
- Frietmuseum: Dedicated to Belgian fries, this quirky museum will be a hit with kids and adults alike.
✅ Book HERE for tickets to Frietmuseum
- Boudewijn Seapark: Just outside Bruges, this amusement park offers shows, rides, and a water park. This is a great activity to consider if you have a bit more time to spend in Bruges.
1 Day in Bruges Itinerary
If you only have one day in Bruges, make the most of it with this itinerary:
Morning: Start at the Belfort of Bruges for an early climb to beat the crowds.
Midday: Take a boat tour of the canals, then enjoy a yummy lunch at one of the best restaurants in Bruges like De Vlaamsche Pot.
Afternoon: Stroll through Markt Square, visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood and Historium, and treat yourself to Belgian chocolate from a local shop.
Evening: End your day with a walk along the canals and dinner at a cosy bistro to sample those frites!
2 Days in Bruges
For those with more time, a two-day itinerary allows for a more relaxed exploration of the city:
Day 1: Follow the one-day itinerary above.
Day 2: Visit the Groeningemuseum to see Flemish art and explore the windmills on the city’s edge. Enjoy a bike ride through the countryside or head to Boudewijn Seapark (if you’re visiting in the summer). If it’s winter, Choco-Story or Historium will work well.
Bruges FAQ
Here are the answers to a few questions you might have about a potential visit to Bruges:
How Many Days Do You Need in Bruges?
The ideal length of stay in Bruges depends on your interests and what you want to do while there.
One to two days are sufficient for seeing the main sights, but art lovers and those who prefer a slower pace, or want to venture outside of the city centre, might enjoy a three-day stay.
Is Bruges Expensive?
Bruges can be pricey, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, there are ways to manage your budget.
Opt for affordable accommodation, eat at casual restaurants, cafes or food stalls, and take advantage of free attractions like walking tours and exploring the streets and Christmas market if you’re there in winter.
What’s the Best Time to Visit Bruges
The best time to visit Bruges is in the Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner.
The Bruges Christmas Market is also a popular draw during the winter months. This is when we visited and we really enjoyed the festive atmosphere.
The best time to visit Bruges largely depends on what you’re looking to experience, but here’s a breakdown of the different seasons to help you decide:
Spring (March to May)
Pros:
- Spring is a fantastic time to visit Bruges as the city’s parks and gardens come to life at this time of year. It’s also a good time to venture out into the surrounding countryside with its colourful fields of tulips and other spring flowers.
- Temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), making it ideal for walking tours and exploring the city on foot.
- While it starts to get busier in May, early spring sees fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months.
Cons:
- While generally mild, spring can be unpredictable with occasional rain showers, so packing layers and a raincoat is a good idea.
Summer (June to August)
Pros:
- Summer is festival season in Bruges, with events like the Bruges Triennial, music festivals, and the Procession of the Holy Blood. If you’re interested in any of these, Summer is a a good time to visit.
- You’ll likely be able to enjoy long, sunny days with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Perfect for outdoor activities and canal boat tours.
Cons:
- Summer is peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds, longer lines at attractions, and higher prices for accommodation.
- Flights and hotels can be more expensive due to high demand.
Autumn (September to November)
Pros:
- The fall foliage adds a magical touch to Bruges’ already photogenic landscapes, with colours ranging from golden yellows to deep reds.
- The number of tourists starts to dwindle after the summer, which means a more relaxed atmosphere.
Cons:
- Weather becomes cooler, especially in November, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F).
Winter (December to February)
Pros:
- Bruges transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, with a Christmas market, ice skating rink, and festive lights adorning the city.
- Aside from the Christmas and New Year period, winter sees fewer tourists – so you’ll be able to experience the city’s attractions with less time spent in queues.
Cons:
- It can get quite cold, with temperatures often between 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F), and there’s a higher chance of rain or snow.
Best Places to Stay in Bruges
Bruges offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cosy B&Bs. Recommended options include:
HIGH END: Hotel Dukes’ Palace: A luxurious 5-star hotel located in a former ducal palace.
✅ Book HERE for Hotel Dukes Palace via Booking.com
MID RANGE: Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce: A boutique hotel with picturesque views over the canals.
✅ Book HERE for Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce via Booking.com
BUDGET: St. Christopher’s Inn Hostel: A budget-friendly option with a social atmosphere.
✅ Book HERE For St. Christopher’s Inn Hostel via Booking.com
Best Restaurants in Bruges
Bruges is a foodie’s dream, with top dining spots including:
- That’s Toast: Offers brunch all day – what’s not to like?
- Poules Moules: Specialises in Belgium’s national dish – moules frites (mussels and fries).
- Bistro Christophe: A homely bistro that is popular with locals.
- Brasserie Cambrinus: A buzzy and thriving brasserie with hundreds of Belgian beers on tap, as well as authentic Flemish food.
Best Waffles in Bruges
Belgian waffles are a must-try in Bruges and not too difficult to find! Our kids enjoyed the waffles on a stick (choose from a wide range of toppings) at Go.Fre – but there are plenty of other options.
For the best waffles in Bruges, visit:
Otto Waffle Atelier Katelijnestraat
Best Fries in Bruges
Belgian fries, or “frites,” are legendary and some of the finest you’ll ever taste. Cooked twice for extra crispiness, they’re usually served with a mayonnaise-like sauce called ‘andalouse’.
Our favourite place for Belgian frites was the Potato Bar – who knew you could have so many different toppings on a serving of fries?
Here are our recommendations:
Is Bruges Worth Visiting: The Verdict
Bruges is undeniably worth visiting. Whether you’re drawn by its medieval charm, history, edible delights, or family-friendly activities, Bruges offers something for everyone.
With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all that this charming city has to offer. Consider what activities you most want to do and plan your trip for the season which best suits them, keeping in mind your budget and how busy the city is likely to be at that time. Have fun!
Wondering where else to visit in Europe? Head to my Europe family travel posts HERE
