I’ve been to Bruges many times, and each time I understand so many visitors are drawn to this Belgian city.
As soon as you walk into the center, you feel it: medieval architecture, gorgeous canals, and well-preserved heritage. Yes, there are many tourists, but the city has been able to keep its authentic character.
You don’t need transportation once you get to Bruges. The UNESCO-listed center is compact enough to explore on foot. That’s part of what I love so much about Bruges. Churches, canals, and hidden courtyards are everywhere.
In between sightseeing, you’ll find plenty of cafĆ©s for a local beer or shops to buy some Belgian chocolate, or get a local waffle. You can visit Bruges as a day trip, but I recommend staying two days to really experience it.
ā¤· Here is my article explaining all How to get to Bruges
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My Top Pick: Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin
Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is my top pick. This hotel is a legendary property with a perfect location.
Other Recommended Hotels:
Boutique experience: Orania.Berlin – intimate luxury, and this lovely boutique hotel is highly rated.
Modern pick: Courtyard by Mariott Berlin – I love the light at this hotel, it also maintains high service standards.
What to See and Do in Bruges
There is a lot to see and do in Bruges. Here are the main highlights that I recommend:
The Markt
The heart of Bruges beats here, on the Markt. The 83-meter-high Belfry dominates one side, while colorful guild houses frame the rest. Come early in the morning or after 6 pm, when the day-trippers have left.
Belfry
The 13th-century Belfry tower can be climbed for panoramic views over the city. The 366 steps are steep and narrow, so it does require some effort.
ā¤· Get the Musea Brugge Card with Entry to 11 Museums including the Belfry (Tiqets)
Basilica of the Holy Blood
At the edge of Burg Square stands the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a modest building with a surprisingly rich interior.
Canal Boat Tour
Seeing Bruges from the water is a must. The city becomes even more beautiful as you glide along the quiet canals.
ā¤· Book a Bruges Canal boat tour and Guided City Walk
Horse Carriage Rides
Want to explore the city center in a different way? It’s not what I would pick, but I know many couple love doing this. A horse-drawn carriage ride takes you through Bruges at a relaxed pace.
Historium
The Historium is an immersive museum that takes you back to Bruges in 1435. It’s way cooler than you think. And a great activity when it’s raining.
ā¤· Check availability and tickets
Groeningemuseum
Interested in Flemish Masters? Here you’ll find works by Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and Jheronimus Bosch. It’s included in the Musea Brugge Card. Get yours here ā
Church of Our Lady
This is where you’ll find the famous Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child. Again, entrance is included in the Musea Brugge Card. It’s really a great pass to get ā
Beguinage
The Beguinage is a 13th-century community where religious women lived, worked, and worshipped. This is one of my favorite places in Bruges to, or beguinage in Amsterdam too. These are peaceful places and just beautiful, and free to visit!
Beer Museum
Love Belgium beer, then a visit to the beer museum, including a tasting is a must. Ps: Also going to Brussels? Make sure to book Mary’s famous tour there. It’s a great tasting tour as well.
ā¤· Check availability and ticket prices for the Bruges Beer Museum
Fries Museum
You might have heard Belgium is famous for its fries. They’re really. But PLEASE never order it with ketchup. It’s so American. The Belgiums have a great local Belgium mayonnaise which a bit sour and so good with fries. Or Sumurai sauce if you want it a bit spicy. Or just ask the server which local sauces they serve! It’s makes the experience so much better.
But that is advice on fries in general. We’re talking about the Fries Museum here. I recommend not going to the one in Bruges. I don’t think it’s that good. The one in Brussels is a lot better, so if you’re visiting Brussels too, get more information and tickets here.
Hidden Spots and Local Streets
The main sights are worth it, but I also like to share a few quieter places that give you a more authentic sense of the city:
- The windmills on the eastern ramparts
- Walplein
- Astridpark
- Potterie museum (also included in the Museum Bruges Card)
- Katelijnestraat artisan area
Where to Eat
- Cambrinus
- Assiette Blanche
- Zet’Joe
Where to Drink
- The Parlour
- Coffeebar Adriaan
- ‘t Brugs Beertje
How to Get There
It takes around 3.5 hours with one transfer in either Antwerp or Brussels to get from Amsterdam to Bruges. There are many departures every day.
Final Thought
Bruges is easy to visit, but prepare yourself for quite a bit of tourist. You can absolutely do Bruges on a daytrip from Amsterdam. But it’s a long travel day. Because of that many people enjoy it less. I recommend staying overnight. Or create a Belgium itinerary where you combine Antwerp, Brussels, and Ghent with Bruges.
Once you’re in Bruges: take your time, walk beyond the main squares, and sit down by a canal with a local beer.
