Things To Do
in Bruges
Bruges, France is a tranquil riverside town in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, tucked along the Gironde estuary near Bordeaux. Its cobbled lanes, timber-framed façades, and charming canal views give it a fairy-tale atmosphere. The town serves as a gateway to nearby vineyards, markets, and scenic bike routes through the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can savor duck confit, fresh seafood, and the region’s signature cannelés as they drift through the canal-side streets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Bruges and check into your charming hotel before setting out to explore the city's picturesque streets. Wander along the canals and take in the stunning medieval architecture that gives Bruges its unique charm. Stop by the Markt square to admire the Belfry of Bruges and perhaps enjoy a local pastry.
Visit the Groeningemuseum to admire a collection of Flemish Primitives and learn about the city's rich art history. Afterward, stroll through the serene Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the gardens. Don't miss the opportunity to relax in a local café with a cup of Belgian hot chocolate.
Experience Bruges' culinary delights with a dinner at a traditional Flemish restaurant, savoring local dishes like waterzooi or Flemish beef stew. After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk along the illuminated canals, enjoying the romantic ambiance of the city. Conclude your night with a nightcap at a local bar, where you can taste some famous Belgian beers.
Start your day with a scenic boat tour of Bruges' beautiful canals, providing a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and bridges. Listen to the informative commentary from your guide, detailing the history and significance of various landmarks. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture stunning views of the canalside buildings.
After your boat tour, head to the Belfry of Bruges and climb its 366 steps for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint shops around the Markt, where you can find local crafts, lace, and chocolate. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a terrace café while indulging in some famous Belgian fries.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a cozy bistro and indulge in seasonal specialties prepared with local ingredients. After dinner, consider taking a ghost tour of Bruges, which will lead you through the city's dark history and haunting tales. Cap off the night with a visit to a charming pub for a taste of Bruges' craft beers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Lunch at a casual cafe | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $6-9 |
| 🧀Cheese plate | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming medieval-inspired streets and canal views
- Excellent access to Bordeaux wine country
- Walkable town center and scenic bike routes
- Strong local markets and seafood cuisine
- Quiet nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some services may close on Sundays in off-peak seasons
- Tourist crowds in peak summer weekends
- "Bonjour" - Hello (morning)
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Bruges
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over timber-framed houses reflected in calm canal waters.
Cobblestone lanes and arched bridges providing classic postcard views.
Bustling square with colorful façades, perfect for candid street photography.
Gothic spires towering above narrow streets offering dramatic skyline shots.
Golden-hour reflections along the canal with boats gliding by.
Food in Bruges
Bruges Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked duck leg preserved in its own fat, typically served with potatoes and greens.
Must-Try!
Sliced duck breast, often grilled to a pink center and finished with a fruit glaze.
Small, caramelized custard cakes with a vanilla-rum note, a regional specialty you’ll find in every bakery.
Fresh, briny oysters enjoyed on the half shell with lemon and shallot mignonette.
Flaky local sea bass finished with a buttery, citrusy white sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering fresh seafood, cheeses, vegetables, and pastries from the region.
Casual stalls along the canal serving crepes, seafood skewers, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet shop staff with ‘Bonjour’ in the morning and ‘Bonsoir’ in the evening; politeness goes a long way.
Keep hands on the table, use cutlery properly, and say ‘s’il vous plaît’ and ‘merci’; avoid loud public behavior.
Safety
Tipping in Bruges
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included (service compris). If not, leaving 5-10% for good service is customary.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for small shops; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens make walking and cycling very pleasant; markets reopen weekly.
Warm days and long evenings; expect outdoor patios and special wine and food events; carry a light layer for cooler nights.
Harvest celebrations and grape picking season; the countryside colors glow with amber light.
Cool, with festive lights and Christmas markets; indoor dining is cozy and welcoming.
Bruges at Night
Hiking in Bruges
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic dune with boardwalks, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic and Arcachon Bay.
Extensive network of pine forest trails ideal for long hikes and wildlife spotting.
Gentle climbs among vineyards with lookouts over rolling countryside and châteaux.
Airports
How to reach Bruges by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about a 60-90 minute drive to Bruges.
Smaller regional airport with seasonal and domestic flights; about 2.5-3 hours by road.
Small regional airport serving limited routes; roughly 1.5-2 hours away by car.
Coastal airport with regional connections; approximately 2-3 hours away by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for markets, parks, and child-friendly museums.
A peaceful town with a relaxed pace and good healthcare access nearby.
Presence of language schools and cultural events in the region.
Seasonal visitors attracted by wine country, markets, and canal scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional French boules game enjoyed in parks and village squares.
Local clubs and matches are popular, reflecting regional interest in the sport.
Flat to rolling countryside makes for enjoyable day rides around vineyards.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bruges.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable tarts, ratatouille-style stews, salads with local greens, and dairy-free options in most menus.
Many places can accommodate with gluten-free bread or rice-based sides; always ask for sauces and flour thickeners to be omitted.