Bruges - one of the most charming places to visit in Europe
Usefull information
💶 Currency
Euro (EUR)
👄 Language
Belgium has three official languages. Flemish Dutch, French and German
📅 Best time to visit
Spring and Fall
🍴 Meal times
Dinner in Bruges is usually served between 6PM and 8PM, with most restaurant kitchens closing at 10PM
🚕 Transportation
Bruges is small and very walkable, so you can visit it without spending anything on transportation, unless you plan on renting a bike (around €13 for a full day). There is also a bus service that costs around €1.50 per ride, but it’s doubtful you’d ever need to use it
First things first - how long should you stay?
While it doesn't require much time to explore the city's main attractions, I recommend experiencing Bruges at a leisurely pace. Take time to wander through its streets and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere that permeates the area. With that said, I would suggest planning for a stay of 2-3 full days in Bruges.
Activities worth the time and money
• Beginning with the main attraction, you certainly won't overlook the Markt Square, also known as Grote Markt. This square is home to some of the city's most significant landmarks: the towering 83-meter Belfry, the historic Cloth Hall, the Provincial Palace, and a collection of vibrant guild houses dating back to the 13th century.
• The Belfry is a medieval bell tower and stands as one of the city's most iconic symbols. Originally, the belfry housed a treasury and served as a repository for municipal archives. Additionally, it functioned as an observation post, enabling the spotting of fires and other potential hazards.
• I visited the Chocolate Museum - my kind of museum 😋- and it was definitely worth it! The tour is both enjoyable and interactive, ensuring you won't be bored. By the end of the tour, you'll even have the opportunity to taste authentic Belgian chocolate.
• The Bruges Beer Experience is another must-visit spot when exploring Bruges. It’s educative, fun and finishes off greatly with beer tasting at the bar. I recommend avoiding visiting after 5PM as it may limit your time for the beer tasting part of the experience.
** Note: Alternatively, you can directly visit the bar and pay around €10 for a beer tasting session where you can choose 4 beers of your preference. However, I personally believe that opting for the complete experience, if you have the time, is well worth it ☺️
• The Basilica of the Holy Blood is a Roman Catholic basilica that houses a relic of the Holy Blood, which is said to have been collected by Joseph of Arimathea and brought from the Holy Land to Bruges by Thierry of Alsace, the Count of Flanders.
• The Church of Our Lady is a striking medieval church constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries. It houses Michelangelo's renowned sculpture of the Madonna and Child. You can ascend the narrow, circular staircase to enjoy a remarkable view of the city center square.
• The Minnewater Park is incredibly enchanting; it stood out as one of my favorite spots in the city. This park is a haven of peace and tranquility, centered around the picturesque and romantic Lover’s Bridge. I recommend taking your time to leisurely explore the park and the charming 'Love Lake'.
• 2be shop is a "funky, quirky shop, bar and museum", which is home to many types and brands of beer. It is a tourist attraction but the beer is not overpriced!
• Canal Boat Tour: While I didn't have the opportunity to go on a Canal Boat Tour during my visit to Bruges, I can imagine it's a beautiful experience to explore the city with swans gracefully gliding beside you on the water. There are certain views that can only be appreciated from the water's perspective. If you get the chance, I recommend taking a Canal Boat Tour (most boat trips last about half an hour).
Traditional food you should try, and some restaurant suggestions
Frites
Moules-frites
Carbonnades flamandes
Gaufre/Waffle
Waterzooi
Chocolate
Literally anywhere in Bruges. As you stroll through the city, you'll come across numerous shops where you can sample and buy chocolate. I suggest trying the Chocolate Shots at Pralinette - I tried the "Mojito Shot" while my friend opted for the "Grand Marnier Shot".
Have fun!
I hope you have a great time in Bruges and fall in love with this cozy european city as I did.
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