Bruges: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure!

Discover the magic of Bruges, where family fun meets Belgian charm.

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Bruges, Belgium offers a charming and historic city perfect for exploring with children. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque canals, discover the fairy-tale-like medieval architecture, and visit the interactive museums suitable for kids of all ages. With its welcoming atmosphere, delightful chocolatiers, and ample opportunities for boat rides and bike tours, Bruges guarantees an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Fairytale City

  • Start your day with a delicious Belgian breakfast at De Republiek, a quirky café known for its mouthwatering waffles and strong coffee.
  • Wander down the cobblestone streets of the historic city center, taking in the medieval architecture and charming canals.
  • Visit the famous Markt square and be captivated by the majestic Belfry tower, where you can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of Bruges.
  • Take a boat tour along the picturesque canals, drifting past enchanting bridges and hidden courtyards that inspired countless artists.
  • Indulge in a heavenly lunch at Public, a hip restaurant in a former monastery, where you can savor Belgian classics like moules frites and chocolate mousse.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Groeningemuseum, home to a splendid collection of Flemish art, including masterpieces by Bruegel and Van Eyck.
Day 2

Chocolate, Lace, and Quirky Delights

  • Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at The Old Chocolate House, where you can create your own hot chocolate masterpiece with a myriad of toppings.
  • Embark on a quest for the perfect Belgian chocolate, exploring the city's finest chocolatiers like Dumon and The Chocolate Line.
  • Discover the art of lace-making at the Kantcentrum, a museum and workshop where you can learn to create delicate lace souvenirs.
  • Grab a quick lunch at De Stoepa, a cozy vegetarian spot offering mouthwatering falafel wraps and refreshing homemade lemonades.
  • Immerse yourself in the unexpected wonders of Bruges by visiting eccentric gems like the Frietmuseum, a museum dedicated to our beloved fries, and the quirky Salvador Dali exhibition at Xpo Center Bruges.
  • Treat yourself to a decadent dinner at De Pepermolen, a charming restaurant serving exquisite Belgian cuisine in an intimate setting.
Day 3

Hidden Gems and Culinary Delights

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, a cozy bakery offering fresh pastries, artisan bread, and organic jams.
  • Escape the crowds and venture to the tranquil Begijnhof, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing a serene courtyard and charming whitewashed houses.
  • Explore the lesser-known side of Bruges by strolling through the hip and artsy neighborhood of Sint-Gillis, with its trendy boutiques and vibrant street art.
  • Have a leisurely lunch at De Vlaamsche Pot, a traditional Flemish restaurant renowned for its hearty stews, tender beef, and crisp, golden fries.
  • Unleash your inner child at the Choco-Story Museum, where you can learn about the history of chocolate while delighting in tastings and demonstrations.
  • End your trip with a visit to De Halve Maan brewery, where you can enjoy a guided tour and sample their award-winning Belgian beer.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bruges by plane is to fly into Brussels Airport and take a train or bus towards Bruges. The airport is about 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Bruges. Another option could be to fly into Ostend-Bruges International Airport, which is located closer to Bruges, and take a bus or taxi from there.

Car

Driving to Bruges is a good option if you're coming from nearby cities. There are various highways that connect Bruges to other cities. However, driving within Bruges may be difficult due to the narrow streets and limited parking. It is recommended to park outside the city center and use public transportation or walk to the city center.

Train

If you're traveling within Europe, taking the train to Bruges is a good option. From Brussels, you can take a train towards Bruges. There are frequent trains departing from Brussels Central, Brussels Midi, and Brussels North stations.

Boat

There are no direct options to reach Bruges by boat, but you can take a scenic boat tour along the nearby canals. These tours depart from various locations within Bruges and provide a unique perspective of the city's beautiful architecture and landscapes.

Bus

Taking a bus to Bruges is a good option if you're traveling on a budget. Flixbus runs services from various locations across Europe to Bruges. There are also local buses that run from nearby cities such as Ghent and Brussels.

More travel plans

A Family's Fairytale Adventure in Budget-Friendly Bruges

Bruges, Belgium offers a family-friendly getaway with its charming canals, picturesque cobbled streets, and historic architecture. Explore the city's medieval past by visiting the famous Belfry tower and taking a boat tour along the tranquil canals. With its abundance of chocolate shops and waffle stands, Bruges is sure to delight both young and old, making it a perfect destination for a family vacation.

Bruges: A Day of Delightful Belgian Adventure

As a tourist, a trip to Bruges is an opportunity to experience the quaint charm of a medieval European city. Visitors can navigate the picturesque cobblestone streets and winding canals to explore the historic architecture, indulge in local delicacies like chocolate and waffles, and visit cultural attractions such as the town's many museums and art galleries. A trip to Bruges promises to be an enriching experience filled with culture, cuisine, and a true taste of European history.

A Waffle Wonderland: The Best Family Day Trip to Bruges

Bruges, Belgium is a charming and family-friendly destination that offers a unique blend of historical beauty and modern attractions. Take a boat tour along the picturesque canals, exploring the city's medieval architecture and bustling squares. The city also boasts numerous parks and museums, ensuring there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Budget-Friendly Bruges: A 3-Day Adventure!

A trip to Bruges, Belgium on a limited budget would involve staying in a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse instead of a fancy hotel, using public transportation like buses and trains instead of taxis, and enjoying the city's many free attractions such as exploring the historic canals, visiting the beautiful churches, and admiring the stunning architecture. Additionally, sampling the delicious local cuisine from street vendors and markets can be both economical and rewarding.