Charming Bruges: The Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary

Discover the magical charm of Bruges, Belgium!

03 May 2023

Bruges, one of the most charming cities in Belgium, is a picture-perfect destination that will captivate tourists with its historical architecture, winding canals, and charming restaurants. Travelers can take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the narrow, winding streets and explore the Gothic-style City Hall. Other must-see attractions in Bruges include the Belfry of Bruges, the picturesque Lake of Love, and the famous chocolate shops.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Medieval City

  • Hotel: Check into Hotel Prinsenhof, a cozy boutique hotel with an outdoor garden and a central location.
  • Start your day with a stroll around the picturesque canals of Bruges
  • Visit the famous Markt square and take in the stunning 13th-century belfry
  • Head to the Gothic-style Church of Our Lady to admire Michelangelo's sculpture of Madonna and Child
  • Relax in one of the many charming cafes in the city center
  • Take a canal boat tour to learn more about the city's history and architecture
  • End your day with a Belgian beer tasting at the De Halve Maan brewery.
Day 2

Indulge in Belgian Chocolate and Waffles

  • Start your day with a visit to the Frietmuseum to learn about the history of the Belgian favorite, fries.
  • Head to the ChocoStory Museum to learn about the chocolate-making process and indulge in some of Belgium's finest treats.
  • Take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the city to experience its picturesque beauty.
  • Stop by Chez Albert, a family-owned food stand for the best waffles in town.
  • Visit the Groeningemuseum to see an impressive collection of Flemish art.
  • Have dinner at Tom's Diner and indulge in their famed ribs and Belgian beer.
Day 3

Day Trip to the Belgian Coast

  • Rent a bike and ride 10 minutes to reach the train station and take a train to the lovely Belgian coast.
  • Visit the charming seaside town, Blankenberge, and take a stroll along the sandy beach.
  • Stop by the quaint fishing village of Zeebrugge to taste freshly caught seafood dishes.
  • Take a relaxing sunbath in Knokke-Heist or marvel at the magical nature of Het Zwin reserve.
  • Watch the sunset on the North Sea from the pier before heading back to Bruges.
  • Have dinner at the historic Bierbrasserie Cambrinus and taste their traditional Flemish stews.
  • Bruges is a city full of charm and character. Whether you're interested in history, food or picturesque sceneries, this itinerary has something for everyone. Make sure to take in every moment of your three-day stay!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Bruges

Tucked away in a corner of Europe is a charming little town that's like a fairytale come to life. Bruges is so beautiful you'll swear it's not real, but try pinching yourself anyway.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Experience Romance in Bruges: A 5-Day Getaway

A trip to Bruges, Belgium for a romantic getaway is the perfect retreat for couples who enjoy art, culture and great food. Home to picturesque canals, quaint streets lined with cafes and historic buildings, Bruges is a stunning destination to explore hand in hand, while savouring delicious Belgian chocolates and browsing antiques markets. From admiring the Flemish art collections in the Groeningemuseum to taking a romantic boat ride along the canals, Bruges is a city that exudes charm and intimate moments for those in love.

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.

Bruges: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure!

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.

Bruges in 5: A Guide to Belgian Fun!

Bruges, the "Venice of the North," is a medieval city with cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and well-preserved architecture. Visiting Bruges as a tourist involves exploring its historic center, sampling Belgian chocolate and waffles, and taking a scenic boat ride down the canals. Other popular activities include climbing to the top of the Belfry tower, admiring the artistry of local breweries and sampling their renowned beers, and discovering the city's cultural heritage through its art and museums.