4-Day Bruges Adventure: Food, Art, and Hidden Gems

Discover the enchanting charm of Bruges, the Venice of the North.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Bruges, Belgium promises to be a charming and picturesque experience. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and artisan chocolate shops, Bruges is a European destination that should not be missed. Visitors can explore the city's history through its many landmarks, museums, and cultural sites, and enjoy the local cuisine and beer in Bruges' cozy pubs and traditional restaurants.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Bruges' Best Bites

  • Start your day off with a delicious breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, known for its freshly baked bread and pastries.
  • Take a stroll around the Markt square and indulge in some Belgian chocolate at Dumon Chocolatier.
  • For lunch, head to De Vier Winden, an authentic pub serving up delicious Belgian dishes.
  • In the afternoon, take a chocolate-making workshop at The Chocolate Line, where you can create your very own tasty treats.
  • Finish off your day with dinner at Gezouten Zoenen, a charming restaurant with a seasonal menu using local ingredients.
Day 2

A Day of Art and Architecture

  • Start your morning at the stunningly beautiful Basilica of the Holy Blood, where you can view the holy relic of Christ's blood.
  • Take a bike tour of the city's picturesque streets and canals, visit historic sites such as the Begijnhof and explore Bruges' many art galleries.
  • For lunch, grab some waffles at Oyya or try a hearty Flemish stew at De Garre.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the city's incredible architecture, such as the Belfry tower and the Stadhuis (Town Hall).
  • Finish your day with a beer and some live music at the cozy Café Rose Red.
Day 3

A Day Trip to the Coast

  • Take a short train ride to the Flemish coast and spend the day enjoying the beautiful beach towns of Blankenberge and Knokke-Heist.
  • On the way back, stop off in the charming town of Damme and explore its quaint streets and lovely canals.
  • For lunch, grab some fresh seafood or moules frites at a seaside restaurant.
  • In the evening, head to Le Trappiste, a bar with over 100 different types of Belgian beer to choose from.
  • Finish off your day with dinner at the Michelin-starred De Jonkman, where you can indulge in some truly exquisite food.
Day 4

A Day of Bruges' Hidden Gems

  • Start your day early with a visit to the peaceful Minnewater Park and its picturesque lake.
  • Explore the city's lesser-known treasures such as the Lace Centre, the Frietmuseum (a museum dedicated to Belgian fries) and the hidden gem of the Jerusalem Church.
  • For lunch, try some local charcuterie and cheeses at The Bottle Shop or some delicious soup at Soup.
  • In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the city's canals to see Bruges from a unique perspective.
  • Finish your day with a delicious dinner at the intimate and charming Den Dyver restaurant, which offers seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

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

Discover Bruges: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Adventure!

Bruges, a picturesque medieval city in Belgium, offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. Take a leisurely boat ride along the scenic canals, while the kids marvel at the charming architecture and historic landmarks. Engage in interactive tours of chocolate and waffle-making, where everyone can indulge in the city's famous treats, making lasting memories together.

Budget-Friendly Bliss: A Day in Bruges

Bruges may seem like an expensive destination, but with some careful planning, you can enjoy the city's charm without breaking the bank. Stroll through the picturesque cobblestone streets, indulge in some budget-friendly Belgian waffles and chocolates, and explore the city's many free attractions, including the beautiful Begijnhof courtyard and the historic Belfry tower. Consider staying in a hostel or budget-friendly hotel to save on accommodation costs and make the most of your limited budget.

4 Days of Beer, Chocolates & Canals in Bruges

Visiting Bruges, Belgium on a limited budget is possible by taking the train from Brussels and staying in hostels or budget hotels. Exploring the city's historic center, with its picturesque canals, stunning architecture and charming streets can be done cheaply by foot or by bike. Trying local street food and beer, visiting free museums and churches, and strolling through the city's parks are also great budget-friendly ways to experience Bruges.

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.