Best 20 things to do in Bruges, Belgium
Welcome to the medieval city of Bruges, where canals and cobblestone streets vie for attention with a surplus of chocolate shops. Put on your walking shoes, as this Belgian beauty boasts not just one, not just two, but an impressive twenty must-do activities. Prepare yourself for an epic culinary quest, filled with heavenly waffles, crispy frites, and of course, beer tastings that will leave you feeling like a jolly Friar Tuck. Whether you're exploring fairy tale-like squares, admiring masterpieces by the Flemish masters, or simply indulging in the best that Belgian cuisine has to offer, Bruges is a place where you can truly let your inner glutton, I mean adventurer, run wild.
Save destination1. Sint-Janshospitaal
Mariastraat 38, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to Sint-Janshospitaal, a charming slice of history in delightful Bruges! This hospital-turned-museum is like a real-life TARDIS, taking you back in time to the Middle Ages. Prepare to tickle your imagination as you wander through the creaky corridors, imagining the ghosts of medieval patients wondering where they left their prescription for unicorn tears. Once upon a time, Sint-Janshospitaal treated patients with medieval medical techniques that would make even the bravest souls run for the hills. Don't worry, though, you won't need to endure any leeches or poultices during your visit - unless you're into that sort of thing. Amongst the dusty rooms, you'll discover a treasure trove of ancient tools and instruments that will make you truly appreciate the wonders of modern medicine... and count your blessings that your health insurance isn't from the 1300s. But fear not, dear traveler, it's not all doom, gloom, and questionable treatments. Sint-Janshospitaal features some truly remarkable artworks that will delight your senses. Step into the hospital's church, where you can gaze upon the beautiful Madonna with Canon Joris van der Paele by Jan van Eyck - a masterpiece so stunning, it might even convince you to invest in a time machine and join the Renaissance art circles. After all, who needs unicorns when you can have a Renaissance rave?
Learn more2. Groeningemuseum
Dijver 12, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Nestled in the picturesque town of Bruges, the Groeningemuseum stands as a bastion of art, with enough masterpieces to make your inner art critic go absolutely bananas. Once you step inside, brace yourself for a whirlwind journey through time, venturing from the medieval Flemish primitives to more contemporary works, ensuring that you'll leave feeling both cultured and slightly overwhelmed. Just be careful not to get lost in the labyrinth of galleries, unless you're prepared to become a permanent resident, surviving on a diet of oil paint and pretentious conversation.
Learn more3. Church of Our Lady
Mariastraat, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to the Church of Our Lady in Bruges, where beauty and religious devotion unite to create a heavenly experience (minus the clouds, of course). Gaze in awe at the towering spire reaching for the skies, so high that even pigeons get dizzy trying to reach the top. Feast your eyes on the graceful elegance of the gothic architecture, sure to make you forget about those extra calories from your delightful Belgian waffles. So, prepare yourself for a spiritual journey that will make your sense of humor soar higher than the belfry itself!
Learn more4. Bruges City Hall
Burg 12, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to the Bruges City Hall, where history and bureaucracy mingle like an odd couple on a blind date. This magnificent medieval masterpiece with its towering spires and imposing façade looks like it just walked off the pages of a fairy tale book, except instead of a prince charming, you'll find a horde of city officials shuffling papers and sipping coffee. Step inside this architectural wonder and listen closely – you might catch the whispered secrets of centuries-old council meetings, or just the latest gossip about who drank too much at last night's office party.
Learn more5. Diamond Museum
Katelijnestraat 43, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to the glittering realm of the Diamond Museum in Bruges, a jaw-dropping shrine for all bling enthusiasts! Once you step foot into this dazzling treasure trove, prepare to be bedazzled with an abundance of precious stones that makes Elton John's collection look like a modest trinket box. Explore the glittering halls and marvel at the history of diamonds with audio guides that bring the sparkle to life - just remember not to drool on the displays, as they have a strict "No Slobbering" policy.
Learn more6. Lucifernum
Twijnstraat 6, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to Bruges, the quaint and picturesque city that's a treat for all your senses! And speaking of treats, let me introduce you to Lucifernum, the chocoholic's haven tucked away in the heart of this chocolate paradise. Indulge in their velvety, sinfully delicious creations, and you'll soon understand why it's become the unofficial eighth wonder of Bruges!
Learn more7. Belfry and Market Halls
Markt 7, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to Bruges, where history meets humor! Let's explore the iconic Belfry and Market Halls, the dynamic duo of architectural marvels that even Batman would applaud. The Belfry, towering over the city like a concerned grandparent, offers breathtaking panoramic views, just be prepared to climb more steps than an over-enthusiastic marathon runner. Meanwhile, the Market Halls, elegantly showcasing their medieval charm, are your one-stop-shop for delicious Belgian treats and souvenirs, giving shopaholics a chance to flex their credit cards with gusto.
Learn more8. Memling Museum
Mariastraat 38, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to the Memling Museum in the picturesque city of Bruges, where art buffs and casual wanderers can feast their eyes on some seriously impressive masterpieces. Step inside this art haven and prepare to be "Memling-tized" by the stunning collection that awaits you. Immerse yourself in the museum's enchanting ambiance, surrounded by glorious Flemish paintings that will tempt you to grab a paintbrush and start your own masterpiece...or at least take up finger painting.
Learn more9. Chocolate Museum
Wijnzakstraat 2, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to the Chocolate Museum in Bruges - a heaven for all chocolate lovers with a sweet tooth as big as their imagination! Prepare to enter a whimsical world where cocoa beans transform into delectable treats right before your eyes. Take a tour through the rich history of chocolate, where you'll discover fascinating facts, mouthwatering secrets, and a strong temptation to lick the walls (though we strongly advise against it - that would be quite sticky!).
Learn more10. The Beguinage
Begijnhof 30, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Imagine a charming little village straight out of a fairytale, right in the heart of Bruges. Welcome to The Beguinage! This delightful enclave is filled with picturesque cobblestone streets, snug houses, and an ambiance so calm and peaceful, you'll feel like you've entered the land of naptime. Don't forget to say hello to the local residents: a flock of swans who have taken a liking to the tranquil canals.
Learn more11. Choco-Story
Wijnzakstraat 2, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to Choco-Story, where the magic of chocolate comes alive in the heart of Bruges! Prepare to embark on a cocoa-laden adventure as you step into this quirky chocolate-themed museum. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the sweet treat, from ancient Mayan cacao rituals to the modern-day battles of who eats the last chocolate cookie. Spoiler alert: you might even leave craving chocolate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
Learn more12. Historium Brugge
Markt 1, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Prepare to embark on a marvelous adventure through time at Historium Brugge in enchanting Bruges! Step into a magical realm where history comes alive and don't worry, you won't need a professor's degree to enjoy it. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and even smells of medieval times, as if magically whisked away to a world of knights and cobblestone streets. Marvel at the impressive multimedia displays that transport you through the ages, and don't forget to strike a pose in front of the green screen, because who doesn't dream of being a time-traveling superstar?
Learn more13. Basilica of the Holy Blood
Burg 13, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Tucked away in the charming Belgian city of Bruges, lies a truly holy experience - the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Now, don't let the name intimidate you; it's not a magical bar where saints gather for a pint. Nope! It's actually a stunning architectural gem that houses an ancient relic - a vial containing the blood of Jesus, or so they say. So, roll up your sleeves, polish your halo, and prepare to be awe-inspired by this holy establishment.
Learn more14. De Halve Maan Brewery
Walplein 26, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to De Halve Maan Brewery, where beer enthusiasts come to indulge in the frothy wonders of Bruges! This historic gem has been brewing liquid gold since 1856, showcasing a barrel-full of Belgian brewing traditions. Prepare to embark on a humorous voyage through the ages as you explore the nooks and crannies of this boozy wonderland, learning about beer in a way that'll make every pint taste even better – and hey, maybe even make your jokes a tad funnier!
Learn more15. Dali Xpo Gallery
Markt 7, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Step into the wonderfully whimsical world of Dali Xpo Gallery in Bruges, where art and surrealism take center stage. Prepare to have your mind delightfully twisted and your senses tantalized as you explore this quirky gem. From mind-boggling paintings that seem to defy the laws of physics to mind-boggling sculptures that will leave you questioning the very essence of reality, this gallery promises an utterly surreal experience like no other.
Learn more16. Bruges Beer Experience
Breidelstraat 3, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to the Bruges Beer Experience, where history and hops combine to create a frothy adventure! Step into this sudsy sanctuary and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Belgian brews. Unleash your inner beer connoisseur as you explore interactive exhibits, impressive installations, and a beer-scented time machine that will transport you through the fascinating history of this amber nectar. Quench your thirst for knowledge and literal thirst with a tasting session that promises to leave you hoppily content. So don't be a foamy fool, make sure to pour yourself into the Bruges Beer Experience!
Learn more17. Minnewater Lake
Minnewater, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to Minnewater Lake in picturesque Bruges, where romanticism meets water, swans, and a pinch of mischief. Known as the "Lake of Love," it's a place where love floats in the air and awkwardly drifting swans might mistake your selfie sticks as potential suitors. Beware of falling in love and getting caught up in the medieval charm of this tranquil oasis, or you might find yourself wandering around aimlessly, shamelessly serenading the swans with your questionable singing talents.
Learn more18. Canal Cruise
Katelijnestraat 4, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Prepare to embark on a whimsical adventure as you hop on board a Canal Cruise in Bruges. Glide through the picturesque waterways while soaking in the mesmerizing sights of medieval architecture and charming cobblestone streets. Just remember to keep your hands, arms, and selfie sticks inside the boat at all times, unless you want to accidentally feed the resident swans some unwanted goodies!
Learn more19. Horse-drawn Carriage Ride
Julius en Maurits Sabbestraat 28, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Embark on a whimsical journey through the fairytale-like streets of Bruges on a horse-drawn carriage ride. Be prepared to feel like royalty as you sit back and let the majestic horses do the hard work while you soak in the picturesque views. Marvel at the cobblestone roads and charming architecture while secretly wishing for a carriage rendition of "Wannabe" by the Spice Girls to complete this magical experience.
Learn more20. Frietmuseum
Vlamingstraat 33, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Welcome to the Frietmuseum in Bruges, a place where fries are not just a side dish but a finely crafted work of art. Dive into a world where spuds become superheroes and ketchup becomes the elixir of life. Explore the captivating history of fries, from humble beginnings to crispy stardom, all while resisting the uncontrollable urge to devour every exhibit in sight.
Learn moreHow 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.