Are there Any Bruges Hostels?

Bruges, Belgium is a stunning town known for its beautiful architecture, and many travelers love visiting this historical city each year. Using hostels instead of hotels can be one of the most economical ways to stay in your desired location. The answer to the question of whether or not there are any Bruges Hostels is yes and this guide explains the different hostels, prices and amenities for each one.

When you’re looking for a hostel in Bruges you will find many great options. Whether you are looking for a shared room, or a private one, there are hostels that fit your needs. Prices tend to vary depending on the type of room that you choose, but most hostels offer rooms with 4-10 beds, as well as private room options. Each hostel is unique in the amenities that they offer, but many have some similar features, such as a kitchen, a shared lounge area and complimentary Wi-Fi, often with free breakfast options too.

Here are some of the top hostels in Bruges:

​Hostel The Globe

Hostel The Globe is one of the most popular Budget Hostels in Bruges. The Globe offers both shared dorms and private rooms, with prices from 15€ per person. The hostel has a great location in the center of Bruges, located in a renovated convent. This hostel has a lot of activities for its guests, a 24-hour reception, a terrace and offers guests free tea and coffee. Hostel The Globe provides beds in 6-bed mixed dorms and 2 twin rooms for 2 persons.

HeyHostel Bruges

HeyHostel Bruges is another great option for budget travelers coming to Bruges. The hostel is located near the city center and has a unique vintage-style design. It offers many amenities like free Wi-Fi throughout the property, an on-site bar and even a terrace with views of the canal. They also have private as well as shared rooms with prices starting from 15€ per night per person. HeyHostel Bruges offers various different private rooms, with 1 to 8 beds available.

Home4U Brugge Hostel

Home4U Brugge Hostel is another top rated hostel in Bruges. Located near the city center and not far from the Belfry, Home4U is well located. The hostel has both shared and private rooms starting from 15€ per night per person. It offers free Wi-Fi, an on-site bar and restaurant, communal lounge areas and cheap meals are available upon request. Home4U Brugge Hostel offers several different room types – from shared dorms for 6 people to private rooms for 2 or 4 people.

Bed & Bike Bruges Hostel

Bed & Bike Bruges Hostel is another great option for travelers looking for a budget stay in Bruges. Located near the city center, it offers both shared and private rooms with prices from 20€ per night per person. This hostel was recently renovated and it offers continental breakfast for 2€ per person per night. It also comes with great facilities such as a shared lounge area with cable TV, an on-site bar with an outdoor terrace and free Wi Fi throughout the hostel. Bed & Bike Bruges Hostel has both mixed dorms with 6-9 beds as well as small private rooms with 2 beds.

Whether you’re looking for luxury or just something simple and cheap, there is no shortage of hostels to choose from in the Belgian city of Bruges. While all of these suggested hostels are excellent choices, always make sure to read reviews from other travelers before booking. With hundreds of reviews and ratings from other travelers available online, it’s easy to decide which hostel will best fit your needs and requirements for stay in Bruges!

An Insider’s Guide to Bruges

On the surface, Bruges may come across as just another fairytale city. From the cobbled streets and horse-drawn carriages to the medieval architecture and picturesque canals, everything about Bruges screams romance and enchantment. However, beneath its picture-perfect facade lies a city that is equally fascinating and intriguing, where every nook and cranny is brimming with history, art, culture, and gastronomy. As a local, I’d like to share my insider’s guide to Bruges, covering some hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path suggestions, cultural experiences, and much more that will offer you a unique and unforgettable visit.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Traps

When it comes to Bruges, there’s no dearth of tourist hotspots. The historic Markt Square, the towering Belfry, and the serene Beguinage are some of the must-visit spots in Bruges. However, if you want to explore the city like a local, here are a few hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists:

First up, the Frietmuseum – a museum entirely dedicated to the humble potato fries. It may sound quirky, but this place is a real treat for history buffs, curious eaters, and fry enthusiasts. It tells the story of how fries came to be, from their origins in South America to their worldwide success. You can also taste-test a variety of fries and sauces from around the world in the museum’s restaurant.

Another unconventional attraction is the De Halve Maan brewery. Situated in the heart of the city, this brewery has been producing beer since 1564. You can take a guided tour of the brewery and learn everything about the beer-making process while sipping on their famous Bruges Zot beer. The tour ends with panoramic views of the city from the rooftop.

Lastly, the Jerusalem Church is a hidden gem of Gothic architecture that often gets overshadowed by the city’s more famous churches. Built-in the 15th century, this church was inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and is known for its intricate wood carvings, white marble altar, and stunning stained-glass windows.

Delicious Dining Spots and Unique Food Culture

Bruges may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to food. Flemish cuisine is famous for its hearty stews, fresh seafood, and beer-battered fries. However, there’s more to Bruges’ food culture than just the classics. For instance:

Bocca is a small, cozy restaurant that serves authentic Italian cuisine with a local touch. The menu changes every week and features fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Their homemade pasta and Italian wine are to die for.

If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, then head to the Gingerbread Tea Room. Located in a historic house, the tea room specializes in traditional gingerbread and other sweet treats. The interior is charming and cozy, perfect for a lazy afternoon tea break.

Lastly, no visit to Bruges is complete without trying their famous chocolate. Dumon Chocolatier, situated in the heart of the city, is a family-owned business that has been making artisanal Belgian chocolates since 1992. All their chocolate is made in-house, using no preservatives or artificial flavorings.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals, Art, and Music

Bruges is a city of culture that hosts multiple festivals throughout the year. Some of the popular ones are:

The Snow and Ice Sculpture Festival, which takes place during winter and features intricate ice and snow sculptures from around the world.

The Bruges Beer Festival, which showcases a variety of Belgian beers and local brews.

The MAfestival, which celebrates early music and brings together artists from around the world.

Apart from festivals, Bruges is also famous for its art. The Groeningemuseum, for instance, houses an impressive collection of Flemish Primitives, Renaissance, and Baroque art. If you’re looking for something more contemporary, then head to the Museum of Modern Art, which features avant-garde art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Lastly, Bruges is a city of music. The Concertgebouw is a premier concert hall that hosts a variety of classical, Jazz and world music concerts throughout the year.

Local History: Stories of Bruges’ Past

Bruges’ history dates back to the Middle Ages when it was a thriving trading hub and one of Europe’s wealthiest cities. It was during this time that the city’s iconic architecture and landmarks were built. However, Bruges’ glory days were short-lived, and it soon fell into decline. Here are a few captivating stories from Bruges’ past that are worth knowing:

The Bruges Matins was a rebellion that took place in 1302 and marked the beginning of the Flemish struggle for independence. It was triggered by a tax dispute and ended with the massacre of French troops. The rebellion led to Bruges gaining autonomy and helped shape the city’s cultural identity.

The Bloodbath of Bruges was a dark chapter in the city’s history. It was a power struggle between two rival political factions that culminated in a bloody coup in 1482. Over 500 people were killed in the massacre, and the city lost its autonomy to the Habsburg Empire.

Another interesting fact is that Bruges was the birthplace of the Dutch painter Jan van Eyck. His masterpiece, the Altarpiece of the Mystic Lamb, has been housed at St. Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent since the 16th century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore Bruges like a local and have a unique experience, here are a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

Take a boat ride on the city’s canals at night. The city looks even more enchanting when illuminated, and you can get a different perspective of the landmarks.

Visit the Minnewaterpark, which is just a stone’s throw from the city center. This tranquil park has a lake that is surrounded by trees and is an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk.

Lastly, take a day trip to Damme, which is just a few kilometers away from Bruges. This quaint, medieval town is perfect for a peaceful day out. You can walk or bike along the picturesque canals, explore the historic windmills, and visit the Damme Bookstore, which is housed in a 13th-century Gothic church.

In conclusion, Bruges is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, food, or culture, Bruges will not disappoint. By exploring the city’s lesser-known spots, trying the local cuisine, and immersing yourself in Bruges’ rich cultural experiences, you can have a memorable and authentic visit to this enchanting city.