How to Plan Your Bruges Full-Day Guided Tour from Brussels

If you are planning a trip to Brussels and want to discover the beautiful and historic city of Bruges, then a full-day guided tour is the perfect way to do it. Bruges is known as the “Venice of the North,” and its 13th-century city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With this tour, you will experience the best Bruges has to offer while walking by the side of its canals, tasting famous chocolates, and exploring city oases like the Minnewaterpark and Begijnhof.

Highlights

• Discover the “Venice of the North” on a fully-guided tour of Bruges
• Walk by the side of canals in the historic UNESCO-listed heart
• Taste some of the famous chocolates of Bruges
• Marvel at the monuments of Castle Square and Market Square
• Go to tranquil city oases such as the Minnewaterpark and Begijnhof

Experience

This full-day guided tour of Bruges from Brussels departs the Belgian capital, taking you 100 km northwest to the charming town of Bruges, just 15 km from the North Sea. During the direct transfer, you will get to enjoy the Belgian countryside, and upon arrival in Bruges, the next stop of the tour will be the Lake of Love (Minnewaterpark).

You will discover the most interesting and charming parts of Bruges, starting from the 13th-century Begijnhof, a quiet oasis covered in a carpet of daffodils in the spring. Then you will continue to the quiet paved square of Walplein and stroll down the narrow Stoofstraat, where you’ll see the 800-year-old St. John’s Hospital, one of the oldest still existing hospital buildings in Europe.

The tour will also take you to the top landmarks of Bruges, such as the towering Belfry, the Market Square with its statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck, and the Medieval Town Hall. You will see the most important monuments of Castle Square and get lost in the winding cobblestone streets of Bruges.

For the sweet-toothed travelers, the tour offers the chance to sample some of the famous Belgian chocolates. You will then get some free time so you can grab lunch, go shopping, or explore Bruges on your own.

Full Description

This tour offers a full-day guided tour of Bruges, offering you the chance to see the most famous landmarks of this charming town. After the pick-up, you will enjoy a direct transfer to Bruges with free time to relax, take pictures or enjoy the scenic Belgian countryside during the journey.

You will then head to the Lake of Love (Minnewaterpark), a quiet oasis located in the heart of the city. There, enjoy the beautiful view of the lake and the surrounding greenery while learning about the love story of Minna and her warrior lover who drowned in the lake after being attacked by her father.

Just a few steps from Minnewaterpark, you will discover the 13th-century Begijnhof, a remarkable complex of white-washed buildings and tranquil gardens. This area is still home to a group of Benedictine nuns, and during the spring season, a carpet of daffodils surrounds the small medieval houses.

Continuing on, you will head to the quiet paved square of Walplein and stroll down the narrow Stoofstraat, one of the oldest streets in Bruges. In this historical setting, you will see the 800-year-old St. John’s Hospital, one of the oldest still existing hospital buildings in Europe.

The tour will also take you to explore the top landmarks of Bruges, including the Belfry tower, the Market Square with its Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck statue, and the Medieval Town Hall. You will also see Diamond Museum, which showcases Belgian’s famous diamond industry and Diamond-cutters-at-work.

Afterward, you will have the chance to taste some of Bruges’ famous chocolates. Belgium is famous for its chocolate, and Bruges is packed with chocolatiers, so this is an opportunity not to miss.

Before ending the day, you will get free time to enjoy Bruges on your own. You can have lunch, go shopping, or explore more landmarks of the city.

Booking Your Tour

To book your Bruges Full-Day Guided Tour from Brussels, book the tour here. This is a third-party company that offers the tour, and they will handle everything to ensure that you have the best trip possible. This tour is an excellent way to see more of Belgium while discovering one of the most charming and historically rich cities in Europe.

An Insider’s Guide to Bruges: Uncovering Gems Beyond the Tourist Trail

Hidden Gems

Bruges is known for its stunning architecture, cobbled streets, and canals, but beyond the well-known landmarks, there are hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. One such spot is the Beguinage, a tranquil and serene residential area that dates back to the 13th century and is now home to nuns. Another hidden treasure is the lesser-known Sint-Annakerk, a beautiful and unique church that is largely overlooked by most visitors.

If you’re looking for a quirky experience, head to the Frietmuseum, where you can learn about the history of Belgium’s favorite fast food – french fries! It’s an unexpected and fun attraction that’s sure to delight both kids and adults.

Dining Experiences

No visit to Bruges is complete without indulging in the city’s famous cuisine. From steak tartare and mussels to Belgian waffles and chocolate, you’re in for a treat. For a local experience, head to Pro Deo, a cozy restaurant tucked away on a quiet street that serves up traditional Flemish dishes and has excellent vegetarian options too. Another top pick is ‘t Zwart Huis, a trendy bar-restaurant housed in a historic building where you can enjoy delicious seafood platters accompanied by live jazz music.

Fun fact: Belgian fries are traditionally served with mayonnaise, not ketchup! Be sure to try it the Belgian way at Frituur 1900, a charming little food stand that serves some of the tastiest and crispiest fries in town.

Cultural Experiences

Bruges is steeped in a rich culture and history, with countless festivals and events taking place throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Bruges Beer Festival, where you can sample over 300 varieties of Belgian beer in an atmospheric setting. Another must-visit is the Choco Story Museum, which takes you through the fascinating history of chocolate-making and offers numerous opportunities to sample some of the finest Belgian chocolates.

For an insight into the art scene, visit the Groeningemuseum, where you’ll find a vast collection of works by Flemish Primitive and Renaissance artists. It’s an excellent way to spend a few hours and immerse yourself in Bruges’ artistic history.

Local History

Bruges has a fascinating past, with a history that spans over 2000 years. One of the most intriguing stories is that of The Holy Blood, a vial that supposedly houses the blood of Jesus Christ and is kept in the imposing Basilica of the Holy Blood. Another must-see is the Markt, the central square of the city that has been the site of many significant events throughout Bruges’ history, including public executions and tournaments.

If you’re a history buff, a visit to the Historium Museum is highly recommended. The museum takes you on a multisensory journey back to the 15th century, where you can experience life in Bruges during the medieval period, complete with sights, sounds, smells, and even virtual reality.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for an experience that is truly off the beaten path, take a boat tour through the city’s picturesque canals. It’s a peaceful and relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective and get a unique view of some hidden corners of Bruges.

Another unique experience is taking a cycle tour along the Canal Damme, a quiet and scenic route that takes you through the countryside around Bruges and past historic windmills and charming villages.

Lastly, take a stroll through Minnewater Park, a tranquil and idyllic park that’s perfect for a picnic or an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center. It’s an excellent opportunity to take a break, relax, and soak up the serene beauty that Bruges has to offer.

In conclusion, Bruges is a city that is rich in history, culture, and cuisine, offering a unique and immersive travel experience. By exploring its hidden treasures and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, you can get a glimpse of what makes this city so special and unforgettable.