Bruges, often referred to as the Venice of the North, is a city full of history, charm, and picturesque scenery. With its canals, medieval architecture, and cobbled streets, it’s no wonder that Bruges has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. While there are plenty of group tours available, sometimes it’s best to explore the city on your own schedule with a private tour. In this post, we’ll be sharing the four best private tours in Bruges that will take you to the city’s hidden gems and allow you to see Bruges in a unique way. Get ready to discover the best of Bruges in style!

The 4 Best Private Tours in Bruges

1. Private Evening Tour: The Dark Side of Bruges
2. Private Culinary & history tour
3. Private tour with hotel pick up
4. Australian Battlefields Private Tour in Flanders from Bruges

The 4 Best Private Tours in Bruges

1. Private Evening Tour: The Dark Side of Bruges

Discover the mysterious side of Bruges with a private evening walking tour. Avoid the daytime crowds and delve into the city’s hidden history with the help of a knowledgeable guide. Enjoy a personalized experience with just your party and get insights into local culture along the way. The tour concludes with a complimentary Belgian beer at the Bauhaus bar. Meet your guide at the Markt and look for the red umbrella, then finish up at St Christopher’s Inn The Bauhaus, just a 10 minute walk from the starting point. Don’t miss out on this unique way to experience Bruges at night.

2. Private Culinary & history tour

Join a private culinary and history tour in Bruges for an unforgettable experience. This is a tour that combines the taste of local delicacies with the rich history of the city.

During the tour, you will explore some of the best culinary highlights of Bruges, such as chocolates, beer, and waffles. Your expert local guide will take you to the best places to taste these delicious treats and give you insight into their history and significance.

The tour also includes a visit to some of Bruges’ most famous landmarks, including the Old Post Office Market Square. You will learn about the city’s fascinating history as you stroll through the charming streets and historic buildings.

This is a private tour, which means that only your group will participate. The tour includes snacks and alcoholic beverages, and pickups are available at the meeting point on Markt 5, 8000 Brugge. The tour ends at a different location, and confirmation will be received at the time of booking.

Please note that infants must sit on laps, service animals are allowed, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Most travelers can participate, and the tour will run as scheduled as long as the weather permits.

Cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the start time will not be accepted. Please refer to the full cancellation policy for more information.

Join this private culinary and history tour for an unforgettable experience in Bruges.

3. Private tour with hotel pick up

Private tour with hotel pick up is a perfect way to experience Bruges with convenience and comfort. The tour includes a pick up from your hotel and a visit to a chocolate store where you get to sample the finest chocolate in town. Your qualified guide will wait for you in front of Historium on the Market square in Bruges, holding a sign with “City Tours Belgium”. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and near public transportation. The private tour/activity ensures that only your group will participate. The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance and any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted. Overall, this is a great opportunity to enjoy a private tour with all the necessary arrangements taken care of.

4. Australian Battlefields Private Tour in Flanders from Bruges

Visit and learn the history behind World War I battlefields in the Flanders region of Belgium on this day trip from Bruges. You’ll trace the footsteps of Australian soldiers at sites like Fromelles, Ploegsteert, Messines, Polygoon Wood, and Passendale. Witness the mine craters laid by the 1st Australian Tunnelling Company and pay your respects to the fallen servicemen at Menin Gate in Ypres for the “Last Post” ceremony. This is a great tour for history buffs, offering flexibility to customize your itinerary to your interests. The smaller group size ensures personalized service, and lunch and entrance fees are included. Pickup is available at hotels or the train station in Bruges at 9 AM. Don’t miss the opportunity to see these important historical sites on your trip to Belgium.

Bruges: The Most Frequently Asked Questions

Bruges, also known as the ‘Venice of the North,’ is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Belgium. Its picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and rich history attract millions of visitors from all over the world every year. If you’re planning a trip to Bruges, you probably have many questions about this beautiful city. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about Bruges.

1. When is the best time to visit Bruges?

Bruges is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do. The peak tourist season in Bruges is from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time, and the streets can be crowded with tourists. The shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October are also great times to visit, as the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. If you want to experience Bruges during the winter, the city is also incredibly charming during the festive season, with Christmas markets and ice skating rinks set up throughout the city.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Bruges?

Bruges has an abundance of must-see sights and attractions, including:

1. The Belfry of Bruges
2. The Church of Our Lady Bruges
3. The Basilica of the Holy Blood
4. The Groeningemuseum
5. The Markt
6. The Gruuthusemuseum
7. The Minnewater Park
8. The Begijnhof

To see all of these attractions, consider taking a guided walking tour. Many tour companies offer tours that include all of the must-see sights, as well as some hidden gems that you might not have known about.

3. What are some of the best places to eat in Bruges?

Bruges has a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars that offer delicious food and drink. Some of the most highly recommended places to eat in Bruges include:

• ‘t Zwart Huis: This restaurant serves traditional Flemish cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
• The Olive Tree: This restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients.
• The Chocolate Line: This chocolate shop is a must-visit for all chocolate lovers.
• The Potato Bar: This restaurant offers a variety of baked potatoes with delicious toppings.
• The Belgian Pigeon House: This restaurant serves Belgian cuisine, with a focus on pigeon dishes.

4. How do I get around Bruges?

Bruges is a small city, and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer not to walk, there are other options available. You can rent a bike, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, or hop on a canal boat tour to see the sights from a different perspective. If you want to venture outside of the city, there are also buses and trains that run to nearby towns and cities.

5. What is the history of Bruges?

Bruges has a rich history that dates back to the Roman era. During the Middle Ages, Bruges was a bustling trading city, and its wealth and prosperity were reflected in its stunning architecture, art, and culture. However, in the 16th century, Bruges began to decline as a result of economic and political factors, and it fell into a state of disrepair. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Bruges underwent a renovation and restoration effort that aimed to restore the city’s medieval glory, and today it is considered one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.

6. What are some of the cultural events that take place in Bruges?

Bruges is known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are many cultural events that take place throughout the year. Some of the highlights include:

• The Bruges Art Festival: This festival takes place in May and June and showcases contemporary art from around the world.
• The Festival of Flanders: This music festival takes place in September and October and features classical and traditional music performances.
• The Christmas Markets: Every year, Bruges transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and ice skating rinks.
• The Procession of the Holy Blood: This religious procession takes place in May and commemorates the arrival of a vial of Christ’s blood in Bruges in the Middle Ages.

7. What are some of the best day trips from Bruges?

Bruges is perfectly situated for some great day trips to other Belgian towns and cities. Some of the best day trips from Bruges include:

• Ghent: This medieval city is just a short train ride away from Bruges and is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
• Antwerp: Belgium’s second-largest city is also easily accessible from Bruges and is home to some of the country’s best museums and galleries.
• Ypres: This city played a significant role in World War I and is now home to many war memorials and museums that commemorate the war.

Conclusion

Bruges is a beautiful city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and an abundance of things to see and do. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a longer stay, Bruges is sure to delight and surprise you. By using this guide and planning your trip well, you can make the most of your time in this wonderful city.

The 4 Best Private Tours in Bruges – Frequently Asked Questions

If you are planning to visit Bruges, one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium, you may want to take a private tour to get the most out of your trip. A private tour ensures that you have a personalized experience and can see the sights that interest you the most. However, with so many private tours available, it can be tough to choose one that is perfect for your needs. In this blog post, we answer some frequently asked questions about the 4 best private tours of Bruges to help you make an informed choice.

What are the best private tours in Bruges?

The best private tours in Bruges include:

1. Private Guided Walking Tour
2. Private Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
3. Private Boat Tour of Bruges’ Canals
4. Discover Bruges by Bike Private Tour

What does a private guided walking tour include?

A private guided walking tour is a perfect way to see Bruges’ stunning medieval center at your own pace. This tour is led by a local guide who will take you through the cobbled streets and alleys of Bruges’ historic town center. You will get to learn about the city’s rich history, its legends, and its architectural landmarks. The tour usually lasts around 2 hours, and you can customize it to your preferences. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to explore the city on foot and learn about its history.

What does a private tour by horse-drawn carriage include?

A private tour by horse-drawn carriage is an unforgettable experience that provides a different view of the city. Horse-drawn carriages are a traditional way of transport in Bruges, and this tour will take you on a romantic and picturesque journey through the city’s charming streets. Your guide will take you through the city’s historic district and show you its most iconic landmarks, including the picturesque canals, Market Square, the Belfry Tower, and the Beguinage. The tour lasts for around 30 minutes and is a perfect way to get an overview of the city’s main sights.

What does a private boat tour of Bruges’ canals include?

A private boat tour is a unique way to see Bruges’ waterways and provide a slow and peaceful view of the city. During the tour, you will sail through the city’s canals, and your guide will tell you about the city’s history and landmarks. You’ll get to witness the intriguing views of the ancient bridges, the historic homes, and the famous Market Square. The tour usually lasts for about 30 minutes, and you can choose between a standard boat or a luxury boat with wine and snacks. This tour is ideal for everyone who wants to experience Bruges from the water.

What does a Discover Bruges by Bike private tour include?

A Discover Bruges by Bike private tour is a perfect way to explore the city’s beyond the central district. The tour starts at the city’s historic district and covers some of its fantastic hidden corners that cannot be seen on foot. The tour also includes a visit to the famous Windmills of Bruges, the Sint-Annatunnel, and the green oases of Minnewater Park. You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will tell you about the unique features of each site you visit. The tour can last from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your preferences. This tour is perfect for everyone who wants to experience the beauty of Bruges off the beaten track.

How much do private tours cost?

The cost of private tours of Bruges varies depending on the tour you choose and the duration of the tour. However, most tours start at around €100. Keep in mind that some tours, such as a private boat tour, or a tour by horse-drawn carriage, may be more expensive due to the higher costs of operating these services.

How do I book a private tour of Bruges?

Booking a private tour of Bruges is easy. You can book directly with tour operators in Bruges or through online travel agencies. When booking your tour, ensure that you choose a reputable tour company with experienced guides.

Conclusion

Bruges offers some of the most enchanting and romantic sights a traveler could wish for, and booking a private tour is the perfect way to explore this charming city. Whether you decide to take a walking tour, bike trip, boat ride or horse-drawn carriage, you will undoubtedly have a fantastic experience. By answering some of the frequently asked questions, we hope you can now make an informed decision about which private tour is best for you.