What is the best way to explore Bruges in one day?

Visiting Bruges is like stepping into a fairytale. This enchanting Belgian city is home to some of Europe’s most romantic features—from grand churches and canals lined with storybook buildings to quaint cobblestone streets and breathtaking gardens. The city’s beauty has been captured in paintings, movies, and TV shows, making it one of the most beloved destinations in the world.If you’re planning a trip and want to make the most of your experience, exploring Bruges in one day can seem like a tall order. While it’s certainly possible to take in many of the city’s most stunning sights in 24 hours, it does require some planning to make sure you visit the must-see attractions and experience the best of what Bruges has to offer. To get the most out of your day trip to this historical and picturesque city, follow our guide for exploring Bruges in one day.

Start your day with breakfast at De Refter

De Refter is a chic and lively café situated near the city’s central Market Square. As its name suggests, it’s a popular spot for breakfast, so get there early to snag a table. You’ll have dozens of delicacies to choose from, such as Belgian waffles and croissants with accompaniments like Nutella and various jams. You’ll also be able to enjoy an interesting selection of freshly-made smoothies and juices.

Visit the Central Market Square

After breakfast, make your way to the city’s iconic Market Square. Surrounding the square are bustling restaurants and cafés as well as souvenir stands. You’ll also find a picturesque 13th-century Belfry Tower in the center of the square. It boasts a spectacular bell that gets its own ringing ceremony every hour. Region next to the square are two of Bruges’ most impressive churches: the Romanesque Church of Our Lady and the magnificent Basilica of the Holy Blood. Return here in the evening hours to take in the breathtaking beauty of their illuminated exteriors.

Follow the Canals

Known as “the Venice of the North,” Bruges is famous for its picturesque canals that wind through the city. Walking along them provides lots of good photo opportunities as you spot historical buildings in the background. Feel free to hop on board one of Bruges’ boats for a tour down the canal and under its romantic bridges. Floating along its placid waters, you’ll be able to take in more of the city’s beauty from a completely different perspective.

Discover the Groeningemuseum

Housed in a 13th-century building near the Central Market Square, Groeningemuseum is among Europe’s oldest galleries. It features an extensive collection of artwork spanning several centuries, including works by some world-renowned Flemish painters such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling. If you only have time for one museum visit during your one-day tour of Bruges, Groeningemuseum is a great choice. You’ll be able to see some truly iconic masterpieces while enjoying a stroll through the building and its carefully restored gardens.

Indulge in Belgian Delights at Choco-Story Brussels

Choco-Story Brussels is Bruges’ acclaimed chocolate museum housed in a 17th-century building near the Sint-Janshuis Mills. Here, visitors can explore an engaging collection of maps, videos, sculptures, and other exhibits related to chocolate and its history. The museum also offers plenty of tasty samples, including handmade chocolates from all over Belgium.

Check out Minnewater Park

Minnewater Park encompasses one of the city’s more romantic scenes—a lake filled with swans and ducks surrounded by lush greenery and benches for visitors who want to enjoy a peaceful break. There’s also a landmark known as “the Lover’s Bridge’ at one end of the Park dedicated to local legend—according to local folklore, anyone who crosses the bridge together with their loved one will have eternal happiness.

Head to Groote Markt for Dinner

In keeping with its French-speaking culture, Bruges boasts plenty of amazing restaurants with fresh takes on classic culinary favorites—from mussel pots to steak-frites and fries with different sauces and toppings. Groote Markt is an ideal spot to look for evening meals after exploring the city during the day.

Finish Up at Béguinage

No visit to Bruges is complete without taking a few hours to explore one of its impressive holy sites—its Beguinages—which played an important part in local history for hundreds of years. Beguinages are typically self-contained religious communities for unmarried women in Christianity, often including houses for midwives and nurses. The main courtyard here is surrounded by 12th-century chapels, refectories, gardens, and terraces, making it one of Europe’s most incredible historical sites.

Conclusion: The Best Way to Explore Bruges in One Day

A one-day tour of Bruges requires advance planning if you want to hit all the must-see sites in this Belgian sanctuary. Start by setting out early and indulging with breakfast at De Refter—one of the city’s popular cafes—then make your way to the Market Square before crossing over the charming canals leading to various other attractions such as Groeningemuseum and Choco-Story Brussels. No visit would be complete without stopping by Minnewater Park or Beguinage before heading back for dinner at Groote Markt before evening falls! To make sure you don’t miss out when visiting this stunning destination, be sure to check out Belgium’s official website for more helpful tips on what to do, see and eat in Bruges!