What To Do In Bruges, Belgium? – A Detailed Guide

Bruges, Belgium, is a beautiful and romantic city that is filled with plenty to do. From wandering through its cobbled streets, taking a leisurely canal boat tour, to eating some of the best Belgian cuisine and visiting historic sites, Bruges is the ideal destination for a romantic and adventure-filled getaway. But with so much to do, it can be difficult to create an itinerary that showcases the best that Bruges has to offer. To answer your question, “What to do in Bruges, Belgium?” here is a detailed guide to help you maximize your stay.

Take a Romantic Canal Boat Tour

Taking a canal boat tour is one of the best ways to appreciate Bruges’ beauty and charm. As the boat moves through the still waters of the canals it will pass some of Bruges’ most striking landmarks and typically, the boat captains offer interesting commentary that you won’t find anywhere else. Most boat tours include about an hour of sightseeing with ticket prices starting around 12€ per person. The best option for getting tickets is to buy them through BrugesBoats.be ahead of time (if you’re really feeling spontaneous and adventuresome you can just show up and see if there are any available tickets).

Visit Historic Sites

Bruges is home to some of Belgium’s most beautiful and important historical sites. One must-visit site is the Burg Square which is the heart of the old city and a great place to stroll and appreciate the beautiful architecture. Two oft-visited sites located in Burg Square is the Belfry of Bruges which was built between 1240 and 1380, and the City Hall which was built in 1376 and dates back to medieval times. Explore the chapel interior which features incredible stained glass windows, an alter by Cornelis Floris de Vriendt, and a carved pulpit by Jacques Clement.

Bruges is also home to several medieval convents, monasteries, breweries, and churches. Known as “Little Jerusalem,” Roeselare was the heart of Jewish life in Belgium for 350 years until the 1940s and today visitors can see preserved artifacts at two synagogues including century-old scrolls that are still intact. Nearby Sint Janshospitals is said to be the oldest hospital in Europe and dates back to the 12th century.

Taste Authentic Belgian Cuisine

One of the most anticipated activities for many visitors is tasting some of Belgium’s delicious dishes. Bruges is especially known for their version of french fries called “Dutch Frites” which come with a variety of sauces like garlic mayonnaise or curry ketchup. Other favorites include mussels cooked in wine, waffles made of Belgian syrup and butter, croquettes filled with mushrooms or bolognese sauce, and steak tartare topped with a raw egg. For dessert be sure to savor a bowl of Vanilla Ice Cream with hot cherry sauce called “Spekuloos” or sweet pancakes filled with cream cheese.

Day Trips from Bruges

While Bruges offers plenty of activities within its city limits there are also some great day trips that are easily accessible from Bruges. Less than 20 kilometers from Bruges is Damme which is home to a vintage windmill, quaint shops, and has some great views of the nearby canal. Another popular day trip is Damme where one can find many restaurants that feature traditional Belgian cuisine. And if you want to explore some of Belgium’s incredible architecture take a 45-minute train ride from Bruges to Ghent where you can find sites such as St Bavo’s Cathedral which was built in the 11th century or Terebintstraat which is known for its incredibly preserved architecture dating back to the 15th century.

Concluding Thoughts

There is much more than meets the eye in Bruges that makes it an exhilarating destination; it’s impossible to cover all the amazing sights and activities into one blog post. However, I hope this article answered your question of what to do in Bruges. As you can see there is plenty to experience while in Bruges including romantic canal boat tours, visits to historic sites, sampling some delicious Belgian cuisine, and day trips to nearby cities. Bruges is truly a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history and culture

An Insider’s Guide to Bruges, Belgium

If you’re looking for a quaint and picturesque European city, look no further than Bruges, Belgium. With its winding canals, Gothic architecture, and cobblestone streets, Bruges feels like a fairy tale come to life. But beyond the tourist hotspots, there’s a world of lesser-known attractions, mouth-watering cuisine, and unique experiences awaiting visitors in Bruges.

Local Attractions

While the Belfry tower and the Markt may be the first tourist destinations that come to mind, there are hidden gems that only locals know about. One such location is the peaceful Begijnhof, a beautiful garden complex that was once home to a group of religious women who dedicated themselves to helping the poor. The serene surroundings and tranquil atmosphere make it the perfect place to recharge and relax. If you’re a fan of art, the Groeningemuseum is a lesser-known gallery that houses a fantastic collection of Flemish Primitives, Renaissance artists, and modern pieces.

Dining Spots

When it comes to Bruges’s cuisine, chocolate, waffles, and beer may be the first things that come to mind. But the city offers far more than those iconic treats. Try some traditional Flemish dishes like stoofvlees (beef stew), waterzooi (a creamy fish or chicken soup), and of course, moules-frites (mussels and fries). For a unique experience, dine at the De Halve Maan Brewery, where you can enjoy Belgian specialties in the historic brewery’s courtyard while sipping on their famous Brugse Zot beer.

Cultural Experiences

Bruges has a rich cultural heritage that visitors can experience through its architecture, festivals, and traditions. If you’re lucky enough to visit during Carnival season, you’ll witness the Bruges carnival – a colorful tradition of masked parades, music, and dance. Another highlight for culture enthusiasts is the Concertgebouw, a world-famous music hall that hosts classical, jazz, and contemporary performances.

Local History

Bruges’s history is fascinating, and it’s filled with captivating stories beyond the commonly told tales. One such tale is of the legendary dog, Fidel, who helped a group of rebels fight for their freedom against their oppressors. Fidel’s bravery even earned him a statue in the city center. Another interesting piece of Bruges’s history is the legend of the “Brugse Zot,” or the Mad Bruges man. The tale has it that a man deemed mad was the only one brave enough to warn Bruges of an impending attack from a neighboring town.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Want to experience something unique in Bruges? Rent a bike and venture out of the city center to discover the serene, tree-lined canals of Damme. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to the Minnewaterpark after dark, where you can spot bats or even fireflies (in the summer) circling the park’s lake. For a glimpse into the city’s “dark” history, visit the Torture Museum, an eerie but fascinating display of instruments of torture used in medieval Europe.

In conclusion, Bruges is more than just a chocolate and beer haven. With its charming streets, plentiful parks, and rich culture and history, it’s a city that cannot be missed. Don’t forget to venture off the beaten path and experience everything this stunning city has to offer.