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Why Visit Bruges?

Bruges is a fairytale-like city that's known for its medieval charm, romantic canals, and rich history. Stroll through cobbled streets, admire the stunning Markt Square with its iconic Belfry, and explore Burg Square’s historic architecture. Take a scenic boat tour through the canals for a unique perspective of the city. Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, home to a sacred relic, and marvel at Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child in the Church of Our Lady. Indulge in Belgian chocolate, waffles, and world-famous beer. Whether for history, romance, or gastronomy, Bruges offers a magical and unforgettable experience.

Know Before You Visit Bruges

Travel Essentials

Best Time To Visit

Getting Around

Best Things To Do

Food

Drinks

Travel Hacks

Time Zone: The standard time is Central European Time (UTC +1:00).

During Daylight Saving Time (from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October), it observes Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2:00

Currency: Euro – EUR – €

Country Code: +32

Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for any emergency.

Spring (March–May) – Ideal for mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. Enjoy the city’s beauty with comfortable temperatures and vibrant greenery, especially around Minnewater Park.
Summer (June–August) – Peak tourist season with warm weather and lively festivals. Expect crowds, but also enjoy long daylight hours, canal tours, and open-air events like the Cactus Festival.
Autumn (September–November) – A fantastic time for fewer tourists, cooler weather, and stunning fall foliage. Bruges’ historic charm is enhanced by golden leaves and a cozy atmosphere.
Winter (December–February) – Magical for Christmas markets, festive lights, and a fairytale-like atmosphere. January and February are quieter, making it perfect for a romantic winter getaway.

Walking – The best way to explore Bruges, as the city is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with charming streets and picturesque canals.
Bicycle – Rent a bike to explore like a local, especially for visiting quieter neighborhoods, windmills, and nearby countryside areas.
Boat Tours – A scenic and relaxing way to see Bruges from a different perspective, cruising through its historic canals.
Public Buses – De Lijn buses connect different parts of the city and are useful for reaching areas outside the center.
Horse-Drawn Carriages – A romantic and unique way to experience Bruges’ medieval charm, especially around Markt Square.
Taxis & Rideshares – Available but rarely needed, as the city is small and best explored on foot or by bike.

Climb the Belfry of Bruges – Ascend the 83-meter tower in Markt Square for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Take a Canal Boat Tour – Experience Bruges from the water, gliding through its picturesque canals and seeing historic buildings from a unique perspective.
Explore Markt & Burg Square – Admire the stunning medieval architecture, visit the City Hall, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Bruges’ main squares.
Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood – A remarkable church housing a sacred relic believed to contain the blood of Christ.
See Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child – Located in the Church of Our Lady, this marble sculpture is one of the few Michelangelo works outside Italy.
Indulge in Belgian Chocolate & Beer – Visit local chocolatiers and breweries like De Halve Maan to taste world-famous Belgian treats.

Belgian Waffles (Bruges Waffles) – Light, crispy, and served with powdered sugar, chocolate, fruit, or whipped cream. Try them fresh from street vendors or cafés.
Frites (Belgian Fries) – Thicker and double-fried for extra crispiness, served with a variety of sauces like mayonnaise, andalouse, or samurai sauce.
Carbonnade Flamande (Flemish Beef Stew) – A rich, slow-cooked beef stew made with beer, onions, and herbs, typically served with fries or bread.
Grey Shrimp Croquettes (Garnaalkroketten) – Crispy croquettes filled with North Sea grey shrimp in a creamy béchamel sauce, a must-try seafood dish.
Dame Blanche – A classic Belgian dessert of vanilla ice cream topped with warm, rich Belgian chocolate sauce and whipped cream

Trappist Beer – Brewed by monks in Trappist monasteries, these strong, flavorful beers (like Westmalle and Chimay) are a must-try for beer lovers.
Brugse Zot – The signature beer of Bruges, brewed at De Halve Maan Brewery, this golden ale has a slightly fruity and hoppy taste.
Genever – The precursor to gin, this juniper-flavored spirit comes in young (mild) and old (stronger, maltier) varieties, enjoyed neat or in cocktails.
Belgian Hot Chocolate – Rich, creamy, and made with real Belgian chocolate, this is a perfect non-alcoholic treat, especially in winter.
Elixir d’Anvers – A traditional herbal liqueur with a sweet yet complex taste, often enjoyed as a digestif after meals.

Visit Early or Late in the Day – Bruges gets crowded, especially in peak season. Arrive early in the morning or explore in the evening for a quieter experience.
Stay Overnight – Many tourists visit Bruges on day trips, so staying overnight lets you enjoy the city’s charm without the daytime crowds.
Use a Brugge City Card – This pass offers discounts on attractions, museums, and canal tours, saving money on entrance fees.
Walk or Bike Everywhere – Bruges is compact and best explored on foot or by bicycle, allowing you to discover hidden gems along the way.
Eat Away from Tourist Hotspots – Restaurants in Markt Square tend to be pricey; explore side streets for better, more authentic, and budget-friendly options.
Bring Cash for Small Purchases – While most places accept cards, some small shops, bakeries, and public restrooms may require cash.
Check for Free Museum Days – Some museums offer free entry on certain days or discounts for students and seniors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bruges Attractions

What are the best attractions to see in Bruges?

The top attractions include the Belfry of Bruges, Markt Square, Burg Square, canal boat tours, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, Minnewater Park, and Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child at the Church of Our Lady.

What can I do in Bruges on a budget?

Enjoy free attractions like Markt Square, Burg Square, and Minnewater Park, walk along the canals, visit historic churches, and try affordable street food like Belgian fries and waffles.

What is the best time to visit Bruges?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while winter (December) is perfect for experiencing the magical Christmas markets.

What is the best way to get around Bruges?

Walking is the best way to explore Bruges, but renting a bike or taking a canal boat tour provides a different perspective of the city.

What is the public transport system like?

Bruges has an efficient De Lijn bus network connecting key areas, but most attractions are within walking distance, making public transport rarely necessary.

What should I try to eat or drink in Bruges?

Must-try foods include Belgian waffles, moules-frites (mussels and fries), Flemish beef stew, and grey shrimp croquettes, while drinks like Trappist beer, Brugse Zot, and Belgian hot chocolate are highly recommended.

Can I use credit cards in Bruges?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but carrying some cash is useful for small vendors, bakeries, and public restrooms.

How many days do I need in Bruges?

One to two days is enough to see the main sights, but staying overnight allows you to experience Bruges without the daytime crowds.

Are museums in Bruges free?

Some museums offer free entry on certain days, and a Brugge City Card provides discounts on multiple attractions.

What languages are spoken in Bruges?

Most locals speak English, along with Dutch (the official language), French, and sometimes German.