Bruges - Discovering Belgium

Travelling to Bruges

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bruges, a pretty good destination in Belgium (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bruges and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bruges, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Belgium, here's everything to know about Bruges for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bruges

Bruges is a town in northwest Belgium, known for its historic architecture and scenic canals. The center of Bruges, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to well-preserved medieval buildings such as the Gothic town hall and the 13th-century Belfry tower, as well as numerous museums and art galleries. The town is also famous for its picturesque cobblestone streets, charming restaurants and cafes, and traditional chocolate shops. Bruges is a popular tourist destination and an excellent location for a city break, offering plenty of opportunities for walks, bike rides, and boat rides through some of the most beautiful and scenic parts of Belgium.

What to visit in Bruges

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Bruges along with some useful information: 1. The Markt - This is the central square of Bruges, known for its lively atmosphere and charming architecture. This is a great spot for people-watching, grabbing a drink, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
2. The Belfry - The iconic tower on the Markt offers panoramic views of the city from the top. There are 366 steps to climb, but the view is definitely worth the effort.
3. The Bruges Canal - You can take a leisurely boat trip along the canal to see some of the city's picturesque architecture from a different perspective.
4. Groeningemuseum - This museum houses a fantastic collection of Flemish art, including works by Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and other masters of the Northern Renaissance.
5. Church of Our Lady - This beautiful church has the second-tallest brick tower in the world and houses Michelangelo's famous sculpture "Madonna and Child," as well as other artistic and architectural treasures.
6. Brewery De Halve Maan - This brewery offers guided tours and tastings of its famous Brugse Zot beer. It's a great way to learn about the brewing process and sample some local flavor.
7. The Choco-Story Chocolate Museum - This museum provides insight into the history and production of chocolate, including a demonstration of how to make Belgian pralines.
8. The Frietmuseum - As the name suggests, this museum is dedicated to the beloved Belgian dish of fries (or frites). You can learn about the history of fries and even sample some tasty snacks.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Bruges has to offer. Each one offers a unique glimpse into the city's history and culture, and it's definitely worth taking the time to explore them all!

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bruges.

When to go on holiday to Bruges

The best time to visit Bruges (Belgium) is from April to October when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for walking along the city's charming canals and admiring its stunning Gothic architecture. July and August are the busiest months and can be quite crowded with tourists, so it's best to book accommodations and tours in advance. In December, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with its Christmas markets, ice skating rink, and festive decorations, making it a popular destination for holiday travelers.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bruges

There are several ways to get to Bruges, depending on where you are coming from.
By plane: The nearest airport is Brussels Airport (BRU), which is about 100 kilometers away from Bruges. From the airport, you can take a train, bus, or taxi to Bruges.
By train: Bruges is well-connected by train to other cities in Belgium and Europe. There are frequent train services to Bruges from Brussels, Ghent, Antwerp, and other major cities. Check the timetable and fare on the Belgian Railways website.
By bus: Several bus companies operate services to Bruges from Brussels and other Belgian cities. Eurolines and Flixbus are also good options if you are traveling from other European cities.
By car: Bruges is easily reachable by road from other major Belgian cities. The A10 motorway connects Bruges to Brussels, and the E40 motorway connects Bruges to Ghent and Ostend.
Once you arrive in Bruges, you can easily explore the city on foot, or by renting a bike or taking a guided tour.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bruges, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bruges

Bruges is a city in Belgium that is well-known for its delicious food. Below are some typical foods of Bruges with short descriptions: 1. Flemish Stew: This is a hearty stew made with beef that has been slowly cooked in a beer sauce until it’s tender and flavorful.
2. Belgian Waffles: These crispy, fluffy waffles are a must-try when in Bruges. They are often topped with powdered sugar, chocolate, or whipped cream.
3. Moules Frites: This is a classic Belgian dish consisting of mussels and French fries cooked in butter, garlic, and white wine sauce.
4. Carbonnade Flamande: This dish is similar to Flemish stew but is made with chunks of beef that have been braised with onions, spices, and beer.
5. Waterzooi: This creamy stew is made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and cream. It’s seasoned with herbs such as thyme, bay leaves, and parsley.
6. Speculoos: These are gingerbread-like biscuits that are spiced with cinnamon and other spices. They are often enjoyed with coffee or tea.
7. Chocolates: Bruges is known for its artisanal chocolates made by local chocolatiers. They come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors.
8. Poffertjes: These small Dutch pancakes are made with buckwheat flour and are often served with butter and powdered sugar.
9. Kriek Beer: This is a Belgian beer made from sour cherries. It’s fruity, tart, and refreshing. 10. Croquettes: These deep-fried snacks are filled with creamy mashed potatoes, meat, or cheese. They are often served as a side dish or snack.
You can find general info about typical foods in Belgium here.

Is Bruges an expensive destination for tourists?

Bruges is considered to be a slightly more expensive destination for tourists compared to other cities in Belgium. The cost of accommodation, food, and attractions can be higher than other cities. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it is still possible to enjoy a trip to Bruges without overspending. There are many affordable accommodations and dining options that cater to different budgets. Additionally, exploring the city on foot or by bike is a cost-effective way of experiencing the beauty and charm of Bruges.

Where to find accomodation in Bruges

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Bruges are the historic center, also known as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the areas immediately surrounding it. These areas include Burg, Markt, and the old town square. Other popular neighborhoods for accommodation include Sint-Anna, Sint-Pieters, and Sint-Gillis. These areas offer easy access to Bruges' top attractions and are filled with charming architecture, quaint cafes, and local shops.
You can check hotel prices at Bruges here:
Booking.com

Is Bruges a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Bruges is generally a safe place for tourists. It's a small city with a low crime rate, and the locals are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, as with any destination, it's still important to exercise caution and take common-sense safety measures, such as not carrying large amounts of cash, staying aware of your surroundings, and avoiding walking alone in isolated areas at night. Additionally, it's a good idea to be mindful of potential scams or pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas. But overall, Bruges is a safe and pleasant destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Belgium here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bruges.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bruges the most?

Bruges, Belgium is a great destination for a wide variety of travelers. Couples and families particularly enjoy the romantic and historic city, with its charming canals, picturesque buildings, and quaint streets. The city is also suitable for young people as there are plenty of activities and attractions available, including museums, shopping, and nightlife. However, it is worth noting that Bruges is not particularly known for its wild party scene. So, if you are looking for a destination that purely focuses on nightlife, there are better options elsewhere. Ultimately, Bruges caters to anyone who appreciates beauty, history, and culture.

How to get around Bruges

Bruges is a relatively small city, so it is easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. However, there are also several options for public transportation, including buses, taxis, and boats. The bus system is run by De Lijn and tickets can be purchased at stations or from the driver. There are also taxi stands located throughout the city, and boat tours can be enjoyed along the canals.

What to see around Bruges

Certainly! Here are some suggestions for day trips from Bruges: 1. Ghent: A beautiful city with impressive gothic architecture, Ghent is only 30 minutes by train from Bruges.
2. Brussels: The capital city of Belgium, known for its Grand Place and delicious Belgian cuisine. It is about an hour by train from Bruges.
3. Antwerp: A charming city with amazing art, culture, and fashion, taking around 90 minutes by train from Bruges.
4. Knokke: A seaside resort town with beautiful beaches and high-end shopping galleries. It is approximately a 30-minute drive from Bruges.
5. Ypres: A historical town famous for its WWI sites such as Menin Gate and Flanders Fields museum. It is about an hour and 15 minutes by train from Bruges. I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Belgium you can click here.

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