Bruges is only about 20 minutes from our home, and it is one of our favourite places in Belgium. We have visited more times than we can count and, as we said on Instagram, we find a new cute corner to photograph every time. This is our personal list of the 10 things we always come back for, with some practical tips for a first visit.
At a glance
- How long: A day trip, or a relaxed weekend
- Best time: April–June and September; December for the Christmas market
- Getting there: Direct trains from Brussels and Ghent (with one change from many places)
- Good for: Couples, photography and slow strolls
Top sights
Our 10 favourite things to do in Bruges
1. Rozenhoedkaai (Rosary Quay)
This is where the photo above was taken. The Rozenhoedkaai is one of the most famous, most photographed spots in Bruges, with canal, old gables and the belfry in one frame.
2. A drink or a bite at Vlissinghe
Vlissinghe is the oldest pub in Bruges, and it has a lovely beer garden. A good place to sit down after a long walk.
3. A waffle on the Markt
Grab a waffle and enjoy the view of the colourful buildings around the Markt square. Of course, it is touristy, but it is also part of the experience.
4. Photos at the Bonifacius bridge
A small stone bridge that is great for photos, as you can see below.
5. Dumon Chocolatier
The cutest chocolate shop we know in Bruges. Belgian chocolate is a must, and this is where we go for it.
6. Minnewaterpark
A green and calm park where you can walk around and watch the swans. A nice break from the busier streets.
7. The Begijnhof
A quiet, beautiful place with white houses. In spring there are lots of flowers, which makes it even prettier.
8. Go find the windmills
Walk to the windmills along the edge of the old town for a different view of Bruges.
9. Eat lots of fries
We are Belgian, so this one is non-negotiable. Eat plenty of fries while you are here.
10. Just get lost
Our favourite tip: put your map away and wander through the streets. Almost every corner of the historic centre is photogenic.
When to go to Bruges
We love Bruges in every season. Spring brings flowers to the Begijnhof, and in autumn the red leaves and brick houses make a warm backdrop for photos. Christmas in Bruges is lovely, with the lights and the market on the Markt square. In summer it can be busy, so if you want photos without crowds, go early in the morning or stay out of the main squares for a while.
Good to know
- Bruges is compact and made for walking, so you do not need a car in the historic centre.
- Most visitors arrive by train or car from elsewhere in Belgium and come for a day trip, but a night in the city gives you quiet streets in the evening and early morning.
- Good shoes are a must, because the streets are cobbled.
- Bruges is a great stop in a Belgian weekend. See our Belgian weekend guide to Ghent, Brussels and the coast.
- Looking for more cosy city trips? Here is our cosy Christmas post with more winter ideas.
FAQ
Is Bruges worth visiting?
For us, definitely. We have been many times and are never tired of it. You get canals, medieval streets, chocolate, waffles and fries in one compact town.
Where can you take the best photos in Bruges?
Our favourites are the Rozenhoedkaai, the Bonifacius bridge, the Minnewaterpark and the quiet streets around the Begijnhof. The Rozenhoedkaai is the most famous one.
How many days do you need in Bruges?
The historic centre is small, so most visitors see the highlights in a day. We like to stay longer and just wander, because the quiet streets in the early morning are our favourite.
When is the best time to visit Bruges?
Spring for flowers, autumn for colours and December for the Christmas lights. Summer is lovely but busier.
Bruges is the kind of place we will never get tired of. Have you been? Tell us your favourite spot, we are always looking for new corners.
Read also: our tips for Ghent at sunrise and our Wallonia and Ardennes guide.
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