The 32 Best Things to do in Bruges

Bruges is one of Belgium’s best-loved cities, often outshining the capital of Brussels. Planning your visit? Don’t miss this guide to the best things to do in Bruges to help you plan your trip. 

Bruges is the archetypal Flemish city, but it’s so much more than that. Ancient brickwork and winding canals give the city its nickname “The Venice of the North”, while its position as the heartland of Dutch-speaking Flanders gives it an unmistakable identity of its own. 

I’ve visited Bruges several times over the years and each time, find one more reason to go back and explore. 

You don’t have to look hard to find evidence of Bruges’ historical importance: stately market squares, important museums, diamond traders – all tell the story of the city’s position. 

Bruges was named the capital of Flanders in the 15th century. In the 17th, it was named the capital of King Charles II’s exiled government as the English Commonwealth ruled on British soil. All of this has left its mark on Bruges as firmly as a stamp. 

For more information on this charming city, check out this Bruges travel guide. And if you’re looking for the best things to do in Bruges, take a peek at the list of attractions and activities below.  

Best Things to do in Bruges

If you’re short on time and are wondering which activities are a must-do in Bruges, then take a peek at the top five picks below. 

Wander Around Markt 

Chances are, if you asked anyone to name the single best thing to see in Bruges, they’d start with Markt. Sitting at the heart of Bruges, flanked on one side by the Belfort, Markt is Bruges’ commercial hub – a stark reminder that once Bruges was the economic centre of Flanders. 

That’s all great, but it is the architecture that sets out to wow. Rows of typical Flanders houses, complete with their stepped roofs and distinctive brickwork surround the square, punctuated by a few museums and the huge Belfort. 

Visit Burg 

Burg is the second-biggest square in Bruges and another must-see on your list of top things to see in Bruges. 

Why? Well, first of all, some of Bruges’ most important buildings sit on the square: the Gothic Stadthuis (town hall), the 16th-century city registry, the former Court of Justice, the Deanery, the House of the Deans of the Church of St. Donatus and the Heilig Bloedbasiliek (the Basilica of the Holy Blood). 

Secondly, it is straight-up beautiful.

Much of Bruges feels like you are walking through a fairytale, but the Burg goes for the full shebang (well, when it’s not thronging with huge crowds, anyway – that somewhat ruins the effect). 

Chill Out in Bruges Begijnhof / Beguinages

Belgium’s gorgeous Begijnhof offers a calm respite in the heart of the city. 

These world-famous UNESCO World Heritage buildings were built in 1245 to provide religious sanctuary for poor and elderly women – often unmarried or widowed by the wars that claimed so many men’s lives at the time. 

While the Begijnhoff dates from the 13th century – many of the buildings you see clustered around the central tree date back to the 17th century. There are also a few 19th-century ones thrown in for good measure. 

The entrance, via a bridge over a pretty canal, takes you into a different world. 

Life inside the Begijnhof was quiet and governed by strict religious beliefs, so it’s fitting that it’s now a Benedictine convent. Even walking through today, signs request visitors keep their voices low and don’t make too much noise. 

Take a Canal Cruise

You can’t come to Bruges and not hop onto one of the cruises plying the canals that make this city so famous. After all, it is often called the Venice of the North.

Bruges’ waterways are what made the city so rich in the first place. Even the city’s name ties to the canals. It’s thought that the name Brugge comes from the Scandinavian word “Bryggis,” which translates as mooring place.

These days, it’s all tourist trade on the canals – but they’re no less picturesque than they were centuries ago. The tours generally run between March and November. Be sure to wrap up on colder days and be sure to bring along a waterproof jacket. 

Discover Belgian Beer on a Brewery Tour 

Belgium is famous for its beers, so if you have even a passing interest or enjoyment of the brown stuff, going on a brewery tour is pretty much a must. 

There are a few breweries you can visit in the city – De Halve Maan, Fort Lapin and Bourgogne des Flandres – all three producing excellent beer and leading brewery tours.

What could be more Bruges than learning all about how the city makes the iconic Belgian Beers before whetting your whistle with tasters of the end product? 

PS: Service is curt at best at Bourgogne des Flandres, so if you have to skip one, choose that one.

Visit Helig Bloedbasiliek (The Basilica of the Holy Blood)

Perched on a corner of the Burg, the Basilica of the Holy Blood is one of the most visited churches in Bruges. But what is it? Well, the clue is in the name – the Basilica holds a phial that some say contains the holy blood of Jesus. 

Reports suggest that the relic came from the Holy Land in 1149, but evidence suggests it was actually from what was Constantinople. Either way, the holy phial is supposed to contain a shred of the cloth used to wipe Jesus’ body after his crucifixion. Gory stuff. 

Whether you believe that or not, there’s no denying the church’s dramatic exterior is a real eye-catcher, even by this city’s high standards.

Marvel at the Groeninge Museum

The Groeninge Museum is the city’s leading museum – with a collection that largely focuses on artists who, throughout the centuries since the mediaeval ages, have called Bruges their home. 

I’ll be completely honest here. I didn’t LOVE the Groeninge Museum. In truth, I found it a bit dull – but I’m not really that into the early Flemish, Dutch and Belgian art that forms the backbone of the museum’s collection. 

I also thought it was pretty expensive for what is ultimately a relatively small museum, but it is one of Bruges’ most important museums, so I’ll leave you to make up your mind. 

Gawk at the Gruuthuse Museum 

Housed in a charming mansion, the relatively recently-renovated Gruuthuse Museum contains the antique and art collections of the Archaeological Society of Bruges. 

The impressive building belonged to one of the wealthiest families in Bruges. The most famous member of this family is Lodewijk van Gruuthuse (Louis of Gruuthuse), a diplomat and art lover. 

The mansion has seen several renovations over its lifetime, and the result is truly astounding. Inside you’ll find mediaeval kitchens, Gothic furniture, and medical displays, all portraying life in mediaeval and Renaissance Bruges. 

Eat Some Belgian Waffles 

Just the thought of Belgian waffles is enough to get my mouth drooling. There are so many great waffle shops in Bruges that I totally wouldn’t blame you if you had them for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day (though maybe that would be a little bit excessive).

Fluffy yet dense, sweet but not too sweet, and topped with your choice of delicious topping (hello salted caramel), you really should have at least one during your trip.

Buy Some Belgian Chocolate

Belgian chocolate hardly needs an introduction – the country loves chocolate, a passion that has meant it has produced some of the world’s finest chocolate for centuries. 

The upshot is that if you’re big on your chocolate, Bruges is tantamount to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory – with shop after shop selling the good stuff. 

Not all chocolates are equal, though. So it’s worth hunting out a few highly-recommended ones for your list of places to visit in Bruges: Olivier’s Chocolate Shop & Bar and Pol Delpa Chocolatier are two of my faves. 

Stroll Around De Vesten (The City Ramparts) and Windmill Walk 

Did you know that Bruges used to be a walled city? You will only find traces of evidence that once, the city boasted 7 km of walls, built for protection in 1297 by the French King Phillip the Fair. 

Though the walls were largely torn down in the 19th century, a few gates remain, including the Gentpoort, which houses part of the city museum and the moated Ezelpoort.

Interesting as that all is, what’s better is that the space previously occupied by the old city walls has transformed into a lovely walk around Bruges Old Town. Along the way, you can take in views of the four remaining city gates and windmills (which is why it’s often nicknamed Windmill Walk). 

There used to be over 20 windmills to the north of the city – today, only three remain. Sint Janshuismolen is the most important of them all as it still grinds flour today. You can pop in and see the process yourself.

Indulge in Choco Story at Bruges Chocolate Museum 

Another one of the choccy-themed Bruges attractions is Choco Story. It is a chocolate museum created to honour one of Belgium’s best-known international exports and is certainly one of the best activities in Bruges for all the chocolate lovers out there. 

Belgian’s first chocolate house dates back to 1845, and the country has been devoted to the good stuff ever since. 

The museum walks you through the history of chocolate and the development of Belgium’s own chocolate industry – complete with interesting snippets and stories along the way. I dare you to resist the chocolate from the shop on the way out. 

Visit the Diamantmuseum 

Three of the world’s leading diamond museums are located in Belgium. Accident? I think not.

Belgium’s history is inextricably intertwined with that of the diamond industry.

In fact, diamond-cutting was first invented in Bruges more than 500 years ago. 

Housed in a 17th-century mansion, the museum takes you back in time to the old diamond workshops and some replicas of the famous pieces they produced. There are also large numbers of real diamonds for you to feast your eyes on too. 

Some unique demonstrations you’ll be able to attend when visiting the museum include diamond-cutting and diamond-polishing.

Climb the Belfort 

It’s hard to miss the Belfort as you’re sure to see it peeking out above the skyline here and there. In fact, there are few places in the city centre where you won’t catch a glimpse (or, failing that, hear the sounds of its bells ringing out).

The Belfort that we see today is not the original. It burnt down in 1240, was rebuilt, and then destroyed by fire twice more. The second time was in 1741, before it evolved into the building we see today. 

Climbing the Belfort is unmissable, so long as you have a head for heights and plenty of stamina to climb. It is high, and it takes some huffing and puffing to reach the top over 366 painstaking, yet ultimately rewarding steps. However, the spectacular views from the top are most certainly worth it. 

Check Out St Salvator’s Cathedral 

Previously a humble church, St Salvator became a cathedral when Belgium became an independent kingdom in the 19th century.

It was enlarged and improved to fit its new status, as well as to ensure it looked every bit more important than its neighbour, the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk. 

The result of the building’s long history is a diverse mix of architectural styles from the Scheldt and High Gothic periods. It also boasts some Neo-Gothic and Neo-Romanesque styles. 

Inside the cathedral, you’ll find weapons belonging to the chivalric order of the Knights of the Golden Fleece. Other important treasures you’ll find here include a collection of Old Dutch paintings, shrines, reliquaries, and sculptures from the church treasury.

Swing by Onze-Lieve Vrouwekerk – The Church of Our Lady 

Sporting Bruges’ highest tower (yes, even higher than the Belfort’s), Onze-Lieve-Vrouwerkerk is Bruges’ most visited religious building. This is thanks to its stunning architecture and the fact that it doubles as a museum and houses a number of important artistic works, including Michaelangelo’s Madonna & Child. 

The sculpture – famously the only one to leave Italy while Michaelangelo was alive, was originally sculpted in 1504 for Siena Cathedral in Italy. However, that all changed when two Bruges merchants bought the piece and later donated it to the church in 1506.

Today, it really pulls in the crowds. Try to go early or late before or after the tour buses arrive and depart to get a look at it in relative peace.  The 122 m tower is one of the tallest in Belgium, topped only by that of Antwerp’s gorgeous cathedral. 

Peer Inside Sint Janshospitaal & The Memling Museum

Sint Janshospitaal dates back to the 12th century and is one of the oldest preserved hospital buildings in Europe. It served as the city’s main hospital until well into the 20th century. Today, it serves as a museum dedicated to recreating what a mediaeval hospital and pharmacy would have looked like. 

Inside you will find an extensive collection of archives, medical instruments, and artworks. Sint Janshospitaal is also home to an impressive collection of paintings by German artist Hans Memling. One of the most famous pieces found here is the Ursula Shrine. 

Another draw of this museum is the Diksmuide attic, which boasts one of Europe’s oldest and most monumental roof support structures.

Scoff at Frites Museum 

A whole museum dedicated to the humble chip? Only Bruges could make it work.

In truth, I wasn’t sure whether I’d enjoy the Frites Museum, but it is surprisingly engaging – walking you through everything you ever needed to know about the much-loved Belgian fries.

What’s more, you get some perfectly-prepared fries at the end of your trip to round it off (to be had with mayonnaise the Belgian way, naturally). 

Take a Romantic Stroll Around Minnewater Park 

It’s hard to believe that tranquil Minnewater Lake is a city park, but it is. 

This pretty spot, containing the Lovers’ Lake and Lovers’ Bridge is both peaceable and photogenic – and well deserving of a place on your list of places to visit in Bruges. 

Like much of Bruges, there’s a story behind the lake too. According to legend, a beautiful young woman was in love with a warrior from a neighbouring tribe.

Her family disapproved, instead arranging for her to marry another man. Rather than submitting to this fate, the girl ran off into the forest, where she was found by the warrior… only to die in his arms. 

It’s not a cheerful tale, but rather fitting for the evocative surrounds of the park and lake. 

Snap a Photo of Rozenhoedkaai (Quay of the Rosary)

Is this the prettiest location in Bruges? It’s certainly one of the most photographed and deserves a spot on any list of unmissable places to see in Bruges.

Go and you’ll see castle-like buildings touching the water, along with a bridge and wooden dock that also appears untouched. With its sheer charm, the Quay of the Rosary looks as if it came out of the pages of one of Hans Christian Andersen’s tales – that or a Disney film. 

Spot St Walburga’s Church 

St Walburga’s is one of the things to do in Bruges that’s a little off the tourist track – which is weird as it’s located quite centrally and boasts the most impressive interior of all the city’s religious sites. 

Decorated in stark black and white Baroque style (with plenty of gilt and wooden carvings for further effect), it’s jaw-droppingly beautiful.

Take a Day Trip to Brussels

With Belgium’s transport being as efficient as it is, and the capital just 90 minutes away, it would be criminal not to visit Brussels during your trip to Bruges.

The cosmopolitan capital is filled with plenty of brilliant things to see and do – from hanging out in Grand Place to seeing the city from a new perspective inside the Atomium. Marvel at the EU buildings or swing by the Justice Palace for a pretty jaunt around the nearby gardens, as well making time to visit the Magritte Museum.

Whatever you do, swinging by Delirium for a craft beer (or three) is a must. As is heading to Knees to Chin for the best Vietnamese rolls in the city.

Concertgebouw 

Wondering what to do in Bruges that doesn’t look like it’s straight up out of the 16th century? So much of Bruges has one foot in the past that the ultra-modern Concertgebouw can come as something of a shock. 

The Concertgebouw opened in 2002, which is also the year that Bruges got the name the European City of Culture. It is an international music and art centre renowned for its architecture, acoustics, extensive art collection, and magical concerts.  

It is purposefully dramatic and a real change from the traditional buildings that define the rest of the city. It also sits on the list of 1001 buildings to visit before you die. 

For the full experience, keep a lookout for the Concertgebouw programme online. You’re sure to find something spectacular.  

Experience the Bruges Nightlife 

Another reason why Bruges is popular amongst locals and tourists is its vibrant nightlife. Throughout the city you’ll come across a wide range of nightclubs and pubs. You’ll find many of these concentrated around Blekerstraat, Vlamingstraat, Kemelstraat, Breidelstraat, and Oud Sint-Jan. 

Take Aim with a Tour of the St Sebastiaan Royal Guild of Archers

The St Sebastiaan Royal Guild of Archers is one of Bruges’ best-hidden, and oldest secrets. Established more than 600 years ago, this guild of archers remains active today and boasts members of the British Royal Family as active members. Indeed, Queen Elizabeth II was one of only two non-male members of the longbow guild prior to her death.

You have to make an appointment to visit the stunning museum and explore the buildings, but it’s well worth making the effort as what you’ll see will have your jaw dropping in awesome wonder.

If you can, take a look at the 16th-century archery range, while learning more about the four different disciplines they practice. This includes the 60m target shooting, reclining ‘wip’ at 18 metres and standing ‘wip’ at 30m.

Explore the Stadhuis

Bruges City Hall is one of the oldest city halls in the Benelux countries with building works beginning in 1376 and concluding almost fifty years later in 1421. The grandiose building remains a testament to European gothic architecture of the era and is one of the city’s most Instagrammable spots.

Yet even that pales when you step inside and enter the astonishing Gothic Hall, up the stairs from the main entrance, where huge murals tell the story of the history of the city along with a vault containing original 14th-century polychromed consoles.

In the historical room, learn about Bruges’ history to the sea through trade and the sea’s awesome power before heading back downstairs to come face-to-face with former civic and royal leaders, including a certain Napoleon Bonaparte. 

The Stadhuis remains the centre of political power within Bruges playing host to monthly council meetings in the grand Gothic Hall.

Get to Know Dali at the Gallery XPO Salvador Dali

You wouldn’t necessarily link Bruges with the surreal world and works of Salvador Dali, the 20th-century Spanish surrealist artist, even if you knew his life in intimate detail.

I’ll be honest, surrealism and cubism isn’t always my artistic jam, but the Gallery XPO, housed in the Belfry, exhibits more than 300 of Dali’s works and is a shrine to his undoubted genius that marked him out as one of the 20th century’s most celebrated art figures.

During his life, Dali collaborated with some big names, particularly in Hollywood where he worked with Walt Disney and Hitchcock, notably on the dream sequence in Spellbound. He is also famed for creating the famous face of actress Mae West before being influenced by the aftermath of the atomic bombs dropped on Japan in the 60s and 70s.

All of these influences are referenced in this admittedly cool collection of which, my favourite is the eerie cast of Beethoven’s head. 

Walk Through the Famous Kruispoort Gate

If getting your history nerd on is something you like to do, you cannot go wrong with a walk to the Kruispoort Gate. This famous monument to many of Bruges’ famous brushes with historical figures is only a 15 minute walk from the historic town centre.

Although the gate has undergone many necessary facelifts after it was repeatedly torn down and rebuilt, several original features remain including the two main towers, a narrow passageway, and a couple of octagonal turrets.

Among the famous figures and conquerors to have marched through the gate in triumph are Charle V, Napoleon, and the German Army in May 1940. This gate is one of only four remaining in the city and, in my view, the most beautiful.

Eating and Drinking

Restaurant Sans Cravate 

£££

The Michelin-starred Restaurant Sans Cravate melds French and Belgian cuisine to create high-end dishes and some of the best eats in the city. 

I loved their 3 course evening menu which came with two options for starter, main, and desert, plus the two exclusively-paired wines curated by chief sommelier Casimir. All for €175. Book ahead as it gets extremely busy. And gentlemen, don’t fret. You can dine sans cravate!

‘T Bagientje 

££

Traditional Belgian cuisine in a rather cutesy setting just inside of the old city ramparts? Yes please! Just 100 metres from the main railway station is ‘T Bagientje, a traditional Flemish restaurant serving some of the most authentic cuisine in the city.

The food is tasty but service can be slow, so don’t go if you’re in a hurry.  

The Republic  

£

Want to head to where the locals gather? Go to The Republic, where the contemporary menu and chic decor feels worlds away from the sometimes stuffy Bruges dining scene. Go for Carpaccio Grand Cru, or North Sea haddock from the main menu, or grab a range of their sharing plates for the best culinary treats.

With an ongoing calendar of cultural events and its own cinema too, this spot is highly recommended. 

Le Trappiste

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I’ll make a bold statement: Le Trappiste is the coolest bar in Bruges. Step inside the exposed brick walls and you’re soon transported to a beer haven – everything from Hoeegarden to Chouffe, as well as some more off-piste options, are served here.

For more incredible restaurants and cafes, check out this guide to the best places to eat in Bruges.

Practical Tips for Your Bruges Trip

How Long to Visit in Bruges? 

I would recommend visiting Bruges for at least two days, preferably three. 

A day trip to Bruges is an easy trip, but staying overnight means that you have more time to explore the city’s key sights. You’ll also get to experience how nice and quiet it is once all the day-tripping crowds leave. 

Where Should I Stay in Bruges? 

Wondering where to stay in Bruges? Well, Bruges isn’t a large city, so wherever you stay is going to be relatively close to the centre. Here are my top recommendations: 

Novotel Bruges Centrum Hotel (Mid-Range) 

A relatively simple yet contemporary hotel a short walk away from the city centre. While the Novotel might not set your world alight, the rooms are comfortable, and the prices are reasonable.

Check Rates and Availability for Novotel Bruges

Hotel de Orangerie (Luxury) 

A converted Carthusian convent, the ivy-clad facade of the Hotel de Orangerie is a landmark in itself. Go for upmarket rooms, swish service and (if you’re lucky) breathtaking views. 

Check Rates and Availability for Hotel de Orangerie Bruges

Things to do in Bruges, Belgium: Map 

Read More Bruges Travel Guides

• How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Bruges
• 2 Days in Bruges: A Weekend Break Itinerary
• The Best Airbnbs in Bruges
• Bruges Tourist Map – Interactive Map of the City’s Biggest Attractions
• Bruges Beer Guide

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