Here are 25 things to do in Bruges, Belgium during your visit! This medieval city of canals, red brick buildings and chocolate and waffle shops is a must-visit destination on your European adventure.
So you’re looking for things to do in Bruges, Belgium are you? Though the city may be small, it sure packs a lot of sights and attractions in and around the Old Town.
I had the chance to spend a couple of days visiting earlier this summer, and the city immediately won me over with its medieval buildings, lively squares, and swans leisurely floating down the canals. It’s no wonder this place is listed as one of the most romantic cities in Europe!
But even if you’re not travelling with a partner, this city is still a great spot to visit with family, friends, or even solo.
The following travel guide will showcase a mix of things to do in Bruges, including the main sights as well as some unusual attractions.
Are you visiting Bruges soon? Hotel Van Cleef is the top-rated hotel if you’re looking for a luxurious stay and this private Belgian food tour is one of the best sellers!
Things to do in Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, or Brugge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its impressive medieval architecture, which has managed to remain largely intact over the centuries!
Bruges was a major trading centre during the Middle Ages, especially in the 14th and 15th centuries when it was one of the leading commercial cities in Europe. This period of economic prosperity left a lasting legacy in the city’s architecture and urban layout and today the historic centre serves as an example of medieval European town planning with its cobbled streets, picturesque canals, and numerous historical buildings.
Bruges was an important centre for art, particularly during the Northern Renaissance. The city was home to renowned artists like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling, whose works significantly influenced European art. The city’s museums and churches today house many of these masterpieces.
So all this to say, you’ve come to the right place to soak in that medieval history, because seriously, once you set foot here, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time!
Here is our complete list of the top 25 things to do in Bruges!
1) Take a canal boat tour.
Bruges is a city of canals and it is one of many European cities to have been dubbed ‘The Venice of the North’.
With so many waterways crisscrossing the city, it’s easy to see why a boat tour is one of the most popular things to do in Bruges.
You can catch the departing canal tours from Huidenvettersplein.
This guided boat trip and walk is a good introduction to Bruges and runs 2 hours and 30 minutes long. An ideal first-day activity to get acquainted with the city.
2) Eat some french fries with mayo for lunch.
If there’s one dish you cannot avoid when visiting Bruges, it’s french fries with mayonnaise. There has long been a friendly debate as to whether it was the French or the Belgians who invented the French fry, and around these parts the Belgians claim ownership.
You’ll find chip shops scattered across town, but for a little friendly competition, head to the main square where two stands sit right in front of the Belfry vying to be the best. Condiments are extra here, but it’s worth splurging on one pump of mayo and one pump of curry ketchup.
3) Find the park where sheep roam.
One of the more quirky attractions you’ll find in Bruges is Hof de Jonghe Park, which is home to sheep!
Now you may be asking yourself, why are sheep roaming in a public park? Well, in some parts of Europe, sheep are used for grazing as an environmentally friendly way to maintain green public spaces. And also, it adds quite a bit of charm to the town!
The park is a little bit tricky to find – you’ll have to walk through a residential area and it might feel like you’re encroaching – but when you do get there you’ll be greeted with a peaceful green space and a giant pen full of bah-ing sheep. I suggest you pick up one of the free ‘USE IT’ maps to help you find this spot.
4) Try to figure out if the Belfry is really leaning.
The Belfry of Bruges, also known as the Belfort, is a medieval bell tower that sits in Market Square, and it is listed as one of the top things to do in Bruges. It dates back to the 13th century, originally constructed around 1240, though over the centuries, it has undergone several renovations and restorations due to fires and other events.
It’s 366 steps to reach the top and once you do you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. The funny part is trying to take a symmetrical photo of the tower once you’re back on solid ground because the tower is actually tilted a whole meter to the east.
The lean is a result of the foundation settling over the centuries, especially in Bruges’ challenging ground conditions due to its canals and soft soil.
5) Eat lots and lots of Belgian chocolate.
Chocolate lovers delight! The Belgians have a long history of chocolate-making and in Bruges, you’ll find an abundance of chocolate shops showcasing the tastiest of treats.
You’ll find the most delectable selection of truffles and pralines, white chocolate and dark chocolate, cream liqueur fillings and strawberry ganache.
If you want to learn how Belgian chocolate is made, you can join this fun chocolate-making workshop!
6) Have some Belgian waffles.
If you’ve had your fill of chocolates but your stomach is still craving another bite of something sweet, I suggest you find some Belgian waffles.
These waffles are larger and fluffier than the waffles you’d find in North America, plus they have a deeper grid pattern, meaning you can load them with all sorts of delicious toppings. Nutella, chantilly cream, icing sugar, strawberries – you name it!
You’ll be pleased to know that there is a Belgian waffle-making workshop so you can take the recipe home!
7) Go to a free harp concert.
Another unique thing to do in Bruges is to attend one of the free harp concerts by local harpist Luc Vanlaere. These are held in Site Oud Sint Jan, which is located on Mariastraat 38 right across from Our Lady Church. Each session lasts 40 minutes. The concert schedule changes throughout the year, so it’s best to check for updated information about the harp concerts here.
8) Go find the windmills.
Everyone knows that the Dutch have windmills, but the Belgians have them too. The Old Town of Bruges is encircled by a canal, and if you make your way to the northeastern end, you’ll come across four windmills dating from the 18th century.
The Koeleweimolen and Sint-Janshuismolen mills are an important part of the city’s heritage and both are still actively grinding grain. These windmills are post mills meaning they are constructed on a single vertical post and can be rotated to face the wind.
9) Learn the history of Sint Janshospitaal.
Also known as Old St. John’s Hospital, this 12th-century hospital is one of Europe’s oldest surviving hospital buildings. It was founded around 1188 by Count Baldwin IX of Flanders and his wife, Countess Maria of Champagne. It was established as a place to provide care for the sick, injured, and poor, following the principles of Christian charity.
Today you can visit the medieval wards where the nuns and monks cared for pilgrims, travellers and the sick. The hospital is located next to the Church of Our Lady.
The hospital complex also houses the Memling Museum, named after the renowned Flemish painter Hans Memling, who lived and worked in Bruges during the 15th century. The museum features a collection of Memling’s works, as well as other historical artifacts and artworks related to the hospital’s history.
10) Go in search of the In Bruges filming locations.
Back in 2008, the film In Bruges was released and Colin Farrell won the audiences with his role as an Irish hitman who really couldn’t seem to find any beauty in Bruges. The movie was filmed in many iconic sites around the city and they are super accessible to visitors. This article showcasing 15 locations from the film In Bruges will help you find them.
11) Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
This one’s a bit unusual, but the main attraction in the Basilica of the Holy Blood is, well, Holy Blood. Inside the church, you’ll find a vial made of rock crystal filled with blood that was brought to the city by Thierry of Alsace after the 12th-century Second Crusade. This vial is believed to contain the blood of Jesus Christ and it’s brought out to be worshipped by believers every day.
The basilica itself is a striking example of both Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, as it was constructed over two distinct periods. The lower chapel, dedicated to St. Basil the Great, is in the Romanesque style and dates back to the 12th century. Meanwhile, the upper chapel, which houses the relic of the Holy Blood, is in the Gothic style and was renovated in the 16th century.
12) Hire a bike and cycle the perimeter of the Old Town.
Because Bruges is encircled by a canal, this makes it a great place to ride a bike. Follow the trails along the Old Town’s circumference for a quieter and more serene look at the city.
For a more scenic experience, you can take your bike outside the city to explore the surrounding Flemish countryside. The flat landscape around Bruges is home to a number of picturesque villages, windmills, and open fields.
If you prefer a more structured experience, there are guided bike tours available as well.
13) Stroll along the colourful Markt.
Bruges’ Markt, or Market Square, oozes a whole lot of charm! It is surrounded by the cutest and most colourful buildings, predominantly in the Flemish Renaissance style, and you won’t have any problem finding a little cafe or restaurant where to people watch.
The Markt has been the commercial and civic centre of Bruges since the medieval period. Historically, it was the site of markets, festivals, and even tournaments, playing a crucial role in the city’s social and economic life.
This is also where traditional horse-drawn carriage rides depart from.
14) Catch some rays at the beach.
If you’re in Bruges during the summer months, another fun activity is to rent a bike and ride out to the beach. The two beaches are Knokke and Zeebrugge.
Knokke is about 20 kilometres northeast of Bruges. The bike route to Knokke is quite straightforward and mostly flat, making it a pleasant ride.
Zeebrugge is closer, located about 15 kilometres north of Bruges. The route to Zeebrugge is also mostly flat and takes you through picturesque areas. Zeebrugge, being a port town, offers a different but equally interesting coastal scenery.
Don’t be afraid to ask for directions along the way, because you might need them!
15) Take a brewery tour of De Halve Maan.
The Half Moon Brewery is an old and established name in Bruges, and it’s a place beer lovers won’t want to miss.
Established in 1856, De Halve Maan Brewery is a family-owned business and has been for several generations. It’s the last active family brewery in the centre of Bruges and is deeply rooted in the city’s history.
The brewery is best known for its range of Belgian beers, especially the “Brugse Zot” (Bruges Fool) and “Straffe Hendrik” (Strong Henry). Brugse Zot is a golden blond beer, known for its fruity and well-balanced flavour. Straffe Hendrik is a stronger, dark triple beer, recognized for its rich and complex taste.
One of the most interesting aspects of De Halve Maan is its underground beer pipeline. Inaugurated in 2016, this pipeline runs for about 3 kilometres from the brewery in the city centre to the bottling plant located on the outskirts of the city!
Tours are organized daily between 11 am and 4 pm, and they last 45 minutes. The tour also includes a degustation of a Brugse Zot Blond, because what’s a brewery tour without actually drinking some beer?
The brewery also features a restaurant and a terrace where visitors can enjoy traditional Flemish dishes along with their range of beers.
This tour with Beer Walk Brugge is quite popular and hits up several breweries across the city with a whole lot of beer tastings along the way!
16) Swing by the Town Hall.
Normally town halls wouldn’t exactly count as tourist attractions, but in Bruges they do! Their city hall, or Stadhuis van Brugge, is done in the Gothic style and it is a sight to behold.
The Town Hall of Bruges, built between 1376 and 1420, is one of the oldest town halls in the Low Countries. This building has played a central role in the administration and governance of the city for centuries.
Its façade is adorned with statues representing the Counts of Flanders, which were added in the 19th century to replace the original statues destroyed during the French Revolution.
The interior of the Town Hall is equally impressive, especially the Gothic Hall with its magnificent vaulted ceiling, adorned with late medieval carvings. The walls are decorated with 19th-century murals that depict scenes from the history of Bruges.
Parts of the Town Hall function as a museum, allowing visitors to explore its historic rooms and learn about the history of Bruges and its governance.
17) Learn the history of fries at the Frietmuseum.
If you’re a fan of quirky museums like I am, then you’ll want to make time for Bruges’ Frietmuseum. This particular museum has the distinction of being the first and only museum dedicated to French fries and it explores the history, production, and cultural significance of Belgian fries.
The museum is housed in the beautiful, historic “Saaihalle,” which is one of the oldest buildings in Bruges, dating back to the 14th century. The building itself adds to the charm and experience of visiting the museum.
The exhibits in the museum trace the journey of the potato from its origins in South America to its current status as a staple in European cuisine. The museum delves into how fries became a popular dish in Belgium and how they have influenced culinary traditions around the world.
True to its theme, the museum offers visitors the opportunity to taste authentic Belgian fries in the museum’s cellar.
18) Visit the Groeningen Museum.
The Groeningen Museum is a popular one with art lovers as it houses an impressive collection of Flemish and Belgian paintings by many great masters.
The museum’s collection primarily focuses on artists from the 14th to the 20th century. It is especially famous for its collection of Flemish Primitive paintings, including works by Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and Gerard David. These artists played a significant role in the development of painting in Northern Europe during the Renaissance.
Beyond the Flemish Primitives, the museum also houses an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings. This includes works by artists such as Hieronymus Bosch and Peter Paul Rubens.
The museum is located in the Groeninge district on the former site of the Eekhout Abbey.
19) Shop for the best lace.
We’ve talked about Belgians’ skills in the chocolate-making department, but we haven’t yet mentioned lace, and this is another area where they really excel.
Lace-making in Belgium dates back to at least the 16th century. It flourished during the Renaissance when the nobility and wealthy classes across Europe prized lace for its beauty and intricacy. Belgian cities like Bruges, Brussels, and Mechelen became famous centres of lace production.
Belgian lace is known for the exceptional level of skill and artistry required to create it. It’s traditionally made by hand, using techniques passed down through generations. This includes bobbin lace (made with bobbins and a pillow) and needle lace (made using a needle and thread). Bruges lace, or Brugse kant, is known for its bold patterns and strength.
Belgian lace was historically coveted by royalty and the aristocracy. Queen Elizabeth I of England, Empress Maria Theresa of Austria, and French Queen Marie Antoinette were among those who adorned their clothing and homes with Belgian lace.
Take a quick wander through Bruges’ Old Town and you will come across shop after shop showcasing the most beautiful lace displays you have ever seen. The pieces you’ll see are incredibly intricate and take countless hours to create – it’s an art form you need to see for yourself.
20) Visit the hotel with underground ruins.
The Crowne Plaza Hotel sits in a pretty pristine location and in its basement you’ll find the old foundations of St. Donatian’s Church. This church was built in 950 AD to house the relics of Saint Donatian, but later became a cathedral in the 16th century.
The original St. Donatian’s Church was a striking example of Romanesque and later Gothic architectural styles. However, the church was demolished in the late 18th century during the French occupation of the Netherlands, which included Bruges.
When the Crowne Plaza Hotel was being constructed in the 20th century, the remains of St. Donatian’s Church were rediscovered. This led to a significant archaeological investigation and subsequent preservation efforts.
The remnants of St. Donatian’s Church were integrated into the design of the Crowne Plaza Hotel, and this integration is a unique feature of the hotel, offering guests and visitors a glimpse into the rich history of Bruges.
It’s one of those unknown things to do in Bruges and most tourists don’t hear about it, but if you go inside the hotel and ask at the reception desk, you should be able to go down there for a peek!
21) Feast your eyes on diamonds galore at the Diamantmuseum.
When you speak of Belgium and diamonds, your mind likely jumps over to Antwerp and its booming Diamond Quarter, however, Bruges also has a little something to offer on the subject.
Not only is the Diamantmuseum the only museum entirely dedicated to diamonds in Belgium, but they also have diamond cutting and diamond polishing demonstrations allowing visitors to see the skill and precision required in this craft.
The museum also displays various tools used in diamond cutting and historical documents relating to the trade.
22) See the city by electric scooter.
Enjoy the quiet side of Bruges on this electric scooter city tour where you visit windmills, the old city gates, and other hidden gems.
23) Swing by the Bauhaus Hostel for a fun night out.
Bauhaus is one of the liveliest hostels in town and it can be great fun even if you’re not staying there. Drop by for a pub quiz, live music, karaoke night, or even a live DJ. There’s always something interesting on their calendar and there are lots of friendly backpackers to meet up with. It’s one of those fun things to do in Bruges, especially if you’re a young traveller.
24) Spend a night like royalty.
What is today known as the Hotel Dukes’ Palace, was once the residence of the Burgundy aristocracy. The hotel is located in the heart of Bruges and it is the only five-star hotel in Flanders. The prices aren’t exactly cheap, so maybe save this one for a special occasion!
25) Check out the nightlife.
And lastly, don’t forget to go out and enjoy Bruges’ nightlife. Just because she’s a small city doesn’t mean she can’t throw a good party.
If you need some more Belgium travel inspiration, here are some of the best day trips from Brussels!
Where to stay in Bruges, Belgium
Bruges has a variety of accommodations to fit every budget, ranging from hostels to B&Bs and hotels. You can have a look here for accommodation rates across the city.
I stayed at the St. Christopher’s Inn Hostel at The Bauhaus, which has both dorms and private rooms in the next-door building. I opted for one of the private rooms in the attic, which was very spacious and comfortable.
Another option is AirBnB, where you can find entire homes and apartments for $80-100 per night, and much lower if you’re just looking for a private room in someone’s home.
And that’s a little taste of Bruges! While the city can easily be explored over a weekend (2-3 days is great!), there are still plenty of things to do in Bruges during your visit.
Have you been to Bruges?
Any other things to do in Bruges that would you add to this list?
Ooh, I love Bruges! It poured sideways the whole time I was there, and I STILL enjoyed it. Looks like you had some nice weather, though! I’d love to go back and check a few more things off this list. I totally missed the sheep!
We definitely lucked out with the weather, and we also happened to be there during a music festival, so the city was a lot of fun! And I almost missed the sheep too – the park was a little bit hard to find, but we eventually got there.
Love this post! I went to Bruges in May this year and loved it, it was right out of a fairytale.
I’m glad you enjoyed your visit! And I agree, ‘fairy tale’ kind of sums up the look of the city.
This is perfect! I am heading to Bruges in December so this list will come in handy 🙂
I’ve heard so many wonderful things about Bruges, can’t wait to see it for myself.
Thanks!
Emma x
Wishing you a wonderful trip there, Emma! I can already envision it all covered in snow. I’m sure it’ll be magical. 🙂
I kind of stumbled into Bruges by circumstance and fell absolutely in love with it! Enjoy!
What a great article! I’ve not yet been to Bruges but I’ve certaintly been to Belgium. It’s such a great little country and the frites, waffles and mussels are to die for!
Ahh, I didn’t get to try the mussels but I was eating frites about twice a day! So good!!
I was actually considering going here as my Christmas destination after I’ve been to the Christmas markets in Germany. I especially want to go there if I can pet sheep in a park! 😀
I’d love to do the same. I’ve seen photos of their Christmas Market and it looks beautiful with the square all lit up!
I’ve always wanted to go to Bruges! I spent some time in Belgium in 2010, but I didn’t have time to make it to Bruges, and I have been dreaming of going there every since. Filing this post away, as I have done with so many from your European travels this year!
xx
Thanks Veena! I hope it’ll come in handy when you finally get to visit. 🙂
I visited Bruges on a school trip a few years ago and I absolutely loved the city! All of the buildings and canals are so cute!
http://thecourtneydiaries.com
I was in Bruges a few years ago, but these are all great ideas for the future! I like the sheep idea! 🙂
Great list! Belgian chocolate is my favourite. Bruges definitely sounds like a lot of fun!
I heard about Bruges from one of my friends, but was not aware of these amazing and lovely locations. Great clicks. Thank you for sharing this information, it would be very helpful for people planning a trip to Bruges.
ohh Belgium chocolate ….. that’s so tempting and i wish to try the chocolate waffles too. By the way you share very great picture and useful information, thanks for share 🙂
I grew up 1 hour away from Bruges, in the north of France, but only discovered it few months ago and loved it! That’s such a beautiful city! I loved the Grand place and discovering the historic city walking along the canals!
Nice post!
See u
Sophie
Bruges is an incredibly beautiful city (much like the closeby city of Ghent btw!). Besides the Bruges Zot beer that you mentioned in your post, you should also try out the Brugge Tripel. It’s a triple hop beer that’s a bit bitter in taste, heavenly! 🙂
I have been to Brugges three times and it’s a superb place. As I write there could be a film sequel? Brugges City Film Office looking into it. Colin Farrell also interested https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=LZoApHKemwY Gruuthuse Hof restaurant superb food and value
We visited Bruges back at the end of February of 2016 and loved it! It was filled with day trippers from Brussels during the day, but at night it was perfect! The weather was cold and windy, but it didn’t bother us too much. This is one city I would probably go back to visit!
Great report on the city. The wife and I are going in a couple of weeks and are using most of your ideas. thanks!
This is a wonderful piece! I am going to spend my birthday in Bruges next month and I am getting more excited about my trip! Thanks Audrey!
I enjoyed your article. I have been fascinated by Bruges ever since I saw the movie In Bruges. I am planning to visit this fall and will be rereading this article before I go. Love your website. I have been looking at many since I recently launched one myself and yours is one of the best. Keep it up.
Fun, touristy, interesting and unique things to do in Bruges all in one post! Saving it for my upcoming trip to the beautiful medieval town.
We are headed over there today. I am from America and this is my first trip to Europe. I have spent the last 3 days in Kortijk which also has charm but I can’t wait to see Bruges! My husband works for a Belgian company and travels here twice a year so I hope to come again and again. Our first night was spent in Paris and it was amazing! I am so thrilled to have the opportunity to live my dream and travel abroad!
I just love Bruges! One thing that you should add is eating an ice-cream from Gelateria Da Vinci. The best gelateria in the world.. 🙂
Greg
Thanks for the tip! Always on the hunt for good gelato.
One of the excursions from a cruise we took several years ago was in Bruges. Loved it! Went to the chocolate factory first, then walked all around the beautiful town. Stopped in a lace shop and bought this cute lace piece in a frame. Met the lady that made it. Found her on YouTube when I got back home. Would love to go back there. Great experience.
This is such a great list! You had me at chocolate 🙂 I’m thinking about visiting Brussels and Brugges during April, mixing in together a short trip to the Netherlands for the tulip fields. Would you find that doable in a long weekend?
Were do recommend to visit on a day trip to Bruges as part of a minibus Bruges so day spent in Bruges thankyou
thanks for the ideas. going for a week early may. great ideas. hope to catch the harp concert, sheep park and windmills. my third visit only this time 5 days instead of 5 hours. Keep writing and traveling.
I visited Bruges and Brussels combined on a one day trip and abosolutely loved this place. I loved Bruges more as compared to Brussels the buildings and roads of the Bruges is something which I loved the most. I was able to recall all that by reading this post.