25 Best Things to Do in Bruges, Belgium

On By saar.decosterIn Belgium

Bruges is one of those cities where you don’t really need a strict itinerary.

You can spend the morning wandering along quiet canals, stop for Belgian chocolate, climb a medieval bell tower and somehow end up having a beer in a centuries-old pub by the evening.

Known for its medieval architecture, picturesque canals, cobbled streets and beautiful squares, Bruges feels almost like stepping into a fairytale. But there is more to the city than just the famous photo spots.

I’ve visited Bruges several times, both with family and on my own, and these are the best things to do in Bruges, including the famous highlights, beautiful places, food experiences and a few less obvious things to add to your trip.

If you want a complete overview of the city beyond just the main attractions, check out my Bruges Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Eat & See for more tips on where to eat, drink, stay and explore.

If you’re staying overnight, I’ve also put together a more detailed guide on Where to Stay in Bruges: Best Areas & Hotels, including the best neighbourhoods and hotels for different budgets.

Short on time?

Here are my 3 favourite hotels and favourite hostel in Bruges:

1. Visit Burg Square

Burg Square is one of the most beautiful historic squares in Bruges.

You’ll find some of the city’s most impressive buildings here, including the Bruges City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

Take some time to look around rather than simply passing through. The architecture surrounding the square is beautiful, and it is one of the best places to appreciate Bruges’ medieval character.

Burg Square in Bruges, Belgium

2. Explore Market Square (Markt)

The Markt is probably the most famous square in Bruges.

It is surrounded by colourful historic buildings and is home to the famous Belfry of Bruges. You’ll also find the statues of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck in the centre of the square.

This is one of those places where you should simply grab a coffee, sit down for a few minutes and watch the city around you.

It can get very busy during the day, so if you want a quieter experience, come early in the morning.

3. Climb the Belfry of Bruges

The Belfry of Bruges is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

If you’re up for the climb, you can make your way up the 366 steps to the top for views over the historic centre.

It’s definitely not the easiest climb, but the panoramic views make it worthwhile.

And even if you don’t want to climb it, the Belfry is impressive from ground level, especially when viewed from the Markt.

4. Take a Boat Tour Through the Canals

If there is one activity I would recommend almost everyone do in Bruges, it’s a boat tour.

Bruges’ canals are one of the main reasons the city is so beautiful, and seeing the historic buildings from the water gives you a completely different perspective.

The standard boat trips usually take around 30–35 minutes and are one of the easiest ways to see several beautiful parts of the city in a short amount of time.

Want to do something a little different?

You can also combine a boat trip with a visit to a Belgian winery, including a vineyard tour and wine tasting.

→ Check the Bruges boat & wine tour on GetYourGuide

Only have one day in Bruges? I’ve also put together a One Day in Bruges: The Perfect One-Day Itinerary with the exact route I’d follow to see the highlights without rushing.

5. See the Famous Rozenhoedkaai

Rozenhoedkaai is probably the most iconic photo spot in Bruges.

The canal, medieval buildings and reflections in the water create that classic Bruges view you’ve probably seen all over Instagram.

It’s especially beautiful around sunrise or sunset, when the light is softer and the streets are generally quieter.

If you only have time for a few photos in Bruges, put this one high on your list.

Planning your Bruges trip?

I created a Bruges Google Map with my favourite places and local recommendations, including things to do, coffee & brunch spots, restaurants, bars, shopping and more.
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6. Walk Across Minnewater Bridge

The Minnewater Bridge, also known as the Bridge of Love, is one of the most romantic spots in Bruges.

It’s located next to Minnewater Park and is surrounded by water, trees and historic buildings.

It’s particularly beautiful in the early morning when the area is quiet.

Minnewater Bridge in Bruges, Belgium

7. Explore Minnewater Park

After visiting the bridge, take some time to walk through Minnewater Park.

This is one of my favourite places in Bruges when you want to get away from the busiest tourist streets.

You can walk around the lake, sit on a bench or simply enjoy a slower part of the city.

8. Visit the Beguinage

The Beguinage (Begijnhof) is one of the most peaceful places in Bruges.

You’ll find a collection of white-painted houses surrounding a quiet courtyard, creating a completely different atmosphere from the busy city centre.

It is one of those places where you naturally start walking a little slower.

And yes, you will probably see the famous Bruges swans nearby.

Swans at the Beguinage in Bruges, Belgium

9. Admire the Church of Our Lady

The Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk) is another impressive historic building in Bruges.

Its tower is one of the most recognisable parts of the city’s skyline, and the church itself contains important works of art.

It’s located close to several other major sights, so it’s easy to include during a walk through the historic centre.

Historic tower in Bruges, Belgium

10. Visit Sint-Salvator Cathedral

Sint-Salvator Cathedral is the oldest parish church in Bruges and is worth stepping inside while exploring the city centre.

The interior is much quieter than the busy Markt outside, making it a nice place to take a short break from sightseeing.

11. Explore Saint John’s Hospital

Saint John’s Hospital (Sint-Janshospitaal) is one of Bruges’ most interesting historic buildings.

The former medieval hospital now houses a museum and art collection.

It’s particularly interesting if you enjoy history, art and unusual buildings.

The building itself is worth seeing even if you don’t have time to visit the entire museum.

Saint John's Hospital in Bruges, Belgium

12. Walk Across Bonifacius Bridge

The Bonifacius Bridge is one of the most romantic little corners of Bruges.

It’s surrounded by old buildings, trees and canals and feels almost too perfect to be real.

It is also one of the easier photo spots to combine with other sights because it’s located close to the Church of Our Lady and Gruuthuse area.

13. Walk Along Dijver

Dijver is one of my favourite canal-side areas in Bruges.

The historic buildings along the water make this a beautiful place for a slow walk, especially when the light starts getting softer in the afternoon.

It’s also very close to several other attractions, so you’ll probably pass through here naturally.

Historic street in Bruges, Belgium

14. Explore Arentshof

Arentshof is a small green space hidden between some of Bruges’ most famous sights.

It’s a lovely place to escape the crowds for a few minutes and offers beautiful views of the surrounding historic buildings.

Don’t rush through it.

15. Walk Along Bakkersrei

If you want to experience a quieter side of Bruges, head towards Bakkersrei.

This canal-side area is much calmer than some of the city’s main tourist streets and is perfect for simply wandering around without a destination.

This is exactly the kind of area I love exploring in Bruges because you can just slow down and enjoy the atmosphere.

16. Explore Kartuizerswijk

Kartuizerswijk is another area worth exploring if you want to get away from the main tourist route.

You’ll find charming streets and local spots such as ‘t Spel op de Wagen, giving you a more residential feel than the historic centre’s busiest streets.

17. See the Windmills

Head towards the edge of the historic centre to find Bruges’ historic windmills.

It’s a completely different landscape from the medieval buildings around Markt and Burg.

I especially recommend coming around sunset, when the area becomes incredibly peaceful and photogenic.

Windmills along the canals in Bruges, Belgium

18. Visit Brewery De Halve Maan

If you like Belgian beer, don’t skip Brewery De Halve Maan.

This historic Bruges brewery is home to Brugse Zot and offers brewery tours where you can learn more about Belgian brewing traditions.

You also get some great views over Bruges from the brewery.

If you want to learn more about Belgian beer and which beers are actually worth trying during your trip, check out my Belgian Beer Culture: Beers You Should Try in Belgium.

19. Learn About Belgian Fries at the Frietmuseum

Yes, Bruges has an entire museum dedicated to Belgian fries.

The Frietmuseum explains the history of potatoes, fries and Belgium’s famous food culture.

It’s a fun option if you want to do something a little different, especially on a rainy day.

And obviously, you can finish your visit with some fries.

→ Check Frietmuseum tickets on GetYourGuide

And if you want to know how to eat Belgian fries like a local, check out my Belgian Fries in Belgium: How to Eat Fries Like a Local before your trip.

20. Visit the Weekend Markets

If you’re visiting Bruges over the weekend, check out the local markets.

The Fish Market (Vismarkt) and the market around Dijver are good places to wander around and see a slightly more local side of the city.

The atmosphere changes depending on the season and day, so don’t expect exactly the same experience every weekend.

Market stalls at Dijver in Bruges, Belgium

21. Take a Photo at a Photostop Photobooth

Looking for a fun little souvenir?

Bruges has Photostop photobooths where you can take vintage-style photos.

It’s quick, inexpensive and makes for a cute memory from your trip.

Definitely something I’d add if you’re travelling with friends or your partner.

Scenic photo spot in Bruges, Belgium

22. Watch a Film at Cinema Lumière

If the weather is doing what Belgian weather does best, head to Cinema Lumière.

It’s a cosy arthouse cinema showing a selection of films and is a nice alternative to another round of sightseeing.

Cinema Lumière in Bruges, Belgium

23. Play Pool at The Monk

For something much more casual, head to The Monk.

It’s a relaxed place for drinks and pool, making it a fun option for an evening when you don’t want another traditional sightseeing activity.

Belgian beer at The Monk Pooling Café in Bruges

24. Explore the Historic Streets Without a Plan

This might sound like a boring recommendation, but honestly, one of the best things to do in Bruges is simply walk around.

Put Google Maps away for a while and wander through the smaller streets.

You’ll find little canals, old houses, quiet courtyards and beautiful views that you might completely miss if you’re only following a sightseeing list.

Bruges is a city where getting slightly lost is part of the experience.

25. Join a Food or Drink Tour

Bruges is the perfect city to explore Belgian food and drinks, so why not turn it into an experience? Whether you want to learn how to make Belgian waffles, discover Belgian beer or try traditional chocolates, there are plenty of fun options.

It’s a fun way to try some Belgian classics while learning a little more about the food culture. Personally, I’d go for the waffle-making and beer-tasting experience if you want something social and hands-on.

Check out here:

Powered by GetYourGuide

If you want to know what other Belgian specialities you should try while you’re here, check out my Belgian Food Guide: 15 Foods You Need to Try for all the Belgian classics I’d recommend.

What to Do in Bruges in One Day

If you only have one day in Bruges, don’t try to do all 25 things.

I’d focus on the highlights:

Morning:
Start at Markt → climb the Belfry → walk to Burg Square → explore the historic centre.

Afternoon:
Visit Rozenhoedkaai → take a boat tour → walk towards Dijver and the Church of Our Lady → explore the Begijnhof and Minnewater.

Evening:
Have dinner → grab a Belgian beer → take an evening walk through the quieter streets.

If you have more time, add the Frietmuseum, Brewery De Halve Maan, the windmills or some of the quieter neighbourhoods.

What to Do in Bruges When It Rains

Unfortunately, Belgium doesn’t always provide perfect weather. Luckily, Bruges has plenty of indoor options.

Some of my favourites are:

  • Frietmuseum
  • Saint John’s Hospital
  • Brewery De Halve Maan
  • Cinema Lumière
  • Belgian chocolate shops
  • Chocolate workshops
  • Belgian beer experiences

And honestly, walking through Bruges in the rain can be pretty beautiful too. Just bring a jacket.

My Favourite Things to Do in Bruges

If you don’t want to work your way through a giant checklist, these are the things I would prioritise:

  1. Take a boat tour
  2. See Rozenhoedkaai
  3. Walk around the Begijnhof
  4. Explore the smaller streets
  5. Visit Markt and Burg Square
  6. Walk around Minnewater
  7. Try Belgian chocolate
  8. Have a Belgian beer at a cosy bar
  9. Visit Brewery De Halve Maan
  10. Watch the sunset around the windmills

For me, the best part of Bruges isn’t necessarily ticking off attractions. It’s the atmosphere.

Tips for Visiting Bruges

Go early in the morning

Bruges can get extremely busy during the middle of the day, especially in summer.

If you want those peaceful canal views you’ve seen online, get up early.

Stay overnight if you can

Bruges is very popular as a day trip, but staying overnight allows you to experience the city after many visitors have left.

This is when Bruges becomes much quieter.

Walk instead of taking transport

The historic centre is compact and extremely walkable. You can reach most of the major sights on foot. The official tourist walking route through the centre is only around 3.8 km, which gives you an idea of how manageable the city is.

If you’re arriving by train or combining Bruges with other Belgian cities, my guide on Getting Around Belgium: Trains, Buses & Public Transport explains how to get around Belgium without a car.

Don’t only visit the main squares

Markt and Burg are beautiful, but some of my favourite parts of Bruges are the quieter areas around Bakkersrei, Kartuizerswijk, the windmills and Minnewater.

Leave time to wander

Don’t plan every minute.

Bruges is one of those cities where the random streets between attractions are often just as beautiful as the attractions themselves.

Final Thoughts

Bruges is one of those places where the atmosphere is almost as important as the attractions.

Yes, you should see the Markt, climb the Belfry, visit Burg Square and take a boat tour.

But I’d also leave time to simply wander.

Walk beside the canals. Stop for Belgian chocolate. Sit somewhere with a beer. Take photos at Rozenhoedkaai. Get slightly lost in the quieter streets.

That’s when Bruges really starts to feel special.

And for me personally, Bruges has always had an extra layer to it. My grandfather was from Bruges, and although I never got to meet him, the city has always felt strangely familiar to me. I’ve visited with family and even stayed in a hostel here on my own, and every time I return, it still feels like a place I want to slow down in.

If you’re planning a trip to Belgium, Bruges absolutely deserves a place on your itinerary.

Still wondering whether Bruges is actually worth adding to your Belgium itinerary? I’ve shared my full personal take in Is Bruges Worth Visiting? My Honest Opinion About Belgium’s Fairytale City.

Planning Your Trip to Belgium?

Planning a trip to Belgium can be surprisingly difficult, especially when you’re choosing between historic cities, lively student towns, coastal destinations and smaller hidden gems.

That’s why I’ve created my Belgium Travel Guide, where I share destination guides, things to do, local tips and my personal experiences from travelling around Belgium.

→ START HERE: Belgium Travel Guides
→ GET MY GOOGLE MAP: Belgium Google Map

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FAQ: Things to Do in Bruges

What are the best things to do in Bruges?

Some of the best things to do in Bruges include taking a boat tour through the canals, visiting the Markt and Burg Square, climbing the Belfry, seeing the famous Rozenhoedkaai, exploring the Begijnhof and trying Belgian chocolate and beer.

Is Bruges worth visiting?

Yes! Bruges is one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium and is especially worth visiting if you enjoy medieval architecture, canals, Belgian food, chocolate and beer. The historic centre is also very easy to explore on foot.

How many days do you need in Bruges?

I recommend spending 1–2 days in Bruges. One day is enough to see the main highlights, while two days gives you more time to explore quieter neighbourhoods, try different food experiences and enjoy Bruges without rushing.

What is Bruges famous for?

Bruges is famous for its medieval architecture, canals, Belfry, Markt, chocolate, Belgian beer and picturesque streets. The Rozenhoedkaai is also one of the city’s most famous photo spots.

Is Bruges walkable?

Absolutely. Bruges is a very walkable city, and most of the main attractions are close together in the historic centre. Walking is also one of the best ways to discover the smaller streets and hidden corners of the city.

Is a boat tour in Bruges worth it?

Yes! A canal boat tour is one of the best things to do in Bruges. It takes around 30–35 minutes and lets you see the historic buildings and canals from a completely different perspective.

What should you eat in Bruges?

Don’t leave Bruges without trying some Belgian chocolate, waffles, fries and Belgian beer. You can also join a food or drink experience, such as a Belgian waffle-making workshop with beer tasting, a Belgian beer tasting or a chocolate workshop.

What can you do in Bruges when it rains?

There are plenty of indoor things to do in Bruges when it rains. Visit the Frietmuseum, Saint John’s Hospital or Brewery De Halve Maan, go to Cinema Lumière or join a Belgian chocolate or beer experience.

What is the most beautiful place in Bruges?

Rozenhoedkaai is probably the most famous and photographed spot in Bruges. Other beautiful places include Bonifacius Bridge, Minnewater Bridge, Dijver, Bakkersrei and the Begijnhof.

Can you visit Bruges in one day?

Yes. Bruges is an excellent day trip destination because the historic centre is compact and walkable. If you only have one day, focus on Markt, Burg Square, the Belfry, Rozenhoedkaai, a canal boat tour and the Begijnhof.

What are the best things to do in Bruges for couples?

Bruges is particularly romantic. Couples can take a boat ride through the canals, walk across Minnewater Bridge, explore the Begijnhof, watch the sunset near the windmills or enjoy Belgian chocolate and drinks together.

What are the best things to do in Bruges for foodies?

Foodies can explore Bruges’ chocolate shops, Belgian beer bars and traditional restaurants, visit the Frietmuseum or join a food experience. A waffle-making workshop with beer tasting or a Belgian praline and mendiant chocolate workshop are both fun options.

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