tourist information centre bruges

Tourist offices

Do you need some tips for your upcoming trip to Bruges? Drop into one of our tourist offices for information about tourist sites, museums, sightseeing, shopping, gastronomy, activities and much more. Our knowledgeable staff will be able to answer your questions as well as giving you their own tips and advice. The historic centre of Bruges has three tourist offices. There are also tourist offices at the polder village of Lissewege and the seaside town of Zeebrugge.

Tourist office Markt (Historium)

Tourist office Stationsplein (Railway Station)

Tourist office ’t Zand (Concert Hall)

Tourist office Zeedijk (Bathers' Building)

Visitors’ Centre Lissewege

• Visit Bruges

The Best Of Bruges!

Welcome to VisitBruges.com, your premier destination for exploring the enchanting city of Bruges, a jewel of medieval Europe , nestled in the heart of Belgium . From the serene canals that meander through ancient streets to the mystical castles in the Bruges surroundings, let the beauty of Bruges unfold before you with our recommendations.

Venice of the North

Picture yourself cruising down its serene canals, the , surrounded by breathtaking medieval architecture that stands as a testament to the city's vibrant history. It's a timeless escape into a world where every moment is a masterpiece, inviting you to be part of its enduring beauty.

Top Things To Do

Get the best of Bruges with private tours from a friendly, fun and knowledgable local. Tour In Bruges offers a unique, authentic experience of this stunning historical city. Ready to make the most out of your trip?

Leave the ordinary path of the tourist and discover how the rich lived in their enchanting castles. Rouler Retro takes you to an unknown experience along roads only locals know. You see castles who breathe history.

Enter a traditional Bruges mansion, right in the heart of Bruges. Hotel Malleberg offers a warm stay to everyone who enters the door. Plant-based options at breakfast is unique in Bruges. Everyone is welcome!

• Canal Cruise : a must-do, is to enjoy a 45-minute cruise on the canal. See Bruges how the merchants saw it 500 years ago!
• Chocolate & Beer : what did you expect? Bruges offer the best shops for Belgian specialitie

Plan your Stay

Introduction & food tours.

Born and Bred in Bruges, Patrick has Bruges in his blood. With a lot of enthusiasm and passion he introduces you to the best Bruges has to offer.

Hotel Malleberg

Traditional Bruges mansion with 16th century basement breakfast area (plant-based options ). Owners Eva and Niels make you feel like home.

Castle Tour

Local resident Niels welcomes you in a nostalgia car to a voyage flavoured by history. As you will pass astonishing landscapes, you discover unpaved paths, missed by a lot of tourists, leading to the mysterious castles.

Bruges   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Barry O'carroll | EyeEm

Why Go To Bruges

Swans swim its canals; medieval buildings shadow its cobblestones; willow trees weep over its lake; rich chocolates peer from behind its windows; pints of Belgian blondes sit on its cafe tables; and carillon chimes fill its air with music: This is Bruges (or Brugge in Dutch). This idyllic city in northern Belgium is more touristy and yet more quaint than the capital city of Brussels . Plan a trip to Bruges for a taste of medieval Europe in the 21st century, for a friendly small-town feel with world-class charms (the Historic Centre of Brugge , to name one) and, of course, for the beer, fries and chocolate. Whatever your reason for coming to Bruges, you'll be charmed.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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Best of Bruges

Best hotels in bruges.

• # 1 in Hotel Dukes' Palace Bruges
• # 2 in The Pand Hotel
• # 3 in Hotel de Orangerie

Best Things to Do in Bruges

• # 1 in Rozenhoedkaai
• # 2 in Historic Centre of Brugge
• # 3 in Markt

Popular Tours

Round-Trip Shuttle Service from Zeebrugge to Bruges

(697 reviews)

from $ 27.70

Deluxe Bruges Shore Excursion from Zeebrugge Cruise Port

(3 reviews)

from $ 73.12

Guided boat trip and walk

(246 reviews)

from $ 48.74

Bruges Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Bruges is from June to August, when the weather is mild, and the trees are green. Still, the weather year-round is characterized as chilly and damp – summer temps usually don't climb higher than the 70s. Spring and fall are considered shoulder seasons that see fewer tourists and cooler temperatures, with average highs hovering in the 50s. In the winter, temperatures drop but don't reach freezing, and the city offers a variety of holiday events, including its famous Christmas markets. Fall and winter also bring the greatest chance of rain, so keep an umbrella at the ready.

Weather in Bruges

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Hop on a boat tour Canal tours are a great way to get an overview of Bruges. You'll easily find boat operators departing from jetties around the city offering 30- to 45-minute tours. The famous Rozenhoedkaai is a popular spot to hop on a tour.

Indulge in some chocolate Belgium is known for the sweet stuff, so be sure to pause for a chocolate break at a well-known chocolate maker like The Chocolate Line or Sukerbuyc .

Consider a daytrip to Brussels Brussels is an hour's train ride southeast of Bruges, making it an ideal daytrip.

How to Save Money in Bruges

Get a Discover Bruges Card If you stay at a Hotels Regio Brugge member hotel , you have access to a free card , which offers discounts on area attractions and shops.

Get a Musea Brugge Card This card grants you access to a variety of museums, including the Groeningemuseum , over a period of three days for 28 euros (or about $31).

Rent a bike Bruges caters to cyclists. You'll find that bike lanes dot the city and even head into nearby coastal towns.

Culture & Customs

Once a hub for artists of the Flemish Primitive style of painting, art is front and center in Bruges. There are numerous museums with artwork, as well as churches, convents and even a medieval hospital that each boast their own collection of impressive works.

Make sure to bring some euros with you, which is the currency of Belgium. When eating out, it's unlikely you'll need to tip, as it's included as part of the restaurant bill, and restaurant workers earn better compensation than those in the U.S. It's OK to leave a few euros for excellent service, but generally not more than 10% of your bill.

In Bruges, you'll find the locals speak Flemish natively, but many also speak English well.

What to Eat

Residents of Bruges love their beer, Belgian fries and chocolate – Bruges even has its own official city chocolate: the Bruges swan, or Brugsch Swaentje . Bruges offers plentiful chocolate shops, pubs and a handful of breweries, as well as attractions that tell the story of each of the country's celebrated foods, including the Bruges Beer Experience , Choco-Story and Frietmuseum. But the dining scene in Bruges is much vaster than these three staples.

Gruuthuse Hof , which has been open since the mid-1700s, is popular with tourists and serves traditional Belgian dishes like beef stew and duck, and waffles for dessert. For a casual meal, the De Halve Maan Brewery also has a restaurant on the premises with a limited menu if you want a bite with your beer.

If you're celebrating a special occasion or just in the mood to splurge, consider Le Mystique , which serves a blend of French and Flemish cuisine. The restaurant is historic as well, dating to 1869. Dishes with a Flemish touch include beef with braised chicory and seafood, including sea bass and oysters. Flemish cuisine is known for its fries and waffles, as well as beef stew, Belgian endive, and of course, Brussels sprouts. A meal at Bistro Refter is equally indulgent as it's headed by Michelin-starred chef Geert Van Hecke, who offers a contemporary take on Belgian cuisine with dishes like roasted cockerel, fish, steak and, of course, fries.

When it comes to safety, Bruges generally has a low crime rate, is clean and safe for traveling alone, though as in any tourist destination, be aware of pickpocketing and traveling by yourself at night. The State Department does encourage citizens to exercise extreme caution when visiting Belgium due to terrorist groups continuing to plot possible attacks there.

Getting Around Bruges

The best way to get around Bruges is on foot. The city is small – in fact, you can walk from one end to the other in about 30 minutes. Biking is the second-best way to get around. There's also a bus system, but it's most useful in getting from the train station to the city center rather than for exploring the city. Cars are not recommended, since Bruges' streets are narrow and webbed with canals. You can also hire taxis at several taxi stands. The closest major airport is Brussels Airport (BRU), so most visitors take the train into Bruges. The ride from the airport to Bruges is about 90 minutes; tickets start at 21 euros (or around $23). According to the tourism office, taxis from the airport to Bruges cost a flat rate of 200 euros (or about $222). The train station is located just southeast of the city center, about a 20-minute walk from the historic city center or a five-minute bus ride.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A valid passport is required for citizens of the United States to travel to Belgium. U.S. citizens can stay for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. At customs, you'll have to present a return airline ticket, as well as a passport that is valid for at least three months after the date of your departure. If you're planning to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days, you'll have to obtain the proper visa before leaving the U.S. Keep in mind: The U.S. Department of State issued an advisory for travel in Belgium in December 2018 due to terrorism, warning travelers of potential terror attacks. The State Department recommends registering for the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) so that you'll receive alerts and be easier to locate in the event of an emergency. For more information, visit the State Department's  website .

Considered one of the most photographed areas of Bruges, Rozenhoedkaai , or Quay of the Rosary, is a picturesque spot where the Dijver and Groenerei canals meet.

Explore More of Bruges

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Bruges

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Gorgeous Bruges is a tourist's dream. This is Belgium's most perfectly preserved medieval town, and its jaw-dropping, beautiful architecture attracts more than two million visitors every year.

If you're short of time on your Belgium travels , Bruges should be your number one stop. With its wealth of interesting old buildings and its canals, it's the best place to visit in the country for anyone interested in Belgium's history.

Tourists taking a walk through the narrow streets or a boat trip on the canals fall immediately under its spell, charmed by the atmosphere of, what is for many, the most delightful of all the cities of Flanders (the Dutch-speaking northern part of Belgium).

Because the center of Bruges is comparatively small, even those with only a day to spend sightseeing can expect to take away a good idea of all the major attractions. Essential viewing should definitely include at least the main square with the belfry, Burg Square with the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and a trip on the canals.

Plan your sightseeing in this magical city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Bruges.

See also: Where to Stay in Bruges

1. Climb to the Top of the Belfry (Belfort van Brugge)

2. visit the basilica of the holy blood, 3. sightsee at the markt, 4. cruise the canals, 5. tour the town hall, 6. view the liberty of bruges, 7. see the art inside the groeninge museum, 8. photograph the famed st. boniface bridge, 9. admire the church of our lady, 10. visit sint-jansspitaal (old saint john's hospital), 11. explore the minnewater area & the béguinage, 12. tour the museums in the dijver mansions, 13. visit the sint-salvatorskathedraal, 14. admire the interior of sint-jacobskerk, 15. view the stained glass of jeruzalemkerk, 16. stroll to the canal-side windmills, 17. day trip to flanders, where to stay in bruges for sightseeing.

The south side of Bruges' Markt (the main square) is dominated by the Halle with the belfry –Bruges' most distinctive landmark – soaring above it.

The Halle was begun in 1248 and twice enlarged, first in the 14th century and then again in the 16th century, and once functioned as the city's main market place. The building encloses a picturesque courtyard, and the balcony above the entrance was once used by the city fathers to promulgate their statutes to the populace assembled beneath.

The 83-meter-high belfry is one of the finest bell towers in Belgium and is entered from the Halle's inner courtyard. Construction of the bell tower began in 1282, and the crowning octagonal upper section was finally completed in 1482. Today, a carillon of 47 bells still hang in the tower. For the best view over Bruges, you can climb the 366 steps up to the top of the tower.

On the way up, the old Treasure Room, where civic documents are kept behind wrought-iron grills, can be visited on the second floor.

Official site: https://www.museabrugge.be/en

The Basilica of the Holy Blood (Heilig-Bloedbasiliek) presides over the central plaza known as the Burg or Burg Square.

The church is famous for the crystal vial kept inside that is reputed to contain a drop of Christ's blood brought back from the Holy Land by Dietrich of Alsace in 1149 on his return from the Second Crusade. Each year in May, this sacred relic is carried through the streets of Bruges in the Procession of the Holy Blood.

The facade of the basilica, with its three Flamboyant-style arches and gilded statues, was erected between 1529 and 1534. The basilica itself consists of a Romanesque lower chapel and a late Gothic upper chapel, which houses relics of St. Basil brought from Palestine by Robert II, Count of Flanders.

An elegant spiral staircase leads to the upper chapel (built in 1480), where every Friday the vial containing the Holy Blood is brought out and shown to the faithful.

At the very heart of the city is the Markt, Bruges' bustling main square, surrounded on all sides by fine buildings from a variety of different periods.

The eastern side is dominated by the Neo-Gothic Provinciaal Hof building, which dates from 1887 and is the seat of the West-Vlaanderen provincial government. On the western side, occupying the left-hand corner, is the attractive brick 15th-century Huis Bouchoute.

On the opposite corner stands the Craenenburg where, in 1488, at the instigation of Ghent, the burghers of Bruges kept the future Habsburg Emperor Maximilian imprisoned for 11 weeks. He was freed only after agreeing to respect the authority of the ruling Regency Council and to order the withdrawal of all foreign troops.

The best way to admire all this architectural finery is to join the throngs of visitors and locals at one of the Markt's many cafés and sit for a while soaking up the historic splendor around you.

For the most relaxing sightseeing experience in Bruges, the top thing to do is hop aboard one of the tourist cruise boats. The boat cruise route runs right through the heart of Bruges between the Beginjhof (Beguinage) and Jan van Eyck Square, with great views of the canal-side architecture all the way.

Boat trips run every half hour between 10am and 6pm daily between March and mid-November. If you're traveling during the depths of winter, check with your Bruges accommodation, as the schedule changes according to the weather, but expect far fewer trips. The boats are uncovered but do provide umbrellas for passengers when it is raining.

There are five different companies offering boat trips, from five separate jetties all in the central city, but all offer exactly the same route, boat type, and ticket price, so you don't need to choose between them.

Tickets can't be booked in advance; just turn up at the jetty and buy your ticket there. Note that in high summer, the boat trips are extremely popular. Plan to hop aboard the first cruise of the day, when fewer day-trippers are about.

On the southeast side of the Burg is Bruges' Town Hall (Stadhuis), one of the oldest in Belgium, having been constructed between 1376 and 1420.

The facade of the delicate Gothic building displays the strong vertical emphasis characteristic of the style, with soaring pilasters, three of which end in octagonal turrets, separated by tall Gothic arched windows. Statues of the counts of Flanders from Baldwin Iron Arm onwards fill the 49 niches.

Inside, don't miss the great Gothic Hall on the first floor with its beautiful timber vaulting, which dates from 1402, and its murals recording events in the town's history by A and J de Vriendt (1895-1900).

Address: Burg 12, central Bruges

On the east side of Burg Square , the Bruges Tourist Office occupies part of what was, up until 1984, the Law Courts, built between 1722 and 1727 on the site of the former Liberty of Bruges (Paleis van het Brugse Vrije) from where independent magistrates exercised jurisdiction over the region.

Some fragments of the older building have survived, including the pretty 16th-century facade overlooking the canal at the rear.

One or two of the more historic rooms inside are now the Brugse Vrije Museum and can be admired by visitors.

Of particular interest is the Schepenzaal (lay magistrates' court), where you can see the famous chimneypiece designed by the painter Lanceloot Blondeel in 1529 and executed in black marble and oak by Guyot de Beaugrant. This magnificent piece of Renaissance craftsmanship has an alabaster frieze above depicting the story of Susanna and the Elders with carved oak figures of the Emperor Charles V and his parents, Ferdinand and Isabella of Castille, Mary of Burgundy, and Maximilian.

Address: Burg, central Bruges

Head to the Dijver Canal to visit the Groeninge Museum (Stedelijk Museum voor Schone Kunst), which holds Bruges' best collection of art.

In addition to its excellent endowment of Old Flemish paintings, the museum also incorporates a gallery of modern art and a superb collection of views of old Bruges. However, the first five rooms of the museum are the ones most likely to claim your attention, as they contain quite exceptional paintings by Old Flemish masters.

In Room 1 hang two major works by Jan van Eyck: Madonna and the donor, Canon van der Paele (1436) and the portrait of Margaret van Eyck, the artist's wife, painted when she was 33 years of age (1439).

In Room 3 are panels illustrating the legend of St. Ursula and a portrait of Luis Gruuthuse, both famous works by unknown Bruges masters, and the Last Judgment by Hieronymus Bosch is among the paintings in Room 5.

Address: Dijver 12, central Bruges

One of Bruges' most popular photography spots, St. Boniface Bridge (Bonifaciusbrug) is a narrow brick pedestrian bridge crossing the canal right between the Church of Our Lady and the Groeninge Museum.

Although the bridge is modest in stature and also one of the youngest bridges in the city – built in the early 20th century – it's famous because its position along the canal provides bridge-crossers with some of the city's most tranquil canal views, as well as great photos of the Church of Our Lady.

In high summer, do expect a bit of a line for photos at this spot. The best way to avoid that is to get here early in the morning, when far fewer people are about.

The 112-meter-high spire of the Church of Our Lady (Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk) is the tallest in Belgium. Work began on the nave and aisles around 1230, the outermost aisles and chapels being added in the 14th and 15th centuries.

The church holds a wealth of art treasures, among which is a sublime sculpture by Michelangelo, Virgin and Child (1503-04). The sculpture stands on the altar of the chapel at the end of the south aisle.

The Calvary on the high altar is by Bernaert van Orley, the triptych Adoration of the Shepherds is by Pieter Pourbus, and the Transfiguration of Christ is by Gerard David.

Location: Dijver, central Bruges

Immediately opposite the west door of the Church of Our Lady stands the oldest building in Bruges, the Sint-Jansspitaal (St. John's Hospital), founded in the 12th century. The tympanum, over the bricked up gate to the left of the Mariastraat entrance, is embellished with reliefs showing the Virgin, which bears the date 1270.

Inside the ancient building, in what were once wards, an exhibition of documents and surgical instruments charts the hospital's history. The old dispensary adjacent to the wards has also been preserved.

Also within the walls of the old hospital is the Memling Museum, a small collection of the works of Hans Memling (ca. 1430-94).

Outstanding among these is the Reliquary of St Ursala (1489), recognized as one of the master's most important works. Scarcely less famous is the Mystic Marriage of St. Catherine , painted for the so-called St. John altar.

South of Sint-Jansspitaal is the street of Walstraat, rimmed by tiny, exceptionally pretty, gabled 16th- and 17th-century houses in which lace-makers still practice their craft.

Address: Katelijnestraat, central Bruges

In medieval times, Minnewater (the "Lake of Love"), on the far side of Wijngaardplein, was part of Bruges' busy outer harbor. Nowadays, only the Gothic Lock House (sluishuis) at the north end provides a clue to its far-from-tranquil past.

Standing by the Lock House is a lovely view of the bridge over to Bruges' Béguinage (Prinselijk Begijnhof ten Wijngaerde) with its white 17th-century houses grouped around a grassy, tree-shaded court.

It was founded in 1245 by Margaret of Constantinople, and today is the home of Benedictine nuns.

Between the entrance gate and church (founded 1245, restored 1605), one of the former béguine houses has been turned into the Begijnhof Museum , which offers a fascinating insight into life in the béguinage.

Address: Wijngaardplein, Bruges

On the left, at the far end of the Dijver Canal , stands an attractive ensemble of 15th-century buildings comprising what was once the Heren van Gruuthuse mansion. Here in 1471, the fugitive English king Edward IV took shelter. The original "heren" were merchants with a monopoly on the trade in dried herbs (gruut).

Part of the mansion is now home to the exceptional Gruuthuse Museum , which holds a superb collection of antiques and applied art occupying 22 rooms.

Particularly eye-catching are the lacework, carvings, tapestries, and weaponry, also the delightfully restored and completely authentic old Flemish kitchen and the dispensary.

The Brangwyn Museum, in the 18th-century Arentshuis next door to the Gruuthusemuseum, has porcelains, pewter ware, ceramics, mother-of-pearl ware, and a charming collection of views of old Bruges as well as an exhibition of paintings and drawings by the Bruges-born English artist Frank Brangwyn (1867-1956).

From the Church of Our Lady, take the short street of Heilige Geeststraat to the Sint-Salvatorskathedraal, the oldest parish church in Bruges and a cathedral since 1834. Originally founded in the 10th century, most parts of the present building date from the 12th and 13th centuries.

The fortress-like 99-meter-high west tower was constructed in several phases, the lower Romanesque portion between 1116 and 1227 and the brick section between 1183 and 1228.

Over the centuries, the cathedral has survived four fires as well as the iconoclastic fury.

The 101-meter-long interior contains some noteworthy furnishings. Especially outstanding are the Baroque rood-screen with a figure of God the Father by Artus Quellin the Younger, the 15th-century choir stalls embellished with the coats of arms of Knights of the Golden Fleece and, above the stalls, Brussels tapestries made in 1731.

Just off the right transept is the cathedral museum which holds some priceless art treasures.

To get to Bruges' Markt from here, take the Steenstraat with its row of typical Bruges gable gildehuizen that have made it renowned as one of the city's prettiest streets.

Address: Heilige Geeststraat, central Bruges

From the northwest corner of the Markt, Sint-Jacobstraat continues beyond the Eiermarkt to the Gothic Sint-Jacobskerk, passing on its way the 18th-century Musical Academy on the left and the Boterhuis (a cultural center) on the right.

Gifts from the dukes of Burgundy, whose palace was nearby, transformed the 13th- to 15th-century church from its relatively modest beginnings to its present size.

The richly ornamented interior contains a number of fine 16th- to 18th-century paintings by local artists, as well as some interesting tombs. Among the latter, to the right of the choir, is the twin-tiered tomb of Ferry de Gros (a treasurer of the Order of the Golden Fleece who died in 1544).

Address: Sint-Jacobstraat, central Bruges

The Late Gothic church of Jeruzalemkerk dates from 1428 and was modeled on the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem .

The Adorne family, who built the church, had made a Holy Land pilgrimage and built this church upon their return.

Visitors should note the exceedingly fine stained-glass window work of the church, which dates from the 15th and 16th centuries and should also make sure they see the copy of Christ's tomb (a replica of the one in the Holy Sepulchre) while here.

On the exterior, the Jeruzalemkerk is most noted for its tower, which is distinctly different from other church spires in Belgium because of its oriental influences.

Address: Peperstraat, Bruges

One of the nicest walks in Bruges is to stroll from the central city out to the windmills that dot Kruisvest Park, which traces the line of the old eastern ramparts of the city.

Windmills originally sat atop the ramparts in the 13th century, though the surviving windmills today, sitting on the summits of the lawn-covered rampart remnants, are much younger.

The four windmills here are still used to grind grain, and at Sint-Janshuismolen (Sin-Janshuis Windmill) from late spring to early fall, you can watch this process. At all of them, you can climb up the stairs of the grassy hummocks to see the windmills up close and enjoy great views over the grass-covered ramparts area.

Military history buffs staying in Bruges can easily take a day trip to the Flanders battlefields and memorials.

The town of Ypres is less than an hour away by car, and is home to many of the area's most important World War I sites, including the Menin Gate and Rijselpoort (also known as Lilletor), several war cemeteries and monuments, as well as the expansive battlefields.

Ypres also has several beautiful churches and a lovely old square, Groke Markt, with the 13th-century Lakenhalle (cloth hall), which is home to the important In Flanders Fields Museum.

Bruges' medieval town center is easy to explore on foot, and the best place to stay is within walking distance of the Markt, the city's main square, dominated by the massive Halle and its famous belfry. Other easy-to-get-to attractions from your old town accommodations include the Burg, home to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the city's many wonderful old canals. The following hotels are highly-recommended:

Luxury Hotels:

• Minutes away from the Markt, Hotel Prinsenhof Bruges is beautifully furnished throughout and is a tourist favorite for its intimacy and quiet rooms, some with canal views.
• Popular for its pampering, Hotel Heritage - Relais & Chateaux spoils guests in its large, sumptuously decorated rooms with treats such as chocolates (Belgian, of course) and fresh, fluffy robes.
• For those wanting to stay in one of the city's older buildings, try the Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce - Luxe Worldwide Hotel with its medieval exterior, antique furniture, and oak beamed-rooms overlooking a canal.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• On the banks of a canal and close to the Markt, the family-run Hotel Ter Duinen is popular with tourists wanting a true taste of old Belgium, with its beamed rooms and traditional décor.
• Beautifully decorated and intimate, the eco-friendly Hotel Fevery offers canal-view rooms (some with balconies) and the kind of comfort usually only found in luxury hotels.
• Equally charming, Adornes offers free bike rentals in addition to its beautiful, oak-beamed rooms.

Budget Hotels:

• Popular for its charming courtyard and casual atmosphere, Canalview Hotel Ter Reien offers reasonably sized rooms with modern décor.
• Also worth looking at are Hotel de Goezeput , in a well-preserved 18th-century building with exposed beams and cozy rooms, and the charming Hotel Van Eyck , with a number of rooms large enough for families.

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Day Trips from Bruges : This beautiful city makes an excellent "home base" for excursions, and there are plenty of options for those looking for day trips from Bruges , including the upscale Knokke-Heist beach resorts and the Zwin Nature Park. Anyone who loves Bruges will want to spend some time in nearby Ghent , a lovely city with a range of architecture comparable to Bruges, but it's far less crowded.

Historic Sites of Normandy : Just across the border in France are some of the most significant sites in World War II history in Normandy . Among these are numerous museums, cemeteries, and battlefields, as well as the Normandy D-Day memorials and beaches that are synonymous with the region.

French Flanders : Heavily influenced by Flemish culture, the city of Lille is a wonderful mixture of France and Belgium. Here, you can find cuisine that highlights the best of both worlds, beautiful architecture including Gothic churches and Baroque public buildings, and an astounding number of impressive museums.

More on Belgium

Bruges, Picture Perfect

Then there’s the famous lace, renowned chocolates and culinary culture, annual Procession of the Holy Blood and the Flemish Primitives, whose masterpieces at the Groeningemuseum still retain their power... This is Bruges, a picture-perfect destination that has endured for hundreds of years.

Points of interest

Bruges, birthplace of the Flemish Primitives

Groeningemuseum

Bruges city centre, a UNESCO world heritage site

Procession of the Holy Blood

Visit Bruges

48 hours in bruges, a medieval romance.

Bruges cannot be summarised in a few highlights; The unofficial capital of romance is one major high point. The entire city centre is listed as a UNESCO heritage site. You'll find a surprise on every corner. Discover it with your own eyes during these 48 hours in Bruges.

Info Point Bruges

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Bruges Historic Centre, Belgium

Bruges is an outstanding example of a medieval settlement that has maintained its historic fabric as it evolved over the centuries. As one of the commercial and cultural capitals of Europe, Bruges—a showcase of original Gothic constructions, which formed part of its identity—developed cultural links to different parts of the world.

Water has played a crucial role in the birth and development of Bruges. When visiting, you will see how its canals and lake played an important part in the city's development - as well as adding a unique sense of charm and beauty to this historic city. By taking a boat ride through the canals you will be rewarded with unexpected views, hidden romantic corners and secret gardens.

In the south part of Bruges, surrounded by trees and the adjacent Minnewaterpark, you’ll find a small rectangular lake called 'Minnewater' or the Lake of Love . The tragic romance of Minna and her warrior love Stromberg has evolved into local legend saying that you will experience eternal love if you walk over the lake bridge with your partner. This of course has turned the Lake of Love into an exceptionally romantic spot. Enjoy the scenery from the lake bridge or one of the nearby benches along the lake.

Bruges has a well-preserved medieval city centre that is ideal for discovering by foot. If you are in love now (or soon to be) the Lake of Love in Minnewaterpark is the place to be. Canals cut through parts of the city with grand houses lining the roads on their edges, next to pathways for walkers or cyclists. The swans on the water, horse drawn carriages in the lanes and daffodils add to the enchantment. With a world-first underground beer pipeline running through the city, Bruges is also the perfect place to discover the Belgian beer culture, which was inscribed on the representative list of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016.

During its golden century - the 15th century - a number of leading artists like Jan van Eyck and Hans Membling came to live and work in Bruges. Don't miss the chance to marvel at the masterpieces of the world-famous Flemish primitives in the Groeninge Museum and the St John's hospital.

There are plenty of charming squares for you to discover around the city, the most prominent being Burg Square - the beating heart of Bruges. Surrounded by colourful houses, the square is also home to the Belfry , the most important tower of Bruges standing 83m tall. For centuries it was the city's foremost edifice and an important lookout in case of war, fire or any other type of disaster. Today you can climb the 366 steps to the top and be rewarded with breathtaking views of Bruges and its surroundings.

Beyond the historic centre, but still within walking distance, you can visit plenty of charming and historic neighbourhoods. Explore the lovely parklands where 30 windmills once truned their sails. Today there are just four left, including the Sint-Janshuis Mill which can still be visited today. Climb up the mill mounds and get a great panorama of the city, or stop by one of the nearby cafes. Stroll through the nearby Saint Giles - an important artists' quater during the 15th century.

How to Get There

If arriving by plane , the Brussels Airport receives flights from over 200 destinations in 66 countries every day. From there, it's easy to travel to Bruges by train . A direct connection to Bruges runs every hour.

The Brussels South Charleroi Airport receives several daily, low-cost flights from cities across Europe. Bus company Flibco.com offers direct shuttle buses (nine per day) to and from the Bruges station. Booking is cheaper online and you will pay a surcharge on the bus or at the airport.

When to Visit

Although most visitors come in the spring or summer, Bruges has something to offer all year. The misty months of autumn and winter are ideal for atmospheric strolls along the canals and the cobbled streets, before ending up in a cosy, cheerful pub. The "cold" months are also perfect for undisturbed visits to the many museums and sites of interest, before finishing up in world-class restaurant. The Christmas markets are also world-famous. Many hotels and accommodation providers offer lower rates in January, February, and March.

How to Visit

There is a lot to discover in Bruges, and it is best to plan your visit for at least 2-3 days. Most of the major highlights can be reached by foot. There are many guided walking tours available, as well as bicycle tours. Boat tours are also very popular, and provide a different view of the mysterious canals. If you are feeling particularly romantic, you can take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage . If you want to travel a bit faster, you can take a minibus tour with expert commentary. Finally, there are few experiences that rival a hot-air balloon tour above Bruges.

To make the most of your visit, pick up a copy of the official 'Bruges City Guide' - which gives you all the insider's tips on the best places to visit both in and around Bruges. It provides you with some excellent self-guided walking tours that feature the highlights of the World Heritage inscribed sections of the city. Updated every year, the guide is available in the visitor information centre.

Sights and Attractions recommended by the locals

Shutterstock / MarinaDa

If you set out to design a fairy-tale medieval town, it would be hard to improve on central Bruges (Brugge in Dutch), one of Europe's best preserved cities. Picturesque cobbled lanes and dreamy canals link photogenic market squares lined with soaring towers, historical churches and lane after lane of old whitewashed almshouses.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

The heart of ancient Bruges, the old market square is lined with pavement cafes beneath step-gabled facades. The buildings aren't always quite as medieval…

Groeningemuseum

Bruges’ most celebrated art gallery boasts an astonishingly rich collection that's strong in superb Flemish Primitive and Renaissance works, depicting the…

Museum Sint-Janshospitaal

In the restored chapel of a 12th-century hospital building with superb timber beamwork, this museum shows various torturous-looking medical implements,…

Towering 83m above the square like a gigantic medieval rocket is this fabulous 13th-century belfry. There’s relatively little to see inside, but it’s…

Just east of the Markt, the less theatrical but still enchanting Burg has been Bruges' administrative centre for centuries. It's in this area you'll find…

Kasteel van Loppem

Around 10km south of Bruges, Kasteel van Loppem is a mid-19th-century brick castle-mansion which had its moment of fame at the end of WWI when it was…

Bruges’ delightful begijnhof dates from the 13th century. Despite the hordes of summer tourists, remains a remarkably tranquil haven. Outside the 1776…

Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed

The western end of the stadhuis morphs into the Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed. The basilica takes its name from a phial supposedly containing a few drops…

Top picks from our travel experts

17 of the best experiences in bruges.

Try the fabulous Garre draught beer, which comes with a thick floral head in a glass that’s almost a brandy balloon; the pub will only serve you three of…

Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk

Dominating its surrounds, this 13th-century church was reopened in 2015 after extensive renovations. Its enormous 115m spire is unmissable throughout much…

St-Bonifaciusbrug

Stand atop the 20th-century stone Bonifacius bridge, itself amply photogenic, for lovely vistas of the canal and surrounds.

The beautiful 1420 stadhuis features a fanciful facade that’s second only to Leuven’s for exquisitely turreted Gothic excess. Inside, an audioguide…

Concertgebouw

Bruges’ stunning 21st-century concert hall is the work of architects Paul Robbrecht and Hilde Daem. It takes its design cues from the city’s three famous…

Het Zand Square

Under ongoing redevelopment since 2015, ’t Zand is Bruges' largest public square and a major transport hub, fringed with shops, hotels and restaurants…

Frietmuseum

Follows the history of the potato from ancient Inca grave sites to the Belgian fryer. The entry fee includes a discount token for the basement frituur …

Latest stories from Bruges

Dec 16, 2023 • 9 min read

Bruges is home to peaceful canals and amazing beers. But what should you do when you're not on a boat or in a bar? We've got you covered.

Jan 21, 2020 • 2 min read

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• Description

Brugge is an outstanding example of a medieval historic settlement, which has maintained its historic fabric as this has evolved over the centuries, and where original Gothic constructions form part of the town's identity. As one of the commercial and cultural capitals of Europe, Brugge developed cultural links to different parts of the world. It is closely associated with the school of Flemish Primitive painting.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

Le centre historique de Bruges

Bruges est un exemple exceptionnel d'habitat médiéval ayant bien conservé son tissu urbain historique tel qu'il a évolué avec les siècles et où le bâti gothique d'origine fait partie de l'identité de la ville. Bruges, l'une des capitales commerciales et culturelles européennes, a tissé des liens culturels avec différentes parties du monde. On associe cette cité à l'Ecole de peinture des Primitifs flamands.

وسط بروج التاريخي

تعطي مدينة بروج مثلاً إستثنائياً عن نمط السكن السائد في القرون الوسطى والذي حافظ جيداً على نسيجه الحضري التاريخي في تطوره عبر القرون بحيث أصبح البناء القوطي الأصلي جزءاً لا يتجزأ من هوية المدينة. وقد أرست بروج، التي تُعتبر إحدى العواصم التجارية والثقافية في أوروبا، علاقات ثقافية مع مناطق مختلفة من العالم. وغالباً ما تُربط هذه المدينة بمدرسة الرسم للفنانين الفلمنديين البدائيين.

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

布鲁日是中世纪人类聚落的杰出典范，虽历经数世纪沧桑，仍保留着大量历史建筑。在那里，早期哥特式建筑已经成为城市特征的一部分。作为欧洲商业与文化首都之一，布鲁日不断发展与世界各地的文化交流，同时，与佛兰芒原始绘画流派(Flemish Primitive painting)有着密切关系。

Centro histórico de Brujas

La ciudad de Brujas es un ejemplo excepcional de asentamiento humano medieval que ha conservado su tejido urbano histórico tal como ha ido evolucionando a lo largo de los siglos. Sus construcciones góticas primigenias forman parte de la identidad de esta capital comercial y cultural de la antigua Europa, que estableció vínculos culturales con distintas partes del mundo. El nombre de Brujas está estrechamente unido a la escuela de pintura de los primitivos flamencos.

source: NFUAJ

Historisch centrum van Brugge

Brugge is een mooi voorbeeld van een middeleeuwse nederzetting die zijn historische vorm heeft behouden in de loop van de eeuwen, waarbij de oorspronkelijke, gotische constructies deel uitmaken van de identiteit van de stad. De historische binnenstad laat zien waardoor de architectuur beïnvloed werd. Zoals de baksteengotiek en innovatieve, artistieke invloeden van middeleeuwse schilderkunst zoals de Vlaamse Primitieven. Brugge geldt als de geboorteplaats van deze schilderschool waarvan kunstenaars als Jan van Eyck en Hans Memling deel uitmaken. Mede hierom werd Brugge een van de commerciële en culturele hoofdsteden van Europa met culturele banden over de hele wereld.

Source: unesco.nl

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

The Historic Centre of Brugge is an outstanding example of an architectural ensemble, illustrating significant stages in the commercial and cultural fields in medieval Europe.

Brugge in medieval times was known as a commercial metropolis in the heart of Europe.

The city reflects a considerable exchange of influences on the development of art and architecture, particularly in brick Gothic, which is characteristic of northern Europe and the Baltic. This architecture strongly determines the character of the historic centre of the city.

The 12th century city walls marked the boundaries of the medieval city. Although the walls themselves are lost today, they remain clearly visible, emphasized by the four surviving gates, the ramparts and one of the defence water towers. The medieval street pattern, with main roads leading towards the important public squares, has mostly been preserved, as well as the network of canals which, once used for mercantile traffic, played an important role in the development of the city.

In the 15th century, Brugge was the cradle of the Flemish Primitives and a centre of patronage and painting development for artists such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling. Many of their works were exported and influenced painting styles all over Europe. Exceptionally important collections have remained in the city until today.

Even after its economic and artistic peak at the end of the Middle Ages, building and urban development continued, although Brugge mostly missed the 19th-century industrial revolution. In the 18th and 19th centuries, many medieval parcels were joined to larger entities and new quarters were also developed. The most striking examples of large scale post-medieval interventions in the historic centre are the urbanization around Coupure (1751-1755), the Zand and the first railway station (1838), the Theatre quarter (1867), the Koningin Elisabethlaan and Gulden Vlieslaan (1897) and the creation of the Guido Gezelle-neighbourhood (1920-1930).

In the second half of the 20th century, some major changes occurred with Zilverpand (1976), the new Public Library (1975-1978), the new Palace of Justice and Kartuizerswijk (1980), Clarendam (1990) and Colettijnenhof (1997).

Brugge is characterized by a continuity reflected in the relative harmony of changes. As part of this continuity, the late 19th century renovation of facades introduced a Neo-Gothic style that is particular for Brugge. The Brugge ‘neo’ style of construction and its restoration philosophy became a subject of interest, study and inspiration.

Still an active, living city today, Brugge has preserved the architectural and urban structures which document the different phases of its development including the central Market Place with its belfry, the Béguinage , as well as the hospitals, the religious and commercial complexes and the historic urban fabric.  

Criterion (ii): The Historic Centre of Brugge bears testimony to a considerable exchange of influences on the development of architecture, and particularly brick Gothic architecture, over a long period of time. As the birthplace of the school of the Flemish Primitives, it has favoured innovative artistic influences in the development of medieval painting.

Criterion (iv): The Historic Centre of Brugge is an outstanding example of an architectural ensemble. The city’s public, social and religious institutions illustrate significant stages in the history of commerce and culture in medieval Europe

Criterion (vi): The Historic Centre of Brugge was birthplace of the Flemish Primitives and a centre of patronage and development of painting in the Middle Ages with artists such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.  

Authenticity

The Historic Centre of Brugge illustrates continuity on an urban site that has been occupied since the early Middle Ages. Historical records of the town administration and regulations are condensed in the city records from the 13th century onwards.

An area of continuous settlement, the Historic Centre of Brugge has retained the original pattern of streets and places, canals, and open spaces. A very specific skyline of towers and taller civic buildings (such as the cathedral, the belfry and the churches) dominates the city. For the most part, buildings have retained the original parcels of land. The transformations that have taken place over time respect the functional changes in the town, and have become part of its historic authenticity, in a parallel way to other historic cities such as Siena in Italy.

The history of the town is well represented in the urban and architectural structures that harmoniously unify all periods of history since the origin of the city.

Since the second half of the 19th century, much attention has been paid to the history and the architecture of the town, and major debates about modalities followed the international trends in the field of restoration and conservation. This chronological and historical stratification is clearly recognizable in the urban morphology and architecture and is part of the present character of Brugge.

Some modern transformations have occurred in the property, but their impact on the whole property is considered minor.  

The overall urban structure still represents the medieval “egg-shaped” model that can be seen on the map of Marcus Gerards (1562). Apart from the religious wars in the 16th century and the French Revolution, Brugge more or less escaped the devastation associated with other conflicts that marked this part of Europe, including the First and Second World Wars. Similarly, the 19thcentury industrial revolution had almost no impact on the basic structure of the historic town, with the exception of the railway station in the southwest of the city.

The property includes all urban structures, associated ensembles and individual buildings that reflect its commercial and artistic development and the legacy of 19th century restoration philosophies.

The remarkable visual coherence that characterises its urban form is vulnerable to rebuilding. Large-scale development in proximity to the property could adversely impact the relationship between the property and its setting. 

Protection and management requirements

Since 1972, the municipal Department for Conservation and Heritage Management guides evaluates and closely monitors all changes in the urban environment, in collaboration with the regional heritage services. The specific municipal building regulations are very strict and include a non modificandi agreement when city funding is provided to carry out restoration works.

Around half of all buildings within the historic centre are either listed or registered in the Flemish inventory of Built Heritage and in the city’s Heritage Evaluation Map (a dynamic instrument), which serves as a policy and management tool. In the case of listed buildings and sites, there is a mandatory and binding advice from the regional heritage authorities.

The coordination, communication and promotion of the World Heritage property is taken up as before by the municipal Department for Conservation and Heritage Management, in close collaboration with all partners on municipal and regional level.

Conservation and restoration of monuments and sites is based on a restoration philosophy and tradition in which the original materials and construction technique are the starting point. New constructions in the inner city never occur without a thorough art-historical evaluation and always respect the historical authenticity. As a rule, new constructions respect parcelling, pattern, heights, materials etc. of the surroundings. Large-scale developments in proximity of the property remain a possible threat and therefore require particular attention.

As a result, a World Heritage Management Plan was made in 2012, coordinated by the city of Brugge and its Department for Conservation and Heritage Management, which is a team of specialists qualified in the history of art, the history of Bruges in general and restoration philosophy and practice. This Management Plan aims to foster appropriate development within agreed constraints in relation to the acknowledged characteristics of defined areas. A UNESCO Expert Commission was set up by the city council in 2011, supported the development of a Management Plan in 2012 and continues to provide advice.  

In continuation of the Management Plan, Conservation Plans are being prepared, as well as Preservation Plans, Detailed Survey Plans and a Thematic Spatial Implementation Plan for the historic urban landscape, covering the whole World Heritage property.

Historically and typologically, the city is home to a mixture of functions. This diversity is an essential urban feature that needs to be preserved and protected. This element, along with the historical urban structure and the specific and diverse architectural characteristics that reflect the evolution of Brugge, are at the essence of the future management of the property. However, Brugge is a living city, in which developments and changes should be possible but only in appropriate locations and with respect for the urban morphology of closed urban plots limited by streets and laneways in the historic centre.

Expansion is possible in the greater Brugge region, which historically and politically was linked with the city (“Brugs Ommeland”, or the surroundings of Brugge) and Zeebrugge (the seaport of Brugge). In order to protect the setting of the property, effective links between the interests of this wider city of Brugge and the property, in terms of planning and protection, are needed and in progress. Important views from and to the property need to be protected and will be incorporated in the urban planning tools.

From a touristic point of view, Brugge has made considerable efforts to manage the impact of visitors. The development of durable cultural tourism of high quality will continue to remain the basis of the municipal policy in this regard, with a specific attention to events and activities related to the Flemish Primitives.

• UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bruges
• Bruges, UNESCO World Heritage City

The Nomination files produced by the States Parties are published by the World Heritage Centre at its website and/or in working documents in order to ensure transparency, access to information and to facilitate the preparations of comparative analysis by other nominating States Parties.

The sole responsibility for the content of each Nomination file lies with the State Party concerned. The publication of the Nomination file does not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever of the World Heritage Committee or of the Secretariat of UNESCO concerning the history or legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its boundaries.

State of Conservation (SOC)

Protections by other conservation instruments.

1 protection / 1 element

• Procession of the Holy Blood in Bruges

Read more about synergies

Bruges Map: A Handy Tourist Map of Brugge’s Must-See Attractions

Interactive bruges map.

To help you see the best the city has to offer, here is a map of Bruges Belgium with the top tourist sites.

Printable Map of Bruges

Here’s a handy printable map of Bruges – though I’d recommend sticking to the digital version above. 

I’d love to see what you get up to using the map – simply tag me on @thediscoveriesof on Facebook or Instagram @discoveriesof on Twitter and I’ll reshare the best pics! 

Tourist Attractions Featured on the Brugge Belgium Map 

A little more information on the places featured on the Bruges map!

1. Markt  + Belfort

You can’t miss the charming Markt square while in Bruges. Leave time to climb the Belfort, to get a beautiful view of the city.

2. Burg 

Check out the stunning architecture of the other famous square, Burg. It’s believed to have been inhabited since the 2nd Century CE.

3. Rozenhoedkaai (Quay of the Rosary)

One of the most beautiful sights in a very beautiful city, the Rozenhoedkaai is incredibly photogenic with its historic buildings and canal.

4. Bruges Begijnhof / Beguinages 

Go back in time as you explore one of Bruges’ oldest and most historic neighbourhoods, which dates from the 12th Century.

5. Canal Cruise

One of the best ways to take in the beauty and atmosphere of Bruges is to take a relaxing and peaceful canal cruise.

6. Helig Bloedbasiliek (The Basilica of the Holy Blood)

This striking 12th Century Roman Catholic Basilica is revered by worshippers as it is believed to be home to a vial of the blood of Jesus Christ.

7. Groeninge Museum

Check out the works of the most legendary Belgian and Flemish painters in history, such as Jan van Eyck, at the Groeninge Museum .

8. Gruuthuse Museum 

Track four hundred years of Belgian history and applied arts at the Gruuthuse Museum . Located inside a medieval home, the exterior is also very impressive.

9. St Salvator’s Cathedral 

Bruges’ oldest Parish church is also arguably its most beautiful, with stunning Gothic architecture.

10. Onze-Lieve Vrouwekerk 

Wherever you are in Bruges you’re likely to see the tower of the Church of Our Lady peeking out above you – it’s the tallest structure in the city.

11. Sint Janshospitaal 

Take a peek inside one of Europe’s oldest hospitals, Sint Janshospitaal , which dates from the 12th century. You can still see some of the wards, and be glad things have improved since.

12. The Memling Museum

Located inside the Sint Janshospitaal, you can visit the unique Memling Museum, with beautiful art pieces alongside Medieval medical equipment.

13. Frites Museum 

A museum devoted to french fries? Ah, yes please. The Frietmuseum is a definite must-see on the map of Bruges, Belgium.

14. Concertgebouw

Get all fancy at the stunning Concertgebouw cultural institute that was completed in 2002 and now hosts a range of classical and other concerts. 

15. Choco Story 

Belgium is all about chocolate so add this super sweet museum, Choco Story , as a stop on Bruges’ tourist attractions map.

16. Diamantmuseum 

If diamonds are your best friend, then you’ll love this comprehensive museum devoted to them. The Diamantmuseum the only one of its type in Belgium.

17. Belfort 

The most important tower in Bruges is the Belfort, or Belfry. If you can climb 366 steps, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view over the city.

18. Minnewater Park  

A must for romantics, take a stroll through this beautiful park and discover the local legend about the young couple it was named after.

19. St Walburga’s Church

This 17th century Roman-Catholich church is a pretty awe-inspiring stop on our map of Bruges tourist attractions.

20. Gentpoort 

Pass through the imposing Medieval gate, which historically was the designated entrance for foreigners.

21. Sint Janshuismolen

Snap a photo of the iconic and historic windmill in Bruges. You can enter it between June and September.

22. De Vesten (The City Ramparts) 

You’re never far away from some relaxing green space. On the other corners of the Bruges, Belgium map you’ll find the beautiful City Ramparts.

Places to Eat on Bruges Map

23. Restaurant Sans Cravate 

Treat yourself at this amazing Michelin-starred restaurant. The food at Restaurant Sans Cravate is innovative, unique and totally delicious.

24. Fred’s Waffles

You can’t leave Bruges without trying some waffles. They’re even better with homemade ice-cream, like those at Fred’s Waffles .

25. ‘T Bagientje 

A little hidden gem, ‘T Bagientje does great food near the city centre. Their desserts are particularly delicious.

26. The Republic

A laidback bistro that does great food in a friendly and family-friendly environment, The Republic is a great lunch stop.

Beer Bars + Breweries on the Map of Brugge

27. De Halve Maan 

De Halve Maan has been producing beer for over four hundred years – you can do a tasting, take a tour or just sit down with a beer.

28. Bourgogne des Flandres 

Absent from the city for more than six decades, Bourgogne des Flandres has returned in a big way. Locals and visitors alike love this brewery’s beer.

 29. ’t Brugs Beertje

If you want to try a selection of amazing Belgian beers then ‘t Brugs Beertje is a great stop. There’s an amazing choice of local and international brews.

30. The Beer Wall at 2Be

If you like choice then you’ve got to check out the literal wall of beer at 2Be . Well-known or obscure – you’ll find it all here.

31. Le Trappiste

Enjoy an amazing Belgian beer in an 800-year-old cellar in the heart of Bruges at Le Trappiste . It’s a great and unique experience.

32. Bierbrasserie Cambrinus

Named after “The King of Beer” and well-loved by locals and visitors, Bierbrasserie Cambrinus is pretty unmissable if you love a good beer.

33. De Garre

Not only is this Bruges bar cosy and inviting, but you also get some delicious gouda cheese along with your beer at De Garre .

34. Bruges Beer Experience 

Find out everything you want to know and then some at the Bruges Beer Experience . You’ll learn about the history and production process, as well as do some tasting.

35. The Bottle Shop

If you’re a beer lover looking for a souvenir of Bruges, it doesn’t get much better than the Bottle Shop , which stocks over 600 types.

Chocolate Shops on the Bruges Tourist Map

36. Dumon Chocolatier 

Find out more about Bruges’ long chocolatey traditions at artisan producer Dumon Chocolatier … and take some home, of course.

37. Olivier’s Chocolate Shop & Bar 

This cute and family-owned chocolate shop and bar has been producing amazing chocolate and desserts for more than twenty years.

38. The Chocolate Line 

Considered one of the best chocolate shops on earth, the Chocolate Line is a paradise for all of us with a sweet tooth in Bruges.

Places to Stay + Transport Hubs on the Map of Bruges

39. novotel bruges centrum hotel.

The location of this stylish but friendly hote l is perfect for exploring the many sites on the Bruges tourist map.

40. Hotel de Orangerie 

Stay in a charming hotel in the centre of Bruges with Hotel de Orangerie , which is located in an old 15th century Carthusian convent.

41. Train Station 

Planning a day trip or onward travel from Bruges? The train station will definitely come in handy.

42. Car Park at Centrum Station 

Travelling with a car in Bruges? Minimise your parking frustrations and head straight for the car park at Centrum Station.

Map of Bruges: Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Bruges is a very walkable city – I recommend exploring the best sites on the Brugge Belgium map on foot.
• Some of the attractions, like canal cruises from Sint Janshuismolen, are only open for a few months of the year, so do check ahead.
• I recommend staying centrally so that you’re never far away from the best attractions in Bruges. The Novotel is a good option as it’s relatively inexpensive, comfortable and well-located near the centre. 

Brugge Map: Read Next 

• Cool Things to do in Bruges  
• Planning a Day Trip to Bruges? Here’s How You Do It  
• A Weekend in Bruges: What to See and What to Skip
• Where to Stay in Bruges – An Area by Area Guide
• The Best Airbnbs in Bruges For Your Stay
• The Bruges Beer Guide: Where to Find it and How to Drink it
• The Ultimate Europe Packing List

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Bruges Tourist Information and Tourism

(bruges, west flanders, belgium), bruges tourist information and tourism: top sights, more bruges information / fast facts and orientation.

• Country: Belgium
• Location: West Flanders / Flemish Region / North-West Belgium
• Status: city / capital of West Flanders
• Area: approximately 54 square miles / 140 square kilometres
• Population: approximately 125,000
• Language: Dutch, also varying degrees of Flemish, French and German
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Time zone: GMT +1 (summer time GMT+2)
• Country dialling code: +32
• Telephone area code: 050
• Average daily Bruges January temperature: 5°C / 41°F
• Average daily Bruges July temperature: 22°C / 72°F

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Free-City-Guides.com

Independent Advice for your city break

This is your free Bruges City Guide!  It’s one of Europe’s most beautiful and unspoilt cities and in our view is the gem in Belgium’s crown.  There’s plenty to see of course, plus great food and drink.  Here are our personal recommendations to you…

WHAT TO DO IN BRUGES

Bruges Streets & Canals – The city is ringed by a busy dual carriageway, but inside that, you’ll find mile after mile of beautiful chocolate-box style traditional houses, many lining canals.  Every so often, you’ll come across something a bit different too like the windmills on the outskirts of the city, an unusual church, or the old fashioned gatehouses on some of the roads.  Within the main city boundary, traffic is kept to a minimum and even the new buildings are built in the same style as the old, meaning you often can’t tell what’s new and what’s not. The whole area is a World Heritage Site. It’s all very pretty and we spent hours walking around the streets of Bruges and walking along the canals.  If you don’t fancy the walk, you can take a canal boat trip in the warmer months of the year. Bruges Canals & Streets: Read More, Pictures & Map…

Bruges Market Place (Brugge Markt) – This attractive area is the centre piece of the city and at many times of the year you’ll find some kind of small market here.  We last visited at Christmas when a festive market is built surrounding an outdoor ice rink. The square is a great place to get a feel for the city and it’s lined with the huge Belfry tower on one side, town hall on another side and then dozens of restaurants, shops and bars. Bruges Markt: More info, pics, links & map…

Burg Square – Right next to the Market square is another smaller, but prettier one called the Burg. This area is the administrative centre and is surrounded by more beautiful buildings and the tourist information centre is here too.  Highlights in the Burg include the old Town Hall (see Our Top Tip below), the Old Civil Registry with its gold statues, the Basilius church and the chapel of the Holy Blood which claims to have a vial of Christ’s blood. Burg Square: More info, pic, links & map…

The Belfry (Brugge Belfort) – This bell tower dominates the Bruges skyline so you can see it almost everywhere within the old city boundaries.  As such, when you climb it you get a terrific view of Bruges.  You can see out of the tower on all sides and we’d recommend doing this at the start of your break so you can see just how compact the city is.  You can also see from here how much effort has gone into keeping all the buildings as unspoilt as possible. There are a lot of stairs by the way, so take a deep breath before climbing! Bruges Belfry: More info, pics, links & map…

The Gruuthuse Museum – We thought this museum was interesting but a little bizarre.  It’s basically the former house of one of the richest families in old Bruges.  The family made its money from ingredients for beer and their house is more of a palace. Much of the structure of the house remains as it was then, and as an insight into how the rich lived it’s fascinating.  We especially liked the private chapel in the house which has a window into the church next door.  This allowed the family to attend services without leaving home and without mingling with the poorer people!  For us the house was the star here, but you’ll find that its rooms are treated as general museum space and are filled with a whole variety of museum exhibits about Bruges in general.  The museum is at Dijver 17 next to the Church of Our Lady. Bruges Gruuthuse: More info, pics, links & map…

Church of Our Lady (Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk) – Want to see a genuine Michelangelo sculpture?  This church is truly striking on the outside with its huge brick tower, but the inside is striking too.  Michelangelo’s “Madonna and Child” sculpture always draws the crowds, but there’s plenty more to see in here too.  There are huge paintings and impressive carvings and it’s all free.  There is also a museum here which for a small fee takes you into the excavated tombs under the church and shows you more of the church’s treasures.  The church is just off Mariastraat near the Gruuthuse Museum. Bruges Church of Our Lady: More info, pics, links & map…

Lover’s Lake – This lake is also known as Minnewater and you’ll find it on the southern edge of Bruges.  The lake itself and the buildings and park surrounding it are so picturesque, that you can see where the name has come from – it’s a great place to be with someone you love!  The lake is actually a reservoir and is joined to the canal system of Bruges so you will see boats on it from time to time.  To be honest, there’s not a lot more to do at Minnewater, other than just walking around and crossing the bridges, but you have to see it! Lover’s Lake: More info, pics, links & map…

The Windmills – Take a walk to the outskirts of the city along the canal path Kruisvest (between Bapaumestraat and Sasplein) and you’ll come across a series of windmills. Originally there were 25 all around the edge of Bruges, but now only a handful remain.  There is a small museum inside the Sint Janshuysmolen mill which was built by a group of bakers in 1770.  It took a while to walk here, but we enjoyed how peaceful and open it was in this area and we enjoyed walking on some of the old city walls around here too. Bruges Windmills: More info, pics, links & map…

The Chocolate Museum (Choco-Story) – If you love chocolate, you’ll enjoy a trip here and Belgium is famous for it after all!  There’s loads of background about the origins of chocolate which does go on a bit, but the best bit is the demonstration of making it.  There was hardly anyone there on the day when we went, so it was easy to watch in detail how fancy chocolates are made and then you get to taste them too. You could perhaps do with a bit more chocolate along the way, but maybe that’s our addiction talking.  The museum is on Wijnzakstraat 2, Sint-Jansplein. Choco-Story Museum: Opening Times, Admission Prices & Review…

OUR TOP TIP IN BRUGES

Bruges Stadhuis – Don’t miss the old gothic Town Hall in the Burg square. It dates back to the 1300s and although just a single hall, it is truly beautiful inside with paintings on the wall depicting important events in the history of the city. Bruges Stadhuis: More info, pics, links & map…

MORE THINGS TO DO IN BRUGES

Recommended hotel.

We stayed at the Aragon Hotel in Bruges and really liked it!  It’s just a couple of streets from the Markt, so everything is close by and the rooms were clean, comfortable and of a high standard.  Breakfast was good and the staff were friendly.  Bear in mind that most hotels in Bruges are in old buildings, so don’t expect lots of space anywhere, but there was plenty of room for us here.

GETTING AROUND BRUGES

We found no need to do anything other than walk.  The heritage part of the city is compact and easy to see on foot.  If you do fancy a trip further out, there are a few places that hire cycles.

Bruges does not have an airport and most visitors arrive by train.  The Railway Station is just the other side of the busy ring road and if your hotel is in central Bruges, again it’s easy to walk from the station. If you’re flying into Brussels airport, you can pre-book a transfer to Bruges. You can see latest prices here: Bruges Airport Transfers (US Dollars) Bruges Airport Transfers (UK Pounds)

MORE ON BRUGES

Bruges Hotels  – Best price guarantee from Hotels.com Bruges Transfer from Brussels Railway Station – Click for latest prices in US Dollars VistFlanders.co.uk  – Bruges Guide Guide books on Bruges  – Amazon.co.uk

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Re-opening the Gros Morne National Park Visitor Centre

From: Parks Canada

News release

Enhanced Visitor Information Centre reopens and ready to welcome visitors

May 17, 2024          Gros Morne, Newfoundland and Labrador              Parks Canada

Parks Canada protects natural and cultural treasures in Canada and is proud to contribute to the country’s world-class tourism destinations. As cornerstones of Canada’s tourism industry, Parks Canada administered places are committed to providing visitors with high quality and meaningful visitor experiences and supporting tourism in communities across the country.

Today, the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Member of Parliament for Long Range Mountains, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), on behalf of the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, welcomed visitors back to Gros Morne National Park’s Visitor Information Centre. Following completion of a $12 million investment project by the Government of Canada, the centre now has a safe, accessible and inclusive experience for visitors and community members alike. The event was held as part of a series of federal government announcements and community-based activities including the opening of the Trails Tales and Tunes Annual Festival and the Norris Point small craft harbour infrastructure.

The Gros Morne National Park Visitor Information Centre welcomes tens of thousands of visitors annually from around the globe to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Visitor Information Centre is once again open and ready to welcome visitors with an enhanced sense of arrival to Gros Morne National Park. With phase 1 of the renewal project now complete, the fully upgraded building features a design that properly showcases the site’s viewscape and historical interpretation. Accessibility and inclusivity standards have been upgraded throughout the building, with design work that includes green targets and federal sustainability objectives.

Phase 2 has been underway in parallel, with a focus on the design and installation of Visitor Experience Interpretive Design element.  New interpretive exhibits highlighting Gros Morne’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife and geology are scheduled to be installed in fall 2024 and ready for the following operational season in 2025, marking official completion of the project.

The Visitor Information Centre is one of many major pieces of infrastructure in Gros Morne National Park to be revitalized as part of the Government of Canada’s federal infrastructure investments. Parks Canada has improved all of Gros Morne National Park’s campgrounds, completed work to three of the park’s more iconic trails, revitalized several day use areas and upgraded bridges and roadways throughout the park to ensure safe, sustainable and inclusive facilities, while protecting the environment and ensuring high-quality experiences for visitors. These investments support the health of our natural heritage, encourage sustainable tourism, create jobs in our local communities and support the Government of Canada’s efforts to combat climate change.

                                                                                        -30-

Additional multimedia

“Over fifty years ago, Gros Morne National Park was established and has grown to welcome more than half the tourists who come to explore the magic of Newfoundland and Labrador every year.  We are now ready to really welcome the world again with this LEED Silver facility. This new visitors’ centre is a gateway to the park and to the economy of our local communities.” The Honourable Gudie Hutchings Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, and Member of Parliament for Long Range Mountains

Quick facts

Gros Morne National Park consists of 1,805 square kilometres of wilderness on Newfoundland’s west coast. Its natural beauty and a unique, geological showcase earned Gros Morne UNESCO World Heritage status in 1987. It stretches inland from the Gulf of St. Lawrence coastline through lowlands where waterways meander towards the Long Range Mountains and Tablelands. 

Parks Canada has consulted with both Qalipu First Nation and Miawpukek First Nation on the creation of the new interpretive designs for the Visitor Information Centre. The Mi’kmaq language will also be featured in interpretation on site.

The Visitor Information Centre has been designed to meet or exceed LEED Silver certification as outlined in the Parks Canada Green Buildings Directive. This aligns the design and construction with new government greening strategies by adopting new alternative power sources, energy metering, and implementing carbon capture construction technologies. The design also maximizes the building’s life cycle to minimize required maintenance.

For improved visitor safety and conveniences, the site design has realigned the circulation of parking, separated the bus circulation with its own drop-off/pick-up location, and expanded parking for RVs and trailers. New EV charging systems and parking strategies will support the use of green transportation. 

Parks Canada is working with partners in the Gros Morne National Park region on the Gros Morne Tourism Regional Implementation Project (GMTRIP) , a project dedicated to building cooperation among partners with the goal of strengthening the regional tourism industry and achieving sustainable long-term economic growth.

Over $180 million in federal funding has been invested in Parks Canada administered places throughout Western Newfoundland and Labrador including Gros Morne National Park and L’Anse aux Meadows, Port aux Choix, Red Bay and Hopedale Mission national historic sites.

Associated links

• Gros Morne National Park
• Parks Canada - Home

Kaitlin Power Press Secretary    Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change 819-230-1557 [email protected]

Media Relations Parks Canada 855-862-1812 [email protected]

Kate Power Partnering, Engagement and Communications Officer Western Newfoundland and Labrador Field Unit 709-458-7039 [email protected]

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Gunman Kills Three Spanish Tourists in Central Afghanistan

One Afghan was also injured in the attack, which many expect will hinder the government’s recent efforts to lure foreign visitors.

By Yaqoob Akbary and Christina Goldbaum

Yaqoob Akbary reported from Kabul, Afghanistan, and Christina Goldbaum from London.

Three Spanish tourists and one Afghan were killed by a gunman in central Afghanistan on Friday, Taliban officials said, in the first fatal attack on tourists in the country since the Taliban seized power in 2021.

Four other foreigners and three Afghans were also injured in the shooting in Bamiyan Province, a serene stretch of valleys, lakes and ancient relics northwest of the capital, Kabul.

The shooting occurred around 5:30 p.m., when at least one gunman opened fire on the group of tourists as they left a bazaar in the capital of the province, eyewitnesses said. Safiullah Rayed, the director of information for Bamiyan Province, said the dead were Spanish nationals.

Four people have been arrested in connection with the attack, officials said. No group has claimed responsibility.

The government “strongly condemns this accident, expresses its deep feelings to the families of the victims and assures that all the criminals will be found and punished,” Abdul Mateen Qani, the spokesman for the Interior Ministry, said on X .

The attack comes as Taliban authorities have tried to lure foreign tourists to Afghanistan in the hopes of bolstering the country’s economy and revamping the government’s image on the international stage. Western officials have slammed the Taliban’s restrictions on women and, nearly three years since the Taliban seized power, no country officially recognizes its government.

Last month, Taliban officials opened a government-supported tourism and hospitality institute to build up the country’s tourism infrastructure. They have also tried to assure tourism agencies that the country is safe for foreigners, despite the persistent threat from the Islamic State affiliate in the region, which has carried out sporadic attacks in Afghanistan in recent years and sought to destabilize the government.

During the 1960s and 1970s, Afghanistan was part of the overland so-called “Hippy Trail” across Asia. Foreigners were drawn to the country’s rich natural landscapes, centuries-old mosques and ancient relics. Bamiyan, where the shooting on Friday took place, is home to the remnants of 1,500-year-old giant Buddhas that were carved into the side of a cliff and that the Taliban mostly destroyed in 2001 under their first government. The province also boasts the country’s first national park, Band-e-Amir, a sprawling swath of rugged mountains and deep blue lakes.

Tourism in Afghanistan dwindled after the Soviet invasion in 1979 and the violent decades that followed. But after the U.S.-led war ended in 2021 and relative calm returned to the country, so too did some foreign tourists.

In 2021, nearly 700 foreign tourists visited the country, according to the Taliban’s Tourism Directorate in Kabul. That figure rose to around 2,300 in 2022 and reached around 7,000 last year.

The fatal attack on Friday will likely be a setback to the government’s tourism efforts. “This incident may scare other tourists who want to come to Afghanistan,” said Mohammad Saeed, the head of the Tourism Directorate in Kabul.

Christina Goldbaum is the Afghanistan and Pakistan bureau chief for The Times, leading the coverage of the region. More about Christina Goldbaum