Bruges (or Brugge) is one of Europe’s loveliest cities, with its network of canals, its classical Flemish architecture, and its spectacular Market Square (Markt)—little wonder that its historic center has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Easily accessible from Brussels, Bruges is small enough to see in a weekend but enchanting enough to linger in. Add in traditional restaurants serving Belgian beer, a handful of museums, tempting chocolate shops, and cozy Christmas markets in the festive season, and it’s clear why the city has a special appeal.
Bruges looks lovely all year round, but the city is especially charming with a fresh coat of snowfall and frozen-over canals. Bruges’ cozy taverns and indulgent chocolate shops seem tailor-made for winter, and its Christmas markets illuminate the festive season. But if you’d rather escape the cold weather than luxuriate in it, the early autumn shoulder season lets you soak up the warmth (and take advantage of Flanders’ Open Monuments Day in September) with fewer crowds to navigate than in the summer high season.
Bruges is served by the Bruges Train Station, which connects it to other nearby destinations like Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp. Numerous bus lines operate in the city itself and link the station to central Bruges, while canal boat tours offer another perspective on the Venice of the North. That said, Bruges very much exists on a walkable scale, and exploring the city on foot (or by bicycle) is an excellent way to see its sights.
Bruges’ Belfry—the UNESCO-listed medieval tower that overlooks the Markt—is far and away its top attraction. Given its enviable views, it’s no surprise that there can be a long wait to ascend. For your best shot, arrive right when it opens to beat the crowds. Alternatively, head to the nearby Historium Brugge museum, whose own tower offers similarly appealing views.
Attractions 23 | Tours 175 | Reviews 7,732 |
Bruges is best known for its medieval architecture, including its sky-high Belfry, which has earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage designation. The charming city is also renowned for its picturesque canals, delicious chocolate shops, cozy restaurants, Christmas markets, and other festive events.
...MoreYes, Bruges is absolutely worth visiting. Nicknamed “The Venice of the North,” it is reputed to be one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, and its accessible scale makes it easy to explore. Book a canal boat tour to soak up its charm and see the best of its medieval architecture.
...MoreEven if you have just one day, that’s enough time to see Bruges: Many visitors come on day trips from nearby hubs like Brussels and Ghent, and the city’s approachable scale makes it easy to explore. That said, it’s worth spending at least a weekend in Bruges to avoid rushing through its attractions.
...MoreYes, Bruges is very walkable thanks to its approachable scale. Exploring on foot is one of the best ways to soak up the city’s ambiance and admire its architecture. That said, buses are available to transport visitors around town, and canal boats are another popular way to see Bruges.
...MoreBruges is renowned for its Christmas markets and festive decorations, and December is a lovely time to soak up its seasonal spirit. Alternatively, shoulder-season months like May and September offer more comfortable weather for sightseeing and not quite as many crowds as you’ll encounter during the summer high season.
...MoreBrussels and Bruges are both worth visiting, and they offer two very different experiences. If you prefer an ultra-urban and dynamic capital with endless cultural attractions, head to Brussels. For a charming escape in a smaller city whose quaint canals are a major attraction, plan a trip to Bruges.
...More
