Filled with cobblestone streets lined with pristine canals and perfectly preserved almshouses, Bruges has a magical feel that makes it seem as if it came straight out of a fairytale. Rich in history and culture, you’ll never run out of things to do in this city! Visit the Belfry of Bruges for panoramic views of the city, Sint-Salvatorskathedraal for artwork, or the Markt for a taste of local cuisine.
If you’ve heard of Bruges, then either you’re interested in visiting medieval places or you’ve seen the acclaimed film “In Bruges” by Martin McDonagh, which gave the city and its attractions a great deal of attention.
It can be said that it’s the sister city of Amsterdam and Venice because of its canals. A popular tourist activity is to explore these waterways by hopping on a boat for a slow, relaxing ride while taking in the sights by the waterfront. On the other hand, visiting well-preserved structures like the Belfry of Bruges and the Old St. John’s Hospital will give you an idea of what medieval Belgium must have been like.
Bruges is a charming city with a lot to offer, so here’s a mix of popular and unique things to do:
Classic Bruges:
- Explore the historic center: Wander through the cobblestone streets, admire the medieval architecture, and soak up the fairytale atmosphere.
- Take a boat tour on the canals: See the city from a different perspective and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
- Visit the Belfry: Climb the 366 steps for stunning panoramic views of the city.
- Explore the Markt: This bustling square is the heart of Bruges, surrounded by beautiful buildings and offering plenty of shops and cafes.
- Discover the Basilica of the Holy Blood: This iconic church houses a relic believed to contain a drop of Christ’s blood.
- Stroll through the Minnewater Park: This romantic park is perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.
- Indulge in Belgian chocolate and waffles: Bruges is famous for its delicious treats, so be sure to try them!
Beyond the Classics:
- Visit the Groeningemuseum: This world-class museum houses masterpieces by Flemish artists like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.
- Explore the Beguinage: This peaceful oasis is a former convent and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Discover the Historium Bruges: This immersive experience takes you back in time to medieval Bruges.
- Take a bike ride: Explore the city and its surroundings on two wheels.
- Visit the De Halve Maan Brewery: Learn about the brewing process and enjoy a delicious Belgian beer.
- Go shopping for lace: Bruges is known for its beautiful lace, so be sure to browse the shops and find the perfect souvenir.
- Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride: Experience Bruges in a truly romantic way.
Additional Tips:
- Bruges is a compact city, so it’s easy to explore on foot.
- Consider purchasing a Bruges City Card for free entry to many attractions and discounts on activities.
- The city is especially charming during the Christmas season with its festive decorations and markets.
- For a more local experience, venture beyond the main tourist areas and explore the quieter neighborhoods.
Useful Apps for Your Bruges Trip
Bruges is a city best explored on foot, but having the right apps can enhance your experience. Here are some recommendations:
Navigation and Exploration
- Google Maps or Apple Maps: Essential for finding your way around, getting directions, and locating points of interest.
- Visit Bruges Route App: A dedicated app offering guided walking tours, perfect for discovering hidden gems.
- Discover Bruges: Provides offline maps, audio guides, and information on numerous attractions.
Transportation
- Interparking: If you’re driving, this app helps you find available parking spaces in Bruges and other European cities.
- De Lijn: For public transportation within Bruges and beyond.
Food and Drink
- TripAdvisor or Google Maps: Find restaurants, cafes, and bars based on reviews, cuisine, and location.
- Happy Cow: If you’re vegetarian or vegan, this app helps you find plant-based eateries.
Other Useful Apps
- Currency Converter: Convert euros to your home currency for easy budgeting.
- Translation App: While English is widely spoken, a translation app can be handy for basic phrases.
- Weather App: Check the forecast to plan your outfits accordingly.
Remember: Bruges is a compact city, so many attractions are within walking distance. Enjoy exploring its charming streets at your own pace!
The best time to visit Bruges
The climate of Bruges is continental Atlantic with frequent and widespread rainfall, with rather harsh winters due to the cold winds of the Baltic. The summers are cool, and rainfall is distributed evenly throughout the year. The average annual precipitation is about 820 mm.
The city of Bruges is dominated by a kind of mainly temperate climate, but as in all of Belgium, it is extremely variable. Because of its proximity to the sea, the climate of Bruges has relatively mild winters and quite cold summers. The warm Gulf Stream has a moderating influence on the climate of the city.
The climate is quite variable at any time of the year. On the same day, you can have rain and sun, so it is good to prepare for any eventuality. The wettest months of the year are usually the ones of October, November, and December, but rain falls throughout the year. The sunniest months are those that go from June to August, although these months are often characterized by strong thunderstorms.
The winter temperatures are often below zero, with the average minimum ranging between 2°C to 3°C, the maximum average winter temperatures vary between 7°C and 8°C.
The average summer temperatures have minimum ranging between 11°C and 13°C, the maximum average summer temperatures ranging between 22°C to 19°C.