You know what they say, “the best things come in small packages” and below are just a few of the best things to do in Bruges. This place is absolutely brimming with charm, from the stunning medieval architecture in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed heart of the city, to the artisan chocolate shops and bustling Belgian beer bars. So, when it comes to things to do in Bruges, you’ll certainly be spoiled for choice.
Places to go
No matter what time of year you visit Bruges, it’s impossible not to fall in love with this magical city. As you make your way along the cobbles, winding through the narrow streets and crossing over pretty stone bridges, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into a fairy-tale. You’ll pass by galleries and museums galore, as well as a wealth of quaint shops and restaurants. All the top Bruges attractions are within easy walking distance, so it’s super-easy to cram in much more than you thought, even on a short weekend break.
Attractions
Make your way through beautiful Burg Square and the atmospheric Markt. If you’re feeling energetic you can climb to the top of the towering Belfry; you’ll have to tackle 366 steps before you reach the top, but the breathtaking panoramic views make it all worth it.
When you’re ready to slow things down, it’s time to take a boat tour through the canals. This has to be one of the very best things to do in Bruges; it’s a chance to see the city from a different perspective, and you’ll even see places you just can’t from dry land. So just sit back, relax and soak up your surroundings.
When you’re ready to recharge your batteries, Bruges has got a great many restaurants serving up traditional Belgian fare, like Flemish beef stew and Belgian waffles. Elsewhere, you’ll find amazing chocolatiers dotted throughout the city; it’s the perfect place to pick up your souvenirs.
Places to visit
It won’t surprise you to hear that there’s no shortage of Belgian beer here. But did you know that a two-mile underground pipe runs beneath Bruges? It’s specifically for transporting freshly-brewed beer to a bottling plant beyond the city limits. Head for a brewery tour at De Halve Maan, The Half Moon to start this at the beginning of the pipeline.
If you’re a big fan of the sweet stuff, then this is one of the best Bruges’ attractions, why not head for the Choco-Story Museum to learn all about it? If you prefer savoury snacks, you won’t want to miss out on classic Belgian ‘friets’ which are potato fries; you’ll find stands dishing them up in stands throughout Bruges. If you love them, a trip to the Frietmuseum will certainly be in order; believe it or not, the history of the ‘friet’ stretches back over 10,000 years.
