Bruges is the medieval jewel in Belgium’s crown. This small city mixes historic buildings, classy museums and cobblestone streets into a charming and very walkable entity. As a result, you can discover a treasure full of touristic gems in just one day here.
1. Markt Square
When you leave the train station, head for Markt (market), Bruges’ main square, through the city’s lovely, ancient-looking streets. There’s plenty to see and do here and it’s the perfect starting point for your day in the capital of West Flanders. Enjoy the views of the grand buildings surrounding the statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter De Coninck while sipping a drink at one of the many terraces.
2. Belfry
Overlooking and dominating Bruges’ Markt is the 13th century belfry. You can climb the 366 stairs to the top for breathtaking views over the town and its surroundings. However, make sure you get an early start if you want to visit the belfry. As it’s one of the city’s main eyecatchers, the queue to visit this spectacular tower can get pretty long.
3. Historium
Also located on the Markt, is the Historium. This interactive museum is where the Waterhalle once stood, which was one of the most important buildings for trade back in the days. Bruges was one of the greatest trading cities in the Middle Ages and the Historium takes you right back to that Golden Age.
In the Historium you’ll witness a medieval love story in several rooms that stimulate all your senses and that show you how the city used to function in its glory days. Afterwards you’ll enter an exhibition that explains Bruges’ historic significance even further. From the exhibition you can enter the panoramic terrace that boasts great views over the Markt.
The Historium is a great place to visit at the beginning of your day trip in Bruges, as it will allow you to understand the importance of the city. At the end of your visit, you can sit down in the Duvelorium Grand Beer Café, a bar dedicated to one of Belgium’s most famous beers.
4. Burg
Just one marvellous street away from the Markt, is Burg, another awe-inspiring square. Here you’ll see the city hall and the old Court of Justice. The latter is one of the only Renaissance buildings you’ll encounter in this town. In the corner you’ll find the remarkable Basilica of the Holy Blood. Inside they keep the relic of the Holy Blood of Jesus Christ.
5. Canal tour
Bruges is often referred to as the Venice of the North. As a result, you cannot visit Bruges without taking a canal tour. From the small boat, you’ll have a different perspective of the town’s historic buildings, gingerbread houses and cute bridges. There are five starting locations in the city centre, but every operator offers the same price and cruises you along the same places, like the idyllic Minnewater and past great views of the Church of Our Lady.
6. The windmills at Kruisvest
A little bit different from the other sights in Bruges, yet equally worthwhile, are the windmills at Kruisvest. This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, as the four mills are located somewhat out of the city centre (but still within walking distance). You can take a pleasant walk on the beautiful ramparts next to the water, going from mill to mill. However, if time is limited and you still want to see more of Bruges, it’s best to not visit all four. We only went to the first two mills: Bonne Chieremolen and Sint-Janshuismolen. The latter is open for visits.
7. Rozenhoedkaai
Bruges truly is as pretty as a picture. Feast your eyes while simply strolling through the old town and make sure to stop at Rozenhoedkaai. From here you can photograph postcard-worthy shots, as the quay offers a splendid view of the canal, the old houses by the waterside, and the towering Belfry.
8. The Church of Our Lady
Together with the Belfry, the Church of Our Lady dominates the skyline of Bruges. Admire the second tallest brick church tower in the world, before going inside to check out the black and white interior with a touch of gold.
9. Saint Saviour’s Cathedral
To be honest, Saint Saviour’s isn’t as majestic as you’d expect a cathedral to be. The reason is simple: it was built to be a church and got upgraded to cathedral only in the 19th century. Nevertheless, Bruges’ oldest parish church (built between the 12th and 15th century) warrants a quick stop, as it is a beautiful building with a gorgeous interior in a lovely neighbourhood.
10. Minnewater (Lake of Love)
You cannot miss The Minnewater (roughly translated to Lake of Love) when visiting Bruges. It is one of the most romantic places in town, but whatever your love status, you should definitely pass by this little lake. It lies in one of the most charming corners of town and it has graceful swans – animals that mate for life – wading in it.
11. Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde
Next to the Minnewater you can enter one of the most peaceful spots in the whole of Bruges. The beguinage was founded in the middle of the 13th century and used to house women who chose to devote their life to God, but without entering a convent. Nowadays the beguinage is still inhabited only by women, who are either nuns or unmarried. Make sure to enjoy a stroll through the enchanting garden encircled by picturesque white houses and a small church.
12. Chocolate and waffles galore
A visit to any town in Belgium is not complete without indulging in all the sweetness the country has on offer. That isn’t any different in Bruges. The city is jam-packed with chocolate shops filled to the brim with mouth-watering creations. Not to mention the delicious waffles you can buy on every corner. One thing is for sure: you won’t leave hungry!
How to get to Bruges?
Bruges is easily reached by train from almost anywhere in Belgium. If you’re coming from Brussels, there are regular direct trains from the three main stations (North, Central and South) that will take you to the capital of West Flanders in approximately one hour.
Bruges train station is in close proximity to the old town centre. A 10 minute-walk will take you to the famous Minnewater and in only 20 minutes you’ll be at the Markt (market), Bruges’ central square.
Looking for more fun in West Flanders? Check out Ostend’s street art with a virtual tour guide or visit the Zwin Nature Park.