Amsterdam may be known for its picturesque canals, but it’s far from the only European destination with such appeal. Located in northwest Belgium, Bruges also enchants travelers with its scenic waterways, cobblestone streets, and medieval architecture.
Compact yet full of photogenic landmarks like the Belfry of Bruges and 14th-century Stadhuis (City Hall), the capital of West Flanders is prime for walking and cycling. From the hidden passages to the bustling squares, the city exudes a storybook atmosphere. The sweet smell of waffles and chocolate wafts out of confection shops. Cozy bars and quayside breweries pour Belgian beer for tourists and locals. Restaurants give visitors a taste of local cuisine with menus that spotlight cheese croquettes and beef stew. Here are best places to see, eat, drink, and stay in Bruges, according to local tour guides.
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Top 5 Can’t Miss
Stay at Hotel Van Cleef for picturesque views and posh design that chronicles Bruges through the ages. Climb 366 steps to the top of the symbolic Belfry of Bruges for sweeping vistas (and a well-deserved sense of accomplishment). Satisfy your sweet tooth with a chocolate-drizzled waffle from House of Waffles Brugge.Admire the beautiful architecture on a scenic boat ride along the canals.
If only visiting for the day, be sure to book a historic walking tour to hit all the key attractions.
Best Hotels and Resorts
Hotel Van Cleef
Housed inside a stately neoclassical mansion on the fringe of the quieter Sint-Anna Quarter, Hotel Van Cleef captures the many charms of Bruges through the centuries. It’s grand and elegant yet intimate, with a mix of vintage and modern decor, eye-catching art, and a glorious canal-side terrace that’s perfect for starting the day with Belgian waffles.
Hotel Heritage
A five-star Relais & Chateaux property, Hotel Heritage is centrally located right outside the main market square and offers such high-end amenities as a steamy hammam and Champagne breakfast buffet served inside the regally decorated on-site restaurant. All rooms come with an iPad to borrow during your stay.
Hotel Dukes’ Palace
Another five-star property, Hotel Dukes’ Palace oozes opulence with noble pomp and circumstance galore, but it’s not overly stuffy or fussy. The beauty of a stay here lies within the quiet luxury that permeates everything from the regal restaurant to the deluxe suites featuring ornate fabrics, period furnishings, and marble bathrooms.
The Pand Hotel
Courtesy of The Pand Hotel
Tucked inside an old carriage house dating back to the 18th century, The Pand Hotel feels like a nostalgic hidden gem. Precious antiques, collectibles, and art fill the atmospheric library and lounges. Sanctuary-like suites are outfitted with exquisite textiles, fireplaces, and four-poster beds. The courtyard is the perfect spot for a cocktail.
Grand Hotel Casselbergh
Located in the heart of the city, Grand Hotel Casselbergh blends past and present beautifully. Occupying carefully renovated historic houses and a newly built annex, the property is a bastion of timeless character with nods to both medieval and modern-day Bruges. In addition to canal-view rooms, it has a subterranean spa, a jewel-box bar, and a breakfast restaurant.
Hotel de Orangerie
A former 15th-century Carthusian convent, Hotel de Orangerie is now a boutique bolthole. It possesses a picture-perfect canal-side location near Brewery Bourgogne des Flandres and character-filled interior spaces for guests to unwind. There’s a cozy salon for afternoon tea and aperitifs, as well as bedrooms decorated with floral wallpaper, sumptuous fabrics, and antiques.
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Best Things to Do
Canal Boat Ride
A tour along the historic canal is a must when in Bruges. From the water, you’ll get to admire the beautiful architecture and sweet surprises that you wouldn’t find on foot. You’ll also learn about all about the city from your tour guide. Boats depart at regular intervals throughout the day and into the early evening.
Belfry of Bruges
Built in the 13th century, the towering medieval Belfry of Bruges in the market square is a symbol of the city and not to be missed. “Visitors can climb the 366 steps to the top for incredible views,” explains Albert Casasín, a ToursByLocals guide.
Burg Square
Located in the center of Bruges, Burg Square houses some of the most monumental and magnificent landmark buildings in the city, including the 14th-century City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. While you’re visiting, stop by one of the many nearby artisan chocolate shops for decadent, handcrafted truffles and bonbons.
Groeningemuseum
After familiarizing yourself with the key landmarks, ToursByLocals guide Natalie Tall suggests visiting the Groeningemuseum. “It’s quite exquisite with an impressive collection of art by Flemish and Belgian masters that span the course of centuries. Definitely do the audio tour to gain a deeper understanding,” she says.
Lake of Love
The Lake of Love, the gem of Minnewaterpark in the southern part of the city, is an alluring and relaxing place steeped in natural beauty. In the winter, visitors spin around an ice rink that’s suspended over the water, illuminated by twinkling lights. Summer, meanwhile, means picnics and concerts.
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Best Restaurants
De Stove
One of Casasín’s absolute favorite restaurants in Bruges, De Stove is small, cozy, and situated about a block from the Grand-Place. “It’s a place that transmits charm and authenticity with incredible food and a warm atmosphere,” he says.
Bistro Bruut
“Dining at Bruut is always such a treat,” says Tall. “It’s an elevated dining experience that comprises nine courses prepared by a talented chef, personal service, and impeccable wine pairings.”
De Twijfelaar
Casasín recommends De Twijfelaar because of its creative dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The eclectically decorated dining room matches the spirit of the menu. Plus, there’s a lovely terrace for dining in the nice weather.
House of Waffles Brugge
Have a hankering for something sweet? You’ve come to the right place. The Flemish capital is very much a dessert mecca. House of Waffles Brugge satisfies cravings with freshly made golden waffles topped with drizzled chocolate and strawberries or another mouthwatering variation.
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Best Time to Visit
There are numerous reasons to visit Bruges in every season. Spring brings daffodils. The weather is pleasant in the summer. Want to avoid the crowds? Consider shoulder season in the fall. If you’re keen to get swept up in the yuletide spirit, it’s worth planning a trip in December to experience the famous holiday markets and light displays that turn the city into a real-life Hallmark card.
How to Get There
Bruges makes one of the best day trips from European metropolises like London, a 3.5-hour Eurostar ride away. Direct trains also regularly leave from Brussels and last only about an hour. There’s no need to fly to Ostend–Bruges International Airport if you’re coming from nearby cities like Paris and Amsterdam, either, thanks to the convenience of international train travel.
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How to Get Around
It’s easy to navigate Bruges on foot. Free historic walking tours are available if you’re looking to pack in all the key attractions and gain some valuable insights along the way. Boat rides along the canal offer a unique perspective, and cycling and carriage rides are just as charming.
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Publish date : 2024-10-02 07:00:00
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