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My goal is for this guide to convince you to spend one day in Bruges, Belgium on your next trip to Europe! Or, if you already want to visit, I hope this guide covers all essential information you need to plan a successful trip to the capital of West Flanders. I actually spent far more than one day in Bruges — like 20 to be exact, but since the city is so small it’s common to visit Bruges for a day trip from Amsterdam or Brussels. Let’s dive in!
Disclaimer: This blog post is written in collaboration with Worldpackers. I spent the majority of October 2023 “living” and volunteering at a hostel in Bruges as a Worldpackers volunteer! I was able to stay (and eat!) for free in exchange for working the breakfast shift. I loved my experience and am excited to tell you more about it below. As always, all opinions written are my own.
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Know Before You Go: Belgium Edition
I LOVE BRUGES! If you’re reading this, perhaps you do too? Or you will… once you plan a trip! Bruges is located in northwest Belgium, not too far from The Netherlands border and a 1.5 hour bus ride from the country’s capital, Brussels. I (very) temporarily lived in Bruges for a few weeks while volunteering at a hostel through Worldpackers (more on this below). I fell in love with this charming city and am excited to share everything that you need to know about staying in Bruges below.
I’ve been including this section in all the travel guides I’ve written in the past year or so when covering a new country. Although I do have this guide about Brussels, here’s some more essential information about Belgium.
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Language
There is no language unique to the country of Belgium. Similar to Switzerland, it depends on the bordering countries. Since Bruges is located so close to The Netherlands, the city’s official language is Dutch. However, the second official language is English so most people are fluent. Many locals also speak French!
Currency
As with most countries located within the EU, the currency used in Belgium (and Bruges) is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted (you need a chip!).
Weather / Best Time To Visit Belgium
Bruges is located in northern Belgium, so the city (and country as a whole) experiences all 4 seasons. The most popular time to visit is the summer months when the country experiences the most amount of sun and warm temperatures. Summer also has a lot of crowds as well and prices are higher.
March – May has smaller crowds, but also there are tons of wildflowers around the country! I stayed in Bruges during October and also loved being here in the fall. The weather was chilly, but the leaves turn different shades of red, yellow, and orange. Plus, accommodation is more affordable and there’s less crowds. Traveling during the shoulder season in Europe is my fav!
Finally, Bruges is also magical to visit in December! The city has some of the best Christmas markets in Western Europe (watch out Germany). The city is already so charming, it just comes alive during this time of year.
Transportation
Since Bruges is a small European city, it’s super walkable! I also rented a bike many times during my few weeks in Bruges so you should do this during your one day in Bruges.
What Is Bruges Famous For?
Bruges is famous for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval buildings. Its port, Zeebrugge, is an important center for fishing and European trade. Although the city is small, it’s easily accessible from other European cities and is packed with history.
Why Visit Bruges For One Day?
Bruges is definitely a lesser known European city, so you may be wondering — why visit Bruges? Well, I personally favor the smaller, more charming European cities over the capital cities. Plus, I’ve been to many of the major capital cities at this point — especially in Western Europe (like Paris, Brussels, London). If you’re looking to visit a less crowded, historic, walkable city — add Bruges to your list.
Bruges is known as the “Venice of the North”. You won’t need a car when you visit, as the entire city center is within UNESCO protected historic city walls. Plus, horse-drawn carriages are a common option for tourists, in addition to a canal boat tour (a MUST…more on this below!).
Bruges is a real-life fairytale, storybook city. Now that I’ve hopefully convinced you to visit, let’s hop into some helpful tips for traveling here.
How To Get To Bruges
Airplane
The nearest airport to Bruges is Ostend (OST) Airport which is 24.6 km away, but it’s a small regional airport, so if you’re arriving from farther away, you’ll want to fly into Brussels.
There are two airports in Greater Brussels, but just like most European cities — one is quite far from the city center (like over an hour) and services mostly budget airlines. I did fly out of the Brussels South Charleroi Airport once during my time in Bruges, but for most international flights, you’ll want to fly into the main Brussels International Airport.
Train
Additionally, the train system throughout Belgium is superb! I actually flew into London from the US (this is my life hack — I find the cheapest way to get to Europe is on Norse Air from NYC). From here, I boarded the EuroStar high-speed train to Brussels.
Did you know the famous “Chunnel” (aka the train that travels below the English Channel) actually can bring you from London to Paris, Amsterdam, OR Brussels. Most people are familiar with the London – Paris route, but this is another seamless way to travel into the country. Plus, it was a cool thing to cross off the bucket list… although you can’t see a thing.
Once you arrive at the Brussels Central Station, it’s a 1 hour regional train to Bruges. The Bruges Train Station (Brugge) is located just southeast of the city center and is outside of the city walls so you may want to call a taxi. It’s not super walkable to the hotels + hostels within the historic downtown, although it’s a fast, cheap ride.
Pro-tip: Again, once you’re in the city walls, you won’t need a car. You can walk or bike around town! Additionally, there are a number of buses that can bring you right to Brussels or on excursions. The train station is also close, as I mentioned.
Guided Tour
The easiest way to visit Bruges for one day is through a guided tour! This top-rated, full day guided tour from Brussels will bring you to Bruges AND Ghent all in just one day! You’ll be able to see all the highlights I cover below without the hassle of pre-planning public transportation.
Where To Stay In Bruges
Mid-range / Luxury ($$-$$$)
There’s a wide range of accommodation options within Bruges. If you’re looking for a hotel, my number one recommendation is Grand Hotel Casselbergh. This property is located just steps from the main central square and is beautiful. I personally love historic, boutique properties and this one would make for the coziest stay, no matter the time of year.
This 4-star hotel includes free Wi-Fi and a wellness center in the 16th-century cellars. The wellness center includes a hammam, sauna, fitness center, and Turkish bath. A selection of relaxing massage treatments are also available. An extensive buffet including scrambled eggs, bacon and pastries is served in the grand breakfast room. There is also a bar with original features including a fireplace.
Budget ($)
Traveling more on a budget? You MUST stay at St. Christopher’s Inn Hostel at The Bauhaus! This is where I “lived” for a few weeks while working in the kitchen. In exchange for serving breakfast and cleaning after the meal, I had a free bed in the volunteer room. Now, there were definitely a LOT of us in there (like a dozen bunk beds), so it wasn’t the best quality sleep I’ve ever had, but I did meet people from all around the world! The other rooms for paying guests either have a few bunkbeds (4-6), or you can book single or double rooms.
I recommend this place because of the cozy vibes and community aspect. It really did start to feel like home. The free breakfast is nutritious and in the evenings, the hostel’s main lobby / living area comes to life with board games, trivia, walking tours, and even karaoke! I performed with someone who I had met like 5 minutes before!
Plus, this hostel is affordable and is walkable to anything you’d want to visit in the city.
All About Worldpackers
Worldpackers is a global organization that connects hosts around the world in need of help with volunteers! Basically, anyone can make a profile and once you’re a part of the community, you can browse volunteer opportunities. You can browse by country, my duration, type of work, and more!
For example, if you work in healthcare, there are ample opportunities to serve in over 140 countries around the world. There are also animal care, child care, NGO opportunities, and SO much more. Volunteers can expect to work a set number of hours per week (usually ~25) in exchange for accommodation and some meals. You can sign up to volunteer as a solo traveler, couple, or group.
Since I was traveling as a solo volunteer and knew I’d have free time to explore, it was important to me to be based in a city so I could easily sightsee after my shifts. I also wanted to be somewhere where I could easily travel and felt safe — that’s how I ended up at a hostel in Bruges! I met people from all around the world, had fun prepping breakfast for guests, and also was able to eat for free.
Volunteering with Worldpackers was the ultimate way to explore Europe on a budget and I highly recommend you explore their programs for your next adventure!
What To See During One Day In Bruges
Speaking of things to see in the city… there are a few can’t-miss specific sites I want to call out, in addition to tours and experiences I recommend booking.
Market Square (Markt)
The number one place to prioritize during your one day in Bruges needs to be Market Square! The Markt (in Dutch) is the city’s central square. It covers about 2.5 acres and contains one of the city’s most famous landmarks on the south side, the 12th century Belfry tower.
The square has attracted visitors since the 10th century. The first hall was built around 1220 as a place to sell merchants’ goods.
Today in Market Square, you can take photos of the Provincial Court and enjoy the colorful, historic homes. Maybe you’ll want to hop onto a carriage ride, or at least marvel at the horses. If you choose to do a walking tour (you should!) they will begin here as well.
Pro-tip: Anytime I’m in a new European city, I take advantage of a free walking tour. They are the BEST way to learn the basic information and history about a new place. Try to take one on your first day (or morning!) during your visit so you can ask the guides for recommendations for the rest of your trip.
Climb The Belfry Tower
Bruges’ most iconic building has always been the Belfry Tower, which is 83 meters / 270+ feet high. You should climb to the top of the tower to be rewarded with break-taking panoramic views!
This medieval bell tower dates back to the 13th century and once houses a treasury. It’s also been used throughout the centuries as an observation post for spotting fires and invaders. It is protected as a world heritage site.
As you climb the narrow 366 steps to the top (don’t worry — there are ropes!), you can stop off on various floors to visit the city’s charters and seals used during the Middle Ages, a music room that operates the carillon and it’s 45+ bells, and also a top deck for all the views.
Pro-tip: From April to November, the tower is open daily from 9 am – 8 pm. It’s a bit shorter during the winter season, however, you can see the Bruges Christmas Market from the top of the tower if you visit in December! Tickets are 15 Euro to visit, and you can book your visit in advance by reserving tickets online, although it’s not necessary.
Basilica Of The Holy Blood
The Basilica of the Holy Blood is a Roman Catholic basilica in Bruges, Belgium. It’s located adjacent to the main central square and the inside is stunning! It opens at 10 am daily and is free to visit, although the Treasury costs 5 Euro if you want to see it. The church houses a relic of the Holy Blood allegedly brought from the Holy Land by the Count of Flanders.
Bike Through Minnewater Park
Minnewater Park is the main city park in Bruges. The park is famous for Minnewater Lake and the ruins of a castle. The park is known as the “Lake of Love Park” due to its natural beauty and romantic atmosphere!
The park is located south of the historical center, in between the train station and the city square. I recommend walking around here, or renting a bike, during your one day in Bruges!
Locals love to picnic here, and with ample green space, you’ll enjoy finding a private nook of grass to cozy up in.
Canal Boat Tour
As mentioned above, Bruges is known as the “Venice of the North” because of its extensive canal system. I highly recommend booking a canal tour during your one day in Bruges. I made sure to do this during my 3 weeks in Bruges and it ended up being one of my favorite activities!
The tour takes about a half hour and will bring you through many of the city’s canals, under a few medieval bridges, and past some of the most beautiful architecture. This tour also includes a walking tour AND a free beer tasting!
The guide will explain the stories behind Bruges’ most famous buildings along the way. It’s also the perfect chance to take photos! The tour costs 12-15 Euro and is well worth the money!
The boat tours all start in the same area. You’ll see a little booth near Huidenvettersplein 13, 8000 Brugge (plug into Google Maps).
Try A Waffle
This one may seem obvious, but you can’t leave Belgium without trying a Belgian waffle! I actually love the food in Belgium — did you know french fries originated here? For more information about waffles and chocolate, check out my eating in Brussels guide.
There are dozens of waffle stands all around the city. I ordered one from this stand that seemed like a popular option, right across the street from where the canal boat tours start.
Pro-tip: Aside from waffles, Bruges is also known for its chocolate! Be sure to tour the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum during your visit.
Browse The Festive Shops
If you walk down any of the side streets off of Market Square, you’ll find dozens of shops. Specifically on the street between Market Square and the square that contains the Basilica. Here you’ll find some souvenir shops and also one of Bruges’ most famous Christmas shops! It’s open year-round, so be sure to stop in to buy an ornament to remember your 1 day in Bruges by.
Pro-tip: As I mentioned above, this city really comes alive during December. Visit during Christmastime if you’re able — Bruges has one of the best, lesser known Christmas markets! Although, you can enjoy festive shops year-round.
That brings us to an end of another travel guide. I hope I’ve convinced you to want to spend one day (or more!) in Bruges, and now you know exactly what to see to make the most of your visit. Also, be sure to check out Worldpackers — I’m already looking forward to my next volunteer opportunity!
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