Things to do in Bruges

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A canal with boats, a church spire, and historic buildings at twilight.
A historic bridge over a canal, surrounded by traditional buildings and trees with autumn foliage.
A historic town square with a prominent church tower, cobblestone streets, and traditional buildings.
Two white swans swimming in a body of water with reflections of surrounding greenery.
A cityscape with historic buildings and two prominent towers.

Bruges Attractions

If you're on the lookout for exciting things to see and do in Bruges, plan on being busy. This thriving city knows how to turn up the fun. Whatever your interests, you'll be amazed by the array of attractions to get stuck into here. Read on to learn about a few of the favorites.

Learn what makes Bruges tick with the most popular tours & day trips. Look into our { fun activities in Bruges fun activities in Bruges}, and book with ease knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

Things to do

Bruges Day Trip from Amsterdam

Bruges Day Trip from Amsterdam

$78
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Bruges Day Trip from Amsterdam
Bruges: Musea Brugge Card with Entry to 11 Museums

Bruges: Musea Brugge Card with Entry to 11 Museums

$56
per adult
Bruges: Musea Brugge Card with Entry to 11 Museums
Bruges: Ticket Museum Sint-Janshospitaal

Bruges: Ticket Museum Sint-Janshospitaal

$17
per adult
Bruges: Ticket Museum Sint-Janshospitaal
Bruges: Museum of the Church of Our Lady Entry Ticket

Bruges: Museum of the Church of Our Lady Entry Ticket

$11
per adult
Bruges: Museum of the Church of Our Lady Entry Ticket
Bruges: Guided Tour & Boat Ride with Optional Beer Tasting

Bruges: Guided Tour, Chocolate, Boat & Beer Options

$28
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Bruges: Guided Tour, Chocolate, Boat & Beer Options
Bruges: Ticket Groeningemuseum

Bruges: Ticket Groeningemuseum (Groeninge Museum)

$17
per adult
Bruges: Ticket Groeningemuseum (Groeninge Museum)
Bruges: Ticket Stadhuis

Bruges: Ticket Stadhuis (City Hall)

$9
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Bruges: Ticket Stadhuis (City Hall)
Bruges: Chocolate Museum visit with demonstration

Bruges: Chocolate Museum visit with demonstration

$18
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Bruges: Chocolate Museum visit with demonstration
Bruges: Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit

Bruges: Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit

$18
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Bruges: Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit
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Bruges must see attractions

1. Bruges Market Square

Since 958, the Grote Markt has been at the center of Bruges life. Once packed with merchants and buyers, today the Markt is a hub for tourism. Put aside some time to experience the restaurants, cafés, gift shops, guided tours and enchanting architecture of this lively part of the city.
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A row of colorful buildings with distinct architectural styles, including a red building with green windows and a brick building with a pointed roof.

2. Bruges Belfry

You can't miss the Belfort. The city's majestic belfry rises 272 feet (83 meters) above the historical center of Bruges. While it’s awe-inspiring to see from any angle, the Belfort itself offers incredible views of the rest of the city. You'll also pass fascinating features on the way up. Just make sure you are comfortable with heights.
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A historic square with a prominent clock tower, a statue, and surrounding buildings.

3. Minnewater Park

Few cities have such an enchanting entrance as Bruges. If you arrive at the main train station, Minnewater will be one of the first places you encounter. The name Minnewater translates into “lake of love,” appropriate for this romantic stretch of water. Fairy tale-style turreted houses and weeping willows help define this as one of Bruges' most idyllic spots. Parts of the defenses of the city can still be seen, including the Watchtower that looms over the park.
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A park with a large tree, a person with a backpack, and a historic building with a tall spire.

4. Basilica of the Holy Blood

Heilige Bloed Basiliek, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, is one of a handful of places around the world claiming to have blood-soaked garments or vials of blood preserved from the life and death of Jesus Christ. Participate in a Friday mass to see the relic displayed before or after the service.
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A church interior with stained glass windows, brick walls, and a high vaulted ceiling.

5. Begijnhof

The Begijnhof offers a rare and intimate experience of seeing nuns living and worshiping much the same as they would have done centuries ago. The Begijnhof or Beguinage name actually refers to a collection of small buildings used by Beguine nuns. Belgium has a number of existing begijnhofs; the one in Bruges is exemplary. The Beguines were a sisterhood formed in the 13th century. Many women joined the order following the depletion of Belgium’s male population due to war. The women were often supported by wealthy benefactors.
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A historic canal with a stone bridge, traditional buildings, and a swan swimming.

Recommended things to do in Bruges

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
:
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Bruges

Free Things to Do in Bruges

They say the best things in life are free. Make sure you visit the following around Bruges:

Gothic Hall - Roam around this historic site and discover a couple of secrets from days gone by.

Bruges Market Square - This happening place is a popular rendezvous point for visitors and locals alike.

Minnewater - Spend time beside the water to relax and restore your energy.

Bruges Christmas Market - If you want to see a few of the more important or unique places in the community, it's worth visiting this place.

Holy Blood Basilica Chapel - Do some quiet contemplation and learn a thing or two about this site's spiritual significance.

Queen Astrid Park - If you enjoy digging around the garden, this place will appeal to your green thumb.

Things to Do in Bruges with Kids

There's fun for the whole family wherever you roam in Bruges. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can enjoy together that'll make your break a blast:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Bruges? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Bruges attractions

A row of colorful buildings with distinct architectural styles, including a red building with green windows and a brick building with a pointed roof.

Bruges Market Square

9.4/10 (3,991 reviews)
Ringed by colorful medieval guild houses, Bruges' Markt is the city's vibrant historic heart. Climb the Belfry's 366 steps for panoramic views or visit Wednesday mornings for the traditional market experience.
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Where to stay in Bruges

Find the best Bruges areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Bruges
Learn more about Bruges
A canal with swans swimming, surrounded by trees and a brick building.

Historical Center Bruges

Travelers to Historical Center Bruges praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Choco-Story Museum and Burg.

A historic church with a tall tower and a clock.

Sint-Anna Quarter

While visiting Sint-Anna Quarter, you might make a stop by sights like St. George's Archers Guild and Kantcentrum.

A row of white buildings with red-tiled roofs, surrounded by a field of daffodils.

Ezelstraat Quarter

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Ezelstraat Quarter and surrounding area, you can visit Park Sebrechts Brugge and Bruges Christmas Market.

A historic European town with a prominent church tower, a bridge, and a river.

Sint-Gillis

Check out the breweries, historic sites, and shopping while spending some time in Sint-Gillis. Though there might not be many attractions in the neighborhood, you won't need to go far to find top spots like Choco-Story Museum or Bruges Market Square.

A densely packed urban area with historic buildings, a prominent church, and a canal.

Bruges Center

Bruges Center is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Choco-Story Museum and Burg.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Bruges

A person in a yellow raincoat standing on a sandy beach facing the ocean.

Blankenberge

A narrow waterway flanked by tall trees and a bench in the middle.

Damme

A canal with buildings on either side, a tower in the distance, and a clear sky.

Knokke-Heist

A calm river with a white house and a dock on the right.

Jabbeke

A rural landscape with a wind farm, a church, and houses.

Zuienkerke

A train station with a brick building, tracks, overhead wires, and a clear sky.

Lissewege

Frequently asked questions

Is Bruges worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample unique foods and explore in nature, there are plenty of things to do in Bruges.
How do I spend a day in Bruges?
After you've visited major attractions like Belgium Pier and Palace of the Liberty of Bruges, spend the rest of your day experiencing Bruges's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bruges?
The top tourist attraction in Bruges is De Halve Maan Brewery, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Bruges?
You can easily tour top attractions like De Halve Maan Brewery, Palace of the Liberty of Bruges and St. Salvators Church with a three-day stay in Bruges. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stick around longer and check out Ghent.
Is Bruges a walkable city?
It all depends on what you want to see and do in Bruges. Several attractions, like De Halve Maan Brewery and Palace of the Liberty of Bruges, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Bruges's neighborhoods, Geldmuntstraat is 0.1 miles away from downtown, while Sint-Gillis is 1 mile away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Bruges with kids?
Planning what to do in Bruges with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly activities to keep them entertained here.
What to do in Bruges for adults?
De Halve Maan Brewery and Brewery Bourgogne des Flandres are just a few of the things to do in Bruges. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Bruges?
In Bruges, St. Salvators Church is an unmissable spot for anyone planning to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the local parks and neighborhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Bruges.

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