Weekend Trip to Bruges, Belgium: Travel Guide & Itinerary
Bruges, Belgium is one of the most charming cities in Europe and a must-see stop on any Belgium itinerary. With cobblestone streets, medieval canals, and storybook architecture, it feels like stepping back in time. Many travelers visit on a day trip to Bruges from Brussels, but after experiencing it for myself, I recommend spending at least 1-2 nights.
We visited Bruges during our 10-day European trip, and it quickly became a favorite. After three days in London, we took the Eurostar to Brussels and then hopped on a quick local train to Bruges for a two-night stay. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own weekend in Bruges, Belgium.
how to get to bruges from brussels
The easiest way to reach Bruges is by train. From Brussels Midi Station, take the InterCity (IC) train directly to Bruges.
Train tickets: €14.40 each way, or €15.80 for a weekend return ticket
Travel time: About 1 hour
Where to book: Buy tickets at the blue kiosks in the station or online at BelgianTrain.be.
Pro Tip: Check live departure times and platforms on BelgianTrain.be before boarding. Platforms aren’t always listed on printed tickets.
Getting from Bruges Train Station to City Center
Walk: About 20 minutes to the historic center
Bus: €3 each way from the station
Taxi: Available directly outside (a good choice after a long travel day)
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to grab some euros from the ATM at the train station. You’ll need cash for restrooms, tips, and small shops or cafes.
best things to do IN BRUGES, BELGIUM
Bruges is compact and walkable, which makes it easy to explore in just one or two days. Here are the highlights you don’t want to miss:
Explore the Historic Center
Bruges’ old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of medieval charm. Start with a self-guided walking tour around Burg Square and the canals. I think if I had it to do over, I would have joined a guided tour just to hear more of the history of the town. I found this tour and it’s on our list for our next visit.
The beauty of staying the night is that you have the entire city to yourself once the crowds and tours return to Brussels. Use this time to explore the city. Don’t forget your camera and portable phone charger. We explored the city center on the first day and ventured out to the outer ring and the windmills on day two. Staying overnight means you’ll get the city almost to yourself once the day-trippers return to Brussels.
Take a Canal Cruise
Often called the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is best seen from the water. A canal boat tour costs €12 for adults and €7 for kids. No need to book in advance, just line up at one of the red ticket booths.
There are several departure points for the boat tour along the canal. Hop on anywhere you see the boats parked
Visit Markt Square
This iconic square has been the heart of Bruges since the year 958. It’s surrounded by colorful guild houses, the famous Belfry Tower, and the Historium Museum. Visit on a Wednesday to experience the historic weekly market. The square is the perfect place to hop on a horse carriage tour of the town or grab a Belgian beer at one of the many outdoor restaurants and watch the sunset.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in December, Markt Square is where the Christmas Markets are.
Markt Square is the perfect place to grab a Belgian Beer
Climb the Belfry Tower
The Belfry Tower or Belfort is a medieval bell tower in the center of Markt Square. If you’re feeling energetic, you can climb the 366 steps to the top of the Belfry Tower for sweeping views of Bruges. There is fencing at the top so your view will be somewhat obstructed. If you want to skip the climb but still want to see the views, head to the Historium Museum panoramic terrace on the second floor for great views of Markt Square without the killer leg workout.
The Belfry Tower has stood watch over the square since the 13th Century
See Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child
At the Church of Our Lady, you’ll find Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child sculpture (1504), one of the few pieces of his work to leave Italy. Entry is only €7 and worth the visit.
Visit Burg Square
Once surrounded by walls and a fortress, the square is home to the Gothic Town Hall which was built in 1376, the former Civil Registry (1537) and the Basilica of the Holy Blood (built in the early 1100’s) which holds a piece of cloth with the blood of Jesus Christ on it. After marveling at the centuries old architecture ranging from Gothic to Neo-Classical, walk through the arch down Blind Donkey’s Alley to the historic fish market and canals.
If you’re looking for something a little different, we visited the Museum of Torture after stumbling inside during a rainstorm. My teen really wanted to go in and it was just €9 so we bought tickets. The museum is actually very well done highlighting the numerous methods of torture over the centuries by using wax models in various states of torture. We were educated and entertained. Put this one on your list!
Gorgeous City Hall in Burg Square dates to the 1300’s
Eat Belgian Waffles and Chocolate
No Bruges trip is complete without sampling Belgian treats. Try waffles at Chez Albert or stop into one of the many chocolate shops for handmade pralines.
OTHER FUN THINGS TO DO IN BRUGES IF YOU HAVE TIME:
Take a bike tour: Ride along the outskirts of the historic city center, see the windmills, ride through town. Super fun!
Book a waffle making class: I love taking a cooking class that is local to the region. This would be fun to do with kids and adults get a little Belgian beer too.
Pedicab tour: This pedicab (rickshaw) tour is highly rated and looks like a blast. Sit back and let someone else do all the work while seeing the sights and learning about the city’s history.
WHERE TO STAY IN BRUGES, BELGIUM
Bruges is so small that you probably can’t go wrong with lodging here as far as location goes. The only hotel I could find that is bookable with points is the Crowne Plaza Bruges. Cash rates are as low as $143 a night and award nights are 27K IHG points a night. We booked two nights at the cash rate and paid extra ($29 for two) for breakfast. The location of this hotel cannot be beat. Literally just steps from Burg Square and the canals. And bonus points for having an indoor pool for the kids.
best places to stay IN BRUGES:
B&B Exclusive Guesthouse Bonifacius: This stunning property sits right on the canal with amazing views. Breakfast included.
Hotel Bourgoensch Hof: Try to book a room overlooking the canals if its available. Fantastic location.
Hotel De Tuilerieënk: A Small Luxury Hotel, sits right on the canal, walking distance to everything. Rooms are super cute with peak-a-book views of Bruges.
Hotel Dukes' Academie: I love the location of the hotel, still close and walking distance to everything.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Bruges, Belgium
Is Bruges worth visiting?
Yes! Bruges is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and is often called the “Venice of the North” thanks to its canals and medieval charm. Whether you’re interested in history, Belgian chocolate, or just wandering cobblestone streets, Bruges is absolutely worth a visit.
Is Bruges a good day trip from Brussels?
Bruges is one of the most popular day trips from Brussels, and it’s only about one hour away by train. However, many travelers (myself included) recommend staying at least one night. Once the day-trippers leave in the evening, you’ll have the fairytale town nearly to yourself.
How many days do you need in Bruges?
One full day in Bruges is enough to see the highlights like Markt Square, the Belfry Tower, and a canal cruise. But spending a weekend (2–3 days) gives you time to explore the quieter windmills, enjoy more restaurants, and soak up the magical evening atmosphere.
What is the best time to visit Bruges?
Bruges is beautiful year-round! Summer is lively and warm, but December is especially magical with Bruges Christmas Markets, festive lights, and cozy cafes. Spring and fall are also great for fewer crowds and lower prices.
How do you get from Brussels to Bruges?
The easiest way is by train. Direct InterCity trains run from Brussels Midi Station to Bruges about every 30 minutes, and the ride takes just one hour. Tickets are affordable, and you can buy them online at belgiantrain.be.
Can you stay in Bruges using hotel points?
Yes, but options are limited. The Crowne Plaza Bruges is one of the few points hotels in the city center and costs around 27K IHG points per night. Otherwise, there are many boutique hotels and charming B&Bs within walking distance of the main squares.
Final Thoughts: Why Bruges is Worth a Weekend Stay
Bruges was one of the highlights of our Europe trip. Spending the weekend here (instead of just a day trip) allowed us to explore at a slower pace, enjoy quiet evenings after the crowds left, and soak in the city’s fairytale charm.
Whether you visit in summer for the canals and cobblestone streets, or in December for Bruges’ famous Christmas markets, this medieval Belgian city is worth a spot on your itinerary.
My advice: Skip the rushed day trip and give yourself at least 2 days in Bruges. You won’t regret it.
Happy Travels!
