Cobblestone streets, charming canals, medieval buildings: Bruges has to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. And the good news is that it’s very small, so even if you have only one day in Bruges, you can still see and experience plenty!
Everywhere you turn there is another quaint lane, taking you down a cute street filled with brightly coloured front doors and leafy trees. The canals are serene, with waters gentling lapping at the sides, ducks floating along and stone bridges arching over the water. It’s made even more amazing by its age – it’s barely changed in centuries and every building dates to age-old times.
Bruges has to be one of our favourite places we’ve been, and it was a highlight of our Belgium trip. We spent three days there and probably covered every street (or it certainly felt like it!). It’s a UNESCO world heritage site, for good reason.
We’ve condensed our trip into one day to help you get the best out of your time in Bruges. We’ve waxed lyrical about it, and we promise it’s worth the hype!
How to Move Around Bruges
The old town of Bruges is small, and very walkable. The city centre is compact, and all the main attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. In fact, getting lost in its labyrinthine streets is part of the fun! Most streets are pedestrianised or have very little traffic, so it’s safe and easy to get about.
Most streets are cobbled and they can be uneven in areas, so wear good trainers. They can also get very busy with tourists, but it gets quieter into the afternoon.
Canal cruises are also a popular way to see the city. They’re available from several companies at different locations in Bruges. They typically end at where they start, so are a way to see Bruges rather than transport.
Morning
We’ve suggested spending the morning in the main town square of Bruges before climbing up the Belfrey Tower. This way, you can get a bearing of Bruges before exploring further (and it ensures you still have the energy to climb the tower!).
Breakfast at Yarn
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Yarn. It’s a great spot just outside the old town, about a 10-minute walk away in the Magdelana quarter. It has amazing breakfasts (and is also open for lunch and dinner if you want to visit later in the day).
It’s cozy and beautifully decorated, with a couple of outside tables for when the weather’s sunny. We recommend the eggs benedict, which was delicious and probably one of the best we’ve had.
It’s a relaxed atmosphere and the service is very friendly. Prices are a bit higher, but it’s worth it!
If you want something a bit closer in or a bit cheaper, try That’s Toast! It’s another great spot closer to the old town, offering breakfasts centred around toast – think mushroom hummus on toast and French toast.
Morning activities
Markt Square
After breakfast we’ll start the day at Markt. It’s the central square of Bruges’ old town and dates to the 13th century. Since then it’s been the centre of life in Bruges, from hosting the first international fair in 1200 to holding open air concerts today.
It’s surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings, many of which were craft houses, government buildings, or mansions to Bruges elite. Wander around, people watch and get ready to…
Climb the Belfrey of Bruges
In the centre of Markt is the Belfrey of Bruges. It’s another iconic landmark of the city and one of the best things to do in Bruges (if you’ve watched the film In Bruges, you’ll definitely recognise it). It’s another UNESCO world heritage site (as part of the ‘belfries of Belgium and France’).
It’s 366 steps high so definitely a workout, but your reward at the top is stunning panoramic views of Bruges. It’s the perfect way to get a feel for Bruges and see the streets you’ll be walking through in the afternoon.
On the way up you’ll also see the treasury, where the city seals, stamps and funds were kept, and the Carillon – the musical bells of the tower.
Burg Square
If you have time, head to Burg Square. It’s a historical square surrounded by more beautiful buildings (this is a theme in Bruges!).
It’s home to the Stadhuis (City Hall), a beautiful Gothic building. If you have time, you can go inside to admire it’s interiors and learn about the city’s history. Next to the Stadhuis is the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a chapel with gothic interiors and a cloth believed to be stained with Jesus Christ’s blood.
Even if you don’t have time to go inside the buildings, it’s still worth visiting the square and seeing them from outside.
Lunch at Kaffee Kamiel
For lunch, head to Kaffee Kamiel. It’s a trendy café with amazing food (we recommend the Soba Noodles – delicious!). There’s a range of different foods and cuisines, all set in a beautiful café. There’s also good vegetarian options, and service is friendly and fast.
Alternatively, if you want to try traditional Belgian mussels and fries, head to Poules Moules. We had the traditional mussels in white wine sauce – they’re fresh, flavourful, and perfectly cooked.
Afternoon
The afternoon focuses on exploring the lanes, canals and hidden gems of Bruges, with less climbing than the morning (but plenty of walking!).
Afternoon activities
Rozenhoedkaai
One of the most photographed spots in Bruges, Rozenhoedkaai is a picturesque canal with beautiful trees and buildings. Take a moment to soak in the surroundings and wander around, and maybe get a coffee while watching the boats go up and down the canal.
Then, take a walk down the canal to St. Bonifacius Bridge. Dubbed the “lover’s bridge” it’s a romantic spot tucked away in a quiet corner. Legend has it that if you kiss your loved one on the bridge, your love will last forever.
Canal Cruise
A cruise along the canal is the perfect way to see a different part of Bruges. You’ll trundle along the water and see the city’s hidden architecture, bridges and buildings.
There’s several places around Bruges where you can take a cruise, but they’re similar in price, route and quality. You’ll see the spot next to Rozenhoedkaai where you buy a ticket and get on a boat (tours finish where they start). Queues can be long, but they move quickly.
The Begijnhof
Once you’ve climbed out of the boat, it’s a short walk to stretch your legs on the way to the Begijnhof.
A hidden gem of Bruges, the Begijnhofs were communities of previously impoverished women who then led a life of prayer, but didn’t become nuns. It will be your third UNESCO world heritage site of the day, as it’s a UNESCO site (along with the 12 other Flemish Begijnhofs).
To get to the Begijnhof you’ll walk down a busy street and through a wooden gate into the Begijnhof. The hustle and bustle will instantly give way to quiet lawns, trees and whitewashed buildings.
Wander round the gardens and enjoy the moment of peacefulness. Remember, nuns and other women still live here so remember to be quiet and respectful.
Wander Around Bruges
You’ll probably be pretty tired by this point and need a rest!
But, there’s still more to explore. For the rest of the day, we suggest wondering round the remainder of Bruges. You’ll already have seen a good chunk of it, but the best way to see the rest is to take whatever turn looks pretty and get lost!
It’s full of beautiful roads and canals, and because of its compact size, you’re never too far from the central squares. Along the way you’ll see countless cafes to stop and get a coffee in (or bars for a beer!), or shops to browse if that’s more your thing.
You could also consider a guided tour to learn more about the history of Bruges.
Dinner at Restaurant De Halve Maan
For dinner, enjoy traditional Belgian cuisine at Restaurant De Halve Maan, located at the De Halve Maan Brewery.
It serves traditional food and great beer. We recommend the Flemish beef stew – it’s hearty, flavourful, and the perfect way to end your day in Bruges. You’ll be able to sample some of the brewery’s beers.
You can also go on a tour of the De Halve Maan brewery, which has been brewing beer since 1856. It’s a fun activity that you could do instead of one of our recommendations above, or as an extra activity if you have time. Remember to book ahead.
Nighttime
Bruges isn’t known for its nightlife, and we were surprised at how quiet it got. There’s lots of great pubs and bars in Bruges, but many shut by 10pm.
A few great pubs we’d recommend include Le Trappiste and De Garre.
For somewhere that opens later, try The Monk. It’s more of a sports bar but still has a range of great Belgian beers (and, may be your only option if you’re visiting during the week).
Evening time is perfect for taking a stroll round the canals. The city takes on a different kind of magic at night, when the buildings are illuminated and the streets are deadly quiet. Bruges is very safe, including at night.
Spending the night?
If you decide to spend the night in Bruges, we recommend staying at Hotel Augustyn.
It’s a small hotel located just outside the city centre on the canal (don’t worry, it’s still easily walkable). It’s quiet, with beautiful rooms at a good price.
Conclusion
Bruges is a stunning city with beauty at every corner and turn. It’s history, architecture and canals are unparalleled.
Our one-day itinerary packs in the highlights, and you’ll be wanting to come back to see more. Enjoy your trip!
Author’s Box: Tim has been hooked on travel since his first backpacking trip at 19 and has visited over 50 countries since. Along the way, he’s called Vietnam, Syria, and Chile home (plus the UK, where he’s originally from!). He loves getting off the beaten path and experiencing the real culture of a place beyond the tourist hotspots. He squeezes in as much travel as he can around his 9-to-5 job. He fell in love with Belgium and has been back many times – his favourite city is Bruges with its beautiful streets and canals (as well as some excellent Belgium beers!).
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