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Destinations > Europe > Belgium > Best Cities to See in Belgium: One Day in Bruges Belgium - The Medieval City

Best Cities to See in Belgium: The Medieval City of Bruges

One day in Bruges, Belgium, the capital of the province of West Flanders, would only be enough if it was a fully packed day. The city was first founded during the 11th century and it was known as one of the wealthiest cities on the continent because of its strategic location. Unfortunately, in the late 15th century, Bruges’ economy started to deteriorate. However, over time, it went through a complete restoration, making it Belgium’s most visited town and therefore #1 on the list of best cities to see in Belgium - surpassing Brussels itself!

Although it is a small city, it still has more than 7 million tourists visiting its cobbled street every year, most of them spending just one day in Bruges, Belgium! Due to being a well-preserved medieval town, Bruges has a lot to offer - you can find a few castles and a medieval bell tower in the middle of the city! Being a canal-based city, Bruges is nicknamed the Venice of the North. If you’re planning to visit this lively town, read our list of the Highlights of Bruges that we have prepared for you below!

Markt

Located in the heart of the city is the Markt, also known as the Bruges Market Square, which is the home to a number of Bruges’ historical structures - such as the Belfry of Bruges and the Provincial Court. Just walking around in this area will make you realize why Bruges is one of the best cities to see in Belgium.

Back in the year 958, before being filled with restaurants, this square had been used as an open marketplace! You can still find a market here that sells a wide variety of fresh fruits, cheese, tasty snacks, and even handmade souvenirs every Wednesday between the hours of 8 AM to 1 PM!

Additionally, you'll find statues of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck, two patriotic heroes that fought against Philip IV of France during the Franco-Flemish War, both standing proudly at the centre of the Bruges Markt, the oldest home on the square - the 15th-century Bouckhout Hous, and an amazing attraction called the Historium that’ll allow you to travel back in time to the 15th century and experience what it was like during Medieval Bruges (a virtual reality experience that seriously feels real)!

Horse carriages are available for hire to give you a tour around the area. If you only have one day in Bruges, Belgium, the first place you should stroll around while enjoying some of Belgium’s famous “double-fried” hot fries - there is also a specialty fry cart right out in front of the Belfry of Bruges!

#FunFact: Despite its name, “French Fries” are not actually from France - in fact, they originate from Belgium where the villagers started slicing and frying potatoes in the late 16th century!

Note: This is one of the stops on the Highlights and Hidden Gems tour through Bruges.

Belfry of Bruges

One of the city’s most prominent landmarks, the Belfry of Bruges is also situated in the Markt Square. It was built in 1240, where it housed the treasury and the municipal archives and acted as an observation post to spot fires and other dangers. Sadly, the tower was caught in a huge fire forty years after the construction, so all of the city’s archives are long gone. It was then quickly rebuilt and has now become one of the more famous attractions in the city.

Climbing to the top of this 83-metre tall medieval tower will reward you with a spectacular view of the city and its surroundings. To reach the top, however, you need to climb a narrow spiral staircase that has 366 steps! On your way up, you’ll notice a treasury room with wrought iron doors and behind it are chests locked with sturdy padlocks.

You can also find the 17th-century musical instrument - called a carillon - that has 47 bells and an impressive clockwork mechanism at the tower. If you’re around the square on Wednesdays, Saturdays or Sundays, don’t forget to check out the Carillon Concert at 11 AM!

Opens daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Belfry of Bruges tickets cost 12 Euros for adults and 10 Euros for children.

Note: You can learn more about the Belfry on the walking portion of the Canal Tour.

Bruges Beer Experience

In addition to chocolates, waffles, and fries, Belgium is also well-known for its beer. It is said the Belgians had started drinking beer even before the First Crusade! As the story goes - drinking water tended to be quite unsanitary during those days, so people resorted to drinking beer instead. For those who love drinking beer, this place should definitely be on your itinerary! 

The Bruges Beer Museum is nestled in the heart of the city center and on the corner of Breidelstraat Street. The museum opens daily from 10 AM until 6 PM, although it typically closes the front doors well before 6 PM as it expects everyone to depart at that time. Grab your entry ticket here to guarantee a spot!

At this museum, you will be given an iPad which you’ll use to explore the museum and learn all about the beers - you can listen to the audio, watch videos, or read descriptive contents on the screen. During the visit, you’ll get to smell, touch, and taste all of the raw ingredients in a Belgian beer as well as learn the brewing process. You’ll also learn how to pair food with the right beer!

The museum houses a bar where you can try their 16 draught beers while enjoying the beautiful view of the Bruges Markt nearby. The bar only charges you 10 Euros for five beers of your choice!

Continue your beer experience with the BeerWalk Bruges tour to learn more about the beer history in Bruges and try at least 5 more beers or set yourself up with an entire Bruges Beer Day to visit the other breweries!

Burg Square

Inhabited since the 2nd century AD, Burg Square was once a fortress that was surrounded by walls and entrance gates. It was also the place that became the original base of operations of the Count of Flanders.

Even though you can no longer see a fortress here, this square is still a must-visit spot. Both the magnificent Bruges City Hall and the stunning Basilica of the Holy Blood are located here. You can also find the old Court of Justice next to the City Hall - which is a unique example of the Renaissance architecture found around the city. 

There are also a few brasseries and restaurants scattered around the square that are great for relaxing while enjoying the lively ambience of Burg Square.

Note: This is one of the stops on the Highlights and Hidden Gems tour through Bruges.

Basilica of the Holy Blood

Located in between City Hall and a row of shops - including a famous Chocolaterie - in Burg Square is the beautifully ornate Basilica of the Holy Blood Bruges. It has a dark-greyish Gothic façade decorated with small gold statues. This small basilica was built by Thierry of Alsace in the 12th century and consists of a lower and upper chapel. 

The lower chapel is dedicated to St. Basil the Great and it has a dark Romanesque structure with little decoration. Apart from being the best-preserved Romanesque church, this small chapel is also built to house a relic that was brought back by Count Robert II from Caesarea. You can also find two exquisite wooden statues that represent Jesus on the Cold Stone and the Pieta in this chapel.

On the second floor of the basilica is the Chapel of the Holy Blood. Initially, this chapel was also built in a Romanesque style, however, at the end of the 15th century, it was transformed into a Gothic style where you’ll see stained-glass windows with gleaming gold detailing surrounding the chapel. 

This beautiful chapel is where the gold ornate vial is kept. Inside the crystal flask is a shred of cloth with stains of blood visible on it - It is believed to be the blood of Jesus Christ. Even though experts are still unable to confirm the authenticity of the relic, legend has it that Joseph of Arimathea was the one who preserved the Holy Blood after he had wiped it from the body of Christ after Crucifixion. The relic was then brought to Bruges by the Count of Flanders after receiving it from his brother-in-law, the King of Jerusalem, and has been kept safely in this chapel to this day!

Note: You can learn more about this Basilica on the walking portion of the Canal Tour.

Bruges City Hall

Built in the 14th century, Bruges City Hall, also known as Stadhuis van Brugge, is located at the Burg Square next to the Basilica of the Holy Blood. On the exterior, you will notice statues of the Count of Flanders as well as those of biblical figures. Inside of this unique gothic-style town hall, you’ll come across life-sized portraits of the former rulers of Belgium - mayors, kings, and emperors. You can even spot a portrait of Napoleon here!

Upstairs, there is an entire hallway that is a work of art in its own respect! Right below the stunning vaulted ceilings, you’ll see beautiful murals that date back to the 19th century depicting the history of Bruges as well as a vault with 14th-century polychrome consoles!

The Bruges City Council still holds monthly meetings here, but this Gothic Hall is also commonly chosen for wedding ceremonies!

Brugse Vrije

Brugse Vrije Bruges, also known as the Liberty of Bruges, is a huge white and gold building that once functioned as a court of justice. Located next to the City Hall, the heavily ornate façade of the Brugse Vrije will definitely catch your attention the moment you arrive at Burg Square - especially with the statue of Lady Justice sparkling in gold on top of the roof.

Once you get in, you’ll come across a magnificent renaissance hall, which was once the alderman's chamber. In the hall, you will see a beautiful painting by Gillis Van Tilborch that depicts a session in the courtroom. Also inside is a remarkable 16th-century fireplace designed by Lancelot Blondeel that is made out of oak, marble, and alabaster - a tribute to Emperor Charles V.

After serving as a law court from 1795 to 1984, the manor of Brugse Vrije now functions as the City Records Office and thus preserves the civic written records. Quite an elaborate records house indeed!

Note: You can learn more about this building on the walking portion of the Canal Tour.

Jan Van Eyck Square

Also known as Jan Van Eyckplein, this beautiful medieval square is named after Jan Van Eyck, a famous Flemish oil painter who painted the ‘Adoration of the Lamb’, which is the altarpiece for the Church of St. Bavon. In commemoration of him, a statue of Jan Van Eyck was put up in the middle of the square.

Occasionally, different works of art will still be displayed in this square - like the 5-ton whale named “skyscraper” that was made with recycled plastic waste.

Tourists are often attracted to this place because of its peaceful ambience and the Middle-Age buildings surrounding it. One of the most attractive structures found at this square is the Old Toll House which served in the past as a toll collection point for ships coming into Bruges. Next to the beautiful Toll House is a building with a narrow façade - called the Pijndershuisje - that is adorned with Gothic ornamentations. 

You can also find Poortersloge, also known as the Burghers’ Lodge, that was built in the late 14th century for the use of important citizens - called “poorters” - to have their meetings.

Today, the square has several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while viewing the little medieval city.

Note: This is one of the stops on the Highlights and Hidden Gems tour through Bruges.

Streekhuis Castle Tillegem

Tillegem Castle, known as the Kasteel van Tillegem by the locals, is a beautiful old castle in the southwest of Bruges. It was built in the 12th century and was owned by Lord Jan van Voormezele. Over the next few centuries, the castle was inhabited by a number of rich families from Bruges, who rebuilt the castle many times due to wartime damages. It was privately inhabited until 1980.

Currently, this beautiful castle is where several offices for the provincial government are located. Even though you’re not allowed to enter the castle, you can still wander around the park.

Kasteel Tillegem is surrounded by a gorgeous garden and, since it is located in a fairly woody area, a walk around the castle park will also offer you a peaceful ambience of the countryside.

Since it is not far from the city center, you can get here by taking a short drive or even by cycling!

Boat Tours

Part of the lively city is separated by the canal, so a trip to the Venice of the North wouldn’t be complete without going on a boat trip through its narrow canals while admiring the medieval architecture.

During this Bruges canal tour, you’ll get a pleasant 35 minute boat ride through the maze of Bruges’ canals. The boats leave from five different departure points - one of them is at Nieuwstraat, which is only a couple of minutes away from the Church of Our Lady.

The line to board the boats tends to be long since only 20 boats are allowed on the canal at once, thus it is highly recommended for you to be there early in the morning if you don't book the tour in advance. During the tour, you’ll make your way around the old city and witness amazing views while listening to the tour guides tell you historical stories and various secrets of Bruges!

Church of Our Lady Bruges

Located in Mariastraat, the Church of Our Lady should not be missed during your trip to Bruges. Built in the 13th century, this church has a brick tower that climbs up to the sky at at 122 meters, making it the second tallest brickwork tower in the whole world and far taller than any other structure in the area! Since the church is inspired by the gothic style, you can spot magnificent flying buttresses on the exterior.

It is also the home to many fine arts such as the Crucifixion by Anthony van Dyck. However, the most notable artwork that can be found in the church is the flawless white marble sculpture of Madonna and Child created by none other than Michaelangelo himself - around the year 1504! This altarpiece is located in the southern aisle of the huge chapel.

There are also the tombs of Charles the Bold, the last Valois Duke of Burgundy and his daughter, and the Duchess Mary inside the church. The bronze effigies of the father and daughter are located right behind the high altar of the choir space. For Charles, his effigy is represented in full armor accompanied by the decoration of the Order of the Golden Fleece. Duchess Mary’s is represented with a dress and some Gothic-style ornamentations.

The Church of Our Lady Bruges entrance fee is 4 Euros for adults and 3 Euros for those aged 25 years old or younger.

Note: This is one of the stops on the Highlights and Hidden Gems tour through Bruges.

Choco Story

This chocolate museum in Bruges is perfect for families and chocolate-lovers alike!

During a visit to this museum, you’ll learn about the 4,000-year history of chocolate! There are a lot of authentic artefacts that were used to make chocolates throughout history that have been put on display in this facility. Additionally, the museum will also show you how chocolates are made with a demonstration of the staff making some silky smooth chocolate candies - which you’ll also get to taste!

The museum opens daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Grab advanced tickets here. Add on their Chocolate Workshop to complete your chocolate experience!

Not far away there is another amazing Belgian Chocolate Workshop, where you’ll get to make your own chocolate bar as well - if you love chocolate, it’s worth doing both!

Groeninge Museum

Built on the site of the medieval Eekhout Abbey, the 1929 Groeninge Museum is an excellent place for art-lovers to visit. You will find a comprehensive collection of old paintings, created by top-class Flemish painters, including masterpieces from Jan Van Eyck - one of the early innovators of the Netherlandish painting style - as well as from Hugo van der Goes and Lancelot Blondeel!

Among all of the six centuries of Flemish and Belgian paintings on display at the museum, the most famous one that you will find here is a masterpiece by Jan van Eyck called ‘The Madonna with Canon van der Paele’ that was completed in 1436.

Other highlights of the museum include The Last Judgement by Hieronymus Bosch and Death of the Virgin by Hugo van der Goes.

However, do keep in mind that this museum is closed every Monday.

The price for entry into Groeninge Museum is about 12 Euros for adults, however children can enter for free!

The Historical Walking Tour of Bruges will stop at the gardens of the Groeninge Museum where you’ll get to see additional pieces of artwork.

Gran Kaffee de Passage

Located about 500 meters away from the Historic Centre of Bruges, Gran Kaffee de Passage is one of the best Belgian-food restaurants that you can find in the city! This restaurant is open from 5.30 PM to 10 PM except on Saturdays - when they are open as early as 12 Noon to 11 PM. However, do keep in mind that they are also closed on Mondays!

After a tiring day touring the whole city of Bruges, ending your day with a bit of Belgian fine dining will leave a smile on your face. This lively restaurant is known for their clam spaghetti, but their local cuisines - especially their Flemish Stew - are all rich in flavor! A side of their specialty Belgian-style fries - despite not normally being associated with fine dining - is worth adding on!

Gran Kaffee de Passage is the restaurant of Gran Hotel de Passage, so if you want to be sure that you’ll have a reservation at this exquisite restaurant then book your stay at this hotel!

oyya - Waffles and Ice Cream

Some say that Belgium is the birthplace of waffles. So, you really shouldn't leave Belgium without eating a fresh Belgian waffle - potentially topped with juicy fruits, ice creams, chocolate, or even marshmallows! To find the best waffle in Bruges - with the right amount of fluffiness and taste - the only place that you need to check out is this tiny cafe called “oyya - Waffles and Ice Cream”!

They serve some of the best Belgian waffles in Bruges! You can get them served with chocolate-dipped strawberries and even a huge scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel sauce on top.

Unlike the typical rectangular shaped Brussels waffle, the shape of the waffles at oyya are a rather irregular oval shape because they are Leige waffles. However, the moment you taste them, the fluffiness and flavor will definitely widen your eyes! If you’d like to try Brussels and Leige waffles at the same time, so you can tell the difference - as there is a substantial difference that you don’t have to be an expert to notice - then stop by Chips & Ice, where you can order them both at the same time!

Oyya is located about 2 minutes away from the Markt. Additionally, you can join in on a Bruges Waffle Workshop to make, and eat, as many waffles as you’d like. If you like waffles as much as wet do, then this is a serious bargain!

We found the best waffles in Belgium in this particular Brussels market - plus, you can even learn to make them yourself with this delicious recipe!

Must See Places in Bruges

Bruges is a very walkable city that offers a gastronomic experience that you'll never forget surrounded by incredible architecture. Wandering around this medieval town, admiring the beautiful view of the city from the top of the Belfry of Bruges, seeing the holy artefacts in the churches in person, enjoying a beer tour, and tasting some of the best waffles in the whole world will be an unforgettable experience. It’s the perfect city to enjoy yourself and relax at the same time!

One Day in Bruges

If you only have a single day to spend in Bruge, here's the perfect itinerary to cover it all!

• Start your day out at 10:00 AM with a short tour and a boat trip on the canals! This one is just under 2 hours long.

• Only about 3 minutes walk away is the Chocolate Workshop at Choco-Story that starts at noon. You can make it, we believe in you! It's only an hour long, but if you're super hungry you can go over to Oyya Waffles for lunch instead.

• Next is your Waffles -n Beer Workshop at 1:30. Don't worry too much, this one is only only 3 minutes walk away as well and lasts about 90 minutes.

• Now it's time to go grab a few more waffles at Oyya! Yum. After your waffles, choose the 4:00 or 4:30 Highlights & Hidden Gems tour hear the stories and see the rest of Bruges. This one is 3 hours long.

• Lastly, enjoy a traditional Bruges-style dinner at Gran Kaffee de Passage. If you're staying overnight, the Gran Hotel de Passage is right there and the the perfect place to stay!

We know this day will be one that'll be long remembered. We can't wait to do it again ourselves - such wonderful food!

FAQ’s

How much does it cost to climb the Belfry of Bruges?

The Belfry of Bruges is a 13th-century bell tower that offers panoramic views of the city. To climb the 366 steps to the top, you need to pay 12 euros per person¹.

What are some of the best chocolate shops in Bruges?

Bruges is famous for its chocolate, and there are many shops to choose from. Some of the best ones are The Chocolate Line, Chocolatier Dumon, Chocolaterie Sukerbuyc, and Choco-Story². You can also join a chocolate tasting tour to sample different varieties and learn more about the history and production of chocolate³.

When is the best time to visit Bruges?

Bruges is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. If you want to enjoy the festive atmosphere and the Christmas markets, you should visit in December⁴. If you want to see the flowers and the swans, you should visit in spring. If you want to avoid the crowds and the high prices, you should visit in January or February.

(1) Bruges: The Best-Preserved Medieval City in Belgium. https://eatwanderexplore.com/blog/bruges-the-best-preserved-medieval-city-in-belgium.

(2) 18 Best Things to do in Bruges, Belgium in 2023 - The Planet D. https://theplanetd.com/best-things-to-do-in-bruges/.

(3) City life: In Bruges | National Geographic. https://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/2012/01/city-life-bruges.

(4) 14 Best Restaurants and Bars to Eat and Drink in Bruges. https://wonderfulwanderings.com/belgium/bruges/restaurants/.

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