Things to Do in Bruges

About Bruges

Bruges froze in time around 1500, when its trading power collapsed and the money to rebuild never came. The city that once rivaled Venice now looks exactly as it did during the Gothic era—the most intact medieval center in Europe. UNESCO agrees. Horse carriages still work the cobblestone streets. Church bells ring on schedules set centuries ago. Time feels different. The canals thread between gabled houses, swans included. The main square sits where cloth merchants made fortunes in the 1300s. Chocolate shops occupy medieval courtyards, and the smell mixes with fresh waffles from bakery windows. You can spend days crossing small bridges and finding quiet gardens. The stones remember Flemish painters—Van Eyck worked here. The merchants are gone. But the streets they walked remain, nearly untouched, because Bruges went broke before it could tear anything down. That accident of economics is now the main attraction.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Bruges' compact historic center is best explored on foot or by bicycle. Rent bikes from stations near the train station for €12-15/day. Horse-drawn carriages cost €50 for 30 minutes and depart from Markt square.

Money: Use euros with contactless payment widely accepted. Budget €80-120 daily for mid-range dining and activities. ATMs charge €2-4 fees; withdraw larger amounts to minimize costs. Tipping 10% is standard for good service.

Cultural Respect: Keep voices low in the quiet historic center, especially early morning and evening. Don't climb on monuments or feed swans. Remove hats in churches and avoid flash photography during services.

Food Safety: Tap water is excellent and safe. Try local specialties like moules-frites at De Vlaamsche Pot or authentic chocolate at Dumon. Book dinner reservations by 4pm, especially on weekends, as restaurants fill quickly.

When to Visit

Spring (April-May) offers ideal weather with temperatures of 10-18°C, moderate rainfall (40-50mm monthly), and blooming flowers creating scenic canal scenes. Expect 20-30% higher accommodation prices during peak spring weekends. Summer (June-August) brings warmest weather (15-23°C) but also largest crowds and highest prices, with accommodation costs 40-50% above off-season rates. July's Cactus Festival and August's Bruges Beer Festival draw additional visitors. Autumn (September-November) provides excellent value with temperatures of 8-16°C, increased rainfall (60-80mm monthly), and impressive golden light for photography. Prices drop 20-25% after September. Winter (December-March) offers intimate charm with temperatures of 2-8°C and frequent light rain. Christmas markets in December create magical atmosphere, while January-February provide lowest prices (30-40% below peak) and smallest crowds. The Holy Blood Procession in May attracts pilgrims worldwide. Photography ensoiasts should visit during golden October light, while budget travelers benefit most from January-March visits. Romantic couples will find December's twinkling lights irresistible, though weather requires warm clothing.