Car Rental in Bruges - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Bruges is generally not recommended for exploring the historic city center itself. The medieval core is compact, pedestrian-friendly, and best explored on foot or by bicycle. Parking is limited and expensive in the center, and the narrow cobblestone streets can be challenging to navigate. However, a car rental makes excellent sense for exploring the wider Flanders region and Belgian countryside, where public transport connections are less frequent. It's ideal for day trips to smaller villages, coastal towns, or visiting multiple destinations at your own pace. Belgium drives on the right side of the road, which is standard for continental Europe. Road quality is generally good, though be prepared for cobblestones in historic areas. Driving conditions are typically straightforward for tourists, with clear signage in multiple languages. Consider renting a car only if you're planning countryside excursions or multi-city road trips. For stays focused on Bruges itself, skip the rental – the city's excellent walkability and bike infrastructure make cars unnecessary. If you do rent, consider picking up the vehicle when leaving Bruges rather than upon arrival.

International Driving Permit

Generally recommended for non-EU visitors to Belgium. Check if your home country license requires an IDP for Belgium before travel.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies in Bruges typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some premium vehicles requiring age 25+. Young driver surcharges often apply under age 25.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is required. EU licenses are directly accepted; non-EU visitors should verify acceptance requirements.

Credit Card

A credit card in the main driver's name is required for security deposits. Debit cards are typically not accepted for the deposit hold.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is included with rentals, but additional collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection are recommended. Verify your coverage before declining optional insurance.

Passport or ID

Valid passport or government-issued ID required for identity verification at pickup. Keep this document with you while driving.

Rent from Brussels Airport or city center agencies rather than Bruges itself for better rates and selection - major international companies operate at the airport with pickup/return flexibility.

Before driving off, thoroughly photograph the car's exterior, verify the fuel policy (full-to-full is standard), and confirm you have all required documents including your international driving permit if needed.

Download offline maps for Belgium as GPS coverage can be spotty in narrow medieval streets - Bruges' historic center has restricted vehicle access zones that require careful navigation.

Park at designated lots outside the historic center (like 't Zand or the train station) as street parking is extremely limited and the medieval core has many pedestrian-only zones with strict enforcement.

Return the car with a full tank if required and allow extra time for the return process - check current fuel prices and return procedures with your rental agency as policies vary by company.

Bruges' historic city center features narrow cobblestone streets and restricted vehicle access in many areas - check parking regulations carefully as the medieval layout wasn't designed for modern cars and unauthorized entry can result in fines.

Cyclists are extremely common throughout Bruges and have priority in many areas - watch carefully for bike lanes and expect bicycles to appear suddenly, especially near intersections and tourist areas.

Parking in central Bruges is limited and expensive - consider using designated park-and-ride facilities on the city outskirts, as driving into the historic center is generally discouraged for tourists.

Belgian traffic enforcement uses automated speed cameras and red light cameras - strictly observe posted speed limits (typically 30 km/h in residential zones, 50 km/h in urban areas) as fines are issued automatically to vehicle owners.