Fairytale Day Trip To Bruges, Belgium: 11 Best Things Not To Miss
Only have time for one day in Bruges? Bruges is a city where you could explore all of its charming cobblestoned streets, museums, canals, and cuisine over a week but you can see the best Bruges highlights in a day. In this post, I’ll share all the must-see attractions including things to eat and drink for the ultimate day trip to Bruges.
Bruges is famously known as “Venice of the North” for its many canals, bridges, and over the top fairytale-like setting.
Each street you wander down visually resembles a scene from a storybook with an overwhelming air of romance.
It’s impressive how well preserved the city is and likely why the historic heart of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You’ll find an abundance of history, stunning architecture, outstanding foods, and friendly locals sharing their beloved city with you.
If I had to guess, Bruges is one of the most popular Belgium day trips from cities such as Brussels, Ghent, Antwerp, and Amsterdam.
So, let’s get started on how to see the best of Bruges in a day!
Start Planning Your Trip To Bruges!
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Day Trip To Bruges: Best Things To Do
1. Sample A Liege Waffle
Belgium is the land of waffles, world famous for what has become one of the top meals for breakfast.
So, there is no better way to start your Bruges one day itinerary than with Belgian waffles.
In Belgium there are two main types of waffles depending on the region of the country.
There is the Brussels style waffles found in the Brussels area and Liege style which is found in Bruges, Ghent, and surrounding area of Wallonia.
The Brussels style of waffle is the version that you would see around the world but better of course. It is traditionally eaten on a plate with a fork topped with fresh strawberries, whip cream, and powdered sugar.
But the Liege waffle is smaller, made from dough instead of batter, and most of the time eaten as a handheld snack with no toppings.
You won’t miss any of the decadent toppings as there is caramelized sugar in the dough that when served hot is absolutely divine!
Liege waffles have a much different texture than Brussels style waffles and is the perfect bite to grab on the go.
My favorite spot in Bruges to get Liege style waffles is Arlecchino By John. He has the cutest mini-van waffle cart that you can find in De Burg or Burg Square.
If you want to sit down to enjoy your waffles, my top picks are Chez Albert and the House of Waffles.
2. Explore The Markt
After you order a tasty Liege waffle and some coffee at the adorable Arlecchino by John stand in Burg Square, head over to the Markt.
The Markt is the main square in Bruges surrounded by the most charming buildings and impressive Gothic architecture.
It is along this square where you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, medieval guild halls, and the Belfort.
In addition, the main Bruges Christmas Market festivities can be found in the Markt.
Two buildings which you don’t want to miss are the Provincial Palace and the Historium which are right next to each other.
The Provincial Palace also known as Provinciaal Hof was built in 1887 but has been an important site in Bruges as far back as 1294.
Prior to the 1700s, Bruges had many more canals and underneath the palace was the main hub for boats coming into Bruges to unload their goods known as Waterhalle.
Next door is the Historium whose building was at its prime during the Golden Age (12th to 15th centuries).
Today, it is an interactive museum that transports you to the 15th century through the eyes of an artist navigating the life of trade by water, art, and culture.
The best part of the Historium is climbing the 145 steps up to the tower which has the best view of Bruges, the Markt and the Belfry.
Tip: A bit thirsty? Grab a Belgian beer at Duvelorium on the first floor.
3. Belfort of Bruges
Also located along the edge of the Markt is the Belfort of Bruges with its bell tower standing 272 feet (83 meters) tall and an impressive sight from any angle.
It’s hard to believe that a tower so tall and massive is still upright dating back to the 13th century.
And if you have watched the movie, “In Bruges” you’ll quickly recognize this iconic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you don’t mind a little cardio, climb the 366 steps up to the top of the Belfry tower.
There is no elevator so make sure you are up for the task of walking up and down in a tight space.
Whether you climb up the tower or not, listen for the 47-bell carillon (set of bells) chime.
The carillon is similar to a musical instrument that was common during the 16th and 17th centuries.
Today the Belfry’s carillon is still played manually on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday along with important occasions every 15 minutes from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Note: Visit the Salvador Dali Museum which is located at the bottom level of the Belfry.
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 6 pm or 8pm depending on the season.
Cost: 15 Euros for adults, 13 Euros 7 – 12 years old
4. Burg Square
If you got a Liege waffle from the vendor I mentioned in #1 above, then you know where Burg Square (De Burg) is.
If not, it is just one block from the Markt but a much smaller square where you will find buildings with lovely Gothic architecture of City Hall (Stadhuis) and the Old Court House.
In between these spectacular buildings is a narrow passageway that leads to Vismarkt (fish market) known as Blinde Ezelstraat (Blind Donkey Alley).
Where did the name originate? The story says that the people from Ghent stole a dragon weathervane from Bruges and used a donkey to carry it back through this alley.
But as the donkey was quite stubborn, he wouldn’t leave until they blindfolded him!
City Hall or “Stadhuis” looks more like a palace than a city hall with its grandeur and elegance since 1420.
It is a beautiful building to tour that includes tons of art with an audio guide to explain.
With the ticket you used to get into City Hall, you can show the same ticket and gain entry in the Old Court House on the other side of the alley.
The main room to see here is the alderman’s room which is similar to a mayor’s office but way nicer.
Here you can view incredible artwork, a black marble fireplace, and a carved chimney.
Hours: The City Hall is open daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm and the Old Court House is open daily from 9:30 am to noon & 1:30 pm to 5 pm.
5. Basilica of the Holy Blood
Just across the square from City Hall in Burg Square is the Basilica of the Holy Blood which you can’t miss with its black exterior and vibrant red door.
You’ll notice two different styles of architecture with the lower chapel in Romanesque and the upper chapel in Gothic architecture.
Originally built in the 12th century but rebuilt in the 19th century, the church became famous after a vial with drops of Christ’s blood on a cloth was brought to Bruges (12th century).
Although there is no way to confirm this, it is said that the cloth with his blood was obtained when Joseph of Arimathea washed Christ’s dead body.
You can only view the protected piece of cloth once a day at 2pm except for Wednesdays in the winter. It is at this time that a nun allows one person at a time to come up to view it.
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm & from 2 pm to 5 pm. It is closed on Wednesday afternoons during the winter months.
6. Brouwerij De Halve Maan
Ready for an awesome meal paired with Belgian beer? Brouwerij De Halve Maan is the perfect spot for lunch and a break for your feet.
Brouwerij De Halve Maan is the last family brewhouse (brouwerij) in the Bruges running since 1856.
Even before that, there was a brewery at this location since 1564 before the Maes family took over, which is an astonishing concept.
On top of being the oldest brewery in the city, due to lack of space, the beer is brewed here then carried to a bottling plant via a 3.2 mile long pipeline!
So, it’s no surprise that this is the most popular brewery in Bruges.
They have a restaurant and plenty of beers to sample although I recommend ordering at least one Brugse Zot (Bruges Fool).
If you have the interest and time, they do offer a 45-minute behind the scenes brewery tour too.
Hours: Open Sunday – Wednesday from 11:00 am to 6 pm and Thursday – Saturday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.
The restaurant is open from noon and 3:00 pm daily and for dinner Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
7. Take A Canal Boat Ride
After a great lunch and beers take a relaxing cruise on a canal boat ride. A Bruges canal tour is one of the most scenic ways to see the city.
Over 35 minutes, you’ll pass by the prettiest buildings, go under charming arched bridges, and view Minnewaterpark before returning back to your starting point.
There is a narration of the history and the buildings along the way and a great way to see some of the highlights of Bruges.
Bruges really is such a romantic setting that you are sure to capture some dreamy photos along the way.
About every 15 – 20 minutes boats take off from the most photogenic spot in Bruges, Rozenhoedkaai or the “Quay of Rosary”.
Here the boat rides start and end in the same location. I visited in December and still enjoyed the experience!
Tip: Feeling a bit thirsty? Grab a seat at t’Klein Venetie (Little Venice Café) or 2be Bar for a beer and people watch before or after you boat ride.
Hours: Boat rides are from March to December but dependent on weather of course.
Buy Your Bruges Canal Boat Trip & Walking Tour!
8. Bonifacius Bridge
After Rozenhoedkaai (Quay of Rosary) the most photographed image of Bruges is the storybook shot of Bonifacius Bridge.
The Bonifacius Bridge is one of the younger canal bridges built in 1910 and is an arched stone pedestrian bridge that is small but packs a lot of charm.
Situated right behind the Church of Our Lady (which you should pop into) connecting the church courtyard to the Arentshof park and pavillon.
Make sure to take photos from both sides as you get completely different views of the surrounding buildings, church and canal.
Tip: If you visit the Gruuthusemuseum (next on this list) then you can show your ticket and gain entry to the museum inside of Church of Our Lady.
9. Visit The Gruuthusemuseum
There are so many wonderful museums in Bruges to visit but if you only have time for one, I recommend the Gruuthusemuseum.
The Gruuthusemuseum, previously the home to the very wealthy family of Louis van Gruuthuse.
Today, you can tour the home (or rather palace) to view outstanding décor, art, tapestries, wood sculptures, clothing, and stained glass.
The family got their fortune by making gruut, a flower and herb mixture used in making beer during the 1400s and 1500s.
Gruut was added to add flavor and a touch of bitterness to beer. At the time, hops was yet to be invented but eventually replaced gruut as hops was better for preservation.
At the time they were pretty much the only place in town to purchase gruut so you could say it was a complete monopoly.
As you roam from one room to another, you will learn a lot about Bruges’ history.
Tip: Don’t forget to view the private chapel! The balcony of the chapel looks into Church of Our Lady.
Hours: Open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm except Monday (closed).
10. Minnewater Park
If you are running short on time, you can skip going to Minnewater Park as you will have seen a little bit of the park from your canal boat tour.
But if time allows, Minnewater Park is a lovely outdoor space for a stroll and to view the swans.
It is also known as the “Lake of Love” due to a tragic love story gone wrong.
A young girl by the name of Minna fell in love with a man from another town whom her father didn’t approve of.
It’s said that in defiance, she ran away to look for him and in doing so died of pure exhaustion looking for him.
Her father was heartbroken and named the lake and park Minnewater Park in her honor.
Take your time and walk along both sides of the lake and also note Poertoren Tower (old watch tower) near the bridge.
Note: There are a ton of swans found here both in the water and meandering the park but as with all animals don’t get too close as they can be feisty.
11. Enjoy A Belgian Dinner
Nothing beats ending one day in Bruges with a delicious Belgian dinner.
There are several fantastic places to eat in Bruges but if you are looing for traditional Belgian dishes the top 3 places I recommend are:
- ‘t Nieuw Walnutje
- Poules Moules
- ‘T Walpoortje
All of these restaurants serve food that will leave a lasting impression and a perfect way to finish your day trip to Bruges.
If you are looking for ideas on what to order these are some of the most authentic Belgian meals to select.
Stoemp: Mashed potatoes and vegetables like carrots, onions, or brussels sprouts served with sausage.
Carbonnade Flamande: Flemish stew, usually made with beef
Moules Frites: Mussels & fries (French fries)
Waterzooi: A fish stew
If for any reason you have more free time, explore additional ideas on what to do in Bruges!
Top Bruges Tours
You may not have time to go on a tour on a short trip to Bruges but these tours do include many of the sights I’ve listed but with a guide!
Canal Boat Cruise & Walking Tour – take a guided tour to see the highlights of Bruges and go on a canal boat ride!
Full Day Trip From Brussels – Explore a full day in Bruges with a guide and transportation!
Bruges & Ghent Day Trip From Brussels – Although I think each city deserves a day this tour is great if you are limited on time and want to get a taste of these lovely cities!
Best Hotels In Bruges
You may not be spending a night in Bruges, but on the off chance your day trip to Bruges includes one night here are my top choices.
All of these hotels are located right in the heart of Bruges near the Markt and all the attractions I’ve included in this 1 day Bruges itinerary.
Travel To Bruges
If you are flying into Belgium, the two airports you are likely choosing from are:
Brussels Airport (BRU): ~ 1.1 hrs away from Bruges
Antwerp Flanders International Airport (ANR): ~ 1.25 hrs away
But if you are already in Belgium and coming on a day trip from Brussels to Bruges or even Ghent, or Antwerp then the train is the easiest way to get here.
The Bruges train station you want to select when booking your ticket is to the Bruges Train Station (Brugge) or Brugge Train Station.
The train station is about a 10 minute drive from the city center near the Markt.
From there you can take a taxi or an Uber to the city center. If you have no luggage, it is about a 12 minute walk to Minnewater Park.
Map Of Bruges – 1 Day Itinerary
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Vanessa Shields
Vanessa Shields is the founder of Traveling Ness helping people with trip ideas, itineraries, travel planning, and boosting confidence for female travelers to take a solo trip. She has been a travel writer and content creator since 2019.