Bruge-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Discovering Bruges

Morning

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

  • Begijnhof: Start your day at the beautiful Begijnhof, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. This charming courtyard is home to a group of laywomen who live and work together.
  • Markt Square (Grote Markt): From the Begijnhof, walk to the Market Square, where you’ll find the iconic Belfry Tower (Belfort). Take some time to admire the medieval architecture and lively atmosphere.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

  • Church of Our Lady: Visit the Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk), a stunning Gothic church that houses Michelangelo’s famous sculpture, “The Virgin and Child”. Don’t miss the impressive astronomical clock in the adjacent chapel.
  • Historium Brugge: Learn about the history of Bruges at this interactive museum. You’ll discover how the city became an important trading center during the Middle Ages.

Lunch

  • De Kruytuinen: For a delicious lunch, head to De Kruytuinen, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Flemish cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Wijngaerde Restaurant: Alternatively, try Wijngaerde Restaurant for some excellent seasonal dishes and an impressive wine list.

Afternoon

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

  • Bruges Canal Cruise: Take a leisurely boat tour along the canals of Bruges to see the city’s picturesque architecture from a different perspective.
  • Blomme Street (Steegestraat): Visit this charming street, known for its beautiful facades and lively atmosphere. Be sure to stop by the famous ‘Grote Markt’ where you’ll find plenty of cafes and shops.

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

  • Groeningemuseum: Spend some time exploring the Groeningemuseum, which houses an impressive collection of medieval paintings and sculptures.
  • Simon Stevinplein: Visit this vibrant square for its charming architecture and lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo with the beautiful city hall in the background.

Evening

  • De Vrienden van de Groeninger: Enjoy a dinner at De Vrienden van de Groeninger, known for serving traditional Flemish dishes with a modern twist.
  • Groeningemuseum Rooftop Bar: End your day by visiting the rooftop bar of the Groeningemuseum. It offers stunning views over Bruges and is an ideal place to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Day 2: More of Bruges

Morning

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

  • Choco-Story Brugge: Visit Choco-Story Brugge, a museum that tells the story of chocolate from its origins to the present day. You’ll learn about the history and production process of this delicious treat.
  • Brouwerij Van den Bossche: Head to Brouwerij Van den Bossche for a tour of this historic brewery. Learn about the brewing process and sample some local beers.

Lunch

  • De Gouden Karpel: Try De Gouden Karpel, a charming restaurant that serves delicious seafood dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Twee Zonnen: Alternatively, try Twee Zonnen for its wide selection of seasonal dishes and a beautiful garden area where you can enjoy your meal.

Afternoon

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

  • Sint-Janshuys Church (Jeruzalemkerk): Visit the stunning Sint-Janshuys Church, which features beautiful frescoes on its ceiling. Be sure to stop by the adjacent museum for an interesting collection of medieval relics.
  • The Burg: Spend some time exploring The Burg, a picturesque area filled with narrow streets and charming houses.

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

  • Huis ter Nieuwe Brouwerij: Visit Huis ter Nieuwe Brouwerij for another brewery tour. Learn about the history of this historic brewery and sample some local beers.
  • Camping Brugge: End your day by visiting Camping Brugge, a beautiful campsite that offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

Where to Stay

Bruges has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Hotel Dukes’ Palace: This 4-star hotel is located in the heart of Bruges and features beautifully restored medieval architecture.
  • Hotel Heritage: This boutique hotel offers cozy rooms with modern amenities and a warm atmosphere.
  • Camping Brugge: If you’re on a budget or prefer to stay close to nature, consider camping at Camping Brugge.

Transportation

Bruges is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. Here are some transportation options:

  • Car parking: Park your car in one of the many designated parking areas around the city.
  • Bus station: Catch a bus from the central bus station to explore the surrounding countryside or visit nearby cities.
  • Train station: Take a train from the Bruges railway station to travel to other parts of Belgium.

Tips and Essentials

Here are some essential tips and information to help you make the most of your trip:

  • Language: While many locals speak English, it’s still helpful to learn basic Flemish phrases like “Dag” (hello), “Bedankt” (thank you), and “Tot ziens” (goodbye).
  • Currency: The official currency is the euro. You can exchange your money at one of the many currency exchange offices or withdraw cash from an ATM.
  • Weather: Bruges has a temperate climate, with mild winters and cool summers. Be sure to pack layers for your visit.

Things to Know

Here are some additional things to know before you go:

  • Safety: Bruges is generally a safe city, but be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas.
  • Emergency services: If you need medical attention or have an emergency, call 112 for assistance.
  • Local customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or historical sites.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Bruges. Remember to pace yourself, take breaks when needed, and enjoy the city’s charming atmosphere.