Bruge 6 Day Itinerary

Bruges, Belgium: 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Bruges and check-in at your hotel. We recommend Hotel de Orangerie for its central location and comfortable rooms.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Belfry Tower (Burg), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the surrounding medieval town square. Be sure to take in the stunning views of the city from the top!
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Kruispoort, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Belgian cuisine.

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk) to see Michelangelo’s famous “Madonna and Child” sculpture.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Groeningemuseum, a 13th-century church turned art museum featuring works by Jan van Eyck, Roger van der Weyden, and Hans Memling.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Belgian beer at De Munt, a lively brewery with live music.

Day 3: Waterways and Parks

  • Morning: Take a scenic boat tour of the canals and waterways of Bruges, exploring hidden corners and learning about the city’s rich history. Bruges Boat Tours offers a variety of tours to suit your interests.
  • Afternoon: Visit the beautiful Minnewater Park, home to the famous “Minne” fountain and a lovely spot for a picnic or relaxing stroll.

Day 4: Shopping and Markets

  • Morning: Browse the charming streets of Bruges, exploring unique shops and boutiques selling everything from handmade jewelry to local crafts.
  • Afternoon: Visit the bustling Grote Markt, home to a variety of markets, including the famous Bruges Christmas Market (seasonal).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Smedt, a cozy restaurant with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients.

Day 5: Beaches and Nature

  • Morning: Visit the nearby Zwin Beach, a scenic beach area perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or water sports.
  • Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Kneeland Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring any areas you missed during your previous days.
  • Afternoon: Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport or your next destination.

Tips and Essentials

  • Getting Around: Bruges is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. However, if you prefer not to walk, you can also use public transportation or rent a bike.
  • Weather: Be sure to pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings, even during the summer months.
  • Safety: Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas, and keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

Recommended Restaurants

Recommended Accommodations

Things to Know

  • Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has strict preservation rules, so be mindful of any areas closed for restoration or maintenance.
  • The city has a strong focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness, making it an excellent destination for environmentally-conscious travelers.
  • Be sure to try some local Belgian cuisine, including waffles, fries, and chocolate!