Bruges-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Saturday

  • 9:00 AM - Arrival and Check-in
    • Arrive at Bruges train station or take a taxi from the airport.
    • Check-in at Hotel Heritage or similar, located in the historic city center.
  • 10:00 AM - Belfry Tower and Market Square
    • Visit the iconic Belfry Tower (Burg) and climb to the top for stunning views of the city.
    • Explore the picturesque Market Square (Markt) with its beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere.
  • 12:30 PM - Lunch at ‘De Karmeliet’
    • Enjoy traditional Flemish cuisine at this cozy restaurant, known for its delicious burgers and local specialties.
  • 2:00 PM - Church of Our Lady and Groeningemuseum
    • Visit the stunning Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwkerk), home to Michelangelo’s famous ‘Madonna and Child’ sculpture.
    • Explore the adjacent Groeningemuseum, featuring a world-class art collection from the 13th to the 20th century.
  • 6:00 PM - Canal Cruise
    • Take a leisurely canal cruise to see Bruges’ historic center and its picturesque waterways.
  • 8:00 PM - Dinner at ‘De Verloren Zoon’
    • Savor local flavors at this popular restaurant, known for its creative dishes and cozy atmosphere.

Day 2: Sunday

  • 9:30 AM - Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and Holy Blood Chapel
    • Visit the beautiful Saint Bavo’s Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal), featuring impressive stained-glass windows.
    • See the famous ‘Last Judgment’ painting by Michelangelo and explore the adjacent Holy Blood Chapel (Heilig-Bloedkapel).
  • 12:00 PM - Lunch at ‘T Garen
    • Enjoy a tasty meal at this cozy restaurant, known for its local specialties and wide selection of beers.
  • 1:30 PM - Historic Center Walking Tour
    • Take a self-guided walking tour to explore Bruges’ historic center, including its picturesque streets, canals, and architecture.
  • 4:00 PM - Visit the Begijnhof
    • Explore this charming Beguinage (Begijnhof), featuring beautiful gardens, courtyards, and peaceful atmosphere.
  • 7:00 PM - Dinner at ‘De Karmeliet’
    • Enjoy another delicious meal at this cozy restaurant, known for its traditional Flemish cuisine.

Day 3: Monday

  • 9:30 AM - Castle of the Counts (Huis van de Graven) and Archaeological Museum
    • Visit the impressive Castle of the Counts (Huis van de Graven), featuring stunning architecture and a beautiful garden.
    • Explore the adjacent Archaeological Museum (Archeologisch Museum), showcasing artifacts from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.
  • 12:00 PM - Lunch at ‘De Centrum’
    • Enjoy local flavors at this cozy restaurant, known for its delicious burgers and wide selection of beers.
  • 1:30 PM - Shopping Time!
    • Explore Bruges’ charming streets and canals, lined with unique shops, boutiques, and markets selling everything from souvenirs to antiques.
  • 4:00 PM - Departure
    • Check-out of your hotel and depart for the airport or train station.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Bruges has a temperate climate with cool winters and mild summers. Pack layers for unpredictable weather.
  • Currency: The Euro is the official currency in Belgium. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
  • Language: Dutch (Flemish) is the local language, but most residents speak English fluently. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or directions.

Transportation:

  • Train Station: Bruges has a convenient train station with frequent connections to major cities in Belgium and Europe.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but be prepared for high prices.
  • Walking/Biking: The historic center is best explored on foot. Bicycles can be rented nearby.

Tips:

  • Reservations: Book restaurants and tours in advance to avoid disappointment.
  • Tipping: A 5-10% tip is standard in Belgium.
  • Scams: Be aware of pickpocketing and scams, especially around tourist areas.
  • Safety: Bruges is a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Other Things to Do:

  • Visit the nearby villages: Explore charming villages like Damme and Zeebrugge.
  • Take a scenic drive: Drive along the picturesque coastal roads and enjoy stunning views of the sea.
  • Enjoy local festivals: Experience Bruges’ lively atmosphere during festivals like the Begijnhof Festival or the Bruges Beer Festival.

I hope you have a wonderful time exploring Bruges!