Bruges-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Bruges

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City Center

  • Morning: Arrive in Bruges by train or car. Check-in at your accommodation (see below for recommendations).
  • 10:00 AM: Start at the iconic Belfry Tower (Belfort), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the heart of the city.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at De Karmeliet, a cozy restaurant serving local specialties like moules-frites and waterzooi. Try their famous chocolate cake for dessert!
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the nearby Markt Square (Markt), home to the imposing Burg castle, which now serves as a museum.
  • 3:00 PM: Walk across the picturesque Bridge of the Holy Spirit (Heiligenschaanbrug) and explore the charming streets surrounding it.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at De Pannekoeken, a popular spot for pannekuchen (pancake-like waffles) and other Belgian delicacies.

Day 2: History, Culture, and Art

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk), a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Be sure to see Michelangelo’s famous sculpture, “Madonna and Child” (1501-1504).
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the adjacent Historic Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved medieval architecture.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at De Verloren Zoon, a cozy restaurant serving modern Belgian cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Gruuthusemuseum, a museum showcasing 15th- to 18th-century art and artifacts. Don’t miss the impressive collection of Delft pottery!
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at De Vlaamsche Pot, a popular spot for traditional Flemish cuisine.

Day 3: Countryside and Coastal Delights

  • 9:00 AM: Take a short drive or bus ride to the picturesque coastal town of Damme (about 20 minutes from Bruges). Visit the charming village with its medieval architecture, castle ruins, and tranquil atmosphere.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at De Huisman, a cozy restaurant serving local specialties like seafood and waffles. Enjoy the scenic views while dining!
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the nearby Minnewater Park (about 10 minutes from Damme), featuring a beautiful lake, gardens, and walking trails.
  • 6:00 PM: Return to Bruges for dinner at De Kasteelhoeve, a popular spot for traditional Flemish cuisine.

Day 4: Castle Visits and Local Flavors

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the impressive Château d’Alou (about 20 minutes from Bruges), a well-preserved medieval castle with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at De Witte Zwaan, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Flemish cuisine. Try their famous “waterzooi” and “moules-frites”!
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby Bruges Brewery (about 10 minutes from De Witte Zwaan), offering guided tours of the brewery and tasting sessions.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at De Spuere, a popular spot for traditional Flemish cuisine.

Day 5: Shopping, Markets, and Goodbyes

  • 9:00 AM: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs in Bruges’ charming streets. Don’t miss the historic Ghent Market (Gentenmarkt) with its beautiful medieval architecture.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at De Prinsenhof, a cozy restaurant serving modern Belgian cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby St. James’ Church (Sint-Jacobs), a charming 15th-century church featuring stunning stained glass windows and a tranquil atmosphere.
  • 5:00 PM: Head back to your accommodation for some last-minute packing before departing Bruges.

Where to Stay:

  1. Hotel Heritage: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Bruges, offering elegant rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  2. B&B ’t Opvarend: A cozy bed-and-breakfast situated in a charming old house with beautiful views of the city.
  3. Guesthouse Leopold: A family-run guesthouse offering comfortable rooms and a warm welcome.

Transportation:

  1. Train Station Bruges (Brugge): The main train station, located near the city center.
  2. Bus Station Bruges (Brugge): The main bus station, also located near the city center.
  3. Walking: A great way to explore Bruges and its surroundings.

Things to Know:

  1. Language: Dutch is the official language, but many locals speak English fluently.
  2. Currency: Euro (€).
  3. Weather: Check the weather forecast before your visit as Bruges can experience sudden changes in temperature.
  4. Opening Hours: Be sure to check the opening hours of museums and restaurants to avoid disappointment.

Tips:

  1. Reservations: Book your accommodations and restaurant reservations in advance, especially during peak season (June-September).
  2. Getting Around: Explore Bruges on foot or use public transportation for a more relaxed experience.
  3. Don’t Miss Out: Visit the famous Belfry Tower, explore the historic center, and try some of Bruges’ local specialties.

Other Things to Do:

  1. Visit the nearby city of Ghent (Gent): Explore its stunning architecture, visit the Castle of the Counts, and enjoy the beautiful parks.
  2. Take a boat tour: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the canals and learn more about Bruges’ history and culture.
  3. Attend a local event: Check the city’s events calendar for festivals, concerts, or markets.

Have a wonderful time exploring Bruges!