The Absolute Best Things to Do in Bruges for First-Time Visitors
The movie In Bruges (great flick, by the way!) initially helped make this small town in Belgium popular, and it was the main reason why I personally decided to visit – and I’m still happy I did.
Surprisingly, the hype didn’t last too much, and today Bruges gets passed over more often than not for Brussels on travel itineraries, which is a mistake in my opinion.
I’m not saying that you shouldn’t visit Brussels, but you should definitely visit this small town too – and today we’ll see why by checking out the top things to see and do here.
How to get to Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is just a short train ride from Brussels (less than an hour). It’s also an easy destination; walkable from end to end and hotels are inexpensive and in the heart of town.
For accommodation, I recommend checking in at Boutique Hotel Die Swaene (surprisingly affordable for a boutique hotel) or Hotel Ter Brughe (just outside the city center, but offering amazing canal views).
If you are tight on time, you can get there early in the morning and return to your hotel in Brussels late at night. But spending a few nights allows you to see the city after the day-trippers leave and skip the feeling of rushing through it. It does deserve more!
Bruges’ charm will draw you in immediately upon exiting the train. Cobblestone streets, flower-lined canals, and beautiful medieval architecture create a fairytale feeling that you’ll happily surrender yourself to during your stay.
It is an absolutely amazing city that managed to put me under its spell instantly, unlike Amsterdam which was disappointing for me, despite being more popular. But let’s get to today’s topic and see the top things to do in Bruges.
1. Eat chocolate
Belgium and chocolate are basically cliché, and Bruges showcases some of the country’s finest.
Make it your mission to tour the shops, tasting the delicacies along the way and admiring the amazing displays that are carefully crafted to engage all your senses.
Don’t be shy about indulging, they’re inexpensive and you can walk off the calories (or so you can lie to yourself – you’re on vacation, after all!)
For truly adventurous chocoholics, stop by The Chocolate Line, they’ll surprise you with their chocolate inventiveness.
2. Ride the canals
Though not as big or prevalent as in the aforementioned Amsterdam, riding the canals in Bruges is a considerably more aesthetic experience for the views along the way: ornate medieval buildings, quaint gardens and vine-covered bridges, all warmly presented and in pristine condition.
It’s the best way to step back in time and learn the history of Bruges.
You can catch a boat from various boarding points (like Rozenhoedkaai) for around €15. The tours operate mainly from spring to autumn and take about 30 minutes. Bonus points if you can catch a glimpse of the water right after sunset when the lighting becomes even more spectacular.
3. Explore the Historic Center
Bruges’ Historic Center is a UNESCO-listed gem featuring well-preserved medieval architecture, beautiful cobblestone streets (you will see these in most of the city though) and views over the aforementioned canals.
Make sure to fully explore the area, taking a trip back in time and discovering all the cozy cafes, hidden boutiques and historic landmarks.
Other top things to see: Read about the top things to do in Helsinki.
4. Visit the Belfry of Bruges
The Belfry is an iconic 13th-century tower offering breathtaking panoramic views of Bruges. Perfect for truly Instagramable photos (or just perfect memories).
You’ll have to climb 366 steps for the complete bird’s-eye perspective of the city, but trust me when I say that it’s worth it. Tickets cost around €15 to €16, and I strongly suggest booking them in advance to avoid long queues.
As a bonus, the tower also houses a carillon with 47 melodious bells that chime throughout the day. Delightful!
5. Load the toppings on a Belgian waffle
A faithful patron of the various waffle shops in my city (and basically wherever I go), was excited to try the real thing in Bruges, and I wasn’t disappointed.
Waffles are easy to find at one of the many shops along the main streets and in the squares, where you can indulge al fresco; or make a meal out of one at a café or restaurant.
Either way, experiment with the topping choices which include fresh whipped cream, chocolate sauce, ice cream and fresh fruit. Pile them on for the ultimate taste sensation (and again lie to yourself that you’ll walk them off).
They are better than what you can usually get in the US for sure. Speaking of which, why not also check out the best unique things to do in Boston when you’re done reading this article?
6. Hike up to the old windmills
On the perimeter of town, along the canal that circles the old section of Bruges, you will find four restored windmills.
This area remains relatively untouched by tourists, even though it is within walking distance from the center of town.
Sint-Janshuismolen is the specific windmill that still grinds flour and is open to the public for tours on certain days from spring to autumn. It is incredibly fun to climb up to the top and take in the unique views of the city from the outskirts.
7. Visit the Markt (Market Square)
The Markt serves as the bustling heart of Bruges. It is surrounded by architectural marvels like the Belfry and the beautiful neo-Gothic Provincial Palace.
Grab some local delicacies nearby since you can find everything from fresh produce to sausages, cheese, and pastries. In the winter months, a festive Christmas market takes over the square and completely transforms the atmosphere. Then head over to Koningin Astrid Park for a leisurely picnic with the swans.
8. Basilica of the Holy Blood
Just a short walk from the Markt is Burg Square, home to the Roman Catholic Basilica of the Holy Blood. This church holds a highly unique artifact (or at least so the legend says): a phial containing a drop of Christ’s blood.
But even if that’s not really the case, this basilica is one of the top attractions in Bruges, and absolutely amazing both on the inside, and the outside.
The interior mixes Gothic and Romanesque designs and gives you that perfect feeling of serenity that only the best churches manage to offer.
9. Groeningemuseum
While you might not be able to fully pronounce its name, this is Bruges’ municipal museum and one of the city’s main attractions.
Home to a diverse collection of Flemish and Belgian artworks spanning centuries, the Groeningemuseum offers a complete overview of the region’s artistic history through works of art by renowned artists, including Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch.
10. Stroll in the Minnewater Park
Minnewater Park, also known as the “Lake of Love,” is a tranquil oasis where you can relax and enjoy nature and recharge your batteries.
Stroll along serene pathways, admire swans gliding on the picturesque lake, and cross the iconic Lover’s Bridge. It’s absolutely stunning!
11. Marvel at the new BRUSK Art Centre
This massive new contemporary art hall officially opens its doors in May 2026 and it sits directly in the historic Museum Quarter, next to the Groeningemuseum.
This modern architectural building brings some fresh energy to the city and something brand new even for past visitors.
After opening, it will host top-tier digital and international exhibitions. Even if you visit before the grand opening celebrations, walking past the site provides a striking visual contrast to the medieval brickwork surrounding it.
So… Is Bruges Worth Visiting?
I think that the answer is clear by now: there are so many amazing things to do and see here, making Bruges a must-visit in my opinion.
While I initially went for a short overnight trip, that’s not enough to fully experience everything, so I recommend going for a two or three-day stay instead.
Overall, it is an amazing city that managed to put me under its spell instantly – and I am sure you will feel the same. It offers a much more intimate, relaxed charm compared to the bustling hubs nearby.
Wrapping up
These are the best 10 things to do in Bruges, Belgium. There are, of course, more touristy things to do there as well, but these were my favorite.
You can easily cover them all (or at least most of them) in a single day, but it’s better if you manage to spend the night here and explore this charming small town at a slower pace, to fully enjoy its amazing offerings.
And if you somehow decide that it’s time to hop into a plane after visiting, I recommend heading straight to Turkey and enjoying the beautiful Pamukkale.
