Bruge 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Bruges, Belgium

Day 1: Arrival & Introduction to Bruges

  • Arrival: Arrive at Brussels Airport or Bruges Railway Station. You can also fly into Ostend-Bruges International Airport which is closer but has fewer connections.

  • Accommodation: Stay in the heart of the city for convenience. Consider options like Relais Bourgondisch Patios, Hotel de Orangerie, or B&B ’t Zwarte Vos.

  • Lunch: Visit ’t Smisje for a taste of local Belgian cuisine. Try their famous Stoofvlees (Flemish beef stew).

  • Afternoon: Start your exploration with the Market Square (Grote Markt), take in the sights of the Belfry and City Hall. Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood and Church of Our Lady.

  • Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the Canal Ring, enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner at Den Gulden Vleeshal.

Day 2: Historic Sites & Charming Quarters

  • Morning: Visit the Church of St. John (Sint-Jan), known for its unique Carillon and the adjoining Hospital Museum. Head to the Begijnhof to explore this peaceful residential area for women.

  • Lunch: Savor traditional Flemish dishes at ’t Potterijtje.

  • Afternoon: Discover the Little Venice neighborhood, where you can take a boat tour along the canals. Don’t miss Adam’s Bridge, Lovers Lane, and Rozenhoedkaai.

  • Evening: Indulge in Belgian waffles or chocolates at one of the numerous shops around the city. Dine at ’t Spinhuys, located inside a 13th-century monastery.

Day 3: Day Trip to the Countryside

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the beautiful countryside of West Flanders. Visit the picturesque villages of Damme and Sluis.

  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the many scenic spots.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Grote Kerk (Great Church) in Damme, or the impressive fortress town of Sluis.

  • Evening: Return to Bruges and unwind at your accommodation. Consider trying local beers at a cozy pub like ’t Brugs Beertje.

Day 4: Museums & Art

  • Morning: Visit the Groeningemuseum, home to works by famous Flemish artists like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling. Next, head to the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum.

  • Lunch: Dine at ’t Kuipke, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Belgian cuisine.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Huis van Alijn Museum, showcasing daily life in Bruges from the 19th century to the present day. If you’re interested in beer, don’t miss the Bruges Beer Museum.

  • Evening: Take a romantic sunset boat ride along the canals, followed by dinner at ’t Vattentje.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning/Afternoon: Spend your last hours in Bruges shopping for souvenirs or revisiting your favorite spots. If time allows, visit the Basilica of the Holy Savior or the Groeninge Abbey.

  • Lunch/Dinner: Depending on your departure time, enjoy a farewell meal at one of the city’s many excellent eateries before heading to the airport or train station.