Bruges 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Bruges, Belgium

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the City Center

Places to Go:

  1. Markt Square: Start your journey at the heart of Bruges, Markt Square. Admire the Belfry of Bruges and the City Hall.

  2. Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk): Visit this stunning Gothic church to see Madonna and Child by Michelangelo.

  3. Canal Cruise: Take a boat tour along the canals to fully appreciate Bruges’ charming beauty.

  4. Basilica of the Holy Blood (Heilig-Bloedbasiliek): This Romanesque church houses a relic believed to be the blood of Christ.

Where to Eat:

  1. De Garre: Try their famous “Garre” beer and delicious Flemish cuisine.

  2. Het Verplitste Huis: Enjoy traditional Belgian dishes in this cozy and welcoming restaurant.

  3. Choco-Story Chocolate Museum: Visit for a chocolate-making demonstration and taste some of Belgium’s finest chocolates.

Where to Stay:

  1. Hotel de Orangerie: A luxurious hotel located in the city center with elegant rooms and a gourmet restaurant.

  2. B&B Bruges Centrum: Affordable, comfortable rooms in a historic building near the city center.

Things to Know:

  • Bruges is known as the “Venice of the North” due to its canals.
  • Belgian chocolate and beer are must-tries!
  • Many shops close on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

Day 2: Historical Sites & Art

Places to Go:

  1. Begijnhof: This peaceful community was once home to the ‘beguines’, an order of lay Catholic women.

  2. Huis van Alijn Museum: Explore everyday life in Bruges over the past centuries.

  3. Groeningemuseum: Visit this art museum to see works by Flemish Primitive painters and contemporary artists.

  4. St. John’s Hospital (Sint-Jan): This hospital dates back to 1220 and houses a collection of art, including The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Jan van Eyck.

Where to Eat:

  1. Ter Borre: Savor traditional Flemish dishes in this rustic-chic restaurant.

  2. Frietmuseum & Kantjil: After visiting the Frietmuseum, grab a cone of fresh Belgian fries at their on-site stand.

Tips:

  • Purchase a Bruges Card for free or discounted entry to many attractions and unlimited use of public transportation.
  • Explore the city by bike, it’s a great way to see more in less time!

Day 3: Relaxing & Offbeat Bruges

Places to Go:

  1. Minnewater Park: A romantic park with swans on the lake and scenic views of the city.

  2. Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan: Tour a working brewery, learn about the beer-making process, and taste some Bruges Zot beer.

  3. Brugse Vrije: A picturesque square with several historic buildings, including the Old Court of Justice.

  4. Insel Hydra: Escape the city for a bit at this tranquil oasis on the edge of town.

Where to Eat:

  1. ’t Visschehuys: Sit by the canal and enjoy fresh seafood in this charming restaurant.

  2. Simon Carmiguel: Try modern Belgian cuisine with a twist at this innovative eatery.

Day 4: Day Trip & Departure

Places to Go:

  1. Damme: A quaint village just a short train ride from Bruges, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

  2. Louvre Museum – Loonbeek: Visit the largest collection of Vermeer paintings outside of Holland.

  3. Return to Bruges and pack up for your departure!

Tips:

  • Check train schedules and plan accordingly as train services may change depending on the day of the week.
  • Don’t forget to pick up some Belgian chocolate or beer as souvenirs before you leave!

Enjoy your 4-day adventure in Bruges, Belgium!