Bruges 2 Day Itinerary

2-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Bruges

Day 1

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Start your day at the Market Square (Grote Markt), the heart of Bruges’ historic center. Admire the stunning Belfry Tower and take a stroll around the square to soak up the medieval atmosphere.
  • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk), home to Michelangelo’s famous “Madonna and Child” sculpture.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Take a break for lunch at ’t Zand, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Flemish dishes. Try their famous waterzooi (a creamy stew) or carbonade flamande (beef stew).
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore the Groeningemuseum, which features an impressive collection of Flemish and Belgian art, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy a romantic dinner at De Karmeliet, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving contemporary Flemish cuisine.
  • 10:00 PM: Take a leisurely evening stroll along the Canal of Bruges (Reie), which offers picturesque views of the city’s medieval architecture.

Day 2

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Visit the Beguinage, a tranquil oasis and UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once home to a community of Beguines (lay sisters).
  • 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Take a guided tour of the Halve Maan Brewery, where you can learn about Bruges’ rich brewing history and sample some of their delicious beers.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore the Lace Centre (Kantcentrum), which showcases the art of lace-making and offers demonstrations and workshops.
  • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Visit the Church of St. John (Sint-Janskerk), a beautiful example of Gothic architecture with stunning stained-glass windows.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel de Tuilerieën: A charming boutique hotel located in a restored 17th-century building.
  • B&B In Brugge: A cozy bed and breakfast with comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere.

Things to Know

  • Bruges is a car-free city, so be prepared to walk or use public transportation.
  • Many museums and attractions offer free admission on Wednesdays.
  • Be sure to try some of Bruges’ famous chocolate at one of the many local shops.

Transportation

  • Brussels Airport (BRU): The closest international airport, approximately 1 hour from Bruges by car or train.
  • Bruges Train Station: Regular trains connect Bruges to Brussels, Ghent, and other Belgian cities.
  • Bus: Frequent buses connect Bruges to nearby towns and cities.

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and picturesque canals.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.

Other Things of Interest

  • Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: A romantic way to explore the city’s historic center.
  • Rent a Bike: Explore Bruges’ scenic countryside on two wheels.
  • Visit the Bruges City Museum (Stedelijk Museum): Learn about the city’s history and culture at this interactive museum.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Bruges!