Bruges 4 Day Itinerary

Bruges Itinerary: 4 Days of Medieval Charm

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

• Arrive in Bruges by train or bus
• Check-in at Hotel de Tuilerieen or similar, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the city
• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Broodhuys ’t Pandreitje, a cozy bakery serving traditional Flemish pastries

Afternoon

• Visit the Belfry Tower for panoramic views of the city (€6 entrance fee)
• Explore the adjacent Market Square, surrounded by colorful buildings and lively atmosphere
• Wander through the picturesque streets and canals, taking in the medieval architecture

Evening

• Enjoy dinner at De Karmeliet, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving contemporary Flemish cuisine (reservations recommended)
• Take a romantic evening stroll along the canals, admiring the city’s twinkling lights

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

• Visit the Church of Our Lady, home to Michelangelo’s famous “Madonna and Child” sculpture (€6 entrance fee)
• Explore the Groeningemuseum, featuring an impressive collection of Flemish and Belgian art (€12 entrance fee)

Afternoon

• Take a guided tour of the Bruges City Hall and climb its 83-meter-tall tower for breathtaking views (€6 entrance fee)
• Visit the Historic Centre of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Evening

• Savor dinner at Den Amand, serving traditional Flemish dishes in a cozy atmosphere
• Enjoy a scenic boat tour along the canals (€8 entrance fee)

Day 3: Relaxation and Nature

Morning

• Visit the beautiful Minnewater Park, featuring walking trails, ponds, and picnic areas
• Take a leisurely bike ride through the countryside or along the canal paths (bike rentals available)

Afternoon

• Relax at the Halve Maan Brewery, offering beer tastings and tours (€10 entrance fee)
• Visit the Bruges Botanical Garden, featuring over 1,500 plant species

Evening

• Dine at Bocca, serving creative, farm-to-table cuisine
• Enjoy a scenic sunset view from the Kruisvest Tower

Day 4: Shopping and Departure

Morning

• Explore the charming shops and boutiques along the Wollestraat and Steenstraat
• Visit the bustling Bruges Market, offering local products and souvenirs

Afternoon

• Depart for the airport or train station, bringing back memories of Bruges’ medieval charm

Things to Know

• Language: Dutch, French, and English are widely spoken
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Weather: Bruges can be chilly, even in summer; pack layers and waterproof gear
• Transportation: Walking is the best way to explore Bruges; buses and taxis are also available
• Tips:
  • Be prepared for crowds during peak season (June-August)
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try traditional Flemish dishes like waterzooi, moules-frites, and waffles

Getting There

• By Train: Bruges is easily accessible by train from Brussels Airport or other major Belgian cities
• By Bus: Bus services connect Bruges to nearby cities and the airport
• By Car: Parking options are limited; consider parking outside the city center and taking public transportation

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, relaxation, and exploration, showcasing the best of Bruges’ medieval charm. Enjoy your trip!