Bruges 2 Day Itinerary

Bruges: A 2-Day Itinerary for the Curious Traveler

This itinerary focuses on exploring the history, charm, and culinary delights of Bruges.

Day 1: Medieval History & Charm

  • Morning:

    • Arrive in Bruges: Take a train to Bruges from Brussels (direct trains are available) or drive in. Consider parking outside the city walls and taking a tram or walking/cycling into the center for a more immersive experience.

    • Markt Square: Start your day at the bustling Markt Square, the heart of Bruges.

      • Admire the iconic Belfry tower and consider climbing it for stunning views (250 steps!)
      • Explore the ornate buildings surrounding the square, including the Market Hall and the Provincial Court.
      • Take a break for coffee and a delicious pastry at Cafe Markt while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

    • Boat Tour: Embark on a classic Bruges experience - a canal boat tour. This is a fantastic way to see the city from a unique perspective and learn about its history and architecture.

    • Lunch: Indulge in a traditional Belgian lunch at De Vlaming, enjoying dishes like mussels, carbonnade flamande (Flemish beef stew), or Flemish fries while soaking in the canal views.

  • Afternoon:

    • Belfry Climb: If you didn’t climb the steps earlier, now’s a great time to do it! Enjoy panoramic views of Bruges from the top of the Belfry.
    • Belfry History: Learn about the history and significance of the Belfry by visiting the Bruges Belfry website or downloading a guide before your visit.

  • Evening:

    • Dinner at De Gruuthuse: This medieval tavern offers hearty meals and a wide selection of Belgian beers, setting the stage for an authentic evening experience.

Things to know for Day 1:

  • Bruges is a pedestrian-friendly city: Explore the Markt Square and other sights on foot.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking!
  • Consider a guided tour: Many tours offer unique insights into Bruges’ history, like the “Free Walking Tour Bruges” that explores the medieval alleys and canals.

Day 2: Chocolate & Beyond

  • Morning:

    • Chocolate Tasting: Indulge in a decadent experience with a chocolate tasting at one of Bruges’ renowned chocolateries.
    • Belfry Exploration: Visit the Groeninge Museum for a deeper dive into Flemish art and the history of this beautiful city.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore the streets: After the museum, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Bruges, taking in the cobblestone paths and picturesque buildings.

  • Chocolate Workshop: Immerse yourself in the world of Belgian chocolate by participating in a chocolate-making workshop at Chocolate Nation, where you can learn about the process from bean to bar.

  • Evening:

    • Dinner: Enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant with a canal view, followed by a stroll through the historic Markt Square.

Things to know for Day 2:

  • Bring your appetite: Bruges is famous for its chocolate, and you’ll want to sample as much as possible!
  • Check for availability: Book your chocolate tasting experience in advance.

Day 2: Itinerary Options

  • Chocolate Heaven: Indulge your sweet tooth with a chocolate-making class. It’s a fun way to learn about the local delicacy and even create your own chocolate treats.
  • Explore the canals: Bruges is known for its picturesque canals. Take a walk along their banks, enjoy the beautiful views, and soak in the charming atmosphere of the city.

Day 2: Enjoy a traditional Belgian meal: Try some local specialties like moules-frites, mussels cooked in a white wine sauce and served with fries, or carbonnade flamande, a beef stew slow-cooked in beer.

Things to know for both days:

  • Chocolate shops are abundant: Be sure to visit multiple chocolateries in Bruges, as each one offers unique flavors and styles of chocolate.

Day 2: Chocolate Tasting Experience

  • The Focus: Bruges is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. You’ll find cobblestone streets and canals, charming squares, and medieval architecture everywhere.
  • Best places to stay: For a truly luxurious experience, consider staying at Hotel Dukes’ Palace in the heart of the city.

Day 2: Belgium is renowned for its chocolate:

  • The Chocolate Experience: Explore the history of Belgian chocolate making by visiting Chocolate Line, Chocolate Nation, or Choco-Story.
  • Learning about chocolate making: Indulge in a variety of delicious chocolates and discover the craftsmanship behind this beloved treat.

General tips for enjoying Bruges:

  • Embrace the slow pace: Enjoy the charm of walking through the medieval streets and canals.

How to get around:

  • Walking Tours: Explore the historic canals on a canal boat tour, learning about the history and culture of this local delicacy from experienced guides.

  • Cycling: Rent a bike to explore the city like a local and enjoy its quaint ambiance.

  • Enjoy the canals by foot or bike: Take a leisurely stroll along the canals, admiring the architecture and enjoying the views.

Things to do in Bruges:

  • Explore the Market Square: Enjoy the beautiful architecture of the buildings.
  • Visit a chocolatier: Learn about the process of making chocolate and experience different flavors.
  • Sample some Belgian treats: Try the famous Belgian waffles and fries.

Things to know:

  • Take a break: Stop for a coffee and pastry break at “Cafe Markt”, a charming cafe in the heart of the city, known for its traditional flavors.

  • Enjoy the history: Indulge in the history of Bruges through a guided tour of the city’s historic center.

  • Explore the city by boat: Enjoy a relaxing and scenic ride on one of the canal boats, taking in the beauty of the canals.

For a unique experience:

Visit the Groeninge Museum: Explore the history of Bruges and its famous chocolate-making tradition.

This is just a starting point - feel free to customize it based on your interests!