Bruges-4-day-itinerary

Bruges: A 4-Day Itinerary

Bruges is a fairytale city with charming canals, medieval architecture, and delicious chocolate. This itinerary will help you experience the best of Bruges in 4 days.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hostel Hangar or Hotel Navarra
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges or The Relais & Châteaux Heritage Hotel
  • Luxury: Relais Château de Bourgogne

Transportation:

  • Walking: Bruges is easily walkable, making it the perfect city to explore on foot.
  • Boat Tours: Canal cruises are a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective.
  • Bikes: Rent a bike for a fun and efficient way to explore the outskirts of Bruges.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Dutch, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) or Autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Day 1: Medieval Charm

  • Morning: Arrive in Bruges and check into your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Markt, the bustling central square with the impressive Belfry tower. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Visit the Church of Our Lady, home to Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child sculpture.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Flemish dinner at De Karmeliet (Michelin-starred) or Cambrinus, known for its Belgian beers.

Day 2: Canals & Chocolate

  • Morning: Take a canal boat tour to discover Bruges from the water. Pass by charming bridges, historic houses, and picturesque squares.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in Belgian chocolate at one of Bruges’ many chocolatiers. Visit Choco-Story for an interactive museum experience.
  • Evening: Have dinner at Bistro St.-John or De Stove, known for their cozy atmosphere and delicious food.

Day 3: Art & History

  • Morning: Visit the Groeninge Museum, home to Flemish masterpieces by artists like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic Beguinage, a peaceful walled complex with charming cottages and a serene chapel. Learn about the history of the beguines, a religious community of women who lived in these communities.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant De Dijver or Het Gulden Vlies for exquisite Belgian cuisine.

Day 4: Day Trip & Departure

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Ghent, a beautiful medieval city just 30 minutes away by train. Explore the Gravensteen castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral with its famous Ghent Altarpiece, and stroll along the Graslei quays.
  • Afternoon: Return to Bruges and enjoy some last-minute shopping for souvenirs like lace, chocolate, or beer.
  • Evening: Depart from Bruges.

Tips:

  • Purchase a Bruges City Card for free access to museums, discounts on attractions, and free public transportation.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Try the local specialties: moules-frites (mussels and fries), carbonnade flamande (beef stew), and Belgian waffles.
  • Take advantage of Bruges’ many charming cafes and bars for coffee breaks and evening drinks.

Have a wonderful time in Bruges!