1 day in Bruges

March 2018

Bruges is the capital and largest city of the province of West Flanders in the Flemish Region of Belgium, in the northwest of the country. This UNESCO World Heritage City with its medieval historic settlement looks like a pretty postcard, with its canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings. The only downside: it's too crowded with tourists.

If you are in Brussels for 4 days or more I recommend you to do a day trip to Bruges.

WEATHER

The warmest months of the year are June, July and August with temperatures that go between 15°C and 17°C. The coldest month is January with an average temperature of 4°C. November is the wettest month of the year.

We visited Bruges in March and the weather was better than what we expected. Remember to carry an umbrella always as it rains quite a lot.

TRANSPORT

It's really easy to reach Bruges from Brussels. You can take a train from Bruxelles-Midi or from Bruxelles Central to Bruges. We took the train at Bruxelles-Midi. A return ticket during the weekend will cost you 15.70€ and you can buy it at the station. Tickets are more expensive during the week. The journey takes around 1 hour if you take an IC train. Avoid the local trains (L) as the journey will be longer. For more info about tickets and prices go to this link From Brussels to Bruges.

Once in Bruges it will take you around 15 minutes walk to get to the city centre. You don't need to use the public transport as everything is within walking distance.

PLACES TO VISIT AND THINGS TO DO

Walk around Markt Square, in the heart of the city, with its 12th century Belfry and the Provincial Court.
Take a boat cruise and enjoy a different view of the city. You will have many different companies to choose from.
Stroll around Burg Square where you will be able to admire buildings with a variety of architectural styles. One of the most impressive buildings in Bruges is the Gothic Town Hall or Stadhuis.
Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
Walk around Tanners Square or Huidenvettersplein, a tiny square full of restaurants and artists.
Spend a bit of time walking around Walplein where you will find a sculpture that pays tribute to the city's coachmen. At Walplein you can also pay a visit to the only brewery that still operates in the inner city.

FOOD AND DRINK

If you like beer, Belgium has to be on your list. You can try Brugse Zot, the town beer of Bruges, I loved it!

Regarding to food, you can try the Flemish rabbit and obviously the chocolate. You will find loads of chocolate shops in Bruges. Chocolate is a good gift to bring to your family or friends. I loved the Galler chocolate; you can find it in loads of supermarkets.

I will mention more Belgian dishes in the Brussels post.

BUDGET

Around 50€ - 60€ including return ticket to Brussels, food and some shopping.