Bruges 10 days

The main railway station, serving as the gateway to Bruges for many visitors arriving by train. It offers connections to major Belgian cities and beyond.

The bustling heart of Bruges, surrounded by stunning medieval architecture including the Provincial Court and the iconic Belfry. It's a vibrant hub for markets and events.

• Enjoy a Belgian waffle from one of the street vendors.
• Look out for the colorful gabled houses lining the square.

A medieval bell tower offering panoramic views of Bruges. Climb its 366 steps to discover its historical significance and enjoy breathtaking vistas.

• Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
• The climb is strenuous; wear comfortable shoes.

A popular Belgian restaurant and beer bar known for its extensive selection of local beers and traditional Flemish cuisine. Offers a cozy atmosphere with exposed brick walls.

• Try the Stoofvlees (Flemish beef stew) paired with a local Trappist beer.

Experience Bruges from its picturesque canals on a guided boat tour. See the city's historic bridges and charming waterside architecture from a unique perspective.

• Tours depart from various points along the canals.
• Best enjoyed on a clear day for optimal views.

A museum dedicated to the history of chocolate, from its origins to modern production. Includes live demonstrations and a tasting session.

• Great for families and anyone with a sweet tooth.

A charming spot to sample exquisite Belgian chocolates and enjoy a rich hot chocolate. Offers a wide variety of pralines and pastries.

• Their hot chocolate is legendary - try the 'Bruges' version.

Home to a remarkable collection of Flemish and Belgian art, with a strong focus on the Early Netherlandish period, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.

While sharing a name with the previous day's suggestion, this is a distinct establishment focusing on a different culinary experience, still with an excellent beer selection. Known for its hearty dishes.

Walk along sections of Bruges' well-preserved medieval city walls and explore its historic gates, such as the Kruispoort and the Dampoort. Offers a glimpse into the city's past defenses.

One of the oldest preserved hospital buildings in Europe, now housing a museum dedicated to the history of medicine and the hospital itself. Features the works of Hans Memling.

A traditional Flemish restaurant offering authentic local dishes in a relaxed setting. Known for its friendly service and quality ingredients.

A historic brewery offering guided tours that delve into the brewing process of their famous Brugse Zot beer. Includes a tasting at the end.

• Book tours in advance, especially during peak season.

A cozy and highly-rated restaurant specializing in gourmet soups, served with fresh bread. A unique and comforting dining experience.

• Perfect for a lighter, yet satisfying, dinner.

The largest church in Bruges, boasting impressive Gothic architecture and a rich history. It houses significant artworks and a towering spire.

Famous for its towering brick spire, the second tallest in the world, and housing Michelangelo's Madonna and Child sculpture. A masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

• The Michelangelo sculpture is a must-see.
• Check for restricted access due to ongoing restoration work on some parts of the church, though the main areas are accessible.

A serene and tranquil complex of white-washed houses, once home to beguines. Now inhabited by Benedictine nuns, it offers a peaceful escape with a beautiful garden.

A romantic park featuring the picturesque Lake of Love and a charming castle. Ideal for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the natural beauty.

A hidden gem of a bar tucked away in a narrow alley, famous for its extensive Belgian beer selection, especially its own house beer. Cozy and atmospheric.

• Ask the bartender for recommendations based on your preferences.

Take a direct train from Bruges to Ghent, a journey of approximately 30-40 minutes. The Belgian rail network is efficient and frequent.

• Purchase tickets at the station or via the national rail operator's app.

A formidable medieval castle in Ghent, offering insights into its history with armories and torture devices. The ramparts provide excellent city views.

The picturesque medieval guildhalls lining the Leie River, forming the historic heart of Ghent. A beautiful spot for photos and people-watching.

Home to the world-renowned Ghent Altarpiece (The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb) by the Van Eyck brothers. A magnificent example of Gothic architecture.

• The Altarpiece viewing has a separate fee and can have queues.

A legendary beer bar in Ghent with an immense selection of beers, served in a historic building overlooking the canals. Offers a truly authentic Belgian beer experience.

Return to Bruges via train. Evening trains are frequent.

Discover the intricate art of Bruges lace-making. Learn about its history, techniques, and see demonstrations by skilled artisans.

• You can purchase authentic Bruges lace here.

A charming street lined with independent boutiques, artisan shops, and galleries. Perfect for finding unique souvenirs and local crafts.

A well-regarded restaurant specializing in mussels (moules) and other Belgian seafood dishes. Offers a classic Bruges dining experience.

Check local listings for market days (often Wednesdays and Saturdays on the Markt or other squares) for fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.

A legendary beer bar with over 300 different beers. It's a small, intimate space where beer enthusiasts gather.

• Not a place for a loud night out, but perfect for serious beer tasting.

Embark on a guided tour focused on Bruges' famous chocolate scene. Sample artisanal chocolates and learn about the city's rich confectionery history.

• A great way to discover smaller, local chocolatiers.

A charming restaurant housed in a historic building, known for its excellent Flemish cuisine and jazz music evenings. Offers a refined dining experience.

Explore the Adornes Domain, a historic merchant's house, and the unique Jerusalem Chapel, a private chapel built in a replica of the Holy Sepulchre. Offers a glimpse into Bruges' past trading and religious life.

A cozy bistro with a focus on traditional Belgian dishes, including excellent steak and frites. Known for its warm ambiance and generous portions.

An interactive experience that brings Bruges' Golden Age to life through immersive storytelling, virtual reality, and multi-sensory exhibits. Located on the Markt square.

• Great for understanding the city's history in an engaging way.

Experience authentic Belgian fries ('frietjes') from a local fry shop. Often served in a cone with a variety of sauces.

• Try the 'stoofvleessaus' (stew sauce) for a classic pairing.

Explore this less-touristy area, home to local bakeries, smaller shops, and residential streets. Offers a more authentic feel of daily life in Bruges.

A charming and historic quarter with narrow streets, picturesque canals, and traditional houses. Known for its peaceful atmosphere.

Located in the former palace of the Lords of Gruuthuse, this museum showcases the decorative arts and history of Bruges from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. The building itself is a highlight.

Take a direct train from Bruges to Ostend, a coastal city. The journey is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Enjoy a stroll along the wide, sandy beach of Ostend, Belgium's largest coastal resort. It's a great place to breathe in the sea air.

Visit the former home of the influential Belgian painter James Ensor, now a museum dedicated to his life and work. It offers insight into his artistic world.

A historic hexagonal fort offering panoramic views of the harbor and the sea. It provides a historical perspective on coastal defense.

Enjoy fresh seafood at one of Ostend's many restaurants near the harbor or promenade. Local specialties include shrimp and sole.

Return to Bruges by train.

Purchase some bottles of Brugse Zot or Straffe Hendrik beer from a local shop to enjoy later. A perfect souvenir for beer lovers.

Visit some of the shops around the Markt or smaller streets for any last-minute gifts or mementos.

If you didn't get enough at the brewery tour, the shop offers a wide range of their beers, merchandise, and related products.

A final taste of authentic Belgian fries before departing. Choose a highly-rated local spot for a quick and satisfying meal.

Depart from Bruges Station.