Top 15 Things To Do in Bruges for an Unforgettable Trip

Discover the top 15 things to do in Bruges, one of the most-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Visit its UNESCO-listed historic center, where time stands still in a fairytale-like atmosphere. Explore ancient sites, cruise along canals, or savor world-famous Belgian beer and chocolate.

If you're planning a trip, book from Bruges' largest selection of tours and tickets in advance to ensure you won't miss out on must-do activities. Check out a full range of travel packages in Bruges to customize your itinerary with plenty of options that suit every visitor. 

Bruges is a compact city, making exploring easy on foot. However, if you prefer flexibility, the widest variety of car rentals in Bruges can help you venture beyond to nearby gems like Ghent and the Belgian coast. Now, let's dive into the best things to do in Bruges and start planning your trip!

15. Explore the Bruges Historic Center

Consider joining a walking tour of Bruges's historic center to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history. This beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts stunning medieval buildings, lively squares, and charming courtyards.

Visit the Market Square and be amazed by the towering Belfry of Bruges with centuries of history behind them. Even if you're a history buff, a casual traveler, or with your family, exploring the historic center is one of the best things to do in Bruges!

14. Take a Scenic Canal Boat Tour in Bruges

Taking a scenic canal cruise with your walking tour in Bruges is one of the best ways to experience the city from a unique perspective. Bruges is known for its tranquil waterways that weave through stunning medieval buildings and picturesque bridges.

The canals are lovely in spring and summer, lined with blooming flowers and lush greenery. A canal tour is one of the most romantic things to do in Bruges that couples will surely love. Every turn reveals postcard-worthy views of iconic landmarks like Jan Van Eyck Square and Minnewater Lake.

13. Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood

If you want to explore history more deeply, consider joining a walking tour of Bruges with a visit to the Basilica of the Holy Blood. This small yet stunning basilica in Burg Square is famous for housing a revered relic: a cloth believed to contain the Holy Blood of Jesus.

The church is divided into two sections: the Romanesque St. Basil's Chapel on the ground floor and the ornate Holy Blood Chapel upstairs. While the lower chapel has a dark, medieval feel, the upper chapel impresses with its colorful stained glass and intricate Gothic details.

The basilica is open daily with free entry, though a small donation is appreciated. However, lines can be extended during the weekend, so plan accordingly. For a more peaceful experience, visit on a weekday morning when crowds are thinner. 

12. Climb the Bruges Belfry Tower

Join a tour that includes a stop at the 13th-century Belfry of Bruges and admire this 83-meter (272-foot) tower. This striking landmark offers stunning city views that dominate Market Square. Take on the challenge of climbing 366 steps to enjoy incredible panoramic views of Bruges.

Upon ascending, you’ll pass the old treasury room, the clockwork mechanism, and the impressive carillon drum that still rings across the city. This is a must-do if you’re looking for unique things to do in Bruges.  

The Belfry Tower is perfect for photography lovers. You can capture stunning skyline photos from its height or soak in the medieval charm. Visit early in the morning before crowds arrive, as only a limited number of people can go up at once.

11. Explore the Bruges Market Square

Most Bruges city tours begin at Market Square, an excellent starting point for exploring the city. This historic square has been a bustling center of commerce since 985 and is still active today. 

The Belfry Tower stands proudly, along with the Provincial Palace and Huis Boechoute, the square's oldest house. On Wednesdays, the weekly market offers shopping opportunities, where locals and visitors can browse a variety of stalls offering fresh produce, handmade goods, clothing, and other local products.

If you are looking for things to do in Bruges during winter, the square becomes a Christmas wonderland that enchants people. From November to January, it features twinkling lights, festive stalls, and an ice skating rink.

10. Take a Tour To See the Madonna of Michelangelo

Join a private tour in Bruges to see the Madonna of Michelangelo and explore one of the city’s most remarkable artistic treasures. Housed in the Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk), this world-famous marble sculpture is among the few Michelangelo works outside Italy. 

Next to this masterpiece, the church contains tombs, crypts, and religious paintings, making it a must-see for those who love art and history. A visit to this historic site is one of the top things to do in Bruges, as it offers a glimpse of the city’s art and cultural heritage. 

9. Book a Ticket to Historium Bruges

Book a ticket to Historium Bruges for an immersive museum that vividly recreates the medieval era. Located in Market Square, this fun attraction will take you on a multisensory journey through the Golden Age of Bruges in the 15th century. 

Experience the city's history with sights, sounds, and scents through seven themed rooms. A highlight is the virtual flight, which lets you soar over the canals and streets. The Historium Tower offers stunning views, while the Duvelorium beer bar provides a great spot to relax with a drink.

Visiting Historium Bruges is a fantastic choice if you're looking for things to do in Bruges with kids. The engaging exhibits and VR experience make history fun and exciting for younger visitors. At the same time, adults will appreciate the rich storytelling and historical depth. 

8. Visit the Groeningemuseum

Reserve your ticket to the Groeningemuseum and explore six centuries of artistic masterpieces. This museum showcases iconic works by Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and Hieronymus Bosch, which embody the evolution of Flemish and Belgian art.

For a quieter experience, visit on a weekday and explore each gallery. Don’t miss the temporary exhibitions that may feature unique themes and works of emerging artists, offering fresh perspectives on the museum's collection.

The Groeningemuseum is one of the best things art lovers can do in Bruges, Belgium. If you're an art enthusiast or just curious about Flemish masterpieces, this museum offers an enriching and visually stunning experience.

7. Indulge in Belgian Chocolate in Bruges

One of the most fun things to do in Bruges with kids is taking a food and drink tour with Belgian chocolate tasting. With local expert guides, you can taste the world-famous Belgian chocolate from the city's top chocolatiers while hearing the fascinating history behind each sweet creation.

You can sample handcrafted treats, from smooth pralines to decadent truffles made with high-quality cocoa. Kids will love sampling chocolates shaped like seashells and lace, while adults can savor more refined flavors infused with spices or liqueurs.

For the best experience, visit on weekdays to avoid the weekend rush of exploring different chocolate shops. Remember to bring home a box of authentic Belgian chocolates; they're the perfect souvenir to relive the taste of Bruges long after your trip!

6. Join a Bruges Beer Tasting Tour 

Join a beer-tasting tour in Bruges to sample six of Belgium's finest brews. Enjoying these exceptional beers is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Bruges at night. Explore centuries-old breweries and taste everything from bold Trappist ales to smooth wheat beers.

Many tours include visits to well-known spots like the De Halve Maan Brewery and the Bruges Beer Museum, where you can sample multiple beers and dive into Belgium's rich beer culture. Some even bring the best of Bruges' beer scene directly to your table, allowing you to sit back and savor a curated selection of Belgian classics.

This kind of experience is essential for anyone exploring Bruges' vibrant nightlife and beer scene. By joining a pub crawl or opting for a guided sit-down tasting, you can connect with fellow visitors and enjoy the local flavor.

5. Take a Photography Tour of Bruges

Capture the beauty of Bruges on a small-group photography workshop and city tour that takes you to its most scenic spots. A local guide will help you find the best angles and lighting using a camera or smartphone. You will also have the chance to photograph medieval streets, charming canals, and hidden gems.

Join a morning or sunset tour for the best shots when the light is perfect. Don't miss Rozenhoedkaai (Quay of the Rosary), the most photographed spot in Bruges, known for its stunning reflections on the canal. Arriving early helps you avoid crowds and capture Bruges at its most peaceful.

A photography tour is the best way for creative travelers to capture and take home unforgettable souvenirs from their adventure. It’s one of the most unique experiences in Bruges, Belgium, giving you a fresh view of the city that you’ll be able to treasure through your photos.

4. Discover Bruges’ Hidden Gem: The Beguinage

Discover the tranquil enclave of The Beguinage on a Bruges guided tour, which includes a stop at the Wijngaardplein. This must-visit spot was once home to women who lived in a religious community without formal vows. It remains a place of quiet reflection, now inhabited by Benedictine nuns.

Amidst whitewashed houses and a lush garden, the Beguinage feels like a step back in time. The simple yet elegant Begijnhofkerk Sint-Elisabeth church is open to visitors and offers a space for prayer and meditation.

Spring is the most magical time to visit when daffodils bloom across the gardens, creating a picturesque scene. If you're looking for affordable things to do in Bruges, the Beguinage is open daily and free to enter. You only need to pay a small fee to visit the on-site museum. Remember to walk quietly, as this is still a functioning religious community. 

3. Stroll Through Minnewater Park

Enhance your visit to Bruges with a private historical tour that includes Minnewater Park. Known as the "Lake of Love," this peaceful park is famous for its scenic lake, beautiful bridge, and graceful swans.

It's the ideal place to escape the busy streets and enjoy quiet time surrounded by nature. To experience the park at its best, picnic along the water's edge and wander past historical sights like the Sashuis lock house and Kasteel Minnewater, a picturesque castle turned restaurant.

A walk over the romantic Lover's Bridge offers stunning views, and the legend says that couples who cross the bridge together will enjoy eternal love. If you're looking for romantic things to do in Bruges, Minnewater Park should be on your itinerary. 

2. Visit the Windmills of Bruges

Discover a quieter side of the city on a retro bike tour in Bruges, which passes by Sint-Janshuismolen, the oldest remaining windmill in the city. Located along the scenic ramparts at Park Kruisvest, the windmill was once one of the 25 to 30 windmills in the area. 

Bruges currently has other preserved windmills. However, Sint-Janshuismolen, built in 1770, is the only one still in its original location and remains operational for grinding flour.

Alongside Sint-Janshuismolen, you'll find the other windmills: Bonne Chiere, De Nieuwe Papegaai, and Koeleweimill. A short 15–20-minute walk apart, these windmills make a great cycling or walking route, often called the "Windmill Walk."

While most windmills can only be admired from the outside, Sint-Janshuismolen welcomes visitors inside for a closer look at its mechanics. For those looking for things to do in Bruges that offer a unique and educational experience while also enjoying a scenic walk or bike ride, exploring the windmills should be on your list.

1. Take a Day Trip From Bruges to Flanders Fields 

Joining the Flanders Fields remembrance tour, one of the most popular day tours from Bruges, is a meaningful way to enrich your trip. This guided excursion will honor World War I history, allowing you to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by soldiers across the hauntingly beautiful Flanders Battlefields.

Visit significant sites like the German Military Cemetery in Vladslo, home to the emotional Grieving Parents sculpture. Explore the Trench of Death in Diksmuide, the insightful exhibitions at Flanders Field Museum, and the historically significant Hill 60.

In Passchendaele, witness how a former battlefield has been transformed into a peaceful town with memorials honoring the fallen. At Ypres, discover the iconic bunkers where the famous poem “In Flanders Fields" was written and the moving Last Post Ceremony at Ypres Menin Gate.