Book Top Bruges Tours & Attraction Tickets

Know Before You Visit Bruges

Time Zone: The standard time is Central European Time (UTC +1:00).

During Daylight Saving Time (from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October), it observes Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2:00

Currency: Euro – EUR – €

Country Code: +32

Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for any emergency.

Spring (March–May) – Ideal for mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. Enjoy the city’s beauty with comfortable temperatures and vibrant greenery, especially around Minnewater Park.
Summer (June–August) – Peak tourist season with warm weather and lively festivals. Expect crowds, but also enjoy long daylight hours, canal tours, and open-air events like the Cactus Festival.
Autumn (September–November) – A fantastic time for fewer tourists, cooler weather, and stunning fall foliage. Bruges’ historic charm is enhanced by golden leaves and a cozy atmosphere.
Winter (December–February) – Magical for Christmas markets, festive lights, and a fairytale-like atmosphere. January and February are quieter, making it perfect for a romantic winter getaway.

Walking – The best way to explore Bruges, as the city is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with charming streets and picturesque canals.
Bicycle – Rent a bike to explore like a local, especially for visiting quieter neighborhoods, windmills, and nearby countryside areas.
Boat Tours – A scenic and relaxing way to see Bruges from a different perspective, cruising through its historic canals.
Public Buses – De Lijn buses connect different parts of the city and are useful for reaching areas outside the center.
Horse-Drawn Carriages – A romantic and unique way to experience Bruges’ medieval charm, especially around Markt Square.
Taxis & Rideshares – Available but rarely needed, as the city is small and best explored on foot or by bike.

Climb the Belfry of Bruges – Ascend the 83-meter tower in Markt Square for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Take a Canal Boat Tour – Experience Bruges from the water, gliding through its picturesque canals and seeing historic buildings from a unique perspective.
Explore Markt & Burg Square – Admire the stunning medieval architecture, visit the City Hall, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Bruges’ main squares.
Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood – A remarkable church housing a sacred relic believed to contain the blood of Christ.
See Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child – Located in the Church of Our Lady, this marble sculpture is one of the few Michelangelo works outside Italy.
Indulge in Belgian Chocolate & Beer – Visit local chocolatiers and breweries like De Halve Maan to taste world-famous Belgian treats.

Belgian Waffles (Bruges Waffles) – Light, crispy, and served with powdered sugar, chocolate, fruit, or whipped cream. Try them fresh from street vendors or cafés.
Frites (Belgian Fries) – Thicker and double-fried for extra crispiness, served with a variety of sauces like mayonnaise, andalouse, or samurai sauce.
Carbonnade Flamande (Flemish Beef Stew) – A rich, slow-cooked beef stew made with beer, onions, and herbs, typically served with fries or bread.
Grey Shrimp Croquettes (Garnaalkroketten) – Crispy croquettes filled with North Sea grey shrimp in a creamy béchamel sauce, a must-try seafood dish.
Dame Blanche – A classic Belgian dessert of vanilla ice cream topped with warm, rich Belgian chocolate sauce and whipped cream

Trappist Beer – Brewed by monks in Trappist monasteries, these strong, flavorful beers (like Westmalle and Chimay) are a must-try for beer lovers.
Brugse Zot – The signature beer of Bruges, brewed at De Halve Maan Brewery, this golden ale has a slightly fruity and hoppy taste.
Genever – The precursor to gin, this juniper-flavored spirit comes in young (mild) and old (stronger, maltier) varieties, enjoyed neat or in cocktails.
Belgian Hot Chocolate – Rich, creamy, and made with real Belgian chocolate, this is a perfect non-alcoholic treat, especially in winter.
Elixir d’Anvers – A traditional herbal liqueur with a sweet yet complex taste, often enjoyed as a digestif after meals.

Visit Early or Late in the Day – Bruges gets crowded, especially in peak season. Arrive early in the morning or explore in the evening for a quieter experience.
Stay Overnight – Many tourists visit Bruges on day trips, so staying overnight lets you enjoy the city’s charm without the daytime crowds.
Use a Brugge City Card – This pass offers discounts on attractions, museums, and canal tours, saving money on entrance fees.
Walk or Bike Everywhere – Bruges is compact and best explored on foot or by bicycle, allowing you to discover hidden gems along the way.
Eat Away from Tourist Hotspots – Restaurants in Markt Square tend to be pricey; explore side streets for better, more authentic, and budget-friendly options.
Bring Cash for Small Purchases – While most places accept cards, some small shops, bakeries, and public restrooms may require cash.
Check for Free Museum Days – Some museums offer free entry on certain days or discounts for students and seniors.