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Planning a trip to Bruges? You’re in for a treat—literally and figuratively!
Bruges is a fairytale city packed with charming experiences, but not all tours and activities are created equal. After exploring every corner of this city (and eating our weight in chocolate), we’ve figured out which ones are actually worth your time and money.
Whether you’re into food or history or just want to see the city from a new perspective, these are the top experiences that made our trip truly unforgettable. From hands-on workshops to scenic boat rides and fascinating walking tours, here are the best things to do in Bruges—so you can skip the guesswork and go straight to the good stuff!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Bruges was this Belgian chocolate-making workshop! We made over 35 chocolates each—including pralines, mendiants, and even our own rich hot chocolate from scratch.
We even left with golden boxes full of goodies to share!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Bruges, Belgium
- 1. Learn about Bruges on a guided walking and boat tour
- 2. Become a chocolatier with a Belgian Chocolate Workshop
- 3. Explore the city on a retro bicycle
- 4. Discover Bruges' history with a private local guide
- 5. Taste your way around Bruges
- 6. See Bruges at night and learn about its mysteries and legends
- 7. Taste Belgian beer and make waffles in a Waffles ‘n Beer Workshop
- Where to Stay in Bruges, Belgium
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Europe
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Bruges, Belgium
1. Learn about Bruges on a guided walking and boat tour
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times available
- Highlights: Walking tour of Bruges’ historic center, see many UNESCO sites, go on a canal cruise
- Inclusions: Guide, boat trip, chocolate tasting, map of Bruges
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the 440+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Ever arrive in a new city and have no idea where to start? We’ve been there. That’s exactly why we decided to book this guided walking tour and canal cruise on our first day in Bruges. It was the perfect way to see the city’s highlights and get our bearings before exploring on our own!
We started with a small-group walking tour through Bruges’ UNESCO-listed historic center. Our guide, Kathleen, was fantastic—leading us to famous landmarks like Markt Square, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the grand town hall while also revealing hidden gems and local secrets we’d never have found on our own.
Plus, her insider tips led us straight to the best fries and waffles in town (a Belgian staple!)!
Then came the highlight: a scenic canal cruise. We drifted under charming stone bridges and past medieval houses while our captain shared stories of Bruges’ past. Seeing the city from the water was absolutely magical!
If you’re visiting Bruges for the first time, this tour is the perfect way to get oriented, learn the city’s history, and soak in its beauty—all within a couple of hours! If you need any more convincing, just look at all of these 5-star reviews!
Check availability for this popular city tour here!
2. Become a chocolatier with a Belgian Chocolate Workshop
Note: They open bookings 2 months in advance, so that’s why availability only goes through May!
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 10 am, 1:30 pm, or 2:30 pm
- Highlights: Learn to make three different types of chocolate from scratch, and take home a box of your creations
- Inclusions: Guide, equipment, ingredients, chocolate box, hot chocolate
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 490+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If there’s one thing Belgium is known for (aside from waffles), it’s chocolate! And there’s no better way to experience it than by making your own during this hands-on Belgian chocolate workshop. It was, without a doubt, the most fun (and delicious) thing we did in Bruges!
We arrived at a cozy chocolate studio, where our expert chocolatier guide walked us through the art of Belgian chocolate-making. First, we learned the secrets behind the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture before getting to work tempering, molding, and decorating our very own pralines and mendiants (classic Belgian chocolate treats).
It was my first time making chocolate, but the step-by-step guidance made it easy to follow along and create professional-looking treats—or at least, as close as I could get!
And the best part? We got to taste-test as we went (because how else would we know if we were doing it right?) and even packed up our homemade chocolates to take home.
If you love chocolate (who doesn’t?) and want a fun, interactive way to experience one of Belgium’s most famous traditions, this chocolate-making workshop is a must. Trust us—nothing beats the taste of freshly made Belgian chocolate!
Learn more about our favorite Bruges tour and secure your spot here!
3. Explore the city on a retro bicycle
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 10 am, 10:30 am, 2:30 pm, 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Explore Bruges on a retro bicycle with a local guide, see top sites and hear fascinating stories and history, relax with a beverage in a secret garden
- Inclusions: Guide, bike, helmet, basket
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 170+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Want to see more of Bruges without spending all day walking? We definitely didn’t want to waste our time navigating maps or dodging crowds the entire day. That’s why this retro bike tour was the perfect way to cover more ground while soaking in the city’s charm—and cruising on a vintage ride made it even more fun!
Instead of limiting ourselves to just the Old Town, we pedaled beyond the main tourist hotspots, cruising past scenic canals, through quiet residential areas, and even out to the city’s historic windmills.
Riding a classic 1970s-style bike gave the whole experience a nostalgic feel, making it one of the most unique tours we did in Bruges. It was like we’d stepped into a vintage postcard—bells ringing, cobblestone streets, and locals waving as we passed.
Our guide kept things interesting the entire time with fascinating stories and legends. We even stopped at some of Bruges’ best viewpoints and lesser-known areas, giving us an insider’s look at the city’s history and culture. And because we were on bikes, we covered way more than we could have on foot, all without feeling rushed!
If you’re short on time but want to experience Bruges beyond the main squares, this bike tour is a no-brainer. It’s the perfect mix of history, stunning scenery, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries!
Secure your spot on this popular tour here before it sells out!
4. Discover Bruges’ history with a private local guide
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times available
- Highlights: Private walking tour to see the city’s best sights, including Belfort and Gruuthusemuseum, learn about the city, and get personalized recommendations from your guide
- Inclusions: Local guide, hotel pick-up/drop-off
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 260+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Let’s be honest—group tours can be hit or miss. You’re straining to hear the guide, racing to keep up, or awkwardly trailing behind a flag through crowded streets. That’s exactly why we booked this private walking tour on our last trip to Bruges—and we’re so glad we did!
Our guide, Martin, was fantastic. From the moment we met him, it felt like we were exploring with a super knowledgeable friend. There were no scripts or dry facts—just fascinating legends, hidden gems, and quirky stories that made the city come to life.
And since it was a private tour, we could ask all the questions we wanted, linger at spots that interested us, and enjoy the city at our own pace—no rushing to keep up with a group or missing half the commentary!
We wandered through the historic center and quieter backstreets, learning the full story behind Bruges’ most iconic sights without the usual crowd chaos. Martin also shared some amazing local tips for where to eat, drink, and explore afterward (we tried a few, and they did not disappoint!).
If you want a deeper, more personal way to explore Bruges—without the crowds or chaos—this private tour is 100% worth it. There’s a reason it has over 200 5-star reviews!
For a personalized tour of Bruges, book this private tour here!
5. Taste your way around Bruges
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times available
- Highlights: Private gourmet food tour through Bruges Old Town, tastes 10 different Belgian food and drink specialties
- Inclusions: Private guide, food and drink tastings
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check out the 190+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you only do one food experience in Bruges—make it this one! This private food tour was easily one of the highlights of our trip. I mean, what better way to explore a city than by eating your way through it with a local who knows exactly where to go?
Instead of stumbling into overpriced tourist traps, our guide led us straight to the good stuff: family-run bakeries, tucked-away cafés, and specialty shops we would’ve completely missed on our own.
We tried 10 different tastings, from perfectly crisp Belgian fries and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate to local cheeses, waffles, and more. Every stop came with delicious bites and a bit of history! We learned which chocolate shops are actually local favorites (not just Insta-famous) and even heard how Belgian fries became a national obsession.
What made it even better was the private experience. No big crowds or rushed stops—just a relaxed pace, great conversation, and time to ask all the questions we wanted. And if you have any food allergies, no problem! This experience can be completely tailored to your personal preferences.
If you’re ready to dive into Bruges’ food scene, connect with locals, and seriously treat your taste buds, this is the way to do it!
Read the great reviews and reserve your spot here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. See Bruges at night and learn about its mysteries and legends
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
- Time: Multiple evening departures are available
- Highlights: Explore Bruges highlights during the evening (away from the crowds), learn the city’s intriguing history and medieval mysteries, see the city’s beautiful lights
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 60+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Looking for a history tour that isn’t just dates, timelines, and yawn-worthy facts? This evening walking tour through Bruges is the perfect way to dive into the city’s past in a way that’s engaging, entertaining, and just a little bit mysterious.
We joined the tour on our first night in Bruges, and it turned out to be the ideal way to explore the city without the daytime crowds. As we strolled along quiet cobblestone streets and beautifully lit squares, our theatrical guide brought Bruges’ past to life with stories of forgotten heroes, quirky local traditions, and unsolved mysteries that still puzzle people today. Some tales were dark, others lighthearted—but all of them were fascinating.
This isn’t a ghost tour, and it’s not scary, but it’s perfect for anyone craving something more captivating than a typical historical lecture. The guide’s dramatic storytelling had us completely hooked from start to finish.
Plus, exploring Bruges at night is a must! The vibe was completely different than the daytime, and the medieval buildings glowing under the streetlights were genuinely mesmerizing.
If you’re into unique local legends and want to experience the city in a totally different light (pun intended), don’t miss out on this tour!
Check availability for this popular evening tour here!
7. Taste Belgian beer and make waffles in a Waffles ‘n Beer Workshop
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 11 am, 1:30 pm, 4 pm, 6:30 pm
- Highlights: Learn to make authentic Belgian waffles, sample 3 different types of Belgian beer, take home your own waffle recipe
- Inclusions: Guide, ingredients, beer, bottled water
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 340+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Belgium is known for two things: waffles and beer. So why not combine the two in one unforgettable experience? This waffles and beer workshop is hands-on, hilarious, and absolutely delicious—and we’re still thinking about it!
The fun kicked off with a beer tasting featuring three different Belgian brews. Our guide shared the stories behind each one, along with fun facts about Belgian beer culture (did you know Belgium has over 1,500 types of beer?). After sipping, we chose our favorite and mixed it right into our waffle batter—how cool is that?
From there, it was all about getting creative. Everyone had their own waffle station, so we could dive right in without waiting around. We whisked, poured, and cooked up our own beer-infused waffles, then topped them with everything from chocolate and whipped cream to fresh fruit. There were no rules—just good vibes and plenty of laughs!
Honestly, it felt more like a fun night out with friends than a traditional class, which is exactly what made it so memorable.
If you’re looking for something unique, interactive, and undeniably tasty to do in Bruges, this workshop is a must. Come hungry, bring your sweet tooth, and prepare to leave with a full belly and a big smile!
If you want to learn how to make authentic Belgian waffles, secure your spot here today!
Related Read: Make the most of your trip and follow our Ideal 2-Day Bruges Itinerary, including some of these top activities!
Where to Stay in Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a city that feels like stepping into a storybook—quiet canals, cobbled lanes, and centuries-old buildings around every corner. When it comes to places to stay, there’s no shortage of cozy guesthouses, stylish hotels, and canal-side retreats.
To help you find the right fit, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Bruges—whether you’re on a budget, splurging, or looking for something in between.
Luxury – $$$
Set in a 15th-century mansion overlooking one of Bruges’ most beautiful canals, De Tuilerieën – Small Luxury Hotels of the World is a 5-star boutique hotel that blends timeless charm with modern elegance. Located in the historic center, it’s just minutes from the Belfry and Markt Square. Inside, you’ll find luxurious rooms with chandeliers, fireplaces, and canal views, plus top-notch service and a cozy bar.
Prices typically range from €300–€700 per night, depending on the season and room type. Book your luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Dukes’ Academie Brugge – by Dukes’ Hotel Collection is a stylish mid-range hotel tucked away in the historic heart of Bruges, just steps from Minnewater Park and the Beguinage. The rooms are modern, spacious, and quiet—perfect after a day of exploring cobblestone streets. The hotel also features a charming garden terrace, cozy lounge bar, and generous daily buffet breakfast. It’s part of the renowned Dukes’ Hotel Collection, so service and comfort are top-notch.
Rooms range from around €160–€280 per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a budget-friendly stay in Bruges, D 28 is an excellent choice! Tucked away in the historic center, this stylish guesthouse is just a short walk from the Market Square, Concert Hall, and train station. Each modern room features a private bathroom, walk-in shower, and free Wi-Fi, with keyless entry adding extra convenience. The location earns rave reviews from guests, and it’s easy to see why—everything you need is right outside your door!
Private rooms start at around €90 per night. Head to Booking.com to reserve your stay.
For more options, see all of Bruges’ hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
That’s our full guide to the best things to do in Bruges! Whether you’re diving into centuries of history, gliding along scenic canals, or crafting your own Belgian chocolates, this storybook city has experiences that truly stick with you.
We hope this list helps you plan a trip that’s just as memorable as ours. For more travel ideas, check out our other Belgium blogs—or take a peek at a few of our favorite guides below to get inspired for your next adventure!
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