29 Unmissable Things to Do in Bruges, Belgium, Bruges, Belgium

When you first hear “Bruges”, you might picture cobbled lanes, gothic towers and maybe Colin Farrell having an existential crisis. But Bruges is far more than just a backdrop for a dark comedy.

It’s a beautifully preserved medieval city that feels like stepping into a storybook - only it’s real, and you can drink great beer while exploring it.

It’s known for its scenic canals that you can explore by foot or boat, and its the perfect place to wander round, drink a coffee, and get lost in.

It’s packed full of amazing things to do, and its quaint streets and canals reminded us of a mix between Venice and Amsterdam. It dates back to the middle ages, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whether you’re planning a weekend break or weaving it into a longer Belgium trip, here’s our no-nonsense guide to the best things to do in Bruges - packed with practical tips, real insights, and ideas that go beyond the basics.

Don’t forget to check our guide to travelling to Bruges and our guide to the best places to stay, as well as all our content on travelling to Belgium.

The authors: we spent five days in Bruges as part of our first tour of Belgium. If you have any questions or suggestions then drop them in the comments! ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).