Bruges Travel Guide
Bruges is a city steeped in history, offering a journey back to the Middle Ages. With its enchanting and genuine atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic getaway! Recognized as one of Europe’s best-preserved cities, Bruges boasts a historic city center that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its cathedral spires, bell tower, charming cobblestone streets, winding canals, and pristine white façades create an almost dreamlike scenery.
Bruges: A Picture-Perfect Destination
Famous for its exquisite lace, delectable chocolates, and rich culinary traditions, Bruges also hosts the annual Procession of the Holy Blood. The masterpieces of the Flemish Primitives at the Groeningemuseum continue to captivate visitors. This is Bruges, a stunning destination that has stood the test of time for centuries.
"Bruges, the capital of West Flanders, is located in the charming northwest region of Belgium. Its breathtaking historic center, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes this city a must-visit destination. Just an from Brussels, it's an ideal spot for a day trip from the capital.
Experience world-renowned city views and discover hidden gems. Admire the majestic Church of Our Lady illuminated at dusk or find tranquility in the Beguinage. Stroll along the city walls, uncover romantic hideaways, or explore the lush green spaces throughout Bruges. Whether you seek stunning landmarks or peaceful retreats, Bruges has something for everyone, making an overnight stay irresistible.
A true romantic haven! Legend has it that water nymphs, known as “minnen” in Dutch, once inhabited this area, giving the lake its enchanting name. With a backdrop of a tragic love story, mysterious trees, and lush greenery, this place is steeped in romance. Capture the perfect Instagram shot from the Lake of Love bridge or near the Lockhouse—stunning even without filters.
Swans glide along the canals, medieval streets weave a charming maze, and hidden parks and quaint courtyards create a serene atmosphere. Whether you enjoy a picnic in Koningin Astridpark, linger on Boniface Bridge, or soak in the tranquility of the Beguinage, romance is always in the air in Bruges. You’re bound to fall in love.
The Lake of Love Park feels like a world away from the bustling city. Nestled between the verdant Ramparts and the serene Lake of Love, this delightful park is just a short walk from the peaceful Beguinage. It’s a favorite spot for Bruges residents to unwind on the grass. With so many intimate garden areas, you’ll feel as if the park is yours alone.
Welcome to the city’s most beloved photography spot, a centuries-old Instagrammable gem. Once a place for selling rosaries, it now offers one of Bruges' most picturesque views—perfect for a selfie with your loved one. Regardless of the season or time of day, the romance of the Rosary Quay enchants visitors. Come and enjoy the view!"
Where to Stay
Tiny it may be, this medieval city is steeped in history, with gabled houses, meandering canals and charismatic cobbled streets. Climb the 13th-century Belfry of Bruges for a bird’s-eye perspective, spanning graceful spires, red-tiled roofs and the Markt square below. Back at ground level, explore the city on foot or hop aboard one of the small tour boats that ply its waterways. Though you’re unlikely to have them to yourself, its set-pieces are stirring, from the gothic grandeur of the Burg to the soaring Church of Our Lady, home to Michelangelo’s serenely lovely Madonna and Child — one of the highlights in a city packed with artistic treasures, from the Groeningemuseum’s Flemish primitives to the Memling Museum’s masterpieces. Big-ticket sights aside, Bruges is also a place for serendipitous finds, from candlelit cellar bars to bijou concept stores and artisan chocolatiers. Leave time to discover them — and room in your suitcase for the spoils.
Best for canal vistas
This 15th-century convent has been reborn as a luxury hotel, and is one of the city’s most romantic retreats. It lives up to its boutique billing with just 20 rooms, impeccably equipped with Nespresso machines, king-size beds and Hermès toiletries. The coveted Canal View rooms overlook the Dijver; if those are out of budget, take in the views over breakfast on the waterfront terrace. Afternoon tea in the oak-panelled dining room involves some exemplary scones, while the salon’s a welcoming spot to slump after a day’s sightseeing, with capacious Chesterfields and gently crackling fire.
Best for leafy surrounds
This 12-room hotel is tucked in one of Bruges’ most appealing nooks on a cobbled lane that leads into Minnewater Park. Its quaint, 18th-century façade has gabled roofs and painted wooden shutters, while inside is grown-up and cocooning (there’s a polite veto on children). Rooms feature brushed-brass lamps and velvet headboards, while sleek bathrooms have walk-in showers and craggy granite basins, with freestanding baths in the suites. The low-lit bar and restaurant are equally romantic — nab a table on the heated, lantern-strung terrace for tapas and indulgent truffled fries.
3.Hotel Patritius, Burg Quarter
Best for peace and quiet
Rooms are a steal at this friendly, family-run hotel, which occupies a 19th-century mansion on Riddersstraat. With no canal to lure the tourists, or noisy cobblestones, it’s a peaceful yet central base, five minutes’ walk from the historic centre of Bruges. Rooms are classic and cosy, with tasselled curtains, comfortable beds and country-house wallpapers (bold regency stripes or soothing toile de Jouys). For even more seclusion, book one of six spacious rooms in the coach house at the end of the garden — in the morning, pad across the lawn for breakfast in the stately dining room.
Best for supremely central stays
You’re in the heart of the city at this slick, budget-friendly address, a three-minute stroll along the cobblestones to the main market square. There’s an airy ground-floor café and bar, where breakfast brings make-your-own waffles, while the upper floors house 24 rooms. They’re compact but cleverly designed: blown-up photographs of Bruges span entire walls or are strikingly backlit on the ceilings, while white-tiled alcove bathrooms neatly slot behind sliding glass doors. Get lucky and you’ll score one of two top-floor rooms with perfectly framed views of the Belfry.
Best for spa pampering
There’s no missing this five-star address, set in a turret-topped pile just west of the Markt. Surrounded by manicured gardens, it’s a headily romantic hideout, geared towards total relaxation. Drift down to the spa for a hot-stone massage, via the hammam and salt wall, or survey the sculpture-dotted lawns from a sofa on the terrace. Rooms are traditional without feeling too chintzy, while suites might feature frescoed walls or elaborate stucco ceilings. There’s an upscale bar and restaurant with a grand cru-stocked cellar — though if you get too comfy sequestered in your suite, room service is round the clock.
