Budget-Friendly Bliss: A Day in Bruges

Discovering medieval charm on a shoestring budget in Bruges, Belgium.

22 June 2023

Bruges may seem like an expensive destination, but with some careful planning, you can enjoy the city's charm without breaking the bank. Stroll through the picturesque cobblestone streets, indulge in some budget-friendly Belgian waffles and chocolates, and explore the city's many free attractions, including the beautiful Begijnhof courtyard and the historic Belfry tower. Consider staying in a hostel or budget-friendly hotel to save on accommodation costs and make the most of your limited budget.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Quaint Streets of Bruges

  • Start the day off with a visit to the Markt, the central square in town, to check out the famous Belfry tower
  • Take a stroll along the picturesque canals and soak up the beauty of the historic windmills
  • Stop by the Church of Our Lady to marvel at the stunning tower and visit the Michelangelo sculpture, Madonna and Child
  • Grab a budget-friendly lunch at De Vrije and indulge in a traditional Flemish stew or hearty sandwich
  • Visit the Chocolate Museum to learn about the history of chocolate and indulge in some free samples
  • Finish the day with a scenic boat tour of the canals, taking in the stunning architecture and charming views of the city
  • Bonus tip: If you're looking for a quirky souvenir, visit the quirky Frietmuseum, dedicated entirely to French fries!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bruges by plane is to fly into Brussels Airport and take a train or bus towards Bruges. The airport is about 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Bruges. Another option could be to fly into Ostend-Bruges International Airport, which is located closer to Bruges, and take a bus or taxi from there.

Car

Driving to Bruges is a good option if you're coming from nearby cities. There are various highways that connect Bruges to other cities. However, driving within Bruges may be difficult due to the narrow streets and limited parking. It is recommended to park outside the city center and use public transportation or walk to the city center.

Train

If you're traveling within Europe, taking the train to Bruges is a good option. From Brussels, you can take a train towards Bruges. There are frequent trains departing from Brussels Central, Brussels Midi, and Brussels North stations.

Boat

There are no direct options to reach Bruges by boat, but you can take a scenic boat tour along the nearby canals. These tours depart from various locations within Bruges and provide a unique perspective of the city's beautiful architecture and landscapes.

Bus

Taking a bus to Bruges is a good option if you're traveling on a budget. Flixbus runs services from various locations across Europe to Bruges. There are also local buses that run from nearby cities such as Ghent and Brussels.

More travel plans

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Bruges, Belgium, is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and charming atmosphere. Families can explore the city's cobblestone streets by foot or on a boat tour, visit the famous Markt square for delicious Belgian waffles and chocolates, and enjoy attractions like the interactive Historium museum and the enchanting Boudewijn Seapark. With its mix of history, delicious food, and fun-filled activities, Bruges offers a memorable experience for families of all ages.