Best Things to Do in Bruges: A First-Time Visitor's Guide

The Markt is the heart of Bruges and one of the first places you'll come across when exploring the city.

Surrounded by colorful historic buildings, cafés, and the iconic Belfry Tower, it's the perfect place to start your day. No matter where I was heading, I somehow always found myself back here.

If you're planning to climb the Belfry, I'd recommend booking your ticket through the official Musea Brugge website before your visit. During busy periods, tickets can sell out quickly, and choosing an early morning time slot is one of the best ways to avoid the longest lines.

If you've ever seen a postcard of Bruges, there's a good chance it was taken here.

Rozenhoedkaai is one of the city's most photographed spots, and it's easy to see why. The canal, the historic buildings, and their reflections on the water create one of the most iconic views in Bruges.

I visited at sunrise on my first morning in Bruges and came back again around sunset. Seeing the same place at two completely different times of the day gave it a totally different atmosphere.

I've included both sunrise and sunset photos below because I think they show two very different sides of Rozenhoedkaai. If you have the time, I'd recommend visiting twice. But if I had to choose, sunrise was easily my favorite!

Boniface Bridge is one of those places that instantly made me stop and take out my camera.

Hidden just below the Church of Our Lady, this small bridge offers one of the most beautiful canal views in Bruges. Even though it's a popular spot, it still feels surprisingly peaceful, especially early in the morning.

I arrived just before sunrise and watched the first light hit the Church of Our Lady in the background. Photos do this place justice, but seeing the light change is something else. I've shared a short video on Instagram if you'd like to see it for yourself.

If you're planning to visit, I'd definitely recommend coming around sunrise. Not only will you avoid the crowds, but you'll also experience this place at its most beautiful.

One of the best things to do in Bruges is simply explore its beautiful canals.

Beyond the main squares, you'll discover quiet streets, historic houses, charming stone bridges, and some of the city's most beautiful views. I never followed a specific route and instead wandered wherever the canals led me. Looking back, I wouldn't have explored Bruges any other way.

Canal-side streets

Stone bridges

Canal boat tours

If you enjoy seeing a city from the water, I'd also recommend taking a canal cruise. It offers a completely different perspective of Bruges and lets you admire parts of the historic center you wouldn't normally see on foot. I'd recommend booking your canal cruise in advance, especially during the busier months.

If you're looking for a quieter side of Bruges, make some time for a walk around Minnewater, also known as the Lake of Love. Surrounded by trees, walking paths, and calm water, it feels completely different from the busy streets of the historic center and is one of the most peaceful places to visit in the city.

It's only a short walk from the center, making it an easy stop to add to your itinerary. Take your time, enjoy the views, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a few of Bruges' famous swans along the way.

Just a short walk from the Markt, Burg Square is home to some of Bruges' most important landmarks, including the impressive City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

Even if you're not planning to visit the buildings, it's well worth stopping here for a few minutes. The square has a completely different feel from the Markt, making it one of the best places to admire Bruges' beautiful architecture and history.

If you're only planning to try one waffle in Bruges, I'd make it this one.

There are plenty of waffle shops across the city, but Otto Waffle Atelier was the one I kept recommending after my trip. Located right beside the canal, it's the perfect place to stop for breakfast or a coffee break while watching the boats pass by.

Just keep in mind that this isn't the classic Belgian waffle you'll find elsewhere in Bruges. Otto has created its own take on the traditional waffle using oat flour, giving it a unique twist that's well worth trying.

If you'd like to try more than one waffle during your trip, you'll also find a few more of my favorite waffle spots on the map.

If I had to recommend just one restaurant in Bruges, it would be De Gastro.

I ordered the Flemish beef stew, while my husband went for the steak tartare. Both dishes were excellent and exactly what we were hoping to try during our trip to Belgium.

The atmosphere is warm, the service was great, and the portions are generous. If you're planning to have dinner here, I'd recommend making a reservation in advance, especially during the busier months.

I wasn't expecting a cup of hot chocolate to become one of my favorite memories from Bruges, but that's exactly what happened.

What makes this place so special is that you don't simply order a hot chocolate – you get to make it yourself. Depending on the flavor you choose, you'll be served a cup of hot milk alongside a handmade chocolate cup filled with matching chocolates and toppings. Simply pour everything into the milk, stir, and watch it melt into your own rich Belgian hot chocolate.

I chose the praline version, while my husband went for the Baileys hot chocolate. By the time we left, we were already talking about coming back to try another flavor.

Before you leave, don't miss the chocolate shop next door, where you can pick up many of the same handmade chocolates to take home.

Don't leave Bruges without stopping by The Chocolate Line.

Unlike many traditional chocolate shops, this one is known for experimenting with unexpected flavors while staying true to Belgian chocolate craftsmanship. One of the things I loved most was that you can build your own box of pralines, making it easy to try a variety of flavors.

My favorite was the Defender praline, filled with hazelnut praline and popping candy. The crackling texture instantly reminded me of the sweets I used to eat as a child, and it ended up being one of the most memorable chocolates I tried in Bruges.

If you'd like to bring home more Belgian chocolates, you'll also find a few more of my favorite chocolate shops on the map. If you're curious about the different praline flavors, you can browse their full collection on the official Chocolate Line website before your visit.

If it's your first time in Bruges, I recommend staying near the historic centre, where you can easily explore the city's main sights on foot. Bruges is a very walkable city, and choosing a central hotel will make your visit much more enjoyable.

Grand Hotel Casselbergh – A beautifully decorated luxury hotel in the heart of Bruges, combining historic charm, excellent breakfast, and a relaxing spa experience.

Dukes' Palace – One of the most iconic luxury hotels in Bruges, housed in a former ducal palace just a short walk from the Markt.

Boutique Hotel

The Pand Hotel – An elegant boutique hotel in the heart of Bruges, known for its cozy atmosphere, personalized service, and beautifully designed rooms.

Romantic Canal Stay

Hotel De Orangerie – A charming canal-side boutique hotel that's perfect for couples looking for a romantic stay in one of Bruges' most picturesque locations.

De Gastro – A favourite of mine in Bruges, this restaurant is perfect for trying traditional Belgian cuisine with quality ingredients in a cosy and elegant setting.

One Restaurant – A great choice for a special dinner, offering a refined take on Belgian cuisine with seasonal ingredients and a modern touch.

Cambrinus – A classic Bruges spot for authentic Belgian dishes, famous for its traditional food and impressive selection of local beers.

The Republic – A relaxed local favourite with a cosy atmosphere, ideal for lunch, drinks or a casual meal away from the busiest tourist spots.

That's Toast – One of the best brunch places in Bruges, serving delicious breakfast plates, coffee and a welcoming atmosphere to start your day.

MARO – A stylish café perfect for coffee, brunch or a light lunch, combining fresh dishes with a cosy and modern vibe.