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Spring in Bruges: Guide 2026

Lander (EN) — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 07:22:29 +0000

🌸 Bruges in Bloom

The Magic of Spring in the City of Canals

When the first blossoms appear along the cobblestone streets and the canals shimmer in soft spring sunlight, Bruges turns into a storybook setting. Spring is one of the most enchanting times to explore the city — mild weather, fewer crowds than summer, and a sense of renewal everywhere you look.

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss when visiting Bruges in spring.

Tour of Bruges

Cycling is deeply rooted in Belgian culture and thousands of spectators have been coming to Bruges each year to watch world-renowned cyclists battle for the win since 1977.

The Tour of Bruges takes place on the 25th of March for the men and 26th of March for the women. It’s a day filled with lively ambiance and the streets will be crawling with enthusiastic spectators.

Procession of the Holy Blood

The Holy Blood Procession in Bruges is an annual religious parade held on Ascension Day, celebrating a relic said to contain Christ’s blood. The relic is carried through the streets as thousands reenact biblical scenes in medieval costume. It’s both a spiritual ceremony and a cherished cultural tradition, recognized by UNESCO.

This year it’ll take place on May 14th and the route can be found online.

May Fair (Meifoor)

The Bruges May Fair dates back to 1200 and began as an official trade fair granted to the city. Historically, it marked an important moment in Bruges’ commercial calendar, drawing lots of merchants and visitors to the city.

Nowadays, the fair is still visited by thousands each year. Going from April 24th till May 17th, it’s a lively carnival with rides, games, local food stalls, and attractions that light up the outskirts of the city.

Sint-Janshuis Mill

From April 1st onward, the mill is opened for public again all through Spring. It’s the only, remaining, fully functional 1770 mill, that still opens its doors for visitors.

The surroundings give for a lovely, serene walk, in the less busy part of town. Climb the mill and enjoy panoramic views over the historic city and its surrounding canals.

🌷 The Begijnhof and Minnewaterpark

Start your spring stroll at the Begijnhof, one of Bruges’ most peaceful and historic corners. In March and April, the courtyard transforms into a sea of bright yellow daffodils, gently framed by whitewashed houses once home to the beguines.

The quiet atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to slow down and take in the scent of spring. Just a few steps away, you’ll find Minnewaterpark, often called the “Lake of Love.” Legend has it that couples who cross the bridge together will be bound by eternal love — and with the trees bursting into bloom, it’s easy to see why this spot has inspired so many stories.

Pro tip: visit early in the morning for soft light and reflection photos on the lake’s surface.

🚤 Canal Boat Tours

Spring marks the reopening of the canal boat tours, one of the most charming ways to experience Bruges. From March to November, you can hop on a small open boat and glide past hidden gardens, centuries-old façades, and picturesque bridges.

The guides share fascinating stories about the city’s medieval merchants, swans, and architecture — all while you take in views you simply can’t get from the streets. Bring a light jacket: even on sunny days, the canal breeze can be fresh in spring!

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Valentine in Bruges: Guide 2026

Lander (EN) — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 09:06:36 +0000

Romantic Walk in Bruges

Take a romantic walk through the most beautiful spots in Bruges, such as the Groenerei, Rozenhoedkaai, and the Bonifacius and Minnewater bridges. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Beguinage, relax in Minnewater Park, and end your stroll with a drink at Hotel de Castillion, in our cozy bar and elegant Art Deco lounge. Bruges is the perfect city for a romantic getaway.

Sweet Treats

Indulge in Bruges’ sweetest delights. At Zucchero, discover colorful, handcrafted candies with surprising flavors. For traditional artisanal chocolates & cookies, visit Spegelaere Chocolaterie, where craftsmanship and irresistible aromas come together. Looking for something truly unique? Otto Waffle Atelier serves premium oat waffles inspired by Bruges lace, topped with refined flavors and local seasonal ingredients.

Love that keeps on shining

As you step out of our hotel, you’ll find Salvador Jewels just a few steps away—an elegant Bruges boutique where craftsmanship and love come together in timeless pieces. The perfect stop to surprise your loved one with a meaningful jewel, one that continues to shine long after Valentine’s Day.

Bruges by Boat or Carriage

Discover Bruges in a romantic way by boat or horse-drawn carriage. Cruise along the picturesque canals and admire the historic architecture from the water, accompanied by graceful swans. Prefer a touch of nostalgia? Choose an intimate carriage ride through the cobbled streets, departing from the Market Square. At a gentle pace, with views of historic squares and streets, time seems to stand still — pure romance.

A Tasty Tête-à-Tête

In Bruges, culinary indulgence goes far beyond a classic candlelight dinner. Start your day with our generous breakfast in a romantic setting. For lunch, we recommend Bagelsalon Sanseveria, loved for its cosy, homely atmosphere.

After an afternoon of strolling through the city’s picturesque streets, it’s time for a refined pause. Treat yourself to an afternoon tea in our elegant art-deco salon, only possible in the weekends & also open to non-hotel guests. Ease into the evening with a cocktail or local beer in our bar, and finish with a candlelight dinner. Choose the refined Less Eatery or the warm, timeless charm of ’t Nieuw Walnutje — both perfect settings for an evening filled with flavour and romance.

Dreaming Away in Our Romantic Bruges Hotel

After a day of exploring Bruges, unwind in our charming hotel where historic character meets modern comfort. Soft linens, warm lighting and views of picturesque streets create a truly romantic atmosphere.

End the day in our cosy hotel bar with a glass of champagne, a local Bruges beer or a refined cocktail, surrounded by candlelight — the perfect close to a romantic stay.

From charming streets to intimate moments, Bruges is made for romance. Let our hotel be your home base for discovering the city — we can’t wait to welcome you.

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Winter in Bruges: Guide 2025

Lander (EN) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 17:16:20 +0000

Winter Glow 2025-2026

For the seventh year in a row, Winter Glow will light up the city with a beautiful 3.5 km light trail. The new route takes you past unique light installations in unexpected and surprising locations.

Winter Bar Vorst

Winterbar Vorst covers almost 300 m², is located near King Albert I Park, and boasts a view of the ice rink. Add to that local drinks and tasty snacks that will warm you up, and you have a place where you can linger for hours. Thousands of lights will make your evening unforgettable.

Midwinterfest

It’s time for the Midwinter Festival again. This is a wonderfully cozy Christmas market in Balstraat, with free admission to various locations such as the Folklore Museum, and tons of midwinter atmosphere. At the Christmas market, you’ll find stalls full of artisanal products, cute trinkets, and (Christmas) gifts. You can also enjoy a tasty snack and a refreshing drink. This Christmasmarket finds place on the 7th of December 2025

Christmas Markets

From Nov 22, 2025 to Jan 5, 2026, Bruges hosts two magical Christmas markets: one on Market Square and one on Simon Stevinplein

They are open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM (till 11 PM on weekends).

Dankbar

Just around the corner from our hotel, Dankbar turns into a cosy winter spot during Christmas, with festive drinks and lights. A fun highlight is the nagelblok game — hammering a nail into a tree trunk while enjoying the atmosphere.

New Year’s Eve Bruges Sings

Ring in the new year at ‘T Zand with a lively sing-along party featuring popular songs and a spectacular fireworks or light show at midnight. It’s a joyful, communal celebration that’s both family-friendly and full of energy.

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Autumn in Bruges: Guide 2025

Lander (EN) — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:19:43 +0000

BRUSK Art Gallery

On Saterday the 20th and Sunday the 21st September 2025, the public will be able to discover the new art hall BRUSK for the very first time. Art and spectacle will then quite literally take over the city! From a gigantic mechanical art installation to poetic music and dizzying aerial acrobatics: BRUSK shows how art connects us both literally and figuratively.

Bruges Oysterfest

The Oyster Festival in Bruges is a culinary event where gourmets and seafood lovers come together to enjoy the best oysters Yerseke has to offer – with accompanying drinks ofcourse! Pure nature, with simple simplicity but with the power of the quality of the product. As always, a cosy setting in a nice location. This event will take place on Saturday the 4th of October.

Luc Vanlaere free harp concerts

Starting Wednesday, September 1st to Saturday November 1st, Luc Vanlaere presents his free harp concerts + mini harp museum at the Congrescentrum Oud Sint-Jan (Mariastraat 38, Bruges).

Concert times:
Wednesday – Saturday: 3:00-3:40 PM, 5:00-5:40 PM, 6:30-7:10 PM.

Nir Shemmer + The Borrowed Suits

On Saturday November 8th, 2025, Nir Shemmer and The Borrowed Suits perform at MaZ, starting at 8:15pm up untill 10:30pm, delivering a soulful night of Americana, roots, blues, and stirring murder ballads.

My Fierce Ignorant Step

On Wednesday December 3th, 2025, Christos Papadopoulos debuts “My Fierce Ignorant Step” at the Concertgebouw Brugge (‘t Zand 34), starring 6:30-9:15 PM – a poetic dance spectacle blending movement and voice.

Pride and Solace: medieval books of hours and their readers

This collection presentation of the Bruges Public Library gathers together never-before-seen medieval books of hours, paintings and objects from the collections of the Public Library, Musea Brugge, the Jean van Caloen Foundation and the Government of Flanders.

The pages change on the second of July, so they are not exposed to the light for too long. This also allows visitors to enjoy the story twice over. This expo is open up until the 7th of October at the Groeningenmuseum.

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Summer in Bruges: Guide 2025

Lander (EN) — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 13:32:08 +0000

Klinkende Kroegen

Every Wednesday in July & August, from 7 PM to 11:30 PM, Bruges’ city centre comes alive with free live performances in its most atmospheric pubs.

Grab a drink, soak up the local vibes, and enjoy a perfect summer evening with music, laughter, and Belgian charm! Check brugge.be/klinkende-kroegen for specific dates and locations!

Summer Bars

Bruges is buzzing with stylish summer spots! Try:

– Lio’s Brugge: Very close to the hotel, cozy
– Bar Visart: Relaxed garden vibes
– La Banchina: By the water
– Madeleines: Chic & intimate
– JAK: Trendy with great tunes
– Culi’ Jack: Cool bites, cool crowd

Perfect places to sip, chill, and enjoy summer in the city!

Fiësta Latino 2025

Every Saturday from July 5th to August 30th, the courtyard at Vismarkt comes alive with summer energy! Salsa de Brujas brings a fresh DJ each week, spinning Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, and Merengue for a vibrant, ever-changing party atmosphere.

Join us and dance the night away under the stars!

De Brugse Zandfeesten

The Bruges Sand Festival, held on the first Sunday of July, August, and September, features a wide variety of antiques and curiosities. Stalls line the area from the railway station to ‘t Zand, open from 6 AM to 6 PM. Visitors can enjoy shopping, food, and drinks in a lively summer atmosphere.

Brugse Bavik Dagen

Following annual tradition, the National Holiday (21st of July) will be celebrated in Bruges with musical entertainment on the Market Square.

On the opening night, Bruges Swan Patrol, Laura Tesoro and Stan Van Samang will perform. On the second musical evening, there will be Edja Ska, followed by the mega-singing event Bruges Zingt with conductor Nick Blontrock.

Benenwerk 2025

Benenwerk ‘Ballroom Brugeoise’ is back on Saturday, 9 August 2025! Dance through Bruges city centre with live bands and DJs playing across multiple stages. Enjoy a lively dance marathon and show off your best moves all day long.

Kaasmarkt (Cheesemarket) 2025

On Sunday, September 7, 2025, Bruges hosts its annual Cheese Market at ’t Zand. From 9:30 AM to 6 PM, guests can sample over 100 cheeses, enjoy local wines and beers, and soak up the festive atmosphere. A perfect local event for food lovers!

800 years Begijnhof

From June 6 to September 28, 2025, Bruges celebrates 800 years of the Begijnhof with free exhibitions, concerts, and talks in this peaceful UNESCO site. A unique cultural experience for guests right in the heart of the city.

Boat rides during summer

Boat rides in Bruges run all year, offering a charming way to explore the canals. Especially in summer, it’s a relaxing and scenic must-do for guests looking to enjoy the city from the water.

Daily departures: approx  10 AM–6 PM, every 15–20 minutes 

Belfort Vertelt

From Tuesday, July 1 to Friday, July 11, 2025, the “Belfort Vertelt” light & sound spectacle brings the history of Bruges to life twice nightly at the Belfry on Markt square. At 10:30 PM and 11:00 PM, guests can enjoy a free, 25‑minute immersive storytelling experience narrated by the tower itself.

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Spring in Bruges: Guide 2025

Lander (EN) — Tue, 13 May 2025 14:43:07 +0000

“The spring revives whatever the winter takes”

Month of May

Open Air ‘BLOOM’ 2025

On Saturday May 24th 2025, Bruges kicks off the festival season with BLOOM – Open Air Festival. From 2 pm to 1 am, enjoy house beats, sun, cocktails, and top DJs like Maxim Lany, Meaghan, and Dennis Cartier in a vibrant, festival-ready setting. Hosted by The Night, fully transformed for the occasion.

Procession of the Holy Blood

The Procession of the Holy Blood takes place in Bruges every year on Our Lord’s Ascension. In 2025, it will be held on Thursday, May 29th at 2:30 pm, starting at the Dijver. This historic event dates back to 1304 and commemorates the suffering of Christ through biblical scenes and a procession of the Holy Blood relic. Over 1,800 costumed participants bring the story to life. Free viewing along the route; paid seating also available.

Month of June

Bruges Foodtruck Festival

This June, discover a brand-new food experience in the heart of Bruges! From June 20th to June 22nd, the Bruges Foodtruck Festival will take place in the beautiful Koning Albert I Park. Organised by Traiteur Carbonez, the festival brings together a variety of popular food trucks, offering delicious street food and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. A perfect outing for food lovers during your stay.

Feest in ‘t Park

Join us on the last Saturday of June for Feest in ’t Park, a lively multicultural festival in Bruges! Now in its 33rd edition, this family-friendly event brings together global cultures with music, food, and activities for all ages. Enjoy a relaxed, festive atmosphere while exploring themes like Fair Trade and sustainability. A fun and meaningful way to experience the world—right in the heart of the city.

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Welcome to Bruges – Your Perfect Day Awaits!

Lander (EN) — Fri, 09 May 2025 12:29:32 +0000

Bruges, often called the “Venice of the North,” is a city straight out of a fairytale. With its charming cobblestone streets, historic canals, and stunning medieval architecture, it’s the perfect place to explore at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a cultural adventure, or just to soak in the atmosphere, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you make the most of your day.

This itinerary will take you through the best sights, hidden gems, and delicious food spots—all while keeping things simple and stress-free. From morning strolls along the canals to cozy evening drinks in a historic café, get ready to experience Bruges like a local.

Let’s dive in!

PS: Bruges, ofcourse, has much, much more to offer and can’t possibly be fit into a one day visit! Feel free to contact us for a custom itinerary, tailored to your vacation plans, that will take you all around Bruges and everything there is to see!

Morning

Your first day in Bruges should be a memorable one, that’s why we have put together the perfect itinerary with all our favorite spots.

In the morning you can have breakfast in our historical medieval cellar to get energized for the day. If you feel like grabbing a quick bite instead, you can find croissants and butter cakes at our bar to take away.

Stomach is full? Step outside our hotel and go left, walk to the Church of Our Lady. You can visit the church from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 am until 5:00 pm and on Sunday from 1:30 pm till 5pm. This impressive church is the highest building in Bruges with its 115.5 meters (378.94 FT).

The Church of Our Lady also holds a very famous sculpture called “Madonna with child” by the iconic Michelangelo.

Just next to the Church of Our Lady, you can find the well known Gruuthusemuseum. The Gruuthusemuseum is a fascinating museum housed in the former palace of the Lords of Gruuthuse, a wealthy medieval family. The museum showcases over 500 years of Bruges’ history, spanning from the 15th to the 19th century.

If museums are not your thing, there is no need to worry!

Behind the Church of Our Lady there is one of the most beautiful and historic bridges in Bruges called the Bonifacius bridge, dating from the 13th century!

Then you can continue to the Lake of Love (Minnewater)

Nestled in the heart of Bruges, the “Lake of Love (Minnewater)” is a serene and picturesque spot, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a romantic moment. Surrounded by lush greenery and historic bridges, it’s home to the city’s iconic swans, adding to its fairy-tale charm. According to legend, a walk by the lake with a loved one ensures eternal love—making it a must-visit for couples and dreamers alike.

Just steps away, you’ll find the Begijnhof, a tranquil courtyard with whitewashed houses, once home to the Beguines. Today, it remains a peaceful retreat, offering a glimpse into Bruges’ spiritual past.

Lunch

Here are a couple of lunch spots that we highly recommend!

Brasserie Surplace (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Chagall (Closed on Thursdays and Fridays)
‘T Nieuw Walnutje (Closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays)

Afternoon

Ready to go again? Here is your perfect plan for the afternoon!

Time to reach the heart of the center on the main square. Every day from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm you can go up the Belfry tower (Belfort) by foot (366 steps). The price is 15:00 EUR for adults and 13:00 EUR for children, and the breathtaking view is worth every penny!

After visiting the Belfry, take a short walk to Burg Square, one of Bruges’ most historic spots. Here, you’ll find the Town Hall (1376), one of the oldest in the Low Countries, with stunning Gothic architecture.

Right next to it is the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a 12th-century chapel that houses a sacred relic: a vial said to contain the blood of Christ, brought to Bruges after the Second Crusade. Entry is free, so step inside to admire its breathtaking stained glass and rich history!

After visiting Burg Square and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, walk to the Vismarkt (Fish Market), a historic spot where fresh fish has been sold since 1821. Surrounded by charming canals, it’s now a lively place with local crafts and market stalls.

From the Vismarkt, you can take a scenic boat tour through Bruges’ canals (max 30 min). Boats run until 5:30 PM, and the nearest embarkation points are at Huidenvettersplein and Rozenhoedkaai—both just a short walk away. A perfect way to see Bruges from the water!

Time to sit back and have a drink? Then we recommend visiting the oldest bar in Bruges! For a taste of history, visit Café Vlissinghe, dating back to 1515. Enjoy a local beer inside its charming, traditional interior or relax on the spacious terrace, a hidden gem perfect for unwinding.

After finishing your drink, take a short stroll to Kruisvest, where historic windmills line the canal. This peaceful spot offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past, with some mills still functioning today. As the sun sets, the soft golden light creates a stunning view—perfect for a quiet moment or a beautiful photo. A relaxing way to end the day in Bruges!

Dinner

Feeling hungry again after an active day? Here are our favourite dinner spots!

Gran Kaffee De Passage (Open every day, mostly requires reservation)
Poules Moules (Perfect spot to try the local mussels or some rotisserie chicken)
Goespitte 43 (Affordable fine dining)

Hidden Gems

Do you want to try some local beers or just find cool spots to drink something in the evening?

Vlissinghe is one of the most hidden, but there are more bars you should visit!

Café De Garre is a well-known hidden gem in Bruges, Belgium, famous for its cozy atmosphere and exceptional beer selection. The bar is tucked away in a narrow alley between two bustling streets near the Markt square, making it a bit of a challenge to find—adding to its charm and mystique.

One of its most famous offerings is the Tripel van De Garre, a strong Belgian tripel brewed exclusively for the bar by Brouwerij Van Steenberge. This beer is known for its rich, full-bodied taste and high alcohol content (around 11%), and it is traditionally served with a small portion of cheese.

Bar Le Trappiste is one of Bruges’ top spots for craft beer lovers. Located in a 13th-century cellar, this bar offers a unique and cozy atmosphere with exposed brick walls, vaulted ceilings, and a warm, rustic charm.

Le Trappiste is best known for its impressive selection of over 100 beers, including a rotating lineup of 20+ taps featuring Belgian classics, rare Trappist brews, and international craft beers. Whether you’re into strong, malty tripels, rich stouts, or hoppy IPAs, there’s something for every beer enthusiast.

De Kelk is one of Bruges’ most historic bars, originally established in 1900 as a working-class café. For over a century, it served as a beloved gathering place for locals, known for its warm atmosphere and quality beer selection. In the 20th century, it became a hotspot for jazz and alternative music, earning a reputation as a cultural hub in Bruges.

After closing briefly, De Kelk was revived with a fresh focus on craft beer and live music, blending its rich history with a modern touch. Today, it remains a must-visit for beer lovers, offering a mix of traditional Belgian brews and innovative craft selections in a beautifully restored setting.

Plan your visit today!

Discover exactly what the historic and rich city center of Bruges has to offer you, and plan your visit today by clicking the button below:

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