3-Day Magical Christmas Holiday Experience in Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, Belgium

3 days

The Belfry at Christmas
Burg Square with the Christmas tree
Decorated and illuminated Market square
Old medieval buildings reflect in the water at Christmas.
Christmas market

About Bruges, Belgium

Discover the enchanting city of Bruges, Belgium, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Wander through its cobbled streets, explore the historic city center with its towering Belfry, and take a serene boat ride along the picturesque canals. Visit the Groeningemuseum for a glimpse into Flemish art or indulge in the city's famous chocolate at the Choco-Story Museum. Don't miss the chance to sample local delicacies like Belgian waffles and beer. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Bruges offers a unique blend of relaxation and exploration for every traveler.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Grote Markt and Belfry

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Grote Markt, the main square of Bruges. It's beautifully decorated during the Christmas season, with a large Christmas tree and a skating rink. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and the stunning medieval buildings surrounding the square.

Lunch

Have lunch at a cozy restaurant in the square, where you can enjoy traditional Belgian dishes.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Belfry of Bruges, a medieval bell tower with panoramic views of the city. Don't forget to explore the Christmas market at the base of the Belfry, where you can shop for Christmas decorations and gifts.

Dinner

Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try Belgian waffles for dessert.

Evening

End your day with a magical boat tour on the Canals of Bruges, which are beautifully lit during the Christmas season.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a stunning church that houses a relic of the Holy Blood. The church is beautifully decorated for Christmas.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try Belgian beers and chocolates.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at the Groeningemuseum, which houses a collection of Flemish and Belgian art. The museum is located in a beautiful building with a lovely courtyard.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Belgian dinner at a local restaurant.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Ice Sculpture Festival, a unique event where artists create stunning sculptures out of ice and snow.

Morning

Start your final day with a visit to the Beguinage, a tranquil complex of houses used by Beguines. During Christmas, the Beguinage is adorned with beautiful decorations and a nativity scene.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional Belgian dishes.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the charming streets of Bruges, visiting the many chocolate shops and boutiques.

Dinner

Enjoy your final dinner in Bruges at a local restaurant, where you can try Belgian beers and chocolates.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Concertgebouw, a modern concert hall that hosts a variety of performances. During the Christmas season, you can enjoy a festive concert.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Grote Markt

1
Grote Markt

Grote Markt, or Market Square, is the heart of Bruges. It's surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings, including the Belfry and the Provincial Court. The square is always bustling with activity, from tourists exploring the area to locals enjoying a meal at one of the many restaurants.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Belfry of Bruges

2
Belfry of Bruges

A medieval bell tower in the center of Bruges, offering panoramic views of the city.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Canals of Bruges

3
Canals of Bruges

The Canals of Bruges, often referred to as the 'Venice of the North', offer a unique perspective of the city. A boat tour along these waterways provides stunning views of the city's medieval architecture and tranquil scenery.

Attractions
Tours
Cultural Experiences
Basilica of the Holy Blood

4
Basilica of the Holy Blood

Basilica of the Holy Blood is a historic church in Bruges known for its stunning architecture and religious significance. It is said to house a relic of the Holy Blood of Jesus Christ.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Groeningemuseum

5
Groeningemuseum

A museum of Flemish and Belgian painting, ranging from the 14th to the 20th century.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Ice Sculpture Festival

6
Ice Sculpture Festival

Ice Sculpture Festival is a unique event in Bruges showcasing stunning sculptures made entirely of ice. Artists from around the world participate in this annual event.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Entertainment
Beguinage

7
Beguinage

A tranquil and picturesque sanctuary, the Beguinage is a group of houses around a courtyard, where Beguines used to live. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the life of a semi-monastic community of women who led lives dedicated to God without retiring from the world.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Religious Sites
Concertgebouw

8
Concertgebouw

Concertgebouw is a world-class concert hall in Bruges, known for its exceptional acoustics and diverse range of performances. It's a hub for music and performing arts in the city.

Attractions
Entertainment
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (11)

Moules Frites

Moules Frites

A popular dish in Bruges, Moules Frites consists of mussels cooked in a broth of white wine, garlic, and herbs, served with a side of fries. It's a must-try for seafood lovers visiting Belgium.

Belgian Waffles

Belgian Waffles

Belgian Waffles, locally known as 'Brusselse Wafels', are a sweet treat loved by locals and tourists alike. They are often served with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.

Belgian Chocolate

Belgian Chocolate

Belgium is famous for its high-quality chocolate. In Bruges, you'll find many chocolate shops selling a variety of chocolates, from pralines to truffles.

Stoofvlees

Stoofvlees

Stoofvlees, also known as Belgian beef stew, is a hearty dish made with beef, beer, onions, and herbs. It's often served with fries or bread.

Waterzooi

Waterzooi

Waterzooi is a creamy soup originally from Ghent but also popular in Bruges. It's made with chicken or fish, vegetables, cream, and eggs.

Belgian Beer

Belgian Beer

Belgium is known for its wide variety of beers. From strong ales to fruity lambics, there's a beer for every taste in Bruges.

Carbonnade Flamande

Carbonnade Flamande

Carbonnade Flamande is a traditional Belgian dish made with beef, onions, and beer. It's slow-cooked until the meat is tender and the flavors are well combined.

Gentse Stoverij

Gentse Stoverij

Gentse Stoverij is a type of Belgian beef stew made with dark beer and mustard. It's a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for colder weather.

Belgian Fries

Belgian Fries

Belgian Fries, known locally as 'frites', are a popular snack in Bruges. They're typically served in a paper cone with a variety of sauces to choose from.

Speculoos

Speculoos

Speculoos are spiced shortcrust biscuits, traditionally baked for consumption on or just before St Nicholas' day in Belgium. They're crunchy, sweet, and full of warm spices.

Belgian Hot Chocolate

Belgian Hot Chocolate

Belgian Hot Chocolate is a rich and creamy drink made with high-quality Belgian chocolate. It's a must-try for chocolate lovers visiting Bruges.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Bruges, Belgium is from May to September. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, which is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is also less crowded compared to the peak summer months of July and August. However, if you're interested in the Christmas markets, December would be a great time to visit. Keep in mind that the weather can be quite cold and rainy during this time.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 19

Sun

Whit Sunday

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

July 21

Sun

Belgian National Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 11

Mon

Armistice Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Bruges is a compact city and most of the attractions are within walking distance from each other. It's a great way to explore the city and take in the beautiful architecture and canals.

Bicycles are a popular mode of transport in Bruges. There are several places in the city where you can rent a bike for the day. It's a quick and eco-friendly way to get around.

The city has a comprehensive bus network that covers all areas of Bruges. Buses are frequent and reliable, making it an easy way to travel longer distances.

Taxis are readily available in Bruges, either from taxi ranks in the city or by calling a local taxi company. They offer a convenient, although more expensive, way to get around.

Ridesharing services such as Uber are available in Bruges. This can be a convenient option, especially if you're travelling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

One of the best ways to see Bruges is from the water. There are several boat tours that take you around the city's famous canals. It's a relaxing and scenic way to travel.

For a more traditional mode of transport, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the city. It's a unique and romantic way to see the sights of Bruges.

Bruges has a central train station that connects to other major cities in Belgium. It's a convenient way to travel if you're planning to visit other parts of the country.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112 (cell)/ 101

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type E

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Bruges, Belgium as a first time visitor

1

Bruges is a city in the Flemish region of Belgium, so the primary language spoken is Dutch. However, English and French are also widely spoken.

2

The currency used in Bruges is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

3

Bruges is known for its unpredictable weather. It's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat even on a sunny day.

4

The city is very walkable, and it's often faster to get around on foot than by car due to the narrow, winding streets.

5

Public transportation is reliable and efficient. Buses run frequently and cover most of the city.

6

Bruges is known for its lace-making and chocolate. Be sure to visit some of the local shops for unique souvenirs.

7

Tipping is not mandatory in Belgium, but it's customary to leave a small tip (around 10%) for good service in restaurants.

8

The city is very safe, but like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

9

Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it's important to respect the city's historic buildings and landmarks.

10

The city has a quiet, relaxed atmosphere, especially in the evenings. Nightlife is not as vibrant as in some other European cities.

11

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places and workplaces, including bars and restaurants.

12

The tap water in Bruges is safe to drink and of high quality.

13

The city is very bike-friendly, with numerous bike rental shops and dedicated cycling paths.

14

Bruges has a tourist tax that is usually included in the price of your hotel room.

15

The city is not very large, so it's possible to see most of the main sights in a couple of days.

16

Bruges has a maritime temperate climate, with moderate temperatures throughout the year. Summers (June to August) are mild with average highs of 70-75°F (21-24°C), while winters (December to February) are cool with average highs of 40-45°F (4-7°C).

17

Many shops in Bruges close on Sundays, so plan your shopping accordingly.

18

Belgium operates on Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

19

Bruges is known for its beer, with many local breweries offering tours and tastings. However, the legal drinking age is 18.

20

If you're planning to visit museums or attractions, consider getting a Bruges City Card for discounts and free admission to certain places.

Basic Dutch to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hallo

Ha-lo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Vaarwel

Vaar-wel

Saying goodbye to someone

Please

Alsjeblieft

Als-ye-bleeft

Making a request

Thank you

Dank je

Dank ye

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ja

Ya

Agreeing or confirming

No

Nee

Nay

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Excuseer me

Ex-cuse-er me

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Het spijt me

Het spyt me

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Spreek je Engels?

Spreek ye Engels?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Ik begrijp het niet

Ik be-gryp het neet

Expressing confusion or misunderstanding

Where is...?

Waar is...?

Vaar is...?

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Badkamer

Bad-kamer

Asking for the restroom

Help

Help

Help

Asking for assistance

Food

Eten

E-ten

Talking about food or asking for a restaurant

Water

Water

Wa-ter

Asking for water

Beer

Bier

Beer

Ordering a beer

Wine

Wijn

Wine

Ordering wine

How much does it cost?

Hoeveel kost het?

Hoe-veel kost het?

Asking for the price

I would like...

Ik zou graag...

Ik zou graag...

Making a request or order

Good night

Goedenacht

Good-en-acht

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Long-sleeve shirts

  • Jeans or comfortable trousers

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight jacket

  • Raincoat or umbrella

  • Pajamas

  • Scarf, gloves, and hat (if traveling in winter)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport or ID

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Emergency contact information

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Headphones

  • Camera and charger

  • Universal power adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags for organization

Weather Conditions

When visiting Bruges, Belgium, it's important to be prepared for a maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. The city experiences rainfall throughout the year, so it's a good idea to always carry an umbrella or raincoat. During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures usually range between 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). While it's the warmest time of the year, it's still advisable to pack layers as evenings can be cooler. In the winter months, from December to February, temperatures can drop to as low as 32°F (0°C) and rarely exceed 45°F (7°C). If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, hats, and gloves. Snow is not common, but it can occur occasionally. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures. In spring, from March to May, temperatures typically range from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C). In autumn, from September to November, temperatures usually fall between 45°F and 65°F (7°C to 18°C). These seasons can be particularly wet, so waterproof clothing and footwear are recommended. Regardless of when you visit, remember that the weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Also, keep in mind that the cobblestone streets of Bruges can be slippery when wet, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

7° / 1°

January is the coldest month in Bruges, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothes and be prepared for possible snow.

February

8° / 1°

February is still quite cold, with a chance of snow or rain. The city is less crowded, offering a peaceful atmosphere.

March

11° / 3°

March sees the start of spring with slightly warmer temperatures. However, it can still be chilly, especially in the evenings.

April

15° / 5°

April brings more consistent spring weather. It's a great time to visit for the blooming flowers, but there can still be occasional rain showers.

May

19° / 8°

May offers pleasant temperatures and longer daylight hours. It's a popular time to visit, with many outdoor activities and events.

June

22° / 11°

June marks the start of summer with warm temperatures. It's an excellent time for outdoor exploration and enjoying the city's many parks.

July

24° / 13°

July is the warmest month in Bruges. It's a busy tourist season, so expect crowds, but the weather is ideal for sightseeing.

August

23° / 13°

August continues the warm summer weather. It's a great time for boat tours on the canals or enjoying a beer at an outdoor cafe.

September

21° / 10°

September brings cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It's a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.

October

16° / 8°

October sees the arrival of autumn with cooler temperatures and changing foliage. It's a beautiful time to visit, but pack layers as it can get chilly.

November

11° / 4°

November is a quieter month with colder temperatures. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

December

8° / 2°

December is cold with shorter daylight hours. However, the Christmas markets and festive decorations make it a magical time to visit.

Did you know?

Did you know that Bruges is often referred to as the 'Venice of the North' due to its numerous canals?

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