3-Day Family Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, Belgium
3 days
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 2
Art, Architecture, and a Carriage Ride
Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a beautiful church that houses a revered relic.
Lunch
Have lunch in a cozy restaurant in the Burg Square, known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Groeningemuseum, home to a collection of Flemish and Belgian art spanning six centuries. Kids will love the interactive exhibits.
Dinner
Enjoy a hearty Belgian dinner in a restaurant located in the charming Walplein Square, known for its picturesque setting.
Evening
End your day with a magical horse-drawn carriage ride through the beautifully lit streets of Bruges. It's a perfect way to see the city's Christmas decorations.
Day 3
Canal Tour, Beguinage, and Ice Sculptures
Morning
Start your final day with a boat tour on the canals of Bruges. It's a unique way to see the city and learn about its history.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant near the Lake of Love (Minnewater Lake), a romantic spot known for its beautiful views.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Beguinage, a tranquil complex of houses used by Beguines in the past. It's a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.
Dinner
For your final dinner, choose a restaurant in the Fish Market area, known for its fresh seafood dishes.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Ice Sculpture Festival, a winter tradition in Bruges. Marvel at the intricate sculptures created by artists from around the world.
Attractions in Itinerary (10)
1Belfry of Bruges
A medieval bell tower in the center of Bruges, offering panoramic views of the city.
2Historium Bruges
Historium Bruges is a unique attraction that offers a journey back to the medieval era. It combines storytelling, special effects, and decor to create an immersive experience.
3Bruges Christmas Market
Bruges Christmas Market is a popular festive event that attracts visitors from all over the world. It features numerous stalls selling a variety of gifts, food, and drinks, creating a magical Christmas atmosphere.
4Basilica 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.
5Groeningemuseum
A museum of Flemish and Belgian painting, ranging from the 14th to the 20th century.
6Walplein Square
Walplein Square is a charming area in Bruges known for its historic buildings, lively atmosphere, and numerous cafes and restaurants. It's a great place to relax and soak in the city's ambiance.
7Lake of Love
Also known as Minnewater Lake, this romantic spot is a place of peace and tranquility. The lake and its lovely park are one of the locals' favorite places. The lake got its name from a tragic romantic legend.
8Beguinage
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.
9Ice 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.
10Bruges Canals
The canals of Bruges, often referred to as 'The Venice of the North', are one of the city's most popular attractions. A boat tour on the canals offers a unique perspective of the city's medieval buildings and charming scenery.
Local Food and Drinks (11)
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, 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
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, 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 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
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 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 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, 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 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 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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Foot
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.
Bicycle
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.
Bus
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.
Taxi
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
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.
Boat
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.
Horse-drawn carriage
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.
Train
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.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112 (cell)/ 101
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Bruges, Belgium
Ghent
A city rich in history and culture with a vibrant nightlife
Antwerp
Known for its diamond district and fashion scene
Brussels
The capital of Belgium, known for its diverse architecture and the Grand Place
Rotterdam
A major port city in the Dutch province of South Holland
Amsterdam
The Netherlands' capital, known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses
Lille
A city at the northern tip of France, in French Flanders
Luxembourg City
Known for its fortified medieval old town perched on sheer cliffs
Paris
France's capital, a global center for art, fashion, gastronomy and culture
London
The capital of England and the United Kingdom, known for its rich history and iconic landmarks
Cologne
Germany's fourth-largest city, known for its 2000-year-old history, cultural and architectural heritage
