Both Bruges and Ghent are stunning Belgian cities with rich history, incredible architecture, and great food. Bruges is more fairy-tale-like, while Ghent has a lively, student vibe with more nightlife. But they are really close together so, if you have time for both, they make a perfect combo!
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Bruges
Nestled in the heart of Belgium, Bruges feels almost too beautiful to be real. Known for its perfectly preserved medieval architecture, enchanting canals, and rich history, Bruges offers an experience unlike any other. Stroll along cobblestone streets, indulge in gourmet chocolates, and marvel at world-class art. There’s an abundance of sights in Bruges to make your visit truly memorable.
Historic City Center
Start your journey at the Markt, Bruges’ lively central square, surrounded by elegant, gabled buildings in vibrant hues. The square is the heartbeat of the city. As you stand there, it’s hard not to imagine how it looked centuries ago. The Belfry of Bruges, a UNESCO-listed tower that dominates the skyline, beckons visitors. Climb its 366 steps for one of the most breathtaking views in the city. From the top, you can see the entirety of Bruges spread out below you, with its winding canals, medieval rooftops, and the shimmering Lake of Love in the distance.
A few steps away, the Basilica of the Holy Blood offers a more spiritual stop. This small but beautiful church is home to a vial said to contain the blood of Christ. The interior is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Its intricate stained-glass windows and an air of reverence transports you back in time.
Iconic Museums & Masterpieces
Bruges is home to a treasure trove of artistic and historical sites. Art lovers will revel in the Groeninge Museum, a must-visit for anyone interested in Flemish art. With masterpieces by Jan Van Eyck, Hans Memling, and others, this museum is a window into the city’s medieval and Renaissance artistic golden age.
For a more immersive experience, step into the Historium Bruges, where you can literally step back in time. This cool museum uses state-of-the-art virtual reality to transport you to Bruges during the height of its wealth in the 15th century. You’ll experience what life was like as a merchant, craftsman, or nobleman in this vibrant, medieval city.
Meanwhile, the Church of Our Lady houses one of the world’s most famous sculptures—Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child. This piece of art, made from Carrara marble, is a symbol of Bruges’ connection to the Italian Renaissance and is a highlight of the city’s rich artistic heritage.
Culinary Delights of Bruges
No visit to Bruges is complete without indulging in its culinary offerings. Known worldwide for its exceptional chocolate, Bruges boasts some of the best chocolatiers in Belgium. Make sure to stop by Chocolatier Dumon, where every truffle and praline is made with love and craftsmanship. For a truly indulgent experience, try Belgian hot chocolate at The Chocolate Line. It is rich, velvety, and utterly divine.
Beer lovers, rejoice! Bruges is also famous for its local brews, with an array of beers unique to the region. Head to De Garre, a hidden gem tucked away in a narrow alley, where you can sample the city’s renowned triple beer while sitting in a cozy medieval setting. Tour De Halve Maan Brewery to learn about Bruges’ beer culture and try a glass of Brugse Zot or Straffe Hendrik.
Don’t miss the chance to try Belgian frites (crispy fries served with a variety of sauces) and moules-frites (mussels served with fries). These are two of the country’s most beloved dishes.
Romantic Canals
The canals of Bruges are one of its most iconic features, and there’s no better way to appreciate them than by boat. A boat tour along the winding waterways offers a unique view of the city, with its ivy-clad buildings, medieval bridges, and picturesque alleyways. As you glide past charming houses, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a storybook.
One of the most photographed spots in Bruges is Rozenhoedkaai, a canal-side quay with a striking view of the medieval buildings reflected in the water. Visit at sunrise when the mist hangs low over the canals or at sunset when the golden light bathes the city. It’s sure to be a magical moment.
A canal cruise is also a wonderful way to see Bruges from a different perspective and also give your feet a rest.
Tranquil Parks
For a moment of peace, visit Minnewater Park, a serene space that’s often called the “Lake of Love.” This tranquil park, with its swan-filled lake, provides the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a quiet picnic. The surrounding trees and lush grass create an idyllic backdrop for reflection and relaxation. The Beguinage, a peaceful retreat once home to a community of religious women, offers another tranquil escape. Relax in its whitewashed buildings, charming gardens, and simple beauty.
Festivals & Cultural Events
Bruges has a vibrant cultural calendar, with events throughout the year that highlight its artistic and historical significance. From the Bruges Beer Festival to the Bruges Triennial, a contemporary art exhibition held every three years, the city is a hub of creativity. During the Bruges Christmas Markets, the streets come alive with festive lights, and the scent of mulled wine and waffles fills the air. If you visit in the summer, you can enjoy open-air concerts, classical music festivals, and local theater performances.
Local Handicrafts
Bruges is a fantastic place to pick up unique souvenirs. In addition to chocolate, you’ll find shops selling handmade lace, which has been a local craft in Bruges for centuries. The Belfry Square and the Market Square are lined with shops offering everything from intricate lacework to artisanal pottery. These are perfect for taking a piece of Bruges home with you.
For a truly unique shopping experience, head to Steenstraat, where you’ll find boutiques that specialize in vintage goods, handmade jewelry, and other one-of-a-kind finds.
Practical Tips for Visiting Bruges
Bruges is a compact city, and the best way to explore it is on foot or by bike. Stroll along the narrow streets, discover hidden squares, and enjoy the charm of the city at your own pace. While Dutch is the official language, most people in Bruges speak English, so communication will be a breeze.
The city is well-connected by train, making it easy to visit for a day trip from Brussels or other Belgian cities. But to truly immerse yourself in the magic of Bruges, consider spending a couple of nights in one of its charming boutique hotels or cozy bed-and-breakfasts, many of which are housed in historical buildings that add to the city’s ambiance.
Consider the day of the week that you visit as some things may be closed on Sundays.
Ghent
Tucked between Brussels and Bruges, Ghent often flies under the radar of many travelers. But those who take the time to explore find themselves enchanted by its medieval charm, lively atmosphere, and rich history. Ghent offers the best of Belgium without the overwhelming crowds. Stroll along picturesque canals, marvel at centuries-old architecture, and definitely indulge in Belgian delicacies along the way!
Walk Through Time
Start your journey in the heart of the city at Gravensteen Castle. This imposing medieval fortress, built in the 12th century, offers stunning views from its towers and a fascinating glimpse into the past. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the awe-inspiring Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers.
Wandering through the cobbled streets of the Patershol district feels like stepping back in time. This historic neighborhood, once home to medieval tradesmen, now boasts trendy restaurants and cozy cafés. It is perfect for a break between sightseeing. For a deeper dive into Ghent’s history, visit the STAM Museum, which offers interactive exhibits tracing the city’s evolution from medieval times to today.
The Beauty of the Canals
Ghent’s canals rival those of Bruges, offering a romantic and serene way to see the city. Hop on a boat tour to glide past stunning guild houses and learn about Ghent’s storied past from the water. Alternatively, rent a kayak and paddle at your own pace, soaking in the city’s charm from a unique perspective.
For an insta-worthy view of the city, head to St. Michael’s Bridge. This iconic spot provides breathtaking panoramic views of Ghent’s most famous landmarks. Snap a pic of the three towers of Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Saint Nicholas’ Church, and the Belfry.
The Graslei and Korenlei quays are another must-visit area, lined with stunning medieval buildings that reflect beautifully on the water. This is the perfect place to relax and watch the world go by.
A Taste of Ghent
No visit to Ghent is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Try a warm, syrupy cuberdon (a local candy also called “little noses”). The traditional flavor for these is the dark purple-ish raspberry. And trust me, it is the only one worth tasting! I bought a bag for my tour group and we all liked them. But a friend tried some of the mixed flavors and the reviews were not good!
Dig into a plate of stoverij, a rich Flemish beef stew served with crispy fries. For those who love street food, Ghent offers plenty of delicious options. Don’t miss out on freshly made Belgian waffles from street vendors. The city’s food markets are also great places to sample artisanal cheeses, fresh seafood, and local delicacies.
And of course, Belgian beer lovers will find themselves in paradise, with countless local brews to sample. Have a drink at Dulle Griet – a famous beer bar where you must trade your shoe for their giant boot-shaped beer glass!
Art & Culture
Ghent’s creative spirit shines through its vibrant street art, eclectic museums, and thriving music scene. The city proudly showcases its urban art culture in Graffiti Alley, an ever-evolving alleyway adorned with colorful murals.
For art lovers, the MSK (Museum of Fine Arts) and the contemporary SMAK museum offer a diverse range of artistic treasures, from classical paintings to avant-garde installations. The MSK also provides a unique opportunity to witness the ongoing restoration of the Ghent Altarpiece, giving visitors an up-close look at the techniques used to preserve this Renaissance masterpiece.
A City Alive at Night
When the sun sets, Ghent takes on a magical glow. The city’s award-winning lighting plan transforms its medieval buildings, bridges, and canals into a breathtaking nighttime spectacle. The Graslei and Korenlei quays become even more enchanting, perfect for an evening stroll or a relaxing drink by the water.The lighting adds a whole new dimension to Ghent’s historic beauty. A walk through the illuminated streets is a must for any visitor.
Practical Tips for Visiting Ghent
Ghent is easily accessible by train from Brussels (30 minutes), Bruges (25 minutes), and Antwerp (50 minutes). The main train station, Gent-Sint-Pieters, is well connected to the city center via tram. The city is best explored on foot or by bike. Ghent’s public transport system (trams and buses) is efficient and affordable, but much of the city center is pedestrian-friendly.
Spring and summer (April to September) offer the best weather and vibrant events, while the Christmas season brings festive charm. While many people visit Ghent on a day trip, it is also a great place to stay a while. There are loads of great accommodations located in charming historical buildings throughout the city.
Traveling Between Bruges & Ghent
Bruges and Ghent are about 29 miles apart, making travel between them quick and easy. Train is definitely the fastest (22-30 minutes) and easiest option. It is also quite cheap at about 12 euros. Trains run every 15–30 minutes from Bruges Station to Ghent-St-Pieters Station.
Cars can travel back and forth on the E40 highway. It is definitely the most flexible option, but it can take twice and long to get there. Also, parking in Ghent can be tricky, so consider using park-and-ride lots. Travel by bus, as usual, takes a lot longer at 1.5-2 hours. It is less expensive than the train, but time is money!
If you are in great shape and are adventurous, you might consider biking back and forth. It takes 3-4 hours but it is mostly flat and you enjoy the beauty of the Flemish countryside along the way.
If you’re doing a day trip, the train is your best bet! Or, you may choose to join a guided tour.
Are You Ready To Explore Bruges & Ghent?
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