Where to stay in Bruges for the first time?

For a first-time visit to Bruges, the best area to stay is the historic city center, specifically around the Markt (Market Square) and Burg square, offering immediate access to top sights like the Belfry, canals, and museums. This walkable area keeps you in the heart of the city's medieval charm, with top choices including Hotel Dukes' Palace, Grand Hotel Casselbergh, and Martin's Brugge.

Is Brugge a walkable city?

Bruges, the ancient mediaeval town near Flanders fields in Belgium, is a city best cycled or walked around. The authorities have made it easy by providing plenty of signage, bicycle lanes, and even free public bicycle pumps (see below).

What is the most beautiful part of Bruges?

The most beautiful part of Bruges is widely considered to be Rozenhoedkaai (Rosary Quay), offering iconic postcard views of canals, historic gabled houses, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Belfry, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset, though the central Markt square, peaceful Begijnhof, and quieter canals like Groenerei are also exceptionally picturesque.
 

What is the 30% rule in Belgium?

Belgium's "30% tax ruling" refers to a special tax regime for expatriates and inpatriates, allowing employers to reimburse certain recurring relocation costs tax-free, generally up to 30% of gross remuneration, capped at €90,000 annually, plus other specific costs like school fees, replacing older schemes for many. This regime aims to attract international talent, exempting these allowances from tax and social security, with conditions like minimum salary thresholds (€75k for non-researchers) and a 5-year duration (extendable).

Why is Bruges called the dead city?

Bruges is called the "Dead City" primarily because of Georges Rodenbach's influential 1892 novel Bruges-la-Morte (Bruges-the-Dead), which portrayed the decaying, melancholic city as a perfect setting for a widower's obsessive grief, making it a symbol of death and lost glory for Symbolist artists and a morbid tourist attraction for romantics seeking atmosphere, even as the city's importance declined historically due to its silting Zwin channel.
 

Where to Stay in Bruges first Time (short)

What is the best month to visit Bruges?

If you want to enjoy warmer weather with lots of sunshine, head there in the summer. The best time to go to Bruges is between June and August, which has an average temperature of 18°C with highs of 21°C.

Is there a free shuttle in Bruges Centre?

From 1 July 2025, use of the centre shuttle will still be free for Bruges residents, but charged for visitors. New fare system from 1 July 2025: Children <6 years: Free. Seniors 65+: Free on presentation of identity card.

Why is Jesus' blood in Bruges?

Relic of the Holy Blood

Legend has it that Count Thierry of Alsace, after an adventurous Second Crusade, brought the Holy Blood to Bruges in 1150. He received the relic as a gift from Jerusalem, as a treasure for the city and a sign of his heroism.

Is Bruges expensive to eat and drink?

As with any European city, Bruges is quite expensive if you plan to eat out in restaurants every lunch and dinner. Many of the main restaurants in Bruges city centre cater for tourists, so you will pay more for the location. There are some cheaper, more budget places if you head out of the main city centre.

Should I go to Ghent or Bruges?

Belgian beer, canal tours, chocolate shops, a lively city center, and beautiful cities—all of the above in both. The choice ultimately depends on your preferences: Ghent provides a more modern, eclectic experience, while Bruges immerses you in a timeless, romantic setting. Large crowds included.

What is the prettiest town in Belgium?

❣️Bruges is the most beautiful city in Belgium. When you come to Bruges, you will be attracted by its long history. There are many ancient buildings and charming streets here.

What is the main area of Bruges?

Markt (Market Square) The beating heart of Bruges has long been dominated by the Belfry, 83 metres high and the city's most prominent building.

Where to stay in Belgium for the first time?

City Centre – The Heart of Bruges

Many of the top attractions are here, so if you plan on doing a few days of sightseeing, staying close to Market Square is a good choice. If you're wondering where to stay in Bruges for the first time, the city centre is probably your best bet.

Where to stay in Bruges near train station?

Hotels near Bruges Train Station

• Hotel Van Cleef. ...
• Boutiquehotel Le Foulage - adults only. ...
• Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce, A Luxe Worldwide Hotel. ...
• Lovelace Suites by Threads of Time Hotel Bruges. ...
• Boutique Hotel De Castillion. ...
• The Pand - Charming Boutique Hotel. ...
• Dukes' Palace Residence - by Dukes' Hotel Collection.

Is there a hop on hop off bus in Bruges?

Hop-on Hop-off tours, Bruges

The 100% electric, open-top double-decker buses offer a flexible hop-on hop-off experience, allowing you to explore the Belgian capital seamlessly. With 11 convenient stops, you can easily hop off to visit must-see landmarks, then hop back on when you're ready to continue your journey.

Why am I seeing a $0.10 charge when paying for public transport?

When you tap your GXS FlexiCard on the fare gantry, a S$0.10 pre-authorisation charge is made to ensure your card is active and ready. Don't worry, this isn't your actual fare. It will be promptly returned once the final transaction details from SimplyGo are processed.

How far is Bruges train station to city centre?

If you arrive at Bruges train station (by train or an international coach service) or get off the coach at the Bargeplein, the Market Square, in the heart of the city, is a 20-minute walk.

Is everything closed on Sunday in Bruges?

Are shops closed on Sunday in Bruges? Shops in Bruges are open from Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. Most shops are closed on Sundays, there are a few speciality shops that will be open especially around the heart of the city.

What is the rainiest month in Belgium?

On average Belgium gets more rainfall than the UK and slightly less than the Netherlands, the rainiest months are July (mid-summer) and December (early winter). The month with the least rain in Brussels is actually April (mid-spring) – but still carry a fold-up with you just in case.

What are the must-try foods in Belgium?

What to eat in Belgium

• Belgian chocolate. Did you even go to Belgium if you didn't consume copious amounts of chocolate? ...
• Frites. ...
• Moules frites. ...
• Waffles. ...
• Cuberdon. ...
• Speculoos. ...
• Pom koek. ...
• Stoemp.

What food is Bruges famous for?

You can find truffles, pralines, chocolate bars and even chocolate tours and workshops if you want an authentic experience. Oh, by the way, Bruges is also the place to try some real hot chocolate… just note that you may never go back to packaged hot chocolate powder ever again!

Which movie was filmed in Bruges?

In Bruges is a 2008 black comedy-drama crime thriller film directed and written by Martin McDonagh in his feature-length debut. It stars Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson as two London-based Irish hitmen hiding in Bruges, with Ralph Fiennes as their boss. The film is set and was filmed in Bruges, Belgium.