Bruges in January: Is It Worth It?

Bruges, often called the “Venice of the North,” is a city where medieval charm meets winter magic. But is January a good time to visit?

Absolutely! Bruges in January offers a quieter, more intimate experience without the summer crowds. The cobblestone streets, misty canals, and warm cafés make it the perfect setting for a cozy winter escape. Plus, if you’re planning a weekend in Bruges, you’ll still enjoy its iconic landmarks while soaking up its historical charm.

Here’s your ultimate 2-day itinerary, covering everything from how to get there to the best things to do in Bruges in January—with fascinating historical insights along the way!

How to Get to Bruges from Brussels

Bruges is well-connected to Brussels city center and Brussels Airport, making it an easy and convenient weekend trip.

By Train (Recommended)

Brussels to Bruges by train is the fastest and most convenient way to travel. I arrived in Brussels on an early morning flight from Athens and took the train directly from the airport, which is located at level -1 of Arrivals. I had to ride for one stop until Brussels Midi and changed trains that took me directly to Bruges.  

• Departure: Trains to Bruges depart every 30 minutes from Brussels Central, Brussels Midi, and Brussels Airport (Zaventem).
• Duration: Around 1 hour from the city center, 90 minutes from the airport.
• Tickets: Prices start from €16.60 one way (discounted to €9.90 on weekends). Book tickets on the official SNCB website. The ticket from Brussels Airport to Bruges cost me €25.

Once you arrive in Bruges, you will find a taxi stand outside the station. The standard taxi fee starts at €13. The city center is not far away, but the cobblestone streets make it hard to push along your luggage. 

By Car

Driving from Brussels to Bruges takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but parking in the historic center is very limited. The best option is to park at Station Brugge (P+R) and take a short walk or bus into the city. Some hotels offer parking, but make sure to reserve your spot in advance.

By Bus

FlixBus offers budget-friendly options starting from €5 one way, but the journey takes around 2 hours.

Why You Should Get the Musea Brugge Card

If you’re planning to visit at least three museums, the Musea Brugge Card is highly recommended. The entrance fee to the Belfry of Bruges alone is €14.

Cost: €33 | Validity: 72 hours | Covers access to:

• Belfry of Bruges
• Church of Our Lady Museum
• Gruuthuse Museum
• Groeninge Museum
• St. John’s Hospital Museum
• Stadhuis (City Hall)

👉 Where to buy: Available at museum entrances or online here.

Day 1 in Bruges 

This is the itinerary I followed based on my time of arrival and weather conditions. You can mix the stops around to suit your interests. 

Canal Boat Tour: The Original Transport Route of Bruges

Bruges’ canal network was established in the 12th century, connecting the city to the Zwin Estuary and enabling trade with the North Sea. These canals allowed Bruges to flourish as a major Hanseatic trading center during the 13th to 15th centuries.

Today, boat tours offer visitors a chance to see the city as merchants and traders once did. It is one of the best things to do in Bruges, ideally on your first day – to give you a well-rounded perspective of the city and how it was built. 

While several departure points operate during the warmer months, the only functioning dock I found at the end of January was at Gruuthusebrug Bridge, located beside the Church of Our Lady. From here, the canal boat tour follows a scenic route through Bruges’ historic waterways, offering a unique perspective of the city’s medieval past.

The journey takes passengers beneath centuries-old stone bridges, some dating back to the 13th century, each with its own story. One of the highlights is the Quay of the Rosary (Rozenhoedkaai), a former trading hub where merchants once unloaded goods arriving from the North Sea via the Zwin Estuary. Today, this iconic spot is one of the most photographed locations in Bruges, offering postcard-perfect views of the city’s stepped-gable houses reflecting on the water.

As the boat glides along, you’ll pass merchant houses adorned with medieval trading symbols, remnants of Bruges’ commercial golden age when it was one of Europe’s leading trade centers. The tour also takes you past the Fish Market (Vismarkt), which has been a central trading post for fresh seafood since the 19th century. The open-air structure, designed with classical colonnades, still functions as a market during the mornings (Wednesday-Saturday) and transforms into an artisan hub later in the day.

Another key sight along the route is the Love Bridge (Bonifacius Bridge) and the Lake of Love (Minnewater), both tied to Bruges’ romantic folklore. According to legend, couples who cross the bridge or gaze upon the tranquil lake together will experience eternal love.

With its weeping willows and serene waters, this area was once part of the city’s defensive system, controlling access to Bruges from the waterways.

Even in winter, when the city is quieter, and the trees are bare, the canal tour offers an immersive look into Bruges’ rich medieval and maritime history. Each stop along the route reveals another layer of Bruges’ past, from its economic power as a Hanseatic League member to its evolution into a UNESCO-listed heritage city.

• Tickets: €15 per person, purchased on-site. Reservations are only possible for groups of 25 people.
• Tour duration: 30 minutes
• Wait Time: Around 1 hour (based on my experience, but can vary) 

Admire the Statue of Guido Gezelle

Guido Gezelle (1830–1899) was a Flemish poet, priest, and linguist known for his lyrical poetry inspired by nature, religion, and the Flemish language. A key figure in the Flemish literary revival, he enriched Dutch poetry with his musicality and vivid imagery while also working to preserve regional dialects. His influence extended to later Flemish writers, including his nephew Stijn Streuvels.

A statue honoring Gezelle’s legacy stands on Gruuthusestraat, across from the Church of Our Lady, commemorating his contributions to Flemish literature and language.

Walk Around the City & Chocolate Break 

Bruges has been a center of chocolate-making since the 17th century when the city’s merchants imported cocoa from South America. Today, Bruges is home to some of the best chocolatiers in Belgium, crafting artisanal pralines, truffles, and ganache using traditional methods.

A must-stop spot is The Old Chocolate House, a family-run chocolate shop known for serving some of the richest and most authentic Belgian hot chocolate.

Here, you can mix your own hot chocolate by selecting a chocolate type—dark, milk, or white—and stirring it into steaming milk served in a traditional ceramic mug. The shop also offers handmade pralines with local flavors like Bruges beer, speculoos, and hazelnut cream.

Several chocolate tours are available if you want to explore Bruges’ chocolate culture more deeply. These tours offer guided tastings and insights into the city’s confectionery heritage.

Recommended Chocolate Tours in Bruges:

Choco-Story Bruges Museum – A museum dedicated to cocoa and Belgian chocolate-making history, complete with live demonstrations and tastings. Visitors learn how Bruges became a chocolate hub and can try their hand at crafting pralines.

Bruges Chocolate Walking Tour—This guided tour stops at some of the city’s top chocolatiers. Visitors can taste different styles of handmade Belgian chocolate while learning about the techniques behind praline-making.

Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop with Beer Tasting – A unique experience that combines the making of chocolate pralines paired with local Belgian beer tasting. Duration: 2.5 hours.

Markt Square: The Historic Heart of Bruges

At the heart of Bruges lies Markt Square, a grand marketplace that has been the city’s commercial and social hub since the 10th century.

Once a bustling meeting point for merchants, craftsmen, and traders, it played a key role in Bruges’ golden age as a thriving Hanseatic trade center. Today, the square remains one of the city’s most iconic locations, surrounded by colorful stepped-gable houses that were once the homes and guild halls of prosperous medieval merchants.

These vibrant facades, now occupied by cafés and restaurants, add to the square’s postcard-perfect charm.

Landmarks of Markt Square

Provincial Palace – This grand neo-Gothic building, which dominates the square, was once the seat of government for West Flanders. Built in the late 19th century, it replaced older administrative buildings that had served the city for centuries.

This historic landmark reopened to the public in 2024, following an extensive four-year restoration. With its intricate stonework, majestic towers, and breathtaking interiors, the palace once again welcomes visitors to step inside and experience its grandeur up close. Visit to this palace is free.

Inside the palace, you will also find a café that operates as a social project, providing meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck – Standing at the center of the square, this monument pays tribute to two Flemish heroes who led a rebellion against French rule during the Battle of the Golden Spurs (1302), a decisive victory for Flanders in its struggle for independence.

Belfry of Bruges – Rising 83 meters above the square, the Belfry of Bruges is the city’s most iconic tower. Originally built in 1240, it served as a watchtower, treasury, and municipal archive. You can climb its 366 steps for panoramic views of Bruges.

I climbed the tower during the day while it was still light. It is open until 6 PM on all days except Saturday; it closes at 8 PM. Make sure to check the timetable before you go in case of any changes.

Horse-Drawn Carriages – A historical tradition dating back to medieval times, these carriages now offer visitors 30-minute tours around Bruges, departing from Markt Square. You can hear the sound of the horse-carriages as you walk around the streets.

Dinner at Quatre Vin: A Michelin-Recommended Wine Bar Experience

For wine lovers and food enthusiasts, Quatre Vin is a must-visit in Bruges. This Michelin-recommended bistro and wine bar offers a refined yet casual dining experience centered around small plates meant for sharing.

Inspired by Asian and Spanish cuisine, the menu features an eclectic mix of flavors—from fresh ceviche and delicate bao buns to vibrant, creative salads.

The lunch menu begins with a selection of three bites, while the dinner experience requires a minimum of four small plates, allowing guests to sample a variety of expertly crafted dishes.

To elevate the experience, Quatre Vin’s curated wine list offers perfectly paired selections, ensuring that a carefully chosen glass of wine complements each dish. Space is limited. Thus, reservations are highly recommended.

Watch my first day in Bruges Travel vlog on YouTube

Day 2 In Bruges Itinerary : Hidden Gems & Artistic Treasures

On Sunday, my second day in Bruges, I started my morning just shortly before 9 a.m. and headed towards the Benguinage, which is surrounded by the peaceful Love Lake. There wasn’t almost a single soul out at this time of day, and I enjoyed the solitude.

Wijngaardplein & the Timeless Beauty of Bruges’ Swans

Before reaching the Beguinage, you will pass through Wijngaardplein, a charming square that feels untouched by time. The name Wijngaardplein translates to “Vineyard Square,” referring to the small vineyard that once stood in this area during the medieval period.

The square is one of the most picturesque spots in Bruges, surrounded by historic whitewashed houses, cobbled pathways, and quaint bridges.

The highlight of Wijngaardplein is its serene view over the canals, where Bruges’ famous swans gracefully glide across the water.

The presence of swans in Bruges is deeply tied to local history and legend. According to Bruges’ folklore, after the execution of Pieter Lanchals, a knight loyal to the Austrian Emperor Maximilian I, the emperor punished the city by decreeing that Bruges must keep swans on its canals forever as a reminder of its rebellion.

Whether myth or truth, the swans have since become a symbol of Bruges, adding to the city’s romantic and historic atmosphere.

Just beyond the Wijngaardplein Bridge, you can see the Love Bridge (Bonifacius Bridge) and the Lake of Love (Minnewater). Minnewater, once part of the city’s defensive water system, is now known for its tranquil setting.

According to legend, the lake was named after a tragic love story involving a young woman named Minna, whose lover, Stromberg, found her lifeless by the water’s edge. Today, couples visiting the Love Bridge are said to be blessed with eternal love if they cross it together.

The Beguinage: A Self-Sufficient Women’s Community Since 1245

The Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaerde, Bruges’ only preserved beguinage, was founded in 1245 by Countess Margaret of Constantinople, daughter of the Count of Flanders.

Unlike traditional convents, beguinages housed Beguines—women who dedicated themselves to a religious and charitable life while maintaining their economic and social independence. Unlike nuns, Beguines could own property, leave the community at will, and did not take lifelong vows of poverty or chastity.

At its peak in the 14th century, the Bruges Beguinage was home to over 150 women living in modest white-washed houses arranged around a serene central courtyard filled with tall poplar trees. As the Beguine movement declined in the late 18th and 19th centuries, the last Beguine of Bruges passed away in 1926. After that, the site was taken over by Benedictine nuns, who continue to reside here today. It is a place of serenity and devotion which I would most certainly recommend that you visit – regardless of your religion or beliefs.

What to See at the Beguinage

The Small Church (Begijnhofkerk, St. Elisabeth Church)—Originally built in the 13th century, the church was rebuilt in the 17th century in the Baroque style. Inside, modest wooden furnishings and devotional paintings reflect the simplicity of the Beguine lifestyle. I walked into the church during the Sunday morning mass, and it was a wonderful experience to briefly connect with the local community.

The Beguinage Museum (House of the Beguines) – One of the original Beguine homes has been restored and furnished as it would have been in the 17th and 18th centuries. Inside, you can see traditional furniture, religious artifacts, and handmade lace, a key source of income for the Beguines.

The house provides insight into their daily lives, from simple meals prepared in earthenware pots to quiet moments of prayer and reflection.

The Central Courtyard – A peaceful green space enclosed by white-washed buildings, perfect for a quiet stroll. Even in winter, the atmosphere here is calm and contemplative, offering a glimpse into a world of solitude and devotion. The Beguinage of Bruges is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for preserving independent women’s cultural and religious history in medieval Europe.

Discover the Museums of Bruges

St. John’s Hospital Museum: One of Europe’s Oldest Hospitals

Founded in the 12th century, St. John’s Hospital (Sint-Janshospitaal) is one of Europe’s oldest surviving hospitals.

For over 800 years, it served as a place of refuge for pilgrims, travelers, and the sick, offering medical care at a time when hospitals were more akin to religious hospices than modern healthcare institutions. 

The hospital was run by monks and nuns, who relied on herbal remedies, prayer, and basic surgical techniques to treat patients. The original medieval infirmary remains well-preserved, showing how medicine and healthcare functioned in medieval Bruges. The collection invites you to explore the hospital as an art of hospitality, and it was truly an eye-opening perspective on the role this hospital played. 

Today, the St. John’s Hospital Museum houses a collection that blends medical history with religious art, showcasing the hospital’s dual role as a place of healing and spiritual care—a place that welcomes everyone with open arms.

What to See in the Museum

Medieval Medical Instruments & 17th-Century Apothecary Tools—The displays include surgical instruments, mortars for grinding medicinal herbs, and glass bottles used by the nuns to prepare treatments.

The on-site 17th-century pharmacy (Apotheek) is a rare example of an early medical dispensary, with rows of ceramic jars, wooden cabinets, and detailed medical manuscripts.

Religious Paintings by Hans Memling—One of the museum’s highlights is a collection of masterpieces by Hans Memling, one of the greatest Flemish Primitive painters. His Shrine of St. Ursula (1489), a gilded wooden reliquary, was commissioned for the hospital’s chapel and remains one of the finest examples of Gothic devotional art.

His other works, including The Mystical Marriage of St. Catherine, depict religious themes with striking detail and emotional depth.

The Historic Infirmary Hall – Step inside the large medieval ward, where patients once lay in wooden beds beneath high vaulted ceilings.

Stained-glass windows, religious altars, and paintings emphasize the hospital’s spiritual aspect, as faith was considered an integral part of the healing process.

The Herb Garden – Just outside the hospital, a reconstructed medieval herb garden grows plants that were once used in medicinal remedies, such as lavender, sage, and chamomile.

The Gruuthuse Museum

The Gruuthuse Museum is located next to the Church of Our Lady. It houses a rich collection that depicts three pivotal eras in Bruges’ history: the Burgundian Golden Age, the often-overlooked 17th and 18th centuries, and the city’s 19th-century neo-Gothic revival.

With over 600 artifacts, from majestic tapestries and Gothic stained glass to refined lace, historic paintings, and luxurious Chinese porcelain, the museum brings Bruges’ past to life.

At its heart lies the motto of Louis of Gruuthuse, the nobleman who once shaped this palace: “Plus est en vous”—”There is more in you than you think.” The museum is a must-visit for history and art lovers!

Groeninge Museum: Flemish Art Masterpieces

The Groeninge Museum is home to one of Belgium’s most important collections of Flemish art. It offers a comprehensive overview of six centuries of artistic evolution, from the Flemish Primitives of the 15th century to modern Belgian movements.

Located on the site of a former medieval abbey, the museum provides a deep dive into the rich artistic heritage of Bruges, a city that flourished as a major cultural hub during the Burgundian era.

The museum’s collection is particularly renowned for its Flemish Primitive paintings, a school of art characterized by exceptional attention to detail, rich colors, and symbolic storytelling. These works, created by masters such as Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and Gerard David, played a crucial role in shaping Northern Renaissance art.

Highlights include:

Jan van Eyck’s Madonna with Canon Joris Van der Paele (1436)

Considered one of the most technically precise oil paintings ever created, this masterpiece by Jan van Eyck showcases incredible realism and meticulous detail. The painting, commissioned by the wealthy cleric Joris Van der Paele, depicts the Virgin Mary with the Christ Child, accompanied by Saint Donatian and Saint George. Van Eyck’s mastery of light reflection, fabric textures, and human expression is evident in this stunning work, making it a landmark in Northern Renaissance art.

Hans Memling’s Moreel Triptych (1484) – A masterpiece of early Netherlandish art.

This altarpiece, commissioned by the influential Moreel family of Bruges, is an excellent example of early Netherlandish religious art. The triptych (three-panel painting) depicts Saint Christopher, Saint Maurus, and other saints, framed by detailed Gothic architecture. Memling’s ability to create soft, idealized facial features and serene expressions made his work highly sought after by Bruges’ elite during the late 15th century.

Pieter Pourbus’ Portraits and Religious Paintings (16th century) – The museum also houses works by Pieter Pourbus, a Renaissance-era painter known for his detailed portraits of Bruges’ elite and large-scale religious scenes. His style marks the transition from the Gothic traditions of the Flemish Primitives to the more dynamic compositions of the Baroque period.

One of the paintings that really stood out for me is Joseph-Denis Odevaere’s Lord Byron on His Deathbed. This Romantic-era painting depicts the final moments of the English poet Lord Byron, who died in Missolonghi, Greece, in 1824 while supporting the Greek War of Independence.

The painting presents an idealized vision of Byron’s death, portraying him as a noble and serene figure bathed in dramatic light. A glowing oil lamp illuminates his pale, lifeless face, while in the background, the moonlight casts a soft glow over a peaceful landscape, symbolizing Byron’s eternal legacy.

Burg Square: The Seat of Power for Over a Millennium

Burg Square has been the political and religious center of Bruges since the 9th century when it housed a fortress protecting the region from Viking invasions. Over the centuries, it evolved into a center for governance.

Here, you will find several key landmarks:

Dominating the square is the City Hall (Stadhuis), one of the oldest in the Low Countries, dating back to 1376. For over 600 years, this Gothic masterpiece has been the seat of city governance.

Inside, the Gothic Hall stuns with its soaring vaults and 20th-century murals depicting Bruges’ rich history. The adjacent historic hall offers an interactive exhibition on Bruges and the sea, exploring the lost Zwin ports and the city’s maritime past.

On the ground floor, life-size portraits of Bruges’ rulers and insights into the evolution of Burg Square bring history to life. It’s a must-visit if you would like to better understand Bruges’ fascinating past! Entrance to the City Hall and guided audio tour is included with the Musea Brugge Card.

Right next to City Hall is the Basilica of the Holy Blood (12th century). It houses a relic of Christ’s blood, said to have been brought from the Holy Land after the Second Crusade. This stunning double chapel which blends Romanesque and Gothic architecture, is a site of pilgrimage and devotion.

In 2025, the basilica will serve as a Jubilee Church, offering plenary indulgences for pilgrims.

The Church of Our Lady

The Church of Our Lady is one of Bruges’ most iconic landmarks, boasting the tallest brick tower in Belgium at 115.5 meters. Inside, visitors can admire breathtaking medieval architecture, stunning stained glass, and an impressive collection of religious art.

A highlight is Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child, one of the few sculptures by the master to have left Italy during his lifetime—a true masterpiece not to be missed.

The church also houses magnificent tombs, including those of Mary of Burgundy and Charles the Bold.

Keep in mind that on Sundays, the church opens later in the day at 1:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. It remains open until 5 PM.

Dinner at Cambrinus Brasserie & Belgian Beer Tasting

Cambrinus, named after the legendary king of beer, offers over 400 Belgian beers, including Trappist, Abbey, and Lambic varieties. You can try a beer flight featuring Brugse Zot, Tripel Karmeliet, and Westmalle Trappist.

Since I’m not much of a beer person, I only tried a glass of Blanche de Namur, which I really enjoyed with my fish stew (Waterzooi) made with salmon, sole fillet, North Sea shrimp, and Brugse Zot beer.

Note: Many restaurants close on Sundays, so reservations are recommended.

Watch my Day 2 in Bruges Vlog on YouTube

Where To Stay in Bruges

For a comfortable stay in Bruges, there are excellent hotel options catering to different preferences.

Hotel Dukes Academie (4-star) is an excellent choice if you are looking for a quiet yet central location. I stayed here during my weekend break in Bruges. The hotel is near Minnewater (Lake of Love) and the Beguinage. It offers a peaceful and elegant setting.

The hotel provides modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and a relaxing lounge area, ensuring a pleasant stay. A rich buffet breakfast offers a good selection of hot dishes, cold cuts, smoked salmon, cheeses, fresh fruit, and pastries.

For a luxurious experience, Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges stands out as a five-star hotel set in a former ducal palace. With its stunning historic interiors, private gardens, and top-tier service, it offers a taste of royal grandeur in the heart of the city.

If you prefer a boutique experience, Hotel de Orangerie by CW Hotel Collection provides a refined atmosphere in a 16th-century former convent. Overlooking the canals of Bruges, the hotel features individually styled rooms, antique furnishings, and an intimate, elegant ambiance, making it an excellent choice for a romantic getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Bruges

Can Bruges Be Visited on a Day Trip?

Yes, Bruges can be visited on a day trip, especially from Brussels, Ghent, or Antwerp, as it is well-connected by train. There are also organized day trips from Amsterdam. A day trip allows you to explore the historic Markt Square, the Belfry of Bruges, Burg Square, the canals, and a few museums or chocolate shops. However, staying overnight lets you experience Bruges in a more relaxed way and enjoy its evening ambiance and true character.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Bruges?

Bruges is beautiful year-round. Spring (March-May) brings blooming flowers, summer (June–August) offers longer daylight hours, autumn (September–November) showcases golden foliage, and winter (December–February) has a magical atmosphere, especially with Christmas markets and fewer crowds in January.

How Many Days Do You Need in Bruges?

A weekend (2 days) is ideal for exploring Bruges at a comfortable pace, visiting its museums and historical landmarks, and enjoying boat rides or local cuisine. However, for art lovers or those wanting a more immersive experience, 3 days is even better.

Is Bruges Walkable?

Yes, Bruges is highly walkable, with most attractions within a 10–15 minute walk of each other. The cobblestone streets and pedestrian-friendly layout make walking the best way to explore the city. However, bicycles are also a popular option.

What Food Is Bruges Known For?

Bruges is famous for:
Belgian chocolate – Try artisanal pralines from shops like The Chocolate Line.
Belgian fries – Best enjoyed with mayonnaise from street vendors.
Local beers – Sample Brugse Zot or a Trappist beer at a historic brewery.
Waterzooi – A traditional Flemish fish or chicken stew.
Belgian waffles – Crispy and topped with chocolate or fresh fruit. There are also vendor vans selling Belgian waffles around the city. You will find them in popular squares like Markt and Burg.

Is Bruges Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Bruges is one of the safest cities in Belgium, with a low crime rate. However, as with any tourist destination, it’s always good to be mindful with your belongings. As a solo traveler, it felt totally safe.