Bruges is one of Europe’s most visited cities, but its medieval layout and Belgian quirks can trip up first-time visitors. This FAQ covers the practical details: which airport to fly into, how to get from the station to your hotel, what a Musea Brugge card costs, whether you need cash, and a dozen other things you will wish you knew before arriving. For monthly weather data to help you pack, see our weather by month guide. For hotel recommendations, check our where to stay guide.
Bruges Travel Tips: Getting There and Around
Which airport should I fly into?
Brussels Airport (BRU) in Zaventem is the main international gateway, 110 km (68 miles) east of Bruges. From the airport, take the direct train to Brussels Midi/Zuid station (20 minutes, 13 euros), then transfer to a direct IC train to Bruges (1 hour, 16 euros one way). Total journey time: approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. Alternatively, Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL, used by Ryanair and Wizz Air) is 150 km away; take the Flibco shuttle bus to Bruges (2 hours, 20 euros one way, book online). The closest airport is Ostend-Bruges (OST), 30 km away, but it only serves a handful of seasonal charter flights from southern Europe.
How do I get from Bruges train station to the city center?
Bruges Station (Station Brugge) is 1.5 km (1 mile) south of the Markt, a 20-minute walk along the tree-lined Oostmeers and Steenstraat. The walk is flat and direct but involves cobblestones, so wheeled luggage is bumpy. Local De Lijn buses (numbers 4, 6, 12, 14, 90) run from the station forecourt to the Markt every 10 minutes; a single ticket costs 2.50 euros from the driver or 1.80 euros via the De Lijn app. Taxis wait outside the station and cost 10 to 12 euros to the old town. There is no Uber in Bruges. For more transport logistics, see our things to do guide which covers bike rental for exploring.
Do I need a car in Bruges?
No. The entire historic center is a pedestrian zone, and driving within the old walls is a nightmare of one-way streets, restricted access, and 30 euro parking fees per day. Park at the train station (3.50 euros per day, 1,500 spaces) and walk or bus in. If your hotel offers parking, confirm the cost before arriving. Day trips to Ghent (20 minutes by train) and the Belgian coast (15 minutes to Blankenberge) are far easier by rail.
Bruges Travel Tips: Money, Tickets, and Practicalities
Do I need cash in Bruges?
Cards (debit and credit) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, museums, and larger shops. However, many smaller cafes, frituurs (fry shops), and some market stalls are cash-only or have a minimum card spend of 10 to 20 euros. Carry 30 to 50 euros in cash. ATMs are plentiful around the Markt and station. Belgium uses the euro.
What is the Musea Brugge card and is it worth it?
The Musea Brugge card (33 euros for 72 hours, 28 euros for ages 18 to 25, free for under 18) grants entry to all municipal museums: the Groeningemuseum, Sint-Janshospitaal, Belfry, Stadhuis, Brugse Vrije, Gruuthusemuseum, and the Folk Museum. If you visit the Belfry (15 euros), the Groeningemuseum (15 euros), and Sint-Janshospitaal (15 euros), the card saves you 12 euros. Buy it at any participating museum or the tourist office on the Markt. It does not cover the Basilica of the Holy Blood museum, the Jerusalem Church, or the Lace Centre.
What language is spoken and do I need French or Dutch?
Bruges is in Flanders, where the official language is Dutch (Flemish dialect). However, the tourist industry operates almost entirely in English, and you will find English menus, English-speaking staff, and English guided tours everywhere. French is understood but less commonly used in shops and restaurants than in Brussels. Learning a few Dutch pleasantries (dank u for thank you, alstublieft for please) is appreciated but not expected. The events and festivals guide includes details on events where languages spoken may vary.
Bruges Travel Tips: Other Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bruges safe?
Bruges is one of the safest cities in Europe. Violent crime is extremely rare. The main safety concern is pickpocketing in crowded areas, particularly around the Markt during the Christmas market and on busy summer weekends. Keep your phone and wallet in front pockets, and do not leave bags on the back of chairs at outdoor cafes. Bicycle theft is common; always lock your rental bike to a fixed stand.
What is the tipping custom?
Tipping is not required in Belgium (service is included in the bill by law), but rounding up is common. In restaurants, round up to the nearest 5 or 10 euros for good service (approximately 5 to 10 percent). For drinks at a bar, round up to the nearest euro. Hotel porters: 1 to 2 euros per bag. Taxi drivers: round up to the nearest euro.
Is Bruges wheelchair accessible?
Partially. The Markt, Burg, and main shopping streets (Steenstraat) are flat and accessible. However, Bruges’s famous cobblestones are uneven and difficult for wheelchair users, particularly on side streets. The Belfry has no elevator and 366 steps. The Groeningemuseum, Sint-Janshospitaal, and Concertgebouw are fully accessible. Canal boats are not wheelchair accessible. Several hotels in the neighborhoods guide have ground-floor accessible rooms; contact them directly before booking. The Visit Bruges website maintains a detailed accessibility guide.
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes. Belgian tap water is safe and of high quality. Restaurants are not legally required to serve free tap water, but most will if asked politely. Many cafes charge 2 to 4 euros for a bottle of still water.
Is Bruges a good day trip or should I stay overnight?
Bruges is heavily marketed as a day trip from Brussels (1 hour by train), but it rewards an overnight stay. Day-trippers see the Markt, Burg, and one museum between 11 AM and 4 PM with 50,000 other people. Stay overnight and you get the city almost to yourself after 6 PM, when the day-tripper buses depart and the canals empty out. The golden hour light on the Rozenhoedkaai at 8 PM in summer, with no one else in frame, is worth the hotel cost alone. Two nights is ideal: one full day for major sights, a second for the quieter quarters and a bike ride to Damme. See our best time to visit guide for seasonal crowd patterns.
Suggested Hotels in Bruges
Whether you are staying one night or a week, these three hotels represent the best of Bruges at three price points, all inside the historic center and within walking distance of the main sights.
Dukes’ Palace Brugge (Luxury)
A five-star hotel in a restored 15th-century ducal palace with 136 rooms, a garden courtyard, and a location 280 meters from the Markt. The building’s historic frescoes, marble bathrooms, and tranquil garden offer an oasis in the city center. Best for couples and special occasions. Check rates and availability
Martin’s Brugge (Mid-Range)
Three-star superior hotel 50 meters behind the Belfry with 208 renovated rooms, a terrace, and a cocktail bar. You cannot get closer to the action at this price. Best for first-time visitors prioritizing location. Check rates and availability
Hotel Botaniek (Budget)
Family-run hotel on a quiet street in the historic centre with breakfast included and a 9.8 out of 10 location rating from guests. The 18th-century building and personalized service deliver authentic Bruges character at an affordable rate. Best for couples seeking value without sacrificing location. Check rates and availability
