What to do in Bruges ? Must-see places in the Venice of the North

Are you visiting Bruges for a day or a weekend? Are you wondering what to do in Bruges because you live there or in the surroundings of Knokke-Heist, Zedelgem or Heist? This beautiful city has a lot to offer in terms of arts and culture. We’ve put together a list of must-see places to go for a walk or a cultural event. If you are wondering what to do in Bruges when it rains, or what to do in Bruges in 1 day, then this article is for you! Discover all the advice of our team of the chocolate museum in Bruges and have a quality stay in Bruges.

Walk around the streets of the old town

First of all, explore the must-sees of the Venice of the North and walk along the canals. The canals of Bruges stretch through all the districts of the city: from Saint-Gilles to Magdalena, through Langestraat or Steenstraat. They also surround this ancient medieval city, and extend from Ezelpoort to Dampoort and Gentpoort. The canals are an integral part of the cultural heritage of the city.

A walk in Bruges is a breath of fresh air in a picturesque environment. Take time to observe the architecture of the buildings, wander through the cobbled streets of the old town and end your adventure in Market Square, to finally admire the Belfry, or even, for the more adventurous, climb its 366 steps.

What to do in Bruges when it rains?

Belgium is known for its many rainy days throughout the year, so if you visit Bruges, a rain shower may be in store. So what to do in Bruges when it rains? Fortunately, the city also has many treasures to discover in the dry!

Bruges is one of the big players in the culture of the flat country, so you will find many museums and cultural places. Among the museums you can find for example :

  • The chocolate museum, that we’ll talk about later;
  • The Frietmuseum;
  • The museum of beer;
  • The museum of torture.

Among the cultural life actors, other treasures are also to be discovered in the city. Visit for example the Saint Sauveur cathedral or the Maud Bekaert art gallery. These places are less known, but just as fascinating as the main tourist attractions of this cultural city.

What to do in Bruges in one day?

You only have one day to visit the Venice of the North and you wonder what to do in Bruges in 1 day?

  • Start your day with a walk through the city, or along the canals. As explained above, this medieval city is well worth a visit.
  • Continue your visit by going to see the Belfry and the Saint Jean mills
  • Taste some good crepes or waffles for a gourmet break
  • Visit a museum of your choice or go to the brewery De Halve Maan, a must in the culture and heritage of the city

Staying for the evening? Take the opportunity to see a play in a theater such as Concertgebouw Brugge, Stadsschouwburg Theater, or Galerie Magiek

Discover our good plans in Bruges

If you’re wondering what to do in Bruges with your family, what to do in Bruges when it rains or what to do in Bruges in 1 day, here’s a fun activity you’re sure to enjoy: visit the chocolate museum, Choco-Story in Bruges. This museum is a flagship of the city’s cultural sector. Interactive and didactic, it entertains adults, children and teenagers in a fun but not less rewarding experience. The museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm, even on Sundays and holidays. The links for the different reservations can be found here :

Individual tickets

Individual workshop

Groups and school groups