Belgium
Bruges
Belgium
Bruges
Updated Jun 29, 2025
Overview
Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site, captivates visitors with its well-preserved medieval architecture and romantic atmosphere. Wander through narrow cobblestone lanes, cruise along picturesque canals, and marvel at Gothic masterpieces. Indulge in world-class Belgian chocolate, savor local beers, and climb the iconic Belfry for panoramic views. Beyond the tourist hotspots, discover hidden courtyards, local breweries, and authentic lace-making workshops. Experience the magic of Bruges' Christmas markets or enjoy a peaceful summer day in Minnewater Park.
Best time to visit. Visit Bruges in spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer offers pleasant temperatures and outdoor events, but expect more tourists. Winter, especially December, brings festive charm with Christmas markets and twinkling lights.
City stats
Population
118,656
Land area
54 sq. mi.
Currency
Euro
Year founded
862 CE
Official langauge
Dutch
English speaking
Somewhat spoken, esp. in hospitality
State/Province
West Flanders
Timezone
Central European (UTC+1)
Driving side
right
Website
Google Maps link
Quick links
How to get there
Neighborhoods
Getting around
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Cities within 8 hours
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Bars, pubs and nightlife
Breakfast and brunch
Lunch and snacks
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Laptop friendly places
Where to stay for work trips
Work trip activities
Average weather
Country holidays
Major annual events
Cultural tips
City details
Hotels
Nearby
Nearby
Things to do
Food & restaurants
Work friendly
| Month | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 43°F - 34°F | 39°F - 29°F | Cloudy | 8:45 am | 5:00 pm | 13 days 2.8 in | 3 days 1.0 in | 11 mph |
| February | 45°F - 34°F | 41°F - 30°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:10 am | 5:50 pm | 11 days 2.1 in | 2 days 0.7 in | 11 mph |
| March | 52°F - 39°F | 49°F - 35°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:10 am | 6:45 pm | 11 days 2.1 in | 1 days 0.2 in | 11 mph |
| April | 57°F - 43°F | 55°F - 40°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:00 am | 8:30 pm | 10 days 2.0 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| May | 63°F - 49°F | 62°F - 47°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:10 am | 9:15 pm | 10 days 2.4 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| June | 68°F - 54°F | 68°F - 53°F | Partly Cloudy | 4:45 am | 9:50 pm | 10 days 2.6 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| July | 72°F - 57°F | 73°F - 57°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:10 am | 9:40 pm | 10 days 2.6 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| August | 72°F - 57°F | 73°F - 57°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:55 am | 8:50 pm | 10 days 2.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| September | 67°F - 53°F | 67°F - 52°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:45 am | 7:45 pm | 11 days 2.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| October | 59°F - 48°F | 57°F - 45°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:40 am | 6:35 pm | 12 days 3.0 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| November | 50°F - 41°F | 47°F - 37°F | Cloudy | 8:30 am | 5:35 pm | 13 days 3.0 in | 1 days 0.1 in | 11 mph |
| December | 45°F - 36°F | 41°F - 31°F | Cloudy | 9:00 am | 5:00 pm | 13 days 3.0 in | 2 days 0.6 in | 11 mph |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | January 1 | Celebration of the new year. Belgians exchange wishes and often attend parties. | Avoid travel. Most places closed. | ||
| Easter Sunday | Variable (March-April) | Christian holiday celebrating Jesus' resurrection. Families gather for meals. | Limited services. Family-oriented day. | ||
| Easter Monday | Day after Easter Sunday | Public holiday following Easter. Many Belgians enjoy outdoor activities. | Some closures. Good for outdoor plans. | ||
| Labour Day | May 1 | Workers' rights celebration. Parades and demonstrations often occur. | Expect some closures and demonstrations. | ||
| Ascension Day | 40 days after Easter | Christian holiday marking Jesus' ascension. Many take a long weekend. | Some services limited. Plan accordingly. | ||
| Pentecost | 50 days after Easter | Christian celebration of the Holy Spirit's descent. Religious observances. | Minor impact. Some religious events. | ||
| Whit Monday | Day after Pentecost | Public holiday following Pentecost. Many Belgians enjoy a day off. | Some closures. Good for leisure activities. | ||
| Belgian National Day | July 21 | Commemorates Belgian independence. Parades, fireworks, and celebrations. | Festive atmosphere. Many closures. | ||
| Assumption of Mary | August 15 | Catholic holiday honoring Virgin Mary. Religious observances and processions. | Some closures. Religious events occur. | ||
| All Saints' Day | November 1 | Christian day to honor saints. Belgians often visit cemeteries. | Solemn day. Expect some closures. | ||
| Armistice Day | November 11 | Commemorates end of World War I. Ceremonies and moments of silence. | Respectful atmosphere. Some closures. | ||
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Christian celebration of Jesus' birth. Families gather for festive meals. | Avoid travel. Most places closed. | ||
| Boxing Day | December 26 | Day after Christmas. Many Belgians continue family celebrations. | Limited services. Family-oriented day. |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bruges Beer Festival | First weekend in February | Annual beer festival showcasing over 400 Belgian beers from 80 breweries. Attracts beer enthusiasts from around the world. | Great time for beer lovers to visit | ||
| Procession of the Holy Blood | Ascension Day (typically in May) | Religious procession through Bruges' streets, featuring biblical scenes and the relic of the Holy Blood. | Unique cultural experience, expect crowds | ||
| Bruges Triennial | May to September (every three years) | Contemporary art and architecture exhibition spread throughout the city, featuring international artists. | Excellent time for art enthusiasts | ||
| Klinkers Festival | June | Street music festival with performances by local and international artists in various locations around Bruges. | Lively atmosphere, good for music fans | ||
| Bruges Food Festival | September | Culinary event showcasing local and international cuisine, with food stalls and cooking demonstrations. | Perfect for foodies, expect busy streets | ||
| Bruges Christmas Market | Late November to early January | Traditional Christmas market with festive stalls, ice skating, and holiday decorations throughout the city. | Magical atmosphere, but very crowded |
1 | Belgians value punctuality. Arrive on time for appointments and reservations. If you're running late, call ahead to inform the person or establishment you're meeting. |
2 | When greeting someone, a handshake is common for first meetings. Cheek kissing (3 times) is reserved for friends and family. Follow the lead of the local person you're meeting. |
3 | Learn a few basic phrases in both French and Dutch. Belgium has multiple official languages, and locals appreciate when tourists make an effort to speak their language. |
4 | Tipping is not expected in Belgium as service charges are included in bills. However, rounding up or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated. |
5 | Belgium is known for its beer culture. When ordering at a bar, each beer typically has its own specific glass. Don't be surprised if your drink comes in an unusual container. |
6 | Respect quiet hours, especially in residential areas. Belgians value peace and quiet, particularly on Sundays and in the evenings after 10 PM. |
7 | When dining out, keep your hands visible on the table, not in your lap. This is considered polite table manners in Belgium and much of Europe. |
8 | Belgians tend to be more reserved than Americans. Avoid loud conversations in public spaces, and respect personal boundaries, especially on public transport. |
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