Bruges Weekend Getaway: A Complete Travel Guide

Visiting the Basilica of the Holy Blood

After settling into our hotel, we made a beeline for the Basilica of the Holy Blood. The anticipation was palpable; I'd read so much about it, and the sheer history promised within those walls was intoxicating.

The Basilica itself was a revelation. Two distinct chapels comprised the whole, both surprisingly accessible and free to enter. It was unexpectedly spacious and filled with a sense of quiet reverence. We spent a good amount of time simply taking it all in; the architecture, the artwork, and the overall atmosphere were all magnificent. It really did feel like stepping back in time.

Of course, the main draw is the relic said to contain a vial of Christ's blood. While I won't spoil the experience by detailing exactly how it's presented, I will say the visual impact was profound and left a lingering impression long after we left. It's certainly not something you see every day!

Ascending the Belfry Tower: Tips and Views

Next on our Bruges adventure, we tackled the Belfry Tower. The climb itself is a commitment—366 steps to the top—but the anticipation was exciting. I'd read that booking tickets in advance was essential, and I'm glad we did; we saw several disappointed faces turned away because of full bookings. A word to the wise: bring coins for the restrooms; there are none at the top, and let’s just say, you’ll likely need one before the descent!

The ascent wasn’t easy, but there were welcome breaks along the way where you could catch your breath and admire the views that unfolded with each step. It was a pretty grueling climb, and my boyfriend (whose birthday this whole trip was!) deserved a medal. But oh my goodness, the view from the top was utterly breathtaking. The panoramic sweep of the city, the intricate detail of the rooftops and canals below, made the climb completely worthwhile. It truly felt like seeing the whole city laid out before us like a magnificent tapestry.

Despite the crowds (and there were a few!), the climb felt manageable due to the well-managed ticket system. The limited capacity made it a far more pleasant experience than I imagined it would be. It was fantastic, really. So, if you’re planning a trip to Bruges, put the Belfry Tower on your list. But remember to book those tickets in advance! And have some coins at the ready.

Relaxing at a Beer Cafe with a View

After a morning of exploring, we stumbled upon a delightful beer café with the most amazing view. Sunlight streamed onto the patio, and we snagged the perfect spot, watching the boats drift lazily along the canal. The scene was idyllic; a postcard come to life.

While my boyfriend enjoyed a local brew, I opted for a refreshing cola. It felt utterly luxurious, this moment of quiet relaxation amidst the bustle of the city. The atmosphere was vibrant but calm, the perfect balance of activity and serenity.

We even treated ourselves to a box of assorted Belgian chocolates, finding a charming spot by the water to savor them. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures, the rich, decadent flavors enhancing the already magical experience.

Indulging in Belgian Chocolates

After a day of exploring, we needed a little pick-me-up. And what better way to relax than with a box of assorted Belgian chocolates? We found a charming spot by the water, the sun warm on our faces, and settled in to enjoy our sweet treats. The rich, decadent flavors were the perfect complement to the already magical day.

Each chocolate was a tiny masterpiece, a burst of flavor that lingered long after it had melted away. From creamy pralines to fruity ganaches, there was a delightful surprise in every bite. It was the perfect way to unwind and savor the moment, the beauty of Bruges reflecting in the calm waters beside us.

A Scenic Boat Tour of Bruges

As the sun began to dip, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we decided to take a boat tour—a perfect way to see the city from a completely different perspective. I'd read that daytime lines were notoriously long, so we smartly opted for the last tour of the day, around 6 pm. It was a stroke of genius! We skipped the queues entirely and enjoyed a far more peaceful experience.

The boat itself was charming, a classic canal tour vessel, and our guide was fantastic. He regaled us with fascinating historical tidbits and fun facts about Bruges, bringing the city's rich past to life. We glided along the canals, past stunning medieval architecture and picturesque bridges, the evening light casting a magical glow on everything. It was a truly unforgettable experience, a perfect end to our day.

Dinner at a Belgian Restaurant

After a day of exploring Bruges' charming streets and canals, a delicious dinner was definitely in order. Following a recommendation, we found ourselves at a cozy Belgian restaurant, anticipation building with each step closer. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, a perfect setting to end our magical day.

I’ll be honest; the details of the meal itself are a bit fuzzy now, lost in the pleasant haze of a perfect birthday evening. But I do remember the food being exceptionally good – classic Belgian fare, perfectly executed. The ambiance, the company, and the lingering satisfaction of a well-spent day all contributed to an unforgettable dining experience.

Returning to the Hotel After a Long Day

By the time we stumbled back to our hotel, a delightful tiredness had settled over us. It was the kind of exhaustion that comes from a day well-spent, filled with exploration and wonder. The cobblestones, initially charming, had started to feel a little less charming by the end of the day, and honestly, my feet were aching. But the memories—oh, the memories!—far outweighed any physical discomfort.

Our room, thankfully, was a haven of calm. After a quick shower (and a much-needed stretch!), we collapsed onto the comfortable bed, still buzzing from the day's adventures. We recounted our favourite moments, from the breathtaking view from the Belfry to the serene boat ride along the canals. Even the slightly grueling climb up the Belfry tower, initially a source of minor stress, was now just a funny anecdote, a shared experience that cemented our day even further.

That night, sleep came easily. It was a deep, restful sleep, the kind you only get after a full day of exploration and fresh air. It was also a good thing, since the next day held even more promise!

Hotel Breakfast

After a sleep so deep and restful it felt like I’d been reborn, we woke to the promise of another perfect day in Bruges. The hotel breakfast was a delightful start. It wasn’t fancy, mind you; no Michelin-starred chefs or elaborate buffets. But it was exactly what we needed: fresh bread, various cheeses and meats, some fruit salad, and strong coffee. Simple, satisfying, and the perfect fuel for another day of exploration.

We found a quiet corner by the window, sunlight streaming in, and enjoyed our meal at a leisurely pace. The quiet hum of other guests mingled with the sounds of the city awakening outside, a pleasant background soundtrack to our morning chat. It was the perfect moment to recap our favorite parts of the previous day, our laughter echoing in the bright room. It was a far cry from the whirlwind of sightseeing, a welcome oasis of calm before we threw ourselves into another day of adventures.

Touring a Famous Brewery

Visiting one of Bruges' famous breweries felt like a must, especially for my boyfriend, a self-proclaimed beer aficionado (though I must admit, I'm more of a cola girl). We’d booked tickets beforehand – a smart move, I later realized – and were pleasantly surprised by the audio tour format. It was a fun, informative way to learn about the brewing process, even for someone like me who wouldn't usually choose a brewery tour as a top priority.

The tour itself was surprisingly engaging. I learned more about the history of Belgian brewing than I ever thought possible – who knew there was so much nuance to it all? The brewery itself was well-organized and clean, not at all the grimy, stereotypical image I’d conjured in my mind. Plus, the included beer tasting at the end was a delightful bonus, served on a lovely patio overlooking the water. Even I, the cola drinker, had to concede that the beer was quite delicious.

Visiting a Famous Church

After the brewery, we decided to explore another side of Bruges—its spiritual heart. Our next stop was a church, one of the most famous in the city, highly recommended by our boat tour guide the previous evening. The anticipation was building; would it live up to the hype?

Stepping inside was like stepping into a different world. The architecture was breathtaking, far grander and more awe-inspiring than I had expected. Sunlight streamed through stained-glass windows, illuminating the space with an ethereal glow. It was peaceful, hushed, a welcome contrast to the bustling streets outside. We spent a good amount of time simply wandering, taking in the intricate details of the building, the art, and the palpable sense of history.

While I can't recall the exact name of this beautiful church—my apologies!—it was certainly a highlight of our trip. It’s one of those places that’s hard to describe with words; the experience is more than just the sum of its parts. It was quiet reflection and visual splendor all wrapped up into one very memorable experience. I would highly recommend a visit to any traveler visiting Bruges, even those who aren't typically interested in religious architecture.

Enjoying Delicious Belgian Waffles

Of course, no trip to Belgium is complete without indulging in the quintessential Belgian waffle. After exploring churches and breweries, we finally tracked down a waffle stand, the sweet aroma drawing us in like a siren's call. The anticipation was almost unbearable; I'd seen countless pictures, but nothing could have prepared me for the reality.

The waffle itself was a masterpiece: light, fluffy, and perfectly crisp on the outside. It was the kind of waffle that practically melted in your mouth, each bite a tiny explosion of sugary goodness. We opted for a classic topping – powdered sugar – letting the pure flavor of the waffle shine. It was simple, yet utterly perfect. Sitting there, enjoying that warm, delicious waffle in the heart of Bruges, felt like a true moment of bliss.

Honestly, it was probably one of the best waffles I've ever had. And that's saying something, given my penchant for trying waffles wherever I travel. It was the perfect, sweet ending to a day already overflowing with history, beauty, and delightful surprises. If you're heading to Bruges, make sure you prioritize a stop for a Belgian waffle – you won't regret it.

Departure from Bruges

Saying goodbye to Bruges felt bittersweet. After two days of exploring its charming streets and canals, the thought of leaving was tinged with a pleasant melancholy. But the memories, oh, the memories! They were so vivid and plentiful, a treasure trove to unpack and savor long after our return. From the breathtaking views from the Belfry to the serenity of the canal boat tour, every moment seemed to have a special place in my heart. Even my aching feet were a small price to pay for such an incredible experience.

Our FlixBus back to Rotterdam awaited. It was a comfortable ride, a quiet coda to our bustling weekend. I spent most of the journey scrolling through photos, each one triggering another wave of wonderful memories – the perfectly crisp Belgian waffle, the quiet reverence within the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the laughter shared with my boyfriend over a box of chocolates by the canal. The journey back gave me time to truly appreciate just how delightful our Bruges adventure had been.

How can I avoid long lines at popular attractions in Bruges?

Book tickets for attractions like the Belfry Tower in advance to avoid disappointment. For the boat tours, consider going later in the day (around 6 pm) to skip the daytime queues.

What are some must-see places in Bruges?

The Basilica of the Holy Blood, the Belfry Tower for panoramic views, and a canal boat tour are all highly recommended. Don't forget to explore the charming streets and visit a local brewery and church.

What are some food recommendations for a Bruges weekend getaway?

Indulge in a delicious Belgian waffle, sample local beers at a brewery, and enjoy a traditional Belgian dinner. Don't miss out on trying assorted Belgian chocolates!