What to do
Things to see & do, and places to eat & drink
We have a packed programme for you at the Civitates forum, but our team wanted to put together some recommendations of what to see and do in Bruges so you can enjoy the city in your free time.
Bruges is a beautiful medieval city and a UNESCO world heritage site. It is full of wonders to enjoy and the city is very easy to explore on foot. Make sure you bring comfortable shoes for the daily walk to the venue, and to enjoy the city!
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From the 13th to the 15th century, Bruges was the trading hub between the Hanseatic cities of the far North, England and Germany, and the main trading centres in France, Spain and Italy. This network had an important base in Bruges, and ou can still fully experience this rich history in various spots throughout the city.
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Gruuthusemuseum (Gruuthuse Museum)
In the museum you can journey through three crucial periods in the history of Bruges. First of all, there is the city’s Burgundian heyday, followed by the previously underexposed period during the 17th and 18th centuries, before finishing with the ‘rediscovery’ of Bruges in the 19th century neo-Gothic style that is so typical of the city today.
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From traditional walks and original tours, to active excursions and unique experiences, there's no shortage of possibilities.
Boat tour of the Canals of Bruges
The canals have for centuries been the veins of the city, winding through Bruges and treating you to another magnificent view around every bend.
De Garre lies hidden in one of the smallest streets of Bruges in the shadow of the Belfry. This small and cosy pub offers you different kinds of beverages, including the exclusive ‘Tripel van De Garre'!
Calling the beer menu of this beer brasserie extensive would be an understatement. It boasts no less than 400 kinds…
Le Trappiste Brugge is a specialist beer pub located in a unique 13th century cellar building in the heart of Bruges. You will find no fewer than 27 different beers on tap and a rich menu of 150 beers by the bottle.
An established venue and the favourite bar of many inhabitants of Bruges. L’Estaminet is famous for its authentic interior, its delicious bar snacks and its perfectly pulled beers.
All of Bruges’ outdoor cafés are extremely popular, but that of ‘t Klein Venetië beats them all. It’s an ideal spot to relax in the sun with a wonderful view of Rozenhoedkaai.
This well-kept secret has long been a haunt of Bruges' coffee aficionados. As soon as you come through the door you are hit by the wonderful aroma of coffee. Fresh, home-roasted coffee is ground to order - this is coffee for real coffee-lovers.
Coffeebar Adriaan, in a majestic former bank building close by the City Theatre, serves delicious coffees with home-made breakfast prepared by the barista in person. You can also opt for granola, rolls with local cheeses, brunch, pastries or cakes, wine, organic lemonades or local beers.
Sweet or savoury bagels, plus a latte or a glass of prosecco. For a great start to your day, a leisurely lunch, or a small snack.
Het Paradijs is a trendy and cosy eatery where good food and social commitment go hand in hand. You can go there for a varied lunch offering fresh dishes that you can eat on the spot, but also take away. Het Paradijs is part of the non-profit organisation Sobo, which creates sustainable jobs for people distanced from the labour market.
According to many residents of Bruges, Noah's Broodhuys is a real hidden gem. In the heart of the city, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast, brunch or lunch here.
Atelier Flori (Vegan)
This 100% plant-based restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its sharing tray concept, featuring an impressive selection of 14 seasonal dishes designed for two to enjoy together. Guests can also choose from a la carte options for appetizers and desserts, ensuring there's something for everyone.
A restaurant/bar with a welcoming vibe situated in the historic heart of Bruges. Serves fancy drinks and veggie bites. Uses fresh produce in creative dishes.
An authentic and sustainable culinary experience, experimenting with flavours and techniques, giving traditional dishes a modern twist. Always using seasonal and local ingredients, in collaboration with local farmers and producers.
Jacobin is a lovely sharing restaurant in the heart of Bruges, serving seasonal cuisine that is always moving with the times. The menu changes regularly, and according to the seasons and the chef's inspiration.
Watch the world go by on traffic-free Sint-Amandstraat from your cosy table in Margritt - you can make sure you don’t miss any of the action whilst you are enjoying delicious ginger cakes, great salads and hearty pies.
This classic restaurant is located directly opposite the Burg, a trusted name where traditional Franco-Belgian dishes and many regional specialities, such as hand-peeled prawns, are served with a warm and homely bistro-style atmosphere.