Are you ready to immerse yourself in the charm and history of Bruges, the enchanting medieval city often referred to as the Venice of the North? With its cobblestone streets, UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, and best-preserved medieval buildings in Europe, Bruges is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a picturesque getaway, Bruges has something for everyone.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the 13 best tours in Bruges, offering a mix of unique experiences, delicious tastings, and historical insights. From chocolate museums to architectural tours, there is something for every type of traveler in this list of must-see Bruges tours.
1. Tour a Chocolate Museum
Indulge your sweet tooth and learn about the fascinating history of chocolate with a visit to the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum. Dive into the world of chocolate-making, explore over 500 chocolate-related items, and even enjoy delicious samples. A tour of the chocolate museum is a perfect way to immerse yourself in one of Belgium’s most beloved treats.
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- Duration: Half-day
- Highlights: Chocolate-making demonstration, chocolate samples
2. Take a Two-hour Guided Tour of Bruges
Experience the beauty and history of Bruges up close with a two-hour guided walking tour. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Lake of Love, Walplein Square, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood with a knowledgeable local guide. After the tour, you’ll receive recommendations on other must-see attractions in the city.
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- Duration: 2 hours
- Highlights: Local guide, historic city center
3. Explore Bruges on a Rickshaw
For a unique and comfortable way to see the sights of Bruges, hop on a guided rickshaw tour. Enjoy a leisurely ride through both popular tourist areas and hidden neighborhoods, learning about the city’s history and culture along the way. This one-to-two-hour tour offers a relaxing and informative experience for all.
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- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Highlights: Rickshaw ride, local guide
4. Learn How to Make Belgian Chocolate
Unleash your inner chocolatier with a Belgian chocolate-making workshop. Spend two-and-a-half hours perfecting the art of chocolate-making, from learning the theory behind it to creating your own delicious chocolates. At the end of the workshop, enjoy a glass of homemade hot chocolate and take home your handmade treats.
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- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Highlights: Hands-on workshop, Pralines and Mendiants making
5. See the Highlights and Hidden Gems of Bruges
Discover the lesser-known corners of Bruges with a three-hour guided tour that takes you off the beaten path. Explore the oldest brewery in the city, visit a Gothic church, and indulge in a chocolate tasting at a local chocolatier. This flexible tour allows you to customize your experience based on your interests.
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- Duration: 3 hours
- Highlights: Hidden gems, local guide
6. Take a Trip Back to the Middle Ages at the Historium Museum
Step back in time and experience the sights and sounds of medieval Bruges at the Historium Museum. Skip the line and enjoy a virtual reality journey to the year 1435, flying over the city and sailing into the port of Bruges. Learn about medieval life through interactive exhibitions before sampling Belgian beers at the Duvelorium Grand Beer Café.
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- Duration: Half-day
- Highlights: Virtual reality experience, Belgian beer tasting
7. Dinner and a Show with a Medieval Twist
Transport yourself to the 15th century with a medieval dinner and show in Bruges. Enjoy a four-course dinner featuring traditional dishes from the era, followed by a lively performance of jousting, dancing, and sword fighting. Immerse yourself in the history and entertainment of medieval Bruges while sampling local wines and beers.
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- Duration: 5 hours
- Highlights: Medieval dinner, costumed entertainment
8. See all the Top Sites in One Tour
Embark on a three-hour walking tour of Bruges, covering all the iconic sites such as the Church of Our Lady, Belfry Tower, and Burg Square. End your tour with an optional canal tour to see the city from a different perspective. This comprehensive tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Bruges in a short amount of time.
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- Duration: 3 hours
- Highlights: Iconic landmarks, canal tour
9. Indulge with a Beer and Chocolate Tasting Tour
Combine history, beer, and chocolate on a three-hour tasting tour of Bruges. Sample delicious Belgian chocolates at the Choco-Story Museum, followed by a three-course lunch at the De Halve Maan Brewery. Learn about the brewing process and enjoy local delicacies while exploring the historic heart of the city.
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- Duration: 3 hours
- Highlights: Chocolate tasting, brewery tour
10. Dive into World War History
Delve into the World War I history of Bruges with a comprehensive nine-hour bus tour. Visit iconic sites related to the Great War, including the Menin Gate Memorial, restored trenches, bunkers, and war graves. Experience the solemn beauty of the Flanders poppy fields before returning to Bruges.
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- Duration: Full-day
- Highlights: World War I sites, poppy fields
11. Make Your Own Belgian Waffles
Learn the art of Belgian waffle-making with a 90-minute workshop in the Ezelstraat Quarter. Create and decorate your own waffles, then indulge in a complimentary beverage while enjoying your sweet creations. Leave with a copy of the recipe to recreate these delicious treats at home.
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- Duration: 90 minutes
- Highlights: Waffle-making workshop, complimentary beverage
12. Explore Bruges at Night
Experience the enchanting beauty of Bruges after dark with a two-hour walking tour. Discover the city’s medieval charm as you stroll along cobblestone streets, passing by canals and historic buildings. Stop at local hotspots like Cafe Rose Red and Jan Van Eyck Square to learn more about the city’s nightlife and culture.
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- Duration: 2 hours
- Highlights: Nighttime tour, historic landmarks
13. Take an Architectural Tour of Bruges
Marvel at the unique architecture and well-preserved medieval buildings of Bruges with a two-hour walking tour. Explore Minnewater Lake, the former Red Light District, and the Gothic Cathedral, among other iconic sites. Admire a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture while learning about the city’s rich history.
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- Duration: 2 hours
- Highlights: Architectural landmarks, expert guide
With these 13 best tours in Bruges, you’ll have the opportunity to explore, taste, and experience the best that this medieval city has to offer. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique adventure, there’s something for everyone in Bruges. So pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to embark on a memorable journey through the Venice of the North