Bredene(Belgium) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Bruges, the top boutique hotel with historic charm is Hotel de l'Abbaye, housed in a former Cistercian abbey. Its stone-walled rooms feature original vaulted ceilings and antique furnishings, blending medieval ambiance with modern comfort. The hotel’s secluded garden courtyard offers a peaceful retreat, while its rooftop terrace provides panoramic views of the Beguinage and St. John's Church. Guests enjoy personalized service and access to exclusive events like candlelit poetry readings. Ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and elegance in a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For first-time visitors, staying in the Old Town (Centrum) is ideal. This central district surrounds the Grote Markt, where you can walk to Minnewater Park, Church of Our Lady, and the Burg Square within minutes. The area is safe, pedestrian-friendly, and filled with cozy cafés and artisan shops. Recommended accommodation includes Hotel Le 1900, a beautifully restored 19th-century building with elegant interiors and a prime location near the city’s main attractions. Morning coffee on a cobblestone balcony overlooking the canal is an unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss the Bruges International Music Festival, held annually in summer at St. Jacob’s Church, featuring world-class classical and jazz performances in a stunning Gothic setting. Another must-do is a chocolate-making workshop at Choco-Story Bruges, where you’ll learn to craft Belgian pralines using traditional techniques. You’ll also get to taste your creations and take them home. These immersive experiences offer deep insight into Bruges’ artistic and culinary heritage, perfect for curious travelers.

Yes, the canal boat tour in Bruges is absolutely worth it. Glide along the Gracht Canal and Beek River aboard a traditional wooden barge, passing under ancient bridges and past centuries-old merchant houses. Local guides narrate stories of medieval trade, architecture, and hidden legends in multiple languages. Evening tours are especially magical, when the city lights reflect on the water and the Belfry Tower glows against the twilight sky. A 45-minute journey offers intimate views of Bruges’ romantic heart, making it a highlight for couples and families alike.

Hotel Le Faucon is the top family-friendly hotel in Bruges, offering spacious family suites, a dedicated children’s playroom with slides, and daily activities like medieval treasure hunts and egg-decorating workshops (especially during Easter). The hotel provides free cribs, high chairs, and a kids’ menu at breakfast. Located just 10 minutes from Bruges Zoo, which features native animals like rabbits and goats, it’s perfect for young explorers. Friendly staff ensure a stress-free stay for parents and fun-filled days for children.

In Bruges, try the iconic Belgian Waffles at Waffle House, served warm with fresh strawberries and vanilla ice cream—crispy outside, fluffy inside. Another must-try is Flemish Carbonade, a rich beef stew cooked in dark beer, often enjoyed at De Bierkoning with mashed potatoes and sauerkraut. For a true local flavor, visit the weekly Saturday Market near Grote Markt, where you can sample freshly baked garlic bread, artisan cheeses, and regional pastries. These dishes capture the soul of Flemish cuisine.

The Bruges Historic Loop Trail is the perfect walking route for first-time visitors. Spanning about 3 km, it starts at Church of Our Lady, passes through Grote Markt, the Beguinage, and follows the Gracht Canal Pathway, ending back at the starting point. Along the way, you’ll see Gothic facades, hidden courtyards, and the Belfry Tower. Early morning walks are ideal—fewer crowds, golden light on the rooftops, and occasional street musicians playing Baroque tunes. Information boards explain each landmark’s history, making it both scenic and educational.

Top shopping spots in Bruges include Grote Markt boutiques like La Maison du Chocolat, offering limited-edition truffles and gift boxes, and Brugge Bijou, showcasing handcrafted jewelry by Belgian designers. For souvenirs, visit the City Museum Shop, located near the Burg Square, which sells vintage-style postcards, canvas bags with Church of Our Lady motifs, and replica maps. All stores are within the old town, easily accessible on foot, and designed with charm—perfect for browsing leisurely.

Absolutely, the Bruges Lights winter projection show is a must-see. From November to January, the city transforms into a living canvas as projections animate the façades of the Belfry Tower, Church of Our Lady, and Burg Square with dynamic stories of medieval life and art. The show runs nightly at 7:30 PM, lasts about 25 minutes, and is free to attend. Stand on Grote Markt or Gracht Canal to witness the glowing buildings reflected in the water—enhanced by ambient music and soft lighting. It’s a magical, photogenic experience not to be missed.

The most photogenic spots in Bruges include the Church of Our Lady, whose 122-meter spire dominates the skyline and creates dramatic silhouettes at sunrise or sunset. The Grote Markt is another prime spot, with its symmetrical layout, the Belfry Tower, and the fountain surrounded by colorful rooftops. Don’t miss the Red Bridge (Rode Brug) over the Gracht Canal—its reflection in the water forms a perfect frame, especially during golden hour. Bring a wide-angle lens and shoot from low angles to capture the dreamy mirror effect. These scenes are iconic and frequently featured in travel photography.