How to Plan Your Private 2 Hour Walking Tour of Bruges

Looking to explore the charming and historic city of Bruges with a private guide? GetYourGuide.com offers a Private 2 Hours Walking Tour of Bruges that ensures you will see all of the must-see attractions. This tour is priced for up to 20 people, so you’ll easily be able to enjoy your walk with your group. Follow these simple steps to plan your own private walking tour in beautiful Bruges.

Step 1: Book your Tour Online

The first step in planning your private walking tour of Bruges is to book the tour online. You can find all of the tour details and booking information on GetYourGuide.com. Click on the ‘book here’ link to visit the booking page directly: Book the tour here

Step 2: Choose Your Meeting Point

Once you have booked your tour, you will need to choose a central location to meet your guide. Bruges is full of picturesque squares and historic landmarks, so there are many options for meeting points to choose from. Discuss with your group and choose a central meeting point that is convenient for everyone.

Step 3: Plan Your Itinerary

Your private walking tour guide will show you around Bruges and ensure that you see all the important sites in the city centre. However, feel free to personalize the tour according to your interests. Discuss with the guide before you meet up where you would like to go and any attractions that interest you.

Step 4: Prepare for Your Tour

When planning your private walking tour, be sure to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking for two hours. Check the weather forecast ahead of time and dress accordingly. Bruges can experience rain and wind, so bring an umbrella in case it rains. Other items that you may need for your tour include a camera to capture the charming Bruges scenery, and a water bottle to keep you hydrated.

Tour Highlights

During your private walking tour of Bruges, your guide will take you to see the city’s most famous attractions, including:

• St. Savior Cathedral: Built in the 12th century, this Gothic-style cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in the city.
• Market Place: Home to the famous belfry and the town hall, this square offers stunning architecture and is the heart of the city.
• Jan Van Eyck Square: The center of the Hanseatic district in the Middle Ages, this square is now full of shops and cafes for visitors to enjoy.
• Princely Béguinage: This 13th-century convent is an idyllic and peaceful place to visit.

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Exploring the stunning city centre of Bruges on a private walking tour with a knowledgeable guide will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience. With these simple steps and tips, planning your own tour is easy and hassle-free. Book your tour today and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this Belgian gem. We hope you enjoy your tour!

Frequently Asked Questions about Bruges

When planning a trip to Bruges, visitors often have questions regarding the history, culture, and attractions of this charming Flemish city. In this FAQ, we’ve compiled some of the most commonly asked questions about Bruges to provide helpful information to those planning their visit.

1. What is the history of Bruges?

Bruges has a rich history dating back to the Roman era. However, the city’s most significant period was during the late Middle Ages when it was an important trading hub and one of the wealthiest cities in Europe. Bruges’ architecture and art reflect this period of prosperity and have earned the city recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. What are the top attractions in Bruges?

Bruges is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and charming cobblestone streets. Some of the top attractions include:

• The Belfry of Bruges
• The Markt
• The Groeningemuseum
• The Church of Our Lady
• The Beguinage
• The Canals of Bruges
• The Chocolate Museum

3. What is the best way to explore Bruges?

The best way to explore Bruges is on foot or by bike. The city center is mostly pedestrianized, and biking is a popular mode of transportation in Belgium. Visitors can rent bikes or join a guided bike tour to see the city’s sights.

4. What is the local cuisine in Bruges?

The cuisine in Bruges reflects its Flemish heritage, with hearty dishes like stews and meat pies being popular. Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer are also popular treats. Some traditional dishes to try are stoofvlees (beef stew), waterzooi (chicken or fish stew), and vol-au-vent (chicken and mushroom pie).

5. What is the weather like in Bruges?

Bruges has a moderate maritime climate, with mild temperatures and rainfall throughout the year. The average high temperature in summer (June-August) is 21°C, and the average low temperature in winter (December-February) is 2°C. Visitors should pack accordingly and bring waterproof clothing for rainy days.

6. What events and festivals take place in Bruges?

Bruges hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including:

• The Bruges Beer Festival (February)
• The Procession of the Holy Blood (May)
• The Cactus Festival (July)
• The Bruges Christmas Market (December)

7. What are some lesser-known attractions in Bruges?

While Bruges’ main attractions are well known, the city also has several lesser-known spots worth exploring. These include:

• The Frietmuseum (museum dedicated to fries)
• The Jerusalem Church (medieval church housing a museum)
• The Saint John’s Hospital (former hospital with a beautiful courtyard)
• The Bonifacius Bridge (picturesque bridge over the canals)
• The Lace Center (museum showcasing traditional Belgian lace-making)

8. How far is Bruges from other Belgian cities?

Bruges is centrally located in Belgium and easily accessible by train or car. Some travel times from other Belgian cities include:

• Brussels: 1 hour by train or car
• Ghent: 30 minutes by train or car
• Antwerp: 1.5 hours by train or car
• Leuven: 1.5 hours by train or car

9. What is the best time of year to visit Bruges?

Bruges can be visited year-round, with each season offering its unique charm. Summer (June-August) is the peak tourist season, with warm temperatures and longer days. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter (December-February) is the off-season, but the festive Christmas market and winter illuminations make it a popular time to visit.

10. What souvenirs can I buy in Bruges?

Visitors to Bruges can purchase a variety of souvenirs, including:

• Belgian chocolate
• Beer glasses and brewing kits
• Handmade lace products
• Paintings and prints of Bruges
• Antiques and vintage items
• Belgian waffles and speculoos (spiced biscuits)

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Bruges is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and cuisine. Visitors can explore its cobbled streets, take a canal tour, and enjoy traditional Flemish dishes. We hope this FAQ has answered some of the common questions about Bruges and helps you plan a memorable trip.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Bruges

If you’re planning to visit Bruges, or as the locals call it “Brugge,” then you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of things to see and do in this medieval city of Belgium. From cruising along the canals to exploring the cobbled streets, here are some best ways to make the most out of your visit to Bruges.

1. Visit the Markt Square

Markt is the central market square in Bruges, surrounded by beautiful guild houses, restaurants, and cafes. The square is also home to the iconic Belfry Tower, which is a must-visit attraction in Bruges. The tower has 366 steps that lead to a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. You can also hear the famous carillon bells, which play every fifteen minutes.

2. Explore the Canals

Bruges is often called the “Venice of the North” due to its picturesque canals that give tourists an ideal opportunity to explore the city. You can enjoy a guided boat tour, where you’ll learn about the city’s history and see some stunning medieval buildings and landscapes.

3. Discover Bruges’ Chocolate Delights

Belgium is renowned for its high-quality chocolate, and Bruges has some of the best chocolate shops in the country. You can take a chocolate tour, where you can see the chocolate-making process and learn about the history of Belgian chocolate. Alternatively, you can take a simple stroll and enjoy the numerous chocolate shops and indulge in some delicious chocolate treats.

4. Admire the Flemish Art at Groeningemuseum

Groeningemuseum is an art museum in Bruges dedicated to showcasing the Flemish art from the 14th to 20th century. Here you can see some of the world’s best-preserved Flemish masterpieces, including works by Jan Van Eyck, Hieronymus Bosch, and Hans Memling.

5. Climb the Holy Blood Basilica

The Holy Blood Basilica is a beautiful church located at the top of a small hill. You can climb the 366 steps to reach the top of the church and enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Apart from the view, you can also see the precious relic, a phial bottle containing a cloth with a few drops of Jesus’ blood.

6. Learn about Bruges’ History at the Historium

The Historium museum is a great place to start your tour of Bruges. Here you can enjoy a virtual tour, where you’ll see, hear, and smell what the city was like during medieval times. The tour lasts about 35 minutes and is an excellent introduction to the city’s history and culture.

7. Take a Day Trip to the Beach

If you’re visiting Bruges during the summer months, then a day trip to the nearby beach town of Blankenberge is a must. Blankenberge is about 20 minutes away by train and has a beautiful sandy beach and a lively promenade with shops, bars, and restaurants.

8. Enjoy the Local Belgian Beer

Belgium is famous for its beer, and Bruges has several bars and pubs where you can try some local Belgian beer. You can also take a tour of the Halve Maan Brewery, where you’ll learn about the beer-making process and enjoy some samples of their beer.

9. Take a Walk in Minnewater Park

Minnewater Park is a tranquil park located just outside the city center. The park has a beautiful lake called the Lake of Love, which is a popular spot for taking pictures. The park is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the natural scenery away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

10. Visit the Bruges Christmas Market

If you’re visiting Bruges during the Christmas season, then a visit to the Bruges Christmas Market is a must. The market boasts a wonderful atmosphere, with various stalls selling Christmas decorations, gifts, and food. There’s also an ice rink, a ferris wheel, and a light show, which makes it a perfect winter wonderland.

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Bruges is an enchanting city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in art, history, food, or just want to relax, Bruges is the ideal destination for all. Make sure to keep this list handy when you plan your trip to Bruges, and don’t forget to take a stroll around the streets to soak up the city’s charm.