B&Bs, airbnb and holiday apartments in Bruges

In Bruges you can explore markets and medieval canals

Nobody does a market like Bruges, the timeless Flemish city which has held a prominent place in European trade since the 13th century. Granted, Bruges has a ‘Markt' which is one of the finest in the world, but there is even more to this northwestern hub than initially meets the eye. From its Gothic churches, tranquil canals and of course, Belgian chocolate which is unlike any other, there is something for everybody in Bruges. Whatever is attracting you to the capital of Flemish culture, be sure to secure an apartment or bed and breakfast here today.

When to visit?

If you want to visit Bruges when the weather is warm but there are fewer crowds, choose to visit in the months of May to June or September, which is just outside the peak visiting months. The renowned market scene in Bruges also means that the city hosts one of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe throughout December, in which the square is transformed into a winter haven, complete with an ice rink, fair and of course, rows of stalls. Therefore, all seasons are popular in Bruges, but remember, this means holiday lettings run out fast.

How to get there?

Bruges is located in the north west of Belgium, which means it is accessible by rail, air or sea from the UK. If you are travelling from London you can catch a Eurostar to Bruges, which goes from London St Pancras to Brussels and then to Bruges in around 5 hours. Additionally, you can fly from London and other locations such as Manchester and Birmingham directly to Brussels International Airport in approximately one hour thirty minutes, where you can reach Bruges by road or rail in just over one hour. Alternatively, you can enter the Zeebrugge port of Bruges by an overnight ferry from Hull, which operates numerous times every week. It could be a good idea to make the most of your stop over, by choosing a holiday apartment in Brussels for the night, where you can indulge in everything the capital has to offer. If you are already holidaying around Belgium, be sure to leave time to visit Bruges as part of your itinerary, as it is only one hour and a half by train from a holiday rental in Antwerp, another stunning city in this historic country.

Where to stay in Bruges

Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Quarter

Where better to choose your accommodation than in the very heart of Bruges' historic district and World Heritage Site? Here, you can wake up in a room with a view of some of the city's most famous attractions, including the impressive architecture of the Basilica of the Holy Blood and the quaint Meestraat Bridge. There is no reason why this beautiful district cannot be affordable on any budget, as you can secure a reasonably priced apartment rental in this enticing district for a fraction the price of a hotel room and wake up in the very centre of the action.

Sint-Gillis Quarter

This northern quarter of Bruges is the perfect place for food-lovers to choose their accommodation, as this quaint neighbourhood is where you can discover some of the most exceptional restaurants in the entire city. From quintessential restaurants which overlook the water, to traditional Flemish bakeries, this timeless area will leave no room for cravings. Choose a holiday letting in Sint-Gillis, and you will experience the best architecture and cuisine the city has to offer.

Ezelstraatkwartier

Holding the reputation for the ‘coolest' region in Bruges, Ezelstraatkwartier is the place to stay if you are on the hunt for edgy bars and European fashion shops. Taking inspiration from its northern neighbours, you can find Scandinavian boutiques, cocktail hangouts and chocolate shops which sell goods produced even closer to home. Spend your savings from a cheap accommodation option by choosing a homestay or self-catered apartment in one of the region's many vibrant establishments, and enjoy a modern take on this historic city.

Sint-Anna Quarter

Spending just a few hours in this peaceful neighbourhood will remind you why Bruges holds the title of ‘The Venice of the North', as this quarter is bursting with winding cobbled streets, similarly to the famous Italian canals. The Sint-Anna Quarter is perhaps the most tranquil place in the city and is the ideal place to secure a luxury holiday rental or b&b, where you can drink and dine on the water banks of this prestigious district in your own home away from home.

't Zand

It is just impossible to visit the city without delving into one of the many markets which show off this city's rich trading history and choosing accommodation in 't Zand will put you in the ideal place to do just that. This district is where you can find the grandest square in Bruges, which unsurprisingly hosts some of the biggest flea markets in the entire country. Browse the endless antique goods which this square has to offer, and you will undoubtedly return to your holiday apartment with a unique souvenir from Bruges.

Langestraat Quarter

This eastern neighbourhood is yet another reminder of the city's age-old streets and beautiful canals as a holiday apartment rental in the Langestraat Quarter will allow you to wake up in amongst the quaint barges and whitewashed brick houses. This area is also known as a convenient place to park your car underground as its affordable prices and convenience to Bruges' many attractions mean it is the ideal place to stay if you want to explore further afield and are thinking of renting a car during your stay.

Things to do in Bruges

Buy a souvenir from Brugge Markt

There is no better place to begin than with the globally renowned Brugge Markt, a weekly event which celebrates the city's strong position in the European trade market. The Market Square transforms itself into a vibrant space, bursting with flavours, flowers and fashions from across the country and continent.

Take in the view from The Belfry Tower

Bruges is built around medieval architecture which has stood the test of time since before the thirteenth century, and The Belfry Tower is the epitome of these historic structures. What once began as space where public funds were held in the Middle Ages, this statement structure is now the most visited site in the city, as visitors flock to climb the 366 steps to enjoy the panoramic view from the top.

Cruise along Bruges' Canals

The waterways are this city's veins, so what better way to take in Bruges' beauty than from a canal ride? From the water you can stumble across hidden gardens and celebrated bridges that stretch over the waterways. On this tour you will also have the chance to see where parts of the 2008 film and modern classic In Bruges were filmed, for example the hotel Colin Farrell jumps out of into the canal.

Gaze upon the Basilica of the Holy Blood

This architectural masterpiece is the most famous church in Bruges, which is probably down to the Romanesque-Gothic design which was completed in the twelfth century. Though the physical exquisiteness of the building draws large crowds to the door, it is a cloth which is said to contain the blood of Jesus Christ which truly attracts visitors in their masses.

Sample some chocolate from Chocolatier Dumon

It is a well-known fact that Belgium creates the best chocolate on the planet, and there is indeed no shortage of it in Bruges. Though any of the produce would undoubtedly live up to your Flemish chocolate expectations, Chocolatier Dumon holds a reputation as some of the best. This charming shop offers a range of sweet treats, from traditional praline classics to handcrafted figurines, it is even easier to get enthusiastic about chocolate in this dreamlike shop.

Wander through the Groeningemuseum

Whether you have an interest in art, history, or you just want somewhere to escape the elements, the Groeninge Museum is the place to go. This shrine to Belgian painting is built in the grounds of the Medieval Eekhout Abbey, which means visitors can enjoy the art around them, both from the exhibitions of paintings and around the historic building itself. With over 150 pieces to discover, an afternoon spent in the opulent Groeningemuseum is an afternoon well spent.