Private Bruges Guided Tour: Discover City's Rich Trade History
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3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Bruges, once hailed as the “New York of the 14th century,” flourished as one of Europe’s leading trade hubs.
This guided tour reveals the city’s cosmopolitan spirit, highlighting its international influences and remarkable heritage. Accompanied by an official licensed city guide, you’ll uncover captivating stories and explore landmarks that shaped Bruges’ identity. Perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers, this experience offers a fresh perspective on the city’s past and its pivotal role in European commerce.
• Discover Bruges’ legacy as a thriving trade center
• Experience the cosmopolitan influences that define the city’s character
• Gain expert insights from an official licensed city guide
- Explore Bruges' historical significance as a trade city
- Discover the cosmopolitan elements that shape the city today
- Guided by an official licensed city guide for expert insights
- Ideal for history lovers and travelers seeking cultural depth
Available options
Private Bruges Guided Tour: Discover City's Rich Trade History
What's included
Private guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Market Square: commercial metropolitan heart of Bruges. The Water halls, cloth halls and guild houses.
2
The guild houses of the four major guilds in Bruges: The leather makers, the maconneries, the carpenters and bakers guild.
3
The Italian Quarter: Lodges of Genuese, Venitians and Florentines. Inn Ter Beurze, the heart of finance.
4
Discover the story in the church of the elite and it's proper art.
5
Hof Bladelin. Residence of Thomaso Portinari and Pieter Blandelin. The banker of the Medici and tressholder of the Counts of Burgundy.
6
See the Spanish quarter: docking place of the Spanish and the Spanish embassies.
7
Meet Jan Van Eyck: the most important painter of it's time and diplomat for the Count of Burgundy. See The Poorters lodge, the toll House and the house of the pijnders.
8
See the family church of the Adornes family. A rich trader family from Genua. Hear it's prosperous story.
9
Stop 9
See the political heart of Bruges with all it's historic buildings. The Justice courts, city Hall and Basilica of the Holy Blood.
10
Hear about the craftsmanship of the leather makers and their guild.
11
See the magnificent City Palace of the the family of Gruuthuse. The most influant family of Bruges.
12
Stop 12
Hear the story of the proud of Bruges and its strategical position int the city. The Church with the most important history and art in the city.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
NL
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Market 5. In front of old Post office
About Bruges
Bruges is a picturesque medieval city in the Flemish Region of Belgium, known for its well-preserved historic center, charming canals, and cobblestone streets. With its fairy-tale architecture and rich cultural heritage, Bruges offers a unique glimpse into Europe's medieval past.
Top Attractions
Markt (Market Square)
The heart of Bruges, surrounded by medieval buildings, the Belfry, and the Provincial Court. A bustling square with cafes, shops, and often markets and events.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Belfry of Bruges
A 13th-century bell tower offering a climb of 366 steps to the top for stunning views of the city.
Historical
1 hour
€14
Burg Square
A charming square with a mix of historic buildings, including the Basilica of the Holy Blood and the City Hall.
Historical
1 hour
Free (Basilica entry is €3)
Grote Markt
A large square surrounded by historic buildings, including the City Hall and the Belfry. A hub of activity with cafes, shops, and events.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Basilica of the Holy Blood
A historic church that houses a relic of the Holy Blood, believed to have been collected by Joseph of Arimathea at the crucifixion of Jesus.
Religious
30 minutes
€3
Bruges Beer Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Belgian beer, with a tasting room offering a variety of local brews.
Museum
1-2 hours
€10
Must-Try Local Dishes
Moules-frites
Mussels cooked in a variety of sauces, typically served with French fries. A classic Belgian dish.
Main Course
Contains seafood, can be made with gluten-free bread if requested.
Carbonnade flamande
A traditional Flemish beef and beer stew, slow-cooked with onions, brown sugar, and spices.
Main Course
Contains beef and beer, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Waffles
Belgian waffles are a popular sweet treat, often topped with whipped cream, chocolate, or fruit.
Dessert
Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based toppings.
Flemish stew
A hearty stew made with beef, beer, onions, and spices, often served with potatoes or bread.
Main Course
Contains beef and beer, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Bike tours
Boat tours
Walking tours
Spas and wellness centers
Cafes and restaurants
Parks and gardens
Museum visits
Historical tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the busiest time of year with warm weather, festivals, and long daylight hours. However, it's also the most crowded and expensive.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
CET (GMT+1), CEST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Bruges is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching is the main concern for visitors. Common sense precautions and awareness of your surroundings can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use common sense and trust your instincts
Getting there
By air
- Brussels Airport • 110 km
- Ostend-Bruges International Airport • 30 km
By train
Bruges Station
By bus
Bruges Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and covers most of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and reliable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Taxis Bruges, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Zand
St. Giles Quarter
Dijver
Day trips
Ghent
50 km • Full day
A vibrant and historic city with a mix of medieval and modern architecture, museums, and cultural attractions.
Ypres
40 km • Full day
A historic city with a rich history and cultural heritage, known for its role in World War I and its well-preserved medieval architecture.
Ostend
30 km • Full day
A coastal city with a long sandy beach, a lively promenade, and a variety of attractions and activities.
Festivals
Bruges Christmas Market • Late November to early January
Bruges Beer Festival • Early September
Bruges Historic Festival • Mid-May
Pro tips
- Visit the Belfry of Bruges for panoramic views of the city, but be prepared for a steep and narrow climb of 366 steps.
- Try a variety of Belgian beers at the Bruges Beer Museum, and don't miss the chance to sample a local brew at one of the many beer bars and cafes.
- Sample a variety of Belgian chocolates at the Choco-Story Bruges museum, and don't miss the chance to purchase some as souvenirs.
- Take a boat tour of the canals for a unique and picturesque perspective of the city, and be sure to visit the historic Begijnhof complex.
- Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood to see the relic of the Holy Blood, and check for special events and exhibitions.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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