Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Bruges Private Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is not just another city tour; this is the best of Bruges from a unique perspective! Get to know Bruges on a city tour that gives you the perfect overview, with city highlights, hidden gems, storytelling, and a local treat - this tour has it all!
Forget about big touristy groups and the crowds; it's time to see Bruges at its best but from the eyes of a local. Check out main landmarks like Burg Square, The Markt, De Halve Maan and uncover hidden gems and city secrets with the help of a knowledgeable local guide. And the cherry on top, a local treat is included.
Withlocals Highlights & Hidden Gems Private City Tour™ is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local produce and prevent over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.
Available options
3-hr Highlights Private Tour
Short Description: Enjoy Bruge's Basilica of the Holy Blood, Holy Savior Cathedral, Koningin Astridpark, Minnewater Lake, Jan Van Eyck Square, The lake of love "Minnewater" and Beguinage
What's included
Private Tour
Local Guide
1 local drink/tasting
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The market square was used as a marketplace since 958 and is today a large square located in the heart of the city ringed by banks and many guild houses.
2
Stop 2
Oldest brewery in Bruges where five generations have brewed beer at with an innovative beer transportation system.
3
Stop 3
History of Bruges started right here! As one of the main squares of the city, Burg Square is a former fortress in Bruges.
4
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
5
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
7
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
What's not included
Drinks & food
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Price for the entrance tickets to landmarks are not included (we will only visit them from outside)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
NL
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
94 reviews
5★
71
4★
14
3★
4
2★
0
1★
5
Tripadvisor
4.7
123 reviews
5★
106
4★
8
3★
0
2★
2
1★
7
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Private tour: only you & your local guide
CO2 Neutral: all tours carbon emissions are offset
Meeting point
In front of Historium Bruges
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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