Private Historical Tour: The Highlights of Bruges
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Walk around Bruges with a private guide, explore the historic centre and travel back in time to the golden days of Bruges. On our journey through the beautiful heart of town our guide will tell you the stories of love, glory and fortune, but also of intrigue, war and conflict. Our guide can also advise you on where to eat and where to drink during your stay. By the end of the tour you'll know more than a local!
Available options
ENGLISH
ITALIAN
DUTCH
SPANISH
GERMAN
FRENCH
What's included
Hotel pick up and drop off
All Fees and Taxes
Local guide
Professional guide
Private Tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We start here with an introduction about the history of Bruges and the role the city played as a trading hub in medieval times. We also go deeper into the troublesome relationship between the city of Bruges and the French king.
2
Stop 2
We visit the halls behind the bellfry and explain you the important role the tower has played during the Middle Ages.
3
This newly renovated city palace belonged to a wealthy family in Bruges, who held a monopoly on a specific part of the trade. Our guide will tell you all about it.
4
Stop 4
We make a stop at the magnificent hospital of St John, one of the oldest still exisitng hospitals in the world and one of the cornerstones of medieval society.
5
Stop 5
We'll take you for a walk into the picturesque beguinage, the biggest of its kind in the world, where a community of ladies have lived together for over 800 years.
6
Stop 6
By the Lake of Love we tell you the story of why we have swans on the canals of Bruges and how the city got into a conflict with Emperor Maximilian of Austria.
7
Stop 7
We stop in front of the brewery to tell you the story of how the people of Bruges got the nickname 'Fools of Bruges' and to show you a piece of the beer pipeline that flows beneath our city.
8
Stop 8
We'll tell you the story of this iconic church, which is the 2nd tallest brick tower in the world and houses a statue by Michelangelo as well as the tombs of the last Dukes of Burgundy.
9
Stop 9
We venture into the garden of the Groeninge Museum, where some of the works of the biggest Flemish masters are on display.
10
We take you to the old Tanner's square, where the smelly business took place of greasing skins and turning them into leather.
11
Stop 11
After passing by the old Fishmarket, we end the tour on the Burg square, the political heart and birthplace of the city of Bruges.
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
NL
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
145 reviews
5★
129
4★
14
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
162 reviews
5★
150
4★
8
3★
2
2★
0
1★
2
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If you have any questions or if you want to make a booking for more than 15 people, please contact us: bruges@legendstours.be
Please mention what time you would like to start the tour!
Meeting point
We meet in front of thes tatue on the main square (Grote Markt) of Bruges.
Look out for the guide with the red umbrella.
Important notes
If you have any questions or if you want to make a booking with more than 15 people, please send us an email to bruges@legendstours.be
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
