Bruges is a picturesque medieval town located in the Flemish region of Belgium. With its well-preserved historic architecture, winding canals and cobblestone streets, Bruges is often referred to as the “Venice of the North”.
Bruges has a long and fascinating history as an important European trade hub and artistic center during the Middle Ages. While no longer the influential trade capital it once was, Bruges remains incredibly well-preserved and is now one of Belgium's top tourist destinations. Visitors flock to Bruges to stroll along its romantic canals, admire its medieval architecture and experience the city's rich history and culture.
With such an idyllic, historic setting, it's no wonder Bruges is home to so many charming cafés perfect for sipping coffee by the canals. From cozy coffeehouses to quaint tearooms, Bruges offers many wonderful spots to stop for a hot drink and breakfast.
Listed below are the best coffee and tea spots in Bruge.
- Li O Lait. Li O Lait is a popular coffee bar known for its wide selection of coffee and tea drinks prepared by trained baristas. It is located in Bruges, Belgium and has signature iced drinks like Li-O-Nade flavored lemonades. Li O Lait also has an extensive food menu with items like bagels, quiches and pastries.
- Kottee Kaffee. Kottee Kaffee is a cozy coffeehouse located in the historic center of Bruges, Belgium. It offers specialty coffees, teas and freshly baked breads, including gluten-free options. Kottee Kaffee is situated just a few minutes walk from Market Square.
- Tonka Tearoom. Tonka Tearoom is a charming tearoom in the heart of Bruges known for its homemade tonka bean hot chocolate. It also serves teas, coffees, waffles and light lunches in a relaxing atmosphere with views of the scenic canals.
- Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië. Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië is a cozy cafe with scenic outdoor seating overlooking the landmark Belfry Tower and canal in Bruges. It is known for draft beers, simple Belgian fare and friendly service staff.
- 2be. 2be is a popular beer bar located in central Bruges with a wide selection of Belgian beers and tasting flights. It has an outdoor terrace providing picturesque canal views for patrons to enjoy.
- The Flower Cafe Bruges. The Flower Cafe Bruges is a charming cafe decorated with flowers serving coffee, smoothies, waffles and vegan baked goods in the heart of Bruges.
- Vero Caffè. Vero Caffè is a coffee shop situated in a quiet square of Bruges serving espresso drinks and baked goods including a variety of homemade cakes. It has a cozy, vintage interior decor.
Contents
- 1. Li O Lait
- 2. Kottee Kaffee
- 3. Tonka Tearoom
- 4. Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië
- 5. 2be
- 6. The Flower Cafe Bruges
- 7. Vero Caffè
- 8. Sanseveria Bagelsalon
- 9. Hemelse Taartjes
- 10. Gruuthuse Hof
- 11. Coffeebar Adriaan
1. Li O Lait
Li O Lait is a specialty coffee bar located in Bruges, Belgium at Dweersstraat 30, 8000 Brugge. The coffee shop is popular among locals for its wide selection of coffee and tea drinks prepared by trained baristas. Some of Li O Lait's specialty coffee offerings include pour over, cold brew as well as unique signature drinks like the Anti Hangover Coffee, an Americano with lemon and vanilla and the Maticinno, a cappuccino with Indian spices. The tea menu features a range of organic tea options selected by a tea sommelier. Li O Lait also has a reputation for its homemade iced drinks like Li-O-Nade flavored lemonades. The coffee bar has an extensive food menu of breakfast and lunch items featuring bagels, quiches and pastries.
Li O Lait is housed in a historic building in central Bruges. The building has vintage furniture and decor creating a cozy atmosphere. Customers have commented on the laid back environment that attracts both locals and tourists. While the coffee bar does not have views of major landmarks, its location provides convenient walking access to the shops and sights of Bruges.
The Li O Lait menu lists the wide selection of coffee drinks first including espresso, cappuccino, latte, as well as iced and seasonal specialty coffee drinks. Next is the extensive tea menu with many organic herbal tea options. Cold drink choices are also available like lemonade, juice and soda. The food menu features breakfast items like muesli and bagels followed by lunchtime quiches, soups, sandwiches and salads. Freshly baked sweets and pastries round out the menu offerings.
Li O Lait has a Tripadvisor review rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 433 customer reviews. Many visitors praise the friendly service, cozy atmosphere and great coffee and food. Customers say Li O Lait is a nice local spot to escape the tourist crowds. Some recommend sharing a bagel as the large portions can easily feed two people. Reviews indicate Li O Lait is a top coffee bar choice for quality drinks and good value in Bruges.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
2. Kottee Kaffee
Kottee Kaffee is a cozy coffeehouse located in the historic center of Bruges, Belgium. The address is Korte Zilverstraat 8, 8000 Bruges. Kottee Kaffee specializes in serving a wide variety of hot and iced coffees made from high quality beans. Some of the specialty coffee drinks on the menu include espressos, cappuccinos, lattes, mochas, iced espresso, iced lattes, frappe, affogato and Irish coffee. Kottee Kaffee also offers a selection of specialty teas including green tea, black tea, herbal infusions and chocolate tea blends. Freshly baked breads are available to accompany the beverages, with gluten-free options as well.
The coffeehouse does not appear to have views of any major landmarks of Bruges. However, it is situated only a short 4 minute walk from the historic Market Square and Belfry of Bruges. The atmospheric interior of Kottee Kaffee features a rustic design with wooden floors, black hanging lights, high top tables as well as cozy couch seating. Reading materials and books are available for customers to enjoy.
The menu at Kottee Kaffee highlights the specialty coffee and tea options. There are selections for espresso-based drinks, teas, hot chocolates, iced and blended drinks as well as Irish coffee and other alcoholic coffee beverages. Fresh breads, yogurts, oatmeal bowls and sweet Belgian waffles are also featured on the menu for breakfast and lunch.
Kottee Kaffee has a high rating score of 4.7 out of 5 on Google Maps, based on over 628 reviews. Positive feedback on the coffeehouse often praises the cozy atmosphere, stellar customer service, reasonable prices and high quality of the coffee and food. Many visitors appreciate the gluten-free and vegetarian options available. The specialty freshly baked breads receive consistent rave reviews. Kottee Kaffee is regarded as a charming local spot to enjoy an authentic Bruges coffeehouse experience.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
3. Tonka Tearoom
Tonka Tearoom is a charming tearoom located in the heart of Bruges, Belgium at Walplein 18, 8000 Brugge. The tearoom is known for its specialty hot chocolates made from Venezuelan tonka beans, as well as delicious homemade pastries and light lunches. Tonka Tearoom crafts its tonka bean hot chocolate from scratch, offering customers a choice of white, milk or dark chocolate mixed with steaming milk and tonka beans for a uniquely decadent hot chocolate experience. In addition to the tonka hot chocolate, Tonka Tearoom also serves a wide variety of teas, coffees and signature drinks like the Mapleccino made with cappuccino and maple syrup.
The menu features breakfast items like pancakes and eggs, soups and salads for lunch and Bruges waffles with delicious toppings for a snack or dessert. Located right off the scenic Walplein square, the tearoom has a view of the charming canals and architecture of central Bruges. The cozy atmosphere with modern décor makes Tonka Tearoom a relaxing place to enjoy a Belgian treat.
Tonka Tearoom is rated an excellent 4.4 out of 5 stars, based on over 499 Google reviews. Many visitors rave about the delicious hot chocolate and homemade Belgian waffles. Others praise the friendly service and charming, relaxed ambiance that makes Tonka Tearoom the perfect spot for a break while exploring Bruges.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
4. Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië
Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië is a cosy cafe located in Bruges, Belgium. The full address is Braambergstraat 1, 8000 Brugge. Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië is known for its specialty draft beers like Brugse Zot, Chimay Blue and Abt 12. The cafe has an outdoor seating area with beautiful views of the landmark Belfry Tower and the scenic Rozenhoedkaai canal. The menu at Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië offers simple Belgian fare like croques, salami, soup, pork dishes and Belgian waffles for dessert.
Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, based on 456 Google reviews. Reviewers praise the lovely canal views and say the cafe has a great atmosphere for people watching while enjoying a drink. Visitors describe the friendly and attentive service staff who aim to provide a warm welcoming experience. Some reviews mentioned the scenic location and views of the Rozenhoedkaai canal and Belfry Tower, with others highlighting the reasonable prices, quality draft beers and tasty salami available. First-time visitors are pleasantly surprised by the cafe's cosy charm while regulars keep coming back for the consistently excellent service.
Any negatives focused on the popularity with tourists, but most agreed Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië is still a wonderful spot for either locals or visitors to Bruges. With beautiful surroundings and dependable service, Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië comes highly recommended for a relaxing drink or casual meal in central Bruges.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
5. 2be
2be is a popular beer bar and shop located in Bruges, Belgium at Wollestraat 53, 8000 Brugge. The specialty drinks at 2be include a wide variety of Belgian beers, with 16 draft beers available. There is also a beer tasting flight with four “mini” beers to try. Some unique beer options include Mongozo Coconut, a Belgian beer with coconut flavoring, as well as fruity beers like Mort Subite Kriek which has a cherry flavor.
2be has a significant view of the canals in Bruges, with an outdoor terrace overlooking the water. Visitors can relax with a beer while taking in views of the picturesque canal houses.
The interior of 2be has a shop area with Belgian chocolates, souvenirs and a large selection of bottled Belgian beers. The bar area serves the draft beers and also offers beer tastings. The unique decor includes a “beer wall” featuring 1,835 beer bottles and glasses.
2be has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor, based on over 1135 reviews. Many visitors mention the great selection of beers available. The large outdoor terrace with views of the canals is also frequently noted as a highlight. Some reviewers state the bar has a touristy vibe but serves good Belgian beer. Others say the staff is friendly and the atmosphere is relaxed. Negative reviews focus on crowds and noise, as the bar can get quite busy, especially in peak season. 2be receives positive feedback for its beer selection, decor, terrace seating and location.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
6. The Flower Cafe Bruges
The Flower Cafe Bruges is a charming coffee place located in the heart of Bruges, Belgium. It is situated at Philipstockstraat 37, 8000 Brugge. The specialty drinks at The Flower Cafe Bruges include coffee, smoothies and hot chocolate. The cafe also serves waffles and has a selection of vegan cupcakes and cakes. The Flower Cafe Bruges is decorated with lots of flowers and has a very cosy atmosphere. It does not any significant views to any Bruges landmark, but is located about 100 meters from the Markt, the main square in Bruges.
The menu at The Flower Cafe Bruges consists mainly of hot and cold drinks like coffee, tea, smoothies, milkshakes, fresh juices, soda, wine and beer. There are also waffles, pancakes, bagels and light lunch options like sandwiches, salads and soups. For those with a sweet tooth, there is a nice selection of homemade vegan cupcakes, brownies, energy balls and other baked goods. The cafe serves breakfast as well, with options like avocado toast, omelettes, yogurt bowls and chia pudding. The beverage and food menu seems focused on fresh, wholesome ingredients.
The Flower Cafe Bruges has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 on Google Maps, based on 89 reviews. Many visitors compliment the friendly and helpful owner Vania and say the coffee and vegan baked goods are delicious. Several reviews mention the nice decor with lots of plants and flowers, giving the cafe a charming and cozy ambience. Some visitors say the cafe is a bit small, with limited seating, but has a nice selection of beverages and vegan treats. Most reviews are very positive, with visitors saying The Flower Cafe Bruges is a wonderful local spot for coffee, waffles and light bites in central Bruges. The convenient location near major attractions is also highlighted.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
7. Vero Caffè
Vero Caffè is a coffee shop located in Bruges, Belgium. Its full address is Sint-Jansplein 9, 8000 Brugge, Belgium. Vero Caffè serves a wide variety of specialty coffee and tea drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, filtered coffee and homemade iced teas. Vero Caffè is also known for its baked goods, particularly its selection of cakes and pastries. The menu includes vegan and gluten-free options.
The interior of Vero Caffè has a cozy, vintage look with cushions, stools and benches. There is additional seating in the back room. Vero Caffè does not have views of any major landmarks in Bruges. However, it is situated on a quiet square away from the busy tourist areas, providing a relaxed atmosphere.
The menu at Vero Caffè features breakfast items like pancakes and toast, as well as lunch options such as soup, salad and bagels. On Fridays, Vero Caffè offers an all-vegan lunch menu. The coffee menu highlights espresso drinks, batch brew coffee and specialty options like chai tea lattes. There are typically at least five varieties of homemade cake available.
Vero Caffè currently has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 on Google Maps, based on 822 reviews. Many visitors praise the cozy atmosphere, great coffee and tasty vegan food options. One reviewer said, “Really nice filter coffee and the best almond croissant I've had in a long time”. Others appreciate the weekday breakfast and weekend brunch menus. Negative reviews focus on mediocre service and small portion sizes. However, most customers recommend Vero Caffè for the vibe and quality coffee and baked goods.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
8. Sanseveria Bagelsalon
Sanseveria Bagelsalon is a cozy and hip bagel restaurant located in the heart of Bruges, Belgium at Predikherenstraat 11, 8000 Brugge. The specialty drinks at Sanseveria Bagelsalon include homemade iced teas made with ingredients like cassis, papaya, pineapple, rosehip and hibiscus. They also serve unique sodas like ginger ale, ginger beer and violet-scented sparkling sodas from J.Gasco. Sanseveria Bagelsalon does not have any significant views of landmarks from its location.
The menu at Sanseveria Bagelsalon focuses on bagels, with sweet and savory breakfast bagel options like the Madison with smoked salmon, avocado, scrambled eggs, dill and pepper or the Elliot with Nutella, banana and toasted almonds. For lunch, they offer bagel sandwiches like the Pippa with fried chicken, melted brie and green apple. Sanseveria Bagelsalon also has fresh salads, homemade quiches, soups and daily desserts like their famous vegan apple crumble.
Sanseveria Bagelsalon has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor, based on over 1169 reviews. Visitors praise the cozy vintage atmosphere with hipster interior decor details. The unique bagels get rave reviews, with the Ron, Lucy and Edward being favorites. Customers say the friendly staff provides excellent service. Some visitors recommend arriving right when it opens or booking ahead since Sanseveria Bagelsalon is quite small with limited seating. Several reviews mention it's a nice alternative to the heavy touristy places in Bruges's city center.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
9. Hemelse Taartjes
Hemelse Taartjes is a cozy little cafe located at Langestraat 29, 8000 Bruges, Belgium. Hemelse Taartjes cafe is known for its delicious homemade cupcakes, cakes, cookies and pralines. Some of the specialty drinks at Hemelse Taartjes include homemade lemonades in flavors like lemon-elderflower and mango-passionfruit, as well as milkshakes made with ingredients like chocolate, coffee, strawberry and banana. Hemelse Taartjes offers a selection of teas, including Earl Grey and chamomile. The cafe also serves coffee drinks such as cappuccino, latte and tiramisu latte.
The menu at Hemelse Taartjes features baked goods like cupcakes, cakes, cookies and croissants. Savory options include sandwiches, omelets, croques and pancakes. Hemelse Taartjes also offers ice cream sundaes and coupes. For breakfast, guests can order items like croissants, omelets and smos, which are open-faced sandwiches. The cafe has options for vegetarians as well as vegan and gluten-free items. Everything is made fresh in-house with quality ingredients.
Hemelse Taartjes currently has a rating of 5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor, based on 33 reviews. Many visitors compliment the friendly service and cozy atmosphere. The homemade baked goods, especially the cupcakes, receive rave reviews. One visitor calls the cafe a “little gem” and says “everything tasted heavenly”. Another reviewer highlights the “heavenly chocolate milk” as a standout. Some visitors say Hemelse Taartjes has the best coffee and hot chocolate in Bruges. The omelets and sandwiches also get positive feedback from guests. One visitor sums it up as a “super cosy place with very friendly service”.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
10. Gruuthuse Hof
Gruuthuse Hof is a historic café and restaurant located in Bruges, Belgium. It is situated at Mariastraat 36, 8000 Brugge. Operating since 1751, the café is known for its traditional Belgian fare and drinks. Signature beverages at Gruuthuse Hof include Belgian beers like Brugse Zot, Brugs Tarwebier and Straffe Hendrik. The café also serves wine, juices, hot chocolate and chocolate milkshakes. Known for its cobblestone facade and gabled roof, Gruuthuse Hof offers views of the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk church and belfry across the street.
Gruuthuse Hof's menu features appetizers like seafood platters, soups like tomato and chicken noodle, entrees such as steak, salmon and duck breast and desserts including Belgian waffles and profiteroles. Menu prices range from €15 to €28 per person. The historic café has earned a rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Google Maps, with visitors praising its traditional charm, generous portions and reasonable prices. Gruuthuse Hof is rated 4.5 out of 5 based on TripAdvisor, with over 1900 independent reviews. Positive reviews mention the cozy atmosphere, friendly service, romantic setting and authentic Belgian cuisine. Some reviewers say Gruuthuse Hof offers excellent value for money in Bruges. While waits can occur during peak times, visitors recommend making reservations in advance for the best experience. Gruuthuse Hof remains a top choice for travelers visiting Bruges' historic center, due to his storied legacy, classic Belgian fare and ambiance.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
11. Coffeebar Adriaan
Coffeebar Adriaan is a coffee shop located at Adriaan Willaertstraat 7, 8000 Bruges, Belgium. Some of the specialty drinks at Coffeebar Adriaan include cappuccinos, macchiatos and flat whites prepared by the barista so customers can watch the latte art being poured into the cup. The coffeebar also offers a selection of artisanally picked loose leaf teas. Coffeebar Adriaan does have views of the 155-year old Bruges City Theatre located across the street. The breakfast menu features items like freshly baked croissants, bread rolls, chocolate cake, granola, eggs, yogurt with fruit and spreads. For lunch, Coffeebar Adriaan offers soups, salads and sandwiches on freshly baked bread. The bakery sells homemade cakes and pies as well.
Coffeebar Adriaan is rated 4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor, based on 105 reviews. Visitors describe the atmosphere as cozy, elegant and relaxing, with friendly service and delicious coffee. Many visitors comment the beautiful historic building and appreciate the reasonably priced quality food. Some travelers say Coffeebar Adriaan is a nice alternative to the touristy cafes in the city center. The breakfasts receive praise, with the Petit Paris described as tasty and filling. Most visitors enjoy the coffee, tea, sweets and hospitality at Coffeebar Adriaan and recommend it as a spot to take a break when visiting Bruges.
Check the reviews on Tripadvisor
What are the best Canal-Side Cafes in Bruge?
Listed below are the best canal-side cafes in Bruges with amazing views.
- Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië. Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië is a cosy cafe located in Bruges, Belgium. The full address is Braambergstraat 1, 8000 Brugge. Cafe ‘t Klein Venetië is known for its specialty draft beers like Brugse Zot, Chimay Blue and Abt 12. The cafe has an outdoor seating area with beautiful views of the landmark Belfry Tower and the scenic Rozenhoedkaai canal.
- 2be. 2be is a popular beer bar and shop located in Bruges, Belgium at Wollestraat 53, 8000 Brugge. The specialty drinks at 2be include a wide variety of Belgian beers, with 16 draft beers available. 2be has a significant view of the canals in Bruges, with an outdoor terrace overlooking the water. Visitors can relax with a beer while taking in views of the picturesque canal houses.
- Blackbird. Blackbird is a breakfast, lunch and coffee bar located in Bruges, Belgium. The full address for Blackbird is Jan van Eyckplein 7, 8000 Brugge, Belgium. Blackbird has a view of the canal from its location on Jan van Eyckplein. The cafe looks out onto the Spiegelrei canal. Blackbird serves as an easy-going and welcoming spot for guests to enjoy a meal or coffee break
- De Windmolen. De Windmolen is a picturesque corner cafe located at Carmersstraat 135, 8000 Bruges. De Windmolen is next to the Sint-Janshuismolen windmill. Reviews mention De Windmolen's outdoor terrace overlooks this windmill along with a path circling Bruges and a canal. The cafe has a view to the Kruisvest canal and the windmill. Sitting outside provides nice scenery of the windmill and waterway.
What are the best Cafes in Bruge with a co-working space?
Listed below are the best Cafes in Bruge with a co-working space.
- Republiek. Republiek is a trendy bar and cultural hub located at Sint-Jakobsstraat 36, 8000 Brugge, Belgium. It serves specialty cocktails like the Mojito, Cuba Libre and Moscow Mule. Republiek offers co-working spaces and free WiFi access. Visitors describe Republiek as having a hip vibe with interesting music selections. The large outdoor garden terrace provides a lovely space to relax on nice days. Some say the friendly staff is quick to offer drink recommendations. Republiek is a popular locatioon in Bruges for locals, travelers and digital nomads to enjoy their coffee and work.
- Café Rosé Red. Café Rosé Red welcomes people who are looking for a comfortable place to work or study. The café has free high-speed Wi-Fi available to customers. There are ample outlets and seating options, from small tables to cozy armchairs and sofas. The laidback vibe also makes Café Rosé Red a great spot for informal meetings or rendezvous with friends. Remote workers and students frequently spend hours there working on laptops and holding meetings. Groups can reserve semi-private lounge spaces for get-togethers. It is located at Cordoeaniersstraat 16, 8000 Brugge, Belgium.
What are the best things to do in Bruge besides cafes?
Listed below are the best things to do in Bruges.
- Market Square (Markt). Market Square is a historic open square and vibrant center of Bruges for over a thousand years. It hosts a bustling weekly market selling local produce, cheeses, meats and handmade goods. The square is surrounded by magnificent medieval buildings like the Belfry tower, Provincial Court and colorful gabled guildhouses. Visiting the Market Square is definitely one of the best things to do in Bruges.
- Canal boat tour. The canal boat tour explores Bruges' picturesque waterways and landmarks. It passes sites like the Belfry, Church of Our Lady, Beguinage and picturesque buildings along Rozenhoedkaai. Live commentary provides history about Bruges' canals. Tours run daily on open-top boats holding about 40 passengers.
- Belfry Tower (Belfort). The Belfry Tower is a 83 meter tall 13th century Gothic bell tower looming over Bruges' Markt square. Its carillon bells historically regulated daily life. Visitors can climb 366 steps to reach the observation deck for panoramic views over Bruges.
- Basilica of the Holy Blood. The Basilica of the Holy Blood is a Roman Catholic minor basilica. It houses a revered relic, said to be cloth with Christ's blood collected after the crucifixion. The Romanesque and Gothic style basilica was built in the 12th century as a chapel for the Count of Flanders.
- Rozenhoedkaai (Quay of the Rosary). Rozenhoedkaai is a picturesque canal offering amazing views of Bruges' medieval architecture and the iconic Belfry tower. With its colorful buildings reflected in the calm waters, it is considered one of Bruges' most photographed spots.
Is Bruges safe for visitors?
Yes, Bruges is a very safe city for tourists to visit. Bruges has low crime rates, minimal violence and a lack of threatening or dangerous areas for travellers. Official crime statistics show Bruges has lower crime rates than other major Belgian cities like Brussels or Antwerp. Violent crimes are uncommon. Theft and pickpocketing exist but are not excessive for a popular tourist city. Criminality levels are modest for Bruge's size. For tourists, Bruges has no known high-risk areas or neighbourhoods to avoid. Even when walking alone at night, most travellers feel at ease in Bruge's peaceful streets. Simple precautions like being aware of pickpockets in crowds and not leaving valuables unattended apply, but serious safety concerns are rare. The greatest nuisance for tourists tends to be petty crimes like bicycle theft. Violent mugging or physical attacks are highly unusual occurrences that should not deter people from visiting. By using reasonable caution, as in any new place, travellers can safely enjoy everything Bruges offers.
What are the UNESCO world heritage sights near Bruge?
Listed below are the UNESCO world heritage sights near Brugge:
- Historic Centre of Bruge: The Historic Centre of Bruge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its outstanding example of a historic settlement. The city's winding canals, Gothic architecture and preserved street plan make it a living testament to its history as a major commercial and cultural centre.
- Belfries of Belgium and France: The Belfry of Bruge is part of a group of 56 belfries in Belgium and France that are collectively recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These belfries represent civic independence and architectural expression during the Middle Ages.
- Flemish Béguinages: The Béguinage in Bruge is one of 13 Flemish béguinages that are collectively listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These béguinages are unique to the Low Countries and represent a specific religious and architectural tradition, where communities of lay religious women lived and worked.
What are the best restaurants in Bruges?
There are 4 restaurants in Bruges that make the top of our list. These are Bartholomeus, One Restaurant, Le Chef et Moi and Bistro Bruut.
Firstly, Bartholomeus is a two Michelin-starred Bartholomeus overlooks the North Sea in Knokke-Heist near Bruges. It serves creative modern cuisine focusing on fresh local seafood and seasonal produce.. Secondly, One Restaurant is a charming Flemish spot in Bruges known for signature dishes like beef stew and meatballs in beer sauce using locally-sourced ingredients. Thirdly, Le Chef et Moi is a French bistro on the scenic Dijver canal in Bruges, known for classics like moules-frites and regional specialties including rabbit in beer sauce. Lastly, Bistro Bruut in Bruges focuses on creative contemporary cuisine with locally-sourced seasonal ingredients and twists on traditional Flemish dishes.
What are the most famous Belgian Chefs?
Restaurants in Belgium owe much to the expertise of renowned Belgian chefs like Alain Coumont, Peter Goossens and Sergio Herman. Alain Coumont, 61, founded Le Pain Quotidien, an organic bakery restaurant chain in Brussels. Specializing in organic and artisanal cooking, Coumont's menu includes tartines, soups, salads and Belgian pastries. He actively guides the chain as its chief creative officer.
Next is Peter Goossens, 58, from Zottegem. He holds three Michelin stars for his restaurant Hof van Cleve since 2005. Known as the “Godfather of Belgian Gastronomy”, Goossens expertly blends local ingredients into high-end dishes. His specialty dish, Young pigeon ‘Anjou’ with bacon, is well-regarded.
Lastly, Sergio Herman, 50, originally from the Netherlands, masters modern French techniques. Formerly of Oud Sluis, he now partners with leading restaurants like The Jane in Antwerp. Dishes like Scallops with sea urchin define Herman's culinary style.
What is the best Belgian food a visitor should eat in Bruges?
Listed below find the best Belgian food a traveler should definitely try in Bruges:
- Mussels (Moules): Mussels are a seafood favorite in Belgium. They are commonly steamed in white wine with ingredients like shallots and parsley. It's a true delight for seafood lovers.
- Belgian Fries (Frites): Belgian fries are a point of national pride. They are uniquely double-fried for a soft inside and crispy exterior. The best place to enjoy them is at genuine “friteries” or “frietkots”.
- Waffles (Gauffres): Belgian waffles are a must-try treat. They come in two types: Brussels waffles (light and crispy) and Liege waffles (dense and sweet). You can enjoy them plain or with a variety of toppings like chocolate, fruit or whipped cream.
- Chocolate: Belgium is famous for its exquisite chocolates. Indulge in a wide range of pralines, truffles and chocolate bars from renowned chocolatiers. It's a paradise for chocolate enthusiasts.
- Speculoos: These spiced shortcrust biscuits are a beloved Belgian treat. They have a distinct flavor of cinnamon and other spices, making them a perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea.
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Yvonne says
They all seem like great places to visit when in Bruges… but how to choose… you make it very hard! (or we should just stay longer of course!)
Sofie says
Or come back! :-) Luckily, the historical center of Bruges is tiny so you can easily walk from one place to the other :-)
Nitin Khanna says
Great Article! All places are awesome. Good to listen that you had a great time at BRUGES, BELGIUM.
Thanks for Sharing!
Sofie says
Thanks for commenting :)