Bruges in summer is one of the most beautiful and popular spots to visit in Europe. Its charming canals, horse-drawn carriages and beautiful green space make us popular all year round. The addition of warm weather makes Bruges in summer even more appealing. There is plenty to see and do here from romantic picnics to scenic cycles, depending on how active you like your summer breaks to be. Before you start filling your Bruges bucket list, book convenient, affordable accommodation on the edge of the city in Green Park Hotel this summer. Here are our pick of some of the best things to do in Bruges during the warmer months.
Enjoy the Canals
Often referred to as the Venice of the North, Bruges’ canals run through the city accented by romantic bridges. The best way to see the gothic city is by cruising its waterways by boat, especially when the sun is shining. The little tourist boats will take you down the narrow canals, under bridges and tell you the stories about the most authentic parts of Bruges from the mouth of a local. A trip will take half an hour and costs around €10 per person. We can’t think of a better way to get to know Bruges.
Climb the Belfry Tower
The Belfry Tower is one of Bruges’ most iconic, unique attractions. The bell tower built in the fifteenth century is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the Eiffel Tower of Bruges. You won’t be able to miss it once you’re in the city centre, towering right over Markt Square. Pay €10-12 for admission and discover the history of the Belfry on the ground floor, before climbing up the tower for the best views of the city. Climb 366 steep steps (with plenty of places to rest along the way) and enjoy birds-eye views of the city and miles around it. Avoid prime busy slots as the wait can be long but we promise it’s worth it.
Drink Beer in Bruges
Is there anything better to cool down on a hot day than a cold beer? If you need a reason to visit Bruges besides the medieval architecture and relaxed atmosphere, the beer is it. You could easily spend summer days hopping between bars, pubs and restaurants serving the most fantastic local beer. Bruges bars are general set in creaky old buildings but many of them have beer gardens so you can take full advantage of the warm weather. A few of our favourites include the oldest pub in Bruges called
Vlissinghe, the famous De Halve Maan Brewery and
The Bauhaus. You can also visit 2be, a funky beer shop & museum to pick up some drinks to go.
The Lake of Love
The Lake of Love is an oasis of calm in the middle of Minnewater Park, one of the prized green spaces in Bruges. If you’re planning a romantic summer escape for you and a loved one or really want to impress a new love interest, a picnic in the park beside the picturesque lover’s park will do the job nicely. Rumour has it that if you cross the bridge with your partner and kiss, your love will last forever. Pick up a takeaway lunch, take a picnic blanket and spend the day eating and drinking in the most beautiful park in Bruges.
Cycle to the Windmills
Enjoy the great outdoors when you visit Bruges and see what the surrounding area has to offer. Belgium has a rich mill history, something you’ll notice in a lot of postcards of the area and they are especially nice to visit when the sun shines.
Koeleweimolen is one of the most famous windmills in the city and Sint-Janshuismolen, built in 1770, is the oldest. It’s the only windmill in Bruges that’s still standing in its original position. Pack a picnic, rent a bike and explore the best windmills in Bruges on two wheels.
Ice Cream & Waffles
You cannot visit Bruges without trying a famous Belgian waffle. One of our staff favourites is
Chez Albert, a place renowned amongst locals and visitors for dishing up the tastiest waffles in the city. Top your waffle with all your favourites from whipped cream and strawberries to delicious local Belgian chocolate. For ice cream try Gelateria Da Vinci where you can choose from dozens of flavours, some traditional, some totally wacky. If you like you can have waffles topped with ice cream for a cooling, indulgent treat.
Book Green Park Hotel Bruges as a perfect base to explore the city and its surroundings this summer. Our best available rates are exclusively available on our website.
