Discover Bruges on a bike
Explore the enchanting city and surrounding nature
Renting standard bikes and electric bikes
Renting a bike is an easy way to explore Bruges. For those who want to tackle the hills around Bruges without too much effort, there are also electric bikes for rent. These e-bikes make exploring the city and surrounding countryside even more accessible, even if you are not used to long bike rides.
Fortunately, Bruges has more than enough bike rental companies. Bike rental companies, such as 'De Ketting' and ‘Steershop’ offer a wide range of bikes, from standard city bikes to electric and tandem bicycles.
Remember to book in advance during the busy summer months. Renting a bike often requires proof of identity and a deposit for the bike(s). And take precautionary measures and consider hiring a helmet and a lock.
The Belgian public transport bike: Blue-bike
Do you visit Belgium frequently? Public transport bicycles there are called Blue-bike and you pay a small amount per year for a subscription. For use, you pay less than €5 per 24 hours. Per subscription, you can rent two bicycles. The bikes are located near the stations and in Bruges there are 3 pick-up points at the station. Convenient and inexpensive!
Learn more about Blue-bike
Cycling in the city of Bruges
Route around the city, the Ramparts Route
Follow the beautiful ramparts of Bruges. You can enjoy the green surroundings as you follow the ramparts that once protected the city. Along the way, you will pass some of the historic gates, windmills and beautiful views of the canals.
Guided tours of Bruges
Want to explore the city with someone who knows their way around and can share interesting facts? Then a guided bike tour is an excellent choice. Guides such as 'Quasimundo Bike Tours' offer themed tours where you will discover the city's hidden gems and learn more about Bruges' history and culture. Or explore Bruges like a local on a guided bike tour from Get Your Guide.
Tips for cycling in Bruges' city centre
When cycling through Bruges, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- In wet weather, always be aware that Bruges’ numerous cobblestones get very slippery.
- Adhere to local traffic rules and park your bicycle in the designated bike racks.
- And also remember to enjoy the city! Take time to stop and admire the beautiful sights, such as the Belfry, the Basilica of the Holy Blood and the Market Square.
Bike junctions and cycling routes around Bruges
Bruges and the surrounding region are equipped with an extensive cycling junction network. You can create your own route by following signposts, which are clearly visible at junctions along the paths. This allows you to easily customise a route.
1. Green Belt Route
This route takes you around the surrounding countryside of Bruges. Enjoy the picturesque landscape, passing rural farms, canals and meadows. Along the way, you will also pass several castles and historic villages .
Free signposted cycle route via GPX, PDF or map (Dutch)
2. The Bruges Countryside Cycling Network
The cycle network Brugse Ommeland is more than 930 kilometres of cycling fun. Through forests and polders, past castles and canals with picturesque villages and towns. Map out your own cycle route and enjoy it from junction to junction. The indispensable cycle network map leads you to the best spots. The green and white signposting shows you the way in two directions.
Buy cycle network map Bruges Ommeland
3. Damme and the Zwin
Cycle to the charming town of Damme, just a few kilometres from Bruges. Explore the old streets and visit St John's Church before continuing to the beautiful nature reserve Het Zwin, famous for its birds and wild flowers.
Free signposted cycle route via GPX, PDF or map (Dutch)
Prefer to bike with a guide?
Then reserve a spot with Quasimundo beforehand
Create your own cycle route online
Would you rather map out your own route at home in advance? This is easy with the online Cycling route planner for West Flanders (Dutch) or plan your route with Komoot.
Or use their Top 20 cycling routes around Bruges
To Bruges by train
Are you going to spend a day or a weekend in Bruges? Then travel comfortably by train. You can travel with Eurostar of Eurocity Direct.
With Eurocity Direct
With Eurostar
When travelling with Eurostar, you can travel the same route. The travel time is 2.44 hours. The price for a one-way ticket starts at € 36.
Cycling in Bruges
Restaurants in Bruges
The tastiest places in Bruges to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Museums in Bruges
Old Bruges' most enjoyable and educational museums.
Shopping in Bruges
The picturesque centre is compact, with pleasant shopping streets clustered close together.
Weekend getaway Bruges
Bruges is so picture perfect! In the historic city centre, all the highlights are within walking distance of each other. Travel comfortably by train and arrive well-rested.
Walking tours Bruges
Explore enchanting Bruges on foot. With a guide or with our free walking route.
Tips Bruges
Perfect combination of Belgian traditions, historical sights and hotspots.
Train to Bruges
It takes just three hours to get from the Randstad area to the medieval town centre.