The 10 finest museums in Bruges
1. Historium Brugge
Historium Brugge is an interactive attraction on the Market Square in Bruges. You will be taken back to the Middle Ages through a mix of virtual and physical reproductions of historical scenes.
There is also an exhibition where you can learn more about daily life, trade and culture in medieval Bruges. Definitely worth a visit for history buffs and families alike.
Address: Markt 1
2. Groeninge Museum
This museum is dedicated to Belgian painting and houses an extensive collection from the Middle Ages to the present day. It displays masterpieces by famous artists such as Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch.
Address: Dijver 12
3. Bruges Beer Experience
Near Market Square in the city centre, you will find the beer museum. It not only displays historical brewing tools and old advertising material, but also emphasises the brewing process itself. You will learn about the different ingredients and steps in this process. At the end of the tour, you can taste several Belgian beers.
Address: Breidelstraat 3
4. Het Belfort (Belfry)
Het Belfort is an important part of the city's history. Climb the 366 steps of the medieval Belfry Tower for great views of the city. The building also houses a historical collection and clocks. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Address: Markt 7
5. Choco-Story
This tasty chocolate museum shares the story of chocolate, an important part of Belgian culture. You will learn about the history, production and flavours of chocolate. And, of course, you can taste the chocolate made here.
Address: Wijnzakstraat 2
6. St John's Hospitaal
This museum is one of the oldest preserved hospitals in Europe! The medieval building gives insight into the history of healthcare. You can admire old medical instruments, works of art and religious objects. With masterpieces by the Flemish primitive Hans Memling and surprising contemporary artworks by artists such as Berlinde De Bruyckere and Patricia Piccinini.
Address: Mariastraat 38
Toerisme Brugge | © Jan D'Hondt
7. Bruges' Fries Museum
The only fries museum in the world! Discover the history and culture of “friet” at the Frietmuseum. It tells the story of potatoes, fries preparation and the evolution of fries stands. Or is it chips?
Address: Vlamingstraat 33
8. Diamant Museum Bruges
The Diamant Museum Bruges is dedicated to the fascinating world of diamonds. Diamonds have been cut in Bruges since the 14th century. The museum recounts the story of diamonds, from their origins to their value and use in jewellery. You can admire an extensive collection of diamonds and learn about the history of the diamond industry and the art of diamond cutting.
Address: Katelijnestraat 43
9. Gruuthuse Museum
The Gruuthuse Museum is housed in the beautiful Gruuthuse Palace and showcases the rich history and culture of Bruges. You will find an extensive collection of arts, crafts and artefacts, including silverware, tapestries, furniture and ceramics. The museum depicts life in Bruges through the ages.
Address: Dijver 17c
10. Torture Museum Bruges
The Torture Museum in Bruges is a historical museum exhibiting the history of torture instruments and methods of punishment over the centuries. Visitors appreciate its educational value and it is a memorable visit during a city trip. It is less suitable for a family outing, although children up to 10 years old are admitted free of charge.
Address: Wollestraat 29
To Bruges by train
Going to Bruges for a weekend? Then travel comfortably by train. You can travel with Eurostar or Intercity Brussels.
Travel with Intercity Brussels
Intercity Brussels becomes Eurocity Direct and EuroCity from 15 December
From 15 December 2024, the name and route of Intercity Brussels will change. The fast train to Brussels will soon be called Eurocity Direct. In addition to the Intercity, there will also be an extra train to Belgium, EuroCity. Until that date, you can continue to travel on the current trains.
More information about the new trains between the Netherlands and Belgium
Taking Intercity Brussels? Then travel to Antwerp. There you can catch the intercity to Gent St. Pieters. In Ghent, change trains to Bruges. Travel time from Amsterdam Centraal is 3.36 hours, the price for a one-way ticket starts at € 32 with the Early Bird rate.
Travel with Eurostar
When travelling with Eurostar, you only need to change trains at Brussel Zuid/Midi. The price of a one-way ticket starts at € 36.
Also want to visit a museum in another city?
Check out our tips at other top destinations
Groeninge Museum photo Toerisme Brugge | © Jan D'Hondt
Museums in Bruges
Train to Bruges
It takes just three hours to get from the Randstad area to the medieval town centre.
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.
Tips Bruges
Perfect combination of Belgian traditions, historical sights and hotspots.
Train to Belgian coast
Want to take the train to a pleasant seaside town? It's definitely worth the visit!
Hotels in Bruges
Tips highlighting the best hotels and accommodation options in and around charming Bruges.
Cycling in Bruges
Cycling in Bruges is an adventure! The historic city centre is beautiful and parts of it is car-free.
Restaurants in Bruges
The tastiest places in Bruges to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Train and hotel Bruges
Bruges has a beautiful, historic centre with a basilica, beguinage and breweries. You can explore the city on foot.