Dreaming of cobblestone streets, canals, and chocolate? Bruges, Belgium’s fairytale city, is one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations. But if you’re planning a trip, you’ve probably wondered: is Bruges expensive?
The short answer: Bruges can be moderately expensive, but it’s worth every euro. While dining and hotels in the historic center can cost more than other Belgian cities, there are plenty of smart ways to enjoy its beauty on a budget. With careful planning, even a weekend in Bruges can feel luxurious without overspending.
This guide breaks down how expensive Bruges is to visit, from hotels and restaurants to attractions and transport, and offers tips to make the most of your visit.
How Expensive Is Bruges to Visit?
Bruges isn’t cheap, but it’s not out of reach either. It’s generally more affordable than Paris or Amsterdam but pricier than smaller Belgian towns like Ghent or Leuven.
| Traveler Type | Daily Budget | What It Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Traveler | €90–€120 | Hostels, casual dining, walking tours |
| Mid-Range Traveler | €150–€220 | 3-star hotel, restaurants, canal tour |
| Luxury Traveler | €300+ | 4–5-star hotels, fine dining, private excursions |
Most travelers spend €500–€800 for a weekend in Bruges, depending on accommodation and dining choices.
Is Bruges Expensive to Eat and Drink?
Belgium is famous for its chocolate, beer, and hearty cuisine, and Bruges is no exception. Eating out can range from budget-friendly bites to indulgent dining experiences.
- Local cafés and brasseries: Expect to pay around €15–€25 for a meal like mussels, stew, or waffles.
- Mid-range restaurants: Dinner for two with drinks usually costs €60–€90.
- Fine dining: Michelin-starred restaurants like Den Gouden Harynck can exceed €120 per person.
- Beer and drinks: A pint of Belgian beer costs €5–€7, while coffee is around €3.
For savings, try lunch specials, bakeries, or grab a cone of Belgian fries for €5. According to Numbeo, restaurant prices in Bruges are slightly higher than the EU average, especially in tourist-heavy zones like Market Square.
Accommodation Costs in Bruges
Bruges offers a charming mix of boutique hotels, heritage B&Bs, and hostels. Prices are higher within the UNESCO-listed historic center.
- Budget stays: Dorms or small guesthouses from €50–€90 per night.
- Mid-range hotels: €150–€200 per night for 3-star comfort near the canals.
- Luxury hotels: €300+ per night for 4–5-star options like Hotel Dukes’ Palace or Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce.
To save, book early and stay just outside the center, places like Sint-Michiels or Assebroek offer lower rates but are still walkable or a short bus ride away.
Transportation and Getting Around
Bruges is compact and perfect for walking, cycling, or using public transit.
- Train from Brussels: €15–€20 (1 hour each way).
- Buses and trams: €2.50 per ride.
- Taxis: €10–€20 within the city center.
- Bicycle rentals: €10–€15 per day.
Arriving by train? Bruges Station is just 20 minutes from the Old Town on foot. Cycling along the canals or to nearby towns like Damme offers beautiful scenery at almost no cost.
Is Bruges Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Bruges is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities, small enough to explore in a few days, yet rich in history, art, and romance.
It’s worth visiting for:
- Its charming canals and historic buildings
- Delicious Belgian chocolate and beer tasting
- Unique museums like the Groeninge Museum and the Frietmuseum
- Peaceful atmosphere compared to big cities like Brussels
Even repeat visitors say Bruges feels timeless and magical in every season.
Best Things to Do in Bruges
- Climb the Belfry Tower (€15): Panoramic city views from this iconic 13th-century landmark.
- Canal Cruise (€12): Explore the “Venice of the North” from the water.
- Markt Square: Visit the historic heart of Bruges with cafés and horse carriages.
- Groeninge Museum (€14): Home to Flemish masterpieces and Belgian art.
- Brewery De Halve Maan Tour (€15): Includes a tasting of Brugse Zot beer.
- Church of Our Lady (€9): See Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child sculpture.
Most attractions are walkable and affordable, making sightseeing easy to plan even on a short trip.
Weekend in Bruges: Sample Budget
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (2 nights) | €180 | €350 | €700 |
| Food & Drink | €100 | €200 | €400 |
| Attractions | €30 | €60 | €120 |
| Transportation | €40 | €60 | €120 |
| Shopping & Extras | €30 | €50 | €150 |
| Total (2 Days) | ~€380 | ~€720 | ~€1,490 |
Travelers on a mid-range budget can enjoy Bruges comfortably for around €350–€400 per day for two people.
Tips to Save Money in Bruges
- Travel off-season (March–May or October–November) for hotel discounts.
- Eat like a local, try daily lunch menus at brasseries.
- Walk or rent bikes instead of taxis.
- Buy combination museum tickets for multiple attractions.
- Bring a reusable water bottle, tap water is perfectly safe.
Travel to Bruges: Getting There
The easiest way to travel to Bruges is by train. Regular connections run from Brussels Airport and Brussels Midi Station every 30 minutes. Direct trains from Paris, Amsterdam, and London (via Eurostar to Brussels) make Bruges a great weekend escape.
You can find the best fares and routes on Belgian Train or Omio.
Luggage Storage in Bruges
If you’re spending just a weekend in Bruges or arriving before check-in, store your bags with Radical Storage. Convenient locations near Bruges train station and Market Square let you explore freely without carrying luggage.
Find luggage storage in Bruges with Radical Storage
How Expensive Is Bruges Compared to Other European Cities?
Bruges sits in the middle range of European travel costs, more expensive than Lisbon or Prague, but cheaper than Amsterdam or Paris.
| City | Average Daily Cost (Mid-Range) |
|---|---|
| Paris | €250–€350 |
| Amsterdam | €220–€300 |
| Bruges | €150–€220 |
| Prague | €100–€150 |
| Lisbon | €90–€140 |
The main difference is scale; Bruges is smaller, so you’ll spend less on transport and large attractions, but may pay a premium for centrally located hotels.
Is Bruges Expensive? Final Verdict
So, is Bruges expensive? It can be, but it’s well worth it. Food and hotels cost more than Belgium’s smaller towns, yet the city’s beauty, charm, and walkability make every euro worthwhile.
A 3-day trip to Bruges for two can cost between €700 and €1,000, including accommodation, dining, and attractions. With free sights, affordable local food, and budget-friendly options, Bruges proves that elegance and history don’t have to break the bank.
Whether you’re visiting Bruges for art, architecture, or chocolate, it remains one of Europe’s most romantic and rewarding destinations.