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About Bruges

Bruges is a charming warren of cobbled streets, leading onto beautiful, medieval squares, with impressive churches, or canals lined with gorgeous old warehouses and townhouses. And lots and lots of chocolate shops! And atmospheric places to eat and drink generally. And lots of lots of choice when it comes to accommodation. So, even more than other cities, it helps to be armed with some expert recommendations for the best places to stay in Bruges, whether you're looking for a boutique hotel, a B&B conversion, or a luxury grand-dame.

Some of our Bruges Collections:

In Bruges it's hard not to take a postcard worthy photograph. In the town's medieval centre there are no modern buildings to jump into your shot at the last minute, or cars to dash through. In fact, here you're more likely to have your photograph spoiled by a horse and buggy. For this is one of Europe's best-preserved pre-motorised cities. Which also means it’s small and very accessible. But the problem with Bruges, aside from parking, is that it’s so lovely that everyone knows about it.

You might not realise it, but Burges actually covers 138 square kilometres. Seems like a lot, doesn’t it? Especially if you’ve been here and strolled the narrow streets with their cobblestones and tiny bridges criss crossing the canals. But that cobbled section is just the historic centre — which is definitely one of the best places to stay in Bruges, especially if it’s your first time this beautiful fairytale of a city, and it’s got an almost unlikely sounding number of hotels and guesthouses, but it’s not your only choice, and below we review a few more of your options. Skip this section if you’re just looking for a hotel recommendation.

Where to Stay in Bruges? Which Part of Town?

  • The historic centre of Bruges is the Old Town, the bit looped inside the main canal, around the Markt, or the medieval market square, lined with medieval and medieval looking facades and the Belfort or belfry; and Burg, historically the administrative part of town, with the impressive stadhuis, built in 1420, the Basilica of the Holy Blood beside it, and the Bruges Vrije, or library. As well as housing many of the main sights of Bruges, the Old Town is also packed with places to eat and drink, and lots of places to sit and enjoy the ambience. And it’s packed with many choices from our list of the best places to stay in Bruges.
  • Still in the Old Town, but on the southern side of these major landmarks is South Bruges, a more peaceful set of streets and canals, leading up to the Begijnhof and the Minnewater. This is a charming place to stay if you want to be central but somewhere quieter too. If you don’t stay here you’ll probably be brought here on a canal, or by a horse and trap.
  • Just outside the 13th century ramparts, the defensive walls and canals of old Bruges is Ezelstraat, an 800 year old lane, and the surrounding area called the Ezelstraat Quarter, and this is our Guru’s pick for the best place to stay in Bruges if you’re looking for great value. This is a lively part of town too, with a great array of choice when it comes to eating and drinking, and some hip boutiques and design stores.
  • Sint-Anna is in the mirrored location to Ezelstraat, but to the north east, and is another great value choice, and home to actual permanent residents of Bruges, so it’s less touristy. The main landmarks of Sint-Anna are the working 18th century windmills by the outer canal, but Sint-Anna also has a lace museum and a folk museum, and some impressive churches. But the other reason we recommend staying in Sint-Anna is that the nightlife is really buzzy, with bustling pubs and local bars, and cosy eateries.
  • Sint-Gillis sits between Ezelstraat and Sint-Anna, and is the neighbourhood to choose if you want to be close to all the main sights, but not right in amongst the crowds. It’s also medievally beautiful, with cobbled streets and stepped townhouses. Sint-Gilliskerk is one of the most impressive churches in Bruges, and peaceful Sincfal is one of only a few green spaces in central Bruges. And again, this is a great place to go looking for great places to eat and drink.
  • If you’re travelling with children the Magdalena Quarter, just to the south east of the centre, is our pick. It’s leafy and residential, with elegant medieval squares, and one of the largest parks in Bruges, the Koningin Astridpark. This part of town is also great for bakeries and chocolate shops. And it’s got some great museums and restaurants too.

Bruges is floodlit by night, so you can walk around for hours seeing everything you've seen in the day but with an even more romantic tint. There are plenty of canal side cafes and bars from which to watch the world go by, and cosy tearooms if the weather turns nasty. Bruges gets a lot of visitors, so in some parts of town prices feel hiked, but there are plenty of budget options when it comes to eating and drinking, and many of the pleasures of Bruges come from strolling round town, seeing what you see.

But don't forget that this city is a year round destination. So if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Bruges, you'll need to get organised and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Bruges

For something special

  • If you love chintzy luxury and old fashioned manor house hotels, the Hotel de Orangerie is probably for you. It's right on the canal — with boat trips leaving from just outside its tea rooms — and the rooms on this side have great views of all the action. The staff are genuinely helpful, the afternoon tea is very fine, the bar is well stocked and you're right around the corner from the main square. All the rooms are different sizes and have different decorations, so there's even a reasonably priced option.
  • Hôtel Heritage is a dreamily romantic escape with spectacularly elegant, and historic, interiors, complete with chandeliers, original paintings and traditional furnishings. Their Michelin recommended Mystique restaurant is memorable for all the right reasons and there’s an elegant bar and a fitness room. This is a real treat.

For a city break

  • The Hotel Prinsehof is a smart upscale townhouse with 24 stylish rooms and suites. Situated just a short distance from the sights, it's a splendid all round city stay.
  • For boutique style luxury with a reasonable price tag, one of the best places to stay in Bruges is the Hotel de Tuilerieen. Its 45 rooms and suites have been converted from a 15th century, canal-side building right next to the Groeningemuseum, so it’s super central too. Its generously sized rooms let in lots of light and beautiful views of Bruges. And it’s got a lovely terrace bar, and an indoor pool with a spa.
  • The Hotel Monsieur Ernest occupies a restored 14th century patrician’s residence, just off centre, a few minutes stroll from the Belfry and the Markt. Its 28 rooms and suites are simple yet elegant, decorated in a palette of contemporary greys, with comfortable beds and plenty of space. There’s a shuttle service from the airport, and a chic cafe which serves a hearty breakfast, so this is an easy spot for a weekend away.
  • Only 450 metres from the Basilica of the Holy Blood, De Castillion is ivy-clad, historic, romantic and elegant. There are 23 rooms and suites, decorated with contemporary luxury in mind: think drapes with a slight sheen, velvet furniture and beds with canopies. Some rooms have original beamed ceilings. Breakfast is served in the medieval basement, and they serve a British-style afternoon tea.

For romance

  • The Pand, a converted carriage house turned luxury hotel, boasts sophisticated accommodation with elegant furnishings and beautiful public areas. Located in a quiet part of the old Town these 26 rooms and suites offer every comfort, including whirlpool baths if you book one of the suites. it's a top spot for romance. And, of course, there are a number of top eateries within walking distance.
  • Ter Duinen in Sint-Gillis is one to book if you're looking for somewhere to relax by the canal. This hotel has 20 rooms and suites decorated with contemporary chic, a beautiful courtyard, and a breakfast room which looks out onto it, so it's a peaceful haven to come back to.
  • Canal Deluxe is a 17th century canal-side townhouse converted into a two bedroom B&B. This cosy spot has a wonderful log fire and a grand stone fireplace — the perfect place to curl up with a good book, whilst the characterful rooms have high ceilings and original wooden beams. Wonderfully intimate.
  • If you’re called Casa Romantico, you’re asking quite firmly to be included in the romantic category of our list, but this tasteful, three room B&B is deserving, with its traditionally, and romantically, decorated guest rooms, convenient location for restaurants and bars, as well as sightseeing, and its pool and garden.
  • The Guesthouse Bonaficius is a wonderfully quaint, three bedroom guesthouse in a very central spot right on the canal. The building is an historic timber and stone house with old diamond glass windows and exposed beams in many of the rooms. The guest rooms have lovely original features and the decor is stylishly traditional. There’s a roof terrace, perfect for coffee or breakfast, and a huge fireplace in the living room, which also has a large window overlooking the canal about a metre below.

For Foodies

  • Right on the canal, just around the corner from the Basilica of the holy Blood, you'll find Die Swaene. Sophisticated and historically listed, this hotel has also won some industry awards, and has a Michelin Bib Gourmand recommendation. So if your standards are high when it comes to boutique accommodation, and gourmet food, Die Swaene might be perfect for you.

For Families

You can't always get a high chair in cafes and restaurants, but people seem genuinely happy to see you show up with your kinder. The size of the town also makes it easy to navigate with little ones. And there's no need to worry about transport, everything is within walking distance.

  • For a home from home feel, little three roomed B&B, St Niklaas is one of the best places to stay in Bruges. You're staying in a gorgeous townhouse in the centre of town, with enough original features to make it feel special, but not so many that you have to worry your kids are going to break something.

For great value

  • Built in the 16th century the Hotel Jan Brito has got to be one of the most historic hotels in Bruges, but, surprisingly, it's also one of the best value places to stay in Bruges. The decor is 'romanticised medieval', full of knights and maidens, and the kind of grand, French-style, four poster beds knights and maidens in black and white films favour. There are 37 rooms and suites, a wonderful courtyard with a big box hedge, and bar and sitting rooms which are best described as 'noble'.
  • In a charming redbrick house close to the Groenighe Museum, you'll find the Anselmus Hotel. With 16 colourful, contemporary rooms and suites, in a variety of sizes, including triples and quadruples, this a good option if you're travelling with a group and you want to keep costs down. The Anselmus also has a charming garden.

The Best B&Bs in Bruges

  • Number 11 is a beautiful, four room guesthouse, tastefully and comfortably decorated in creams and neutrals, to make the best of the building's gorgeous original features and its quiet courtyard and lovely garden. You’re just a short stroll from several of the city’s main attractions and the centre of town.
  • B Guest offers just two rooms in South Bruges, so if you're coming with the family you can have the whole B&B to yourselves. The rooms are furnished in a comfortably country style and you can come back after a day out sightseeing to enjoy a drink on the roof terrace.
  • The three room B&B Bornedrager is centrally located, to the north of the centre of Bruges, close to the canal. The decor is traditional and elegant, and the breakfast spread is excellent. Plus, it's strictly adults only, so a great choice for romantic getaways.

Prefer An Apartment?

  • If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Bruges’s nearest airport is Ostend-Bruges Airport, which is 5km southwest of the city, but is has limited connections so many travellers find it easier to fly to Brussels and then take a train to Bruges, which takes around an hour. Or to take the train all the way.
  • If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer. If you do hire a car make sure you book somewhere to park it too! There are numerous choices, it’s just better to arrange it in advance.
  • Bruges is a year round destination, that has a peak season in the summer, and another around Christmas — which is just beautiful here, quite magical! Summer is sunny, but it’s by no means hot, with maximum daily averages for the summer months peaking in the low 20s°C, but visitors to Bruges aren’t here for the weather. Winter maximum average temperatures are 4°C, and it’s really beautiful if it snows. Autumn is probably when you’ll find the best value purely because it’s rainier at this time of year.

Still not sure of the best place to stay in Bruges?

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Best Hotels in Bruges

  • Hotel Jan Brito Bruges 37 rooms from £74

    City Style
    Full of character
    Sights nearby  -  Situated in the centre of Bruges. All attractions can be reached on foot.
    Private Hot Tub  -  The four best rooms all have hot tub bath tubs
    Air conditioningGarden
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    Historic 16th century listed building with classical rooms. Bedrooms, suites, and family rooms, all with noble themes, have marble mantlepieces, oak beams, four poster beds, romantic fabrics and wall papered walls. Stunning boxed hedge garden, bar and sitting room. See More

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  • Anselmus Hotel Bruges 16 rooms from £86

    Garden  -  The hotel has a really charming garden.
    Groups  -  Triple/quaruples rooms.
    Value chic
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    GardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Michelin Travel

    A charming redbrick house with a gorgeous little garden. Rooms, small and large, sleep up to five people. All are colourful and modern. An excellent value choice for groups of friends or a family. See More

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  • Hotel Monsieur Ernest Bruges (Brugge) 28 rooms from £100

    Short break  -  Situated just 15 miles from the airport and with a shuttle service provided, why don't you pop on over for a long weekend?
    Local exploring  -  Monsieur Ernest's central location in Bruges make it an ideal base from which to exlpore the city
    Great walks  -  Stroll through the Park Sebrechts Brugge or wander on over to the beautiful Grand Place
    Sights nearby  -  The Belfry of Bruges and Basilica of the Holy Blood are both just a short distance away
    GardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    This restored 14th century patrician's residence enjoys a prime location in central Bruges. Spacious unfussy accommodation with a hearty buffet breakfast each morning to set you up for the day! Immerse yourself in the city's culture at this low-key spot. See More

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  • Hotel de Tuilerieen Bruges 45 rooms from £100

    City Style
    Romantic Break
    Luxury
    Sights nearby  -  Right in the historic centre of Bruges
    Air conditioningPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels, Michelin Travel

    A beautiful hotel on the canal side. Enormous contemporary yet classic suites have parquet floors, lots of natural light, and chic furnishings. Lovely terrace and bar. A luxurious choice for couples and families See More

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  • St Niklaas B&B Bruges 3 rooms from £104

    Sights nearby  -  Burg Square with its 14th-century town hall and Basilica of the Holy Blood.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Boutique
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    A striking Bruges townhouse B&B in the heart of the city. Traditional architecture encases contemporary comforts and stylish rooms. Parquet floors, richly painted walls, subtle lighting and club foot bath tubs. A lovely spot for a romantic break and family friendly too. See More

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  • Ter Duinen Bruges 20 rooms from £108

    Sights nearby  -  All the major sights are easily accessible on foot
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Full of character
    Air conditioningGardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Michelin Travel

    A charming hotel with bags of character. Contemporary sun lit rooms all in neutral tones. Gorgeous conservatory breakfast room and inner courtyard. An understated spot with plenty of charisma. See More

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  • Die Swaene Bruges 30 rooms from £121

    City Style
    Romantic Break
    Luxury
    Spa breaks
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Small Luxury Hotels, Michelin Travel

    A sophisticated award-winning hotel. Gorgeous rooms and suites with four poster beds and elegant furnishings. Excellent restaurant, spa, and lovely terrace. A romantic choice for the luxury traveller. See More

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  • B Guest Bruges 2 rooms from £121

    Hideaway  -  Nestled down a quiet pedestrian street yet walking distance from many of the historic city of Bruges' sights
    Sights nearby  -  The Beguinage, the Belfry and the Church of Our Lady are all walking distance
    Cooking classes  -  Try your hand at the art of chocolate making
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    ViewsNo pets

    A charming two bedroom B&B nestled down a quiet pedestrian street, yet still walking distance from the picturesque medieval city of Bruges. Both rooms are decorated in a comfortable country style with soft furnishings. Breakfast is served and there is a charming roof terrace to enjoy a cup of tea. See More

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  • The Pand Bruges 26 rooms from £128

    City Style
    Luxury
    Intimate
    Romantic Break
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels, Michelin Travel

    An authentic carriage house turned luxury boutique hotel in a tranquil area of Bruges. Sophisticated rooms and suites have all the mod cons and luxurious furnishings. Beautiful living areas and lovely outdoor terrace. A sumptuous spot. See More

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  • De Castillion Bruges (Brugge) 23 rooms from £130

    City Style  -  Stylish rooms are furnished in the art deco style, and the High Tea served in the afternoon reeks of sophistication.
    Local exploring  -  Set in the heart of bruges; ideal for exploring the city on foot.
    Sights nearby  -  In the historic centre of Bruges, only 450 yards from the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
    Local markets  -  Near the Market Square of Bruges.
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A four-star Art Deco hotel in the historic heart of Bruges. Elegant rooms perfectly mix the old and the new. Indulgent breakfasts are served in the Medieval basement and British-style afternoon teas. A boutique spot ideal for exploring the city on foot. See More

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  • B&B Bornedrager Bruges 3 rooms from £130

    Local exploring  -  B&B De Bornedrager's location in the historic centre of Bruges makes it a perfect spot from which to get to know the city
    Value chic  -  Fantastic accomodation, in a great location without the killer price tag- what more could you ask for?
    Sights nearby  -  Go visit the beautiful Belfry of Bruges or head over to Market Square
    Restrictions on children  -  Adult only

    This classic B&B enjoys a wonderfully central location in beautiful Bruges, close to the city's main attractions. The three elegant rooms have been lovingly designed in a traditional manner, and a great breakfast spread can be expected! The perfect option for a city break. See More

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  • Canal Deluxe Bruges 2 rooms from £134

    Sights nearby  -  Right in the centre of the Old Town so easy access to all of Bruges' highlights. The Market Square is 3 mins on foot.
    Families
    Full of character
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyViews

    Set in a 17th Century canalside townhouse, this two bedroom B&B gives guests their own private lounge with grand stone fireplace and pretty garden for warmer days. Steeped in character, cosy rooms have high ceilings with original wooden beams and rich earthy colours. Ideal for a romantic city break. See More

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  • Number 11 Bruges 4 rooms from £134

    City Style
    Sights nearby  -  Located in the historic centre of Bruges
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    GardenNo pets
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    A beautiful guesthouse in old Bruges minutes from all the attractions. Picturesque bedrooms and one suite have creamy furnishings and parquet floors. Lovely garden, terrace, sitting room, and breakfast room. A very characterful spot. See More

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  • Hotel de Orangerie Bruges 20 rooms from £143

    Views  -  Overlooks the Den Dyver canal
    City Style
    Sights nearby  -  Located in the historic heart of the city with all major attractions within walking distance.
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyViews
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels, Michelin Travel

    A beautiful ivy clad house on the canal bank. Traditionally elegant living areas, rooms and suites have high ceilings, fireplaces, wooden beams and chintzy fabrics. Lovely breakfast and lunch terrace. A romantic spot with plenty of charm. See More

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  • Casa Romantico Bruges 3 rooms from £152

    Romantic Break  -  A charming and romantic B&B, with chic rooms, lovely pool and easy access to the sights of Bruges.
    Sights nearby  -  Arentshuis, Basilica of the Holy Blood and Belfry of Bruges are all within five minutes walk.
    Local markets  -  Explore the local markets of Bruges in the traditional market square.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessNo pets

    A delightful guesthouse, nestled into the heart of Bruges. Each elegant and comfortable room is decorated with tasteful furniture and artwork. When your not exploring the majestic old town, you can recline by the deluxe pool. Perfect for an intimate, romantic break in Bruges. See More

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  • Hôtel Heritage Bruges 22 rooms from £159

    City Style
    Charming
    Sights nearby  -  Belfry Tower, the Church of Our Lady, the Basilica of the Holy Blood as well as all of the historic museums.
    Restaurant  -  Le Mystique fine dining restaurant
    Air conditioningRestaurantParking
    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux, Frommers

    A period 19th century building with spectacularly historic interiors in a central location. Bedrooms and suites have chandeliers, paintings, and elegant furnishings. Michelin recommended restaurant, bar, and fitness room. A grand choice with great food. See More

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  • Hotel Prinsenhof Bruges 24 rooms from £159

    City Style
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Traditional
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    A smart townhouse hotel with sophisticated beautiful rooms. Bedrooms have gorgeous wall papered walls with all the modern gadgetry and lots of natural light. Lovely breakfast room and conference room for meetings. City style. See More

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  • Guesthouse Bonaficius Bruges 3 rooms from £193

    Great walks  -  Take a leisurely and romantic stroll along the canal or simply wander aimlessly through the city's streets taking it all in
    Sights nearby  -  Go visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood or head to the beautiful Belfry of Bruges
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Hideaway  -  Tranquil and intimate.
    Pet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    This wonderfully quaint guesthouse is situated alongside the canal in Bruges. Its elegant rooms are in keeping with the traditional features but have an updated and contemporary feel to them. Start your day off with coffee and breakfast on the rooftop terrace before heading off. A superb city stay! See More

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  • Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce Bruges 16 rooms from £187

    Views  -  Lovely canal views.
    City Style
    Luxury
    Romantic Break
    Air conditioningViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors, Michelin Travel

    Fabulous canal-side boutique hotel. Classical rooms and suites have parquet floors, Baroque furniture and toile de jouy wallpaper. Fantastic restaurant and outdoor terrace. A luxurious choice in a very picturesque setting. See More

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