- Updated: 29.09.2024
Day trip to Bruges from Paris - Everything You Should Know
A day trip from Paris to Bruges is totally doable! Bruges, often called the Venice of the North, is a stunning medieval city in Belgium that's definitely worth a visit from Paris. It's known for its picturesque canals, well-preserved historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming atmosphere. The journey from Paris to Bruges can be easily made by train, making it a feasible and enjoyable trip. Climb the iconic bell tower Belfry of Bruges for panoramic views of the city. You may also be interested in other popular day trips from Paris. Here's a rough itinerary to make the most of your day, check below!
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Booking.comMorning:
• Departure from Paris:
• Aim to catch the earliest possible train from Paris to Bruges to maximize your time there.
Depart from Paris at Gare de l'Est station, Several high-speed trains run this route, TGV trains might take a bit longer, around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the specific train and connections.
You can purchase tickets online through the official SNCF website. Trains from Paris will
arrive at Bruges' train station, which is around a 20-minute walk from the city center. You can also take a taxi or public transportation to get closer to your desired destination within Bruges.
Late Morning/Early Afternoon:
• Explore Bruges: Once you arrive, head straight to the city center. Bruges is quite compact, so you can start exploring immediately.
Midday:
• Explore the Markt: Visit the Markt square, the heart of Bruges. You'll find the Belfry tower there, which offers a fantastic view of the city if you're up for climbing its stairs.
Lunchtime:
• Indulge in Belgian Cuisine: Try some local Belgian cuisine for lunch. Moules-frites (mussels and fries) or some Belgian waffles are a must!
Afternoon:
• Canal Cruise: Take a boat tour along the canals. It's a great way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history. The average price for a 30-minute boat tour is 12€ per adult.
Late Afternoon/Evening:
• Stroll Around: Wander through the cobblestone streets, visit the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo's sculpture "Madonna and Child," and explore the charming architecture. you have time before your return train, browse the shops for Belgian chocolates, lace, and other souvenirs.
Return to Paris:
• Head Back to Paris: Plan your return trip to Paris in the evening. Trains run until late, but be sure to check the schedule to ensure you catch the right one.
Remember to check Book your train tickets in advance to secure a good price and ensure availability.
So If you decide to stay in Bruges, here is the list of the best hotels in the city.
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Canals
Best Restaurants in Bruges
• Restaurant De Stove - renowned for its Belgian-French fusion cuisine, offering delectable seafood and meat dishes in a cozy atmosphere, loactaed near Grote Markt.
Kleine Sint-Amandsstraat 4, Google Map
• Restaurant Den Huzaar - a cozy bistro serving delicious Belgian dishes, especially loved for its mussels and fries. Located near luxury 5-star hotel Relais & Chateaux Hotel Heritage.
Vlamingstraat 36, Google Map
• Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan - enjoy traditional Belgian dishes paired with their famous local beers brewed on-site.
Walplein 26, Google Map
• 't Brugs Beertje - it's a cozy, quintessential pub where you can immerse yourself in the rich beer culture of Belgium while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.
Kemelstraat 5, Google Map