Brussels or Bruges: Which Belgian City to Visit?

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by Maggie Turansky


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Many visitors to Belgium who are short on time wonder whether they should choose to visit vibrant Brussels or head to gorgeous Bruges on their trip.

Both are two of the most popular cities in Belgium among tourists and each has its own particular culture, unique beauty, and exciting tourist attractions, making them very different from each other.

In general, Brussels is a better option for those looking for a lively, big city to explore. On the other hand, Bruges is great for those after a charming and compact town to visit.

An infographic describing the differences between Brussels anf Bruges in Belgium

Brussels

Brussels is the capital of Belgium. It’s unlike any other European capital with a fascinating history and charming buildings like the Grand Place, and it also acts as the capital of the European Union.

Accessibility

Getting around Brussels as a tourist is easy. The capital has one of the most efficient public transport systems in Europe. When you’re there, you’ll see STIB-MIVB a lot. This company operates all the city’s metros, trams, and buses and is in charge of routes and timetables.

Brussels city centre has four metro lines that run very frequently. Buses are a great alternative if where you’re going doesn’t have a metro station. Every bus stop has a timetable, and they can be found online too.

Trains are mostly used for travelling between Belgium’s major cities like Antwerp or Ghent. They usually operate hourly but can be more frequent depending on the day. Tickets can be purchased at the train station or online in advance here.

Because STIB operates the main chunk of the city’s public transport, they offer several tickets to suit tourists who may make a couple of journeys throughout the day.

These tickets can be bought from any GO vending machine at all metro, tram, and bus stops. Be sure to validate your ticket after every use to avoid any fines. You can also buy a Brussels Card that gives you unlimited rides as well as discounts to attractions.

When deciding between Brussels or Bruges for a day trip, it is possible to get around the former large city using its public transit, but it may be best to opt for compact Bruges where sites are much closer together.

Tram in Brussels
Tram in Brussels

Affordability

Accommodation is a little bit more expensive in Brussels than in Bruges. The cheapest type of accommodation in Brussels are hostels, which can be affordable and it’s possible to get low-cost hotel rooms, as well.

Food prices in Brussels vary. For example, you could get a coffee and a pastry for €1.50 to €2. Mussels and fries are a popular combination among locals. If that’s up your alleyway, expect to pay anywhere from €20 to €30.

Fast food takeaway and street food stalls are places to chow down if you’re traveling on a budget. If you compare it to Bruges, the food is probably a little cheaper in Brussels. This is because the restaurants charge insanely high prices in Bruges as so many tourists go there.

Brussels is exploding with activities that you’re going to love. There’s no way you could get through them all on one trip. You’d have to spend months there to do so. Famous sights like the Atomium cost €16 for a ticket, whereas you could visit the European Parliament buildings for free if you book online.

How much someone will spend on experiences entirely depends on their tastes. Since Brussels has so many attractions compared to Bruges, you could spend a lot more there.

You’re guaranteed to spend more on public transport in Brussels than in Bruges. You can walk everywhere in Bruges since it’s so small. Brussels, on the other hand, is quite big, so every once in a while, you’ll need to hop on a metro.

The Grand Place in Brussels
The Grand Place in Brussels

Things To Do In Brussels

There’s no shortage of things to do in Brussels. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Those who get a kick out of admiring medieval architecture should stop by the Broodhuis (the Brussels City Museum) in the Old Town, which houses a museum focusing on the city’s history. The outside of the building is genuinely mesmerizing and well worth a look.

Afterwards, I recommend grabbing some snacks and heading to Parc Du Cinquantenaire for a picnic. This ample park is dominated by a substantial arched monument that will have you in awe and has been there since Leopold II was in power.

Another site not to miss is the Royal Palace of Brussels, which is the official residence of Belgium’s king and queen. The King’s Castle is also a highlight of visiting.

Royal Palace in Brussels
Royal Palace in Brussels

As you probably already know, beer is a huge part of Belgian culture; learn why on one of the many brewery tours or beer-tasting tours available in Brussels. The Cantillon Brewery is family-run and offers a unique, educational experience showing visitors all the secrets to crafting a tasty brew.

The Atomium is Brussels’ weirdly shaped structure that’s made up of nine atoms. Visiting Brussels and not taking a tour of it would be like going to Paris and stopping by the Eiffel Tower.

Travel is nothing without food and boy, is the food scene in Brussels great. From delicious waffle stands to bustling corner shops with lines of people out the door hoping to get their hands on a cone of frites, you’ll need to hit the gym as soon as you get home.

You can book a food tour here or a chocolate-making tour here if you want to learn more about Belgian food in the capital.

And for those looking to go out in the evenings, Brussels is a bit more lively than Bruges when it comes to nightlife. As quite a large city with a young population, there are lots of venues to choose from that can suit all kinds of visitors.

Parc Du Cinquantenaire
Parc Du Cinquantenaire

Where to Stay in Brussels

Motel One Brussels – This centrally located Brussels hotel is great for mid-range visitors. They offer comfortable rooms, a convenient base for exploring, a daily buffet breakfast, and an on-site bar.

Pillows City Hotel Brussels Centre – This upscale hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast, and ample amenities – like private parking and a fitness centre – for a luxurious stay in Brussels.

Appart’City Confort – If you’re after the convenience of your own apartment but still want the comfort and amenities offered by a hotel, then this is a great choice for you. They have a range of flats on offer and great services for guests to enjoy.

MEININGER Bruxelles City Center – This budget-friendly hostel in Brussels offers dorms, private rooms, a convenient location, and self-catering facilities. They also offer luggage storage and have 24-hour reception.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Brussels hotels!

Brussels Cathedral
Brussels Cathedral

Bruges

The fairytale city of Bruges is on every traveller’s bucket list. Whether it’s the enchanting cobblestoned streets or cute canals, there’s something about this place that sets it apart from any other Belgian city.

Accessibility

The best way to get around Bruges is by foot. It’s a small enough city without any metro or tram lines. Walking makes the hidden gems tucked away down the little alleyways more accessible.

There are public buses that De Lijn operates. They depart from the Bruges Station frequently and drop passengers into the city centre. A single ticket can be bought from a ticket machine at the station.

If you’re visiting Bruges, you’ll come from Brussels or another Belgian city as you can’t fly directly. Trains depart from Brussels several times and can be booked here. Buses to Bruges are considerably cheaper but they’re a little bit slower.

The city of Bruges itself is incredibly compact and easy to navigate completely on foot. This means that it’s perfect for those who don’t want to bother with public transport and perfect for walking everywhere.

Beautiful Bruges
Beautiful Bruges

Affordability

Depending on what you end up doing, prices in both Bruges and Brussels can be somewhat comparable. Obviously, near to major tourist hotspots, you’re going to pay more than if you’re in more locally-focused joints and this is the same for both cities.

Since Bruges is extremely popular among tourists, many restaurants and eateries have upped their prices to capitalize.

A typical local main meal can cost anywhere from €15, and it won’t be anything special. To get more value, grab a bite outside the centre where fewer tourists are. You’re bound to find something more affordable and tastier.

If you’re looking to do some sightseeing, you’ll be happy to know that many things to do in Bruges are free and on foot.

Stroll through the Bruges Markt, Church of Our Lady, and Rozenhoedkaai without spending a penny. Paid activities like a magical canal ride won’t set you back too much either.

As I stated already above, you won’t spend that much money on transport in Bruges because you can walk to most places, which is excellent for your wallet.

Canals of Bruges
Canals of Bruges

Things To Do In Bruges

The capital of West Flanders will have you stopping at every corner to take a snap with your camera, but besides the city’s allure, there are a few places to visit that you should check out.

Climb the ancient Belfry Tower, which dates back to the 13th century. Take the 366 steps and be treated to the best panoramic view of the city.

When you get back to the ground, walk to the Burg, where you can see the Bruges City Hall, a gothic architectural masterpiece, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a church that holds the relic of a piece of cloth with blood on it brought from the holy land.

Rent a bike and cycle along the ramparts to scope out the many windmills outside the city centre. There were originally 25 of them, but over the years, that number has shrunk to less than a dozen. Sint-Janshuismolen is one of the more famous ones and has been there since 1770. It’s incredible to see how it’s still standing today.

Sticking to museums, are you a fan of chocolate? Who isn’t, right? Visit Bruges Choco-Story Museum to learn all about the history of chocolate.

Hear the stories about chocolate from 4000 years ago before discovering how it’s made and the unique ingredients that go into it. This has chocolate lover’s heaven written all over it.

Finish your day in Bruges by doing what everyone does, taking a boat ride through the canals. The tours are only 30 minutes long and are best in the evening as the sun is about to go down.

See the city from a whole new perspective and get some fantastic photos that you wouldn’t be able to get if you were on land.

The Belfry Tower
The Belfry Tower

Where to Stay in Bruges

Hotel Fevery – A comfortable mid-range option, this hotel has a location with easy walking distance of the town centre. They have plenty of double rooms and a great breakfast each morning.

Boutique Hotel Die Swaene – For those after a bit more luxury while staying in Bruges, this hotel is an excellent choice. They have a fantastic location in the center of the city, there are a range of great rooms available and they have amenities such as a swimming pool and on-site bar for guests to enjoy.

Snuffel Hostel – This cool hostel has a wonderful location in the centre of Bruges. There are over 100 beds available in clean, minimalistic dorms and private rooms. They also offer luggage storage and good common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bruges hotels!

Church of Our Lady in Bruges
Church of Our Lady in Bruges

Brussels vs Bruges: The Verdict

Both cities are extraordinary in their ways, and we’d advise you to see both if you have enough time, but only some are in that situation.

Travellers who are fans of the hustle and bustle of a big city and love the idea of a surprise being around every corner should choose Brussels. It’s a great destination and is very different compared to the likes of Berlin or Prague.

Tourists who prefer small cities with a distinct appeal about them and that you can find your way around pretty easily will love Bruges. You’ll know what’s for you, and whatever city you choose, you’re in for the trip of a lifetime.

Whether you choose Bruges or Brussels you’re sure to love visiting either of these beautiful Belgian cities and have a great time exploring!

Are you planning to visit either of these cities? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics.

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