TINYTREK

Discovering Bruges: A Family-Friendly Travel Guide to Belgium’s Charming City

Discover the Magic of Bruges with Your Family

Bruges, Belgium, is an enchanting city, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’. Known for its winding canals, medieval architecture, and rich history, Bruges is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that will captivate both children and adults alike. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top family-friendly things to do in Bruges, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this charming city.

🏰 Visit the Belfry of Bruges

A must-see when visiting Bruges, the Belfry is a medieval bell tower located in the heart of the city. With 366 steps to climb, the Belfry offers stunning panoramic views of the city that will take your breath away. Keep in mind that the staircase is narrow and steep, so it may not be suitable for very young children or those with limited mobility. However, older kids will love the adventure of climbing to the top!

🚣 Take a Canal Boat Tour

Exploring Bruges from its picturesque canals is an unforgettable experience. A canal boat tour allows you to sit back, relax and take in the stunning city views while a knowledgeable guide shares interesting facts and stories about Bruges. Most tours last around 30 minutes, making it an ideal activity for young children with short attention spans. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery!

🍫 Indulge in Belgian Chocolate

No visit to Belgium would be complete without sampling some of its world-famous chocolate. Bruges is home to countless chocolate shops, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to satisfy your sweet tooth. For a more interactive experience, consider visiting the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum, where you can learn about the history of chocolate, watch live demonstrations, and even participate in a chocolate workshop!

🐟 Explore the Sea Life at SEA LIFE Blankenberge

Located just a short drive from Bruges, SEA LIFE Blankenberge is a fantastic aquarium that’s perfect for a family day out. With over 50 tanks and more than 2,500 marine creatures, there’s plenty to see and learn. Highlights include the interactive rock pool, where kids can touch starfish and crabs, and the thrilling underwater tunnel, where you can walk through a tank filled with sharks and rays. Check their website for special events and feeding times to make the most of your visit.

🦢 Stroll Around Minnewater Park

Looking for a peaceful spot to unwind with your family? Minnewater Park is the place to be. This picturesque park is home to the famous ‘Lake of Love’, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk surrounded by swans and beautiful greenery. The park also features a playground, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic.

Family-Friendly Restaurants in Bruges

Finding a place to eat with kids can sometimes be a challenge, but Bruges offers a range of family-friendly restaurants that cater to all tastes. Here are some suggestions:

  • De Vlaamsche Pot: Traditional Belgian cuisine in a cozy setting. They offer a children’s menu and high chairs.
  • Books & Brunch: A charming café with a selection of books and board games, making it perfect for families. They serve breakfast, brunch, and light lunches.
  • Friethuis De Vlaminck: A popular spot for delicious Belgian fries – a must-try when in Bruges!

Practical Tips for Travelling with Kids in Bruges

When exploring Bruges with your little ones, keep these practical tips in mind:

  1. Bruges is a very walkable city, but the cobblestone streets can be challenging for prams and strollers. Consider using a baby carrier for younger children.
  2. Public restrooms can be scarce, so plan ahead and take advantage of facilities when available.
  3. Most attractions in Bruges are accessible by foot, but if you need to use public transportation, the city’s buses are a convenient and affordable option.

With its charming atmosphere, fascinating history, and abundance of family-friendly activities, Bruges is a destination that’s sure to delight travellers of all ages. Use this guide to plan your family adventure and create unforgettable memories together. And don’t forget – if you need baby equipment while in Bruges, Tiny Trek Rentals has you covered. Happy travels!

Top 10 family-friendly activities to do in Bruges, Belgium in 2023

1. Discover the Magic of the Historic Centre of Bruges 🏰

The Historic Centre of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for families. The hub of Bruges, it’s filled with charming, narrow streets and beautiful medieval buildings. You and your little ones will feel like you’ve stepped back in time! Be sure to rent a pram from Tiny Trek Rentals for an easy exploration of the cobblestone streets.

2. Take a Boat Tour on the Canals 🚤

Bruges is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’ due to its beautiful canals. A boat tour is a fantastic way for your family to see the city from a different perspective. The tours usually last about 30 minutes – the perfect length for those with young children.

3. Explore the Bruges Chocolate Museum 🍫

For a sweet family outing, head to the Bruges Chocolate Museum, known as Choco-Story. Here, you can learn about the history of chocolate and even take part in a chocolate-making workshop!

4. Visit the Frietmuseum 🍟

Yes, you read that right – Bruges has a museum dedicated to fries! The Frietmuseum is a unique and fun spot for the whole family. Kids will love learning about the history of fries and, of course, sampling some at the end of the tour.

5. Explore Minnewater Park 🌳

For a peaceful family outing, head to Minnewater Park. This beautiful park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Don’t forget to check out the Lake of Love, known for its romantic legends.

6. Visit Boudewijn Seapark 🐬

A trip to Boudewijn Seapark can be a thrilling experience for your tiny adventurers. This marine park has delightful dolphin shows, a cool amusement park with rides suitable for young children, and even a mini-farm.

7. Spend a Day at the Bruges Zoo 🦒

The Bruges Zoo is a small but charming zoo, perfect for a family day out. With a variety of animals including monkeys, parrots, and wallabies, it’s sure to captivate your little ones.

8. Explore the Public Observatory Cozmix 🌌

For the little astronomers in your family, a visit to the Public Observatory Cozmix is a must. Here, you can learn about the universe and even observe the stars through a large telescope.

9. Visit the Toy Museum 🧸

The Toy Museum in Bruges is a treasure trove of toys from various eras. It’s a delightful place, sure to bring a sense of nostalgia for adults and wonder for kids.

10. Enjoy a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride 🐴

A horse-drawn carriage ride around Bruges is a wonderful way to see the city and a real treat for young children. The carriages can be found in the Market Square, waiting to take you on a memorable journey.

Bruges Family-Friendly Activities Table 🌍

Activity Age Suitability Location Website
Historic Centre of Bruges All ages Bruges City Centre Visit Bruges
Canal Boat Tour All ages Various Locations Boat Trips on the Canals
Choco-Story All ages Wijnzakstraat 2, 8000 Brugge Choco-Story
Frietmuseum All ages Vlamingstraat 33, 8000 Brugge Frietmuseum
Minnewater Park All ages Minnewater, 8000 Brugge Minnewater Park
Boudewijn Seapark All ages Alfons De Baeckestraat 12, 8200 Brugge Boudewijn Seapark
Bruges Zoo All ages Zeeweg 98, 8200 Brugge Bruges Zoo
Public Observatory Cozmix 5+ years Zeeweg 96, 8200 Brugge Cozmix
Toy Museum All ages Vlamingstraat 83, 8000 Brugge Toy Museum
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride All ages Market Square Carriage Rides

With these fantastic family-friendly options, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to Bruges. Remember to keep your little ones comfortable with easy-to-use, safe, and clean rental equipment from Tiny Trek Rentals. Happy travels! 🌍🧳

Top 10 family-friendly activities to do in Bruges, Belgium in 2023

1. Visit the Historic Markt Square 🏰

Start your family adventure in Bruges at the historic Markt Square. From horse-drawn carriage rides to delicious Belgian waffles, it’s a fun-filled place for families. The square is surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings and the iconic Belfry Tower that you can climb for a panoramic view of the city.

2. Explore the Choco-Story Museum 🍫

Belgium is renowned for its chocolates and the Choco-Story Museum is the perfect place for your little ones to learn about the chocolate-making process. The museum offers interactive exhibits and, of course, delicious tastings!

3. Visit the Friet Museum 🍟

Did you know that fries originated in Belgium? At the Friet Museum, you and your family can learn all about the history of fries and even taste some of the best ones in Belgium!

4. Boat Tour on the Canals 🚣‍♀️

Take a relaxing boat tour on Bruges’ beautiful canals. It’s a fantastic way to see the city’s stunning medieval architecture and feed the ducks. Boat tours usually last about 30 minutes, perfect for short attention spans.

Boat Tour Operators:

5. Explore the Bruges Zoo & Wildlife Park 🐒

Bruges Zoo and Wildlife Park is a great place for a family day out. They have a variety of animals and a fun playground for children.

6. Visit the Groeninge Museum 🎨

The Groeninge Museum is home to a wonderful collection of Flemish art. They offer family-friendly activities and workshops, making it an educational and fun visit for all.

7. Take a Stroll in Minnewater Park 🌳

Minnewater Park is a peaceful place to relax and enjoy a family picnic. It’s home to the famous Lake of Love, where you can feed the swans or just enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

8. Visit The Ice Sculpture Festival (Winter Only) ❄️

Every winter, Bruges hosts an incredible Ice Sculpture Festival. Artists from around the world come to create stunning ice and snow sculptures, turning the city into a winter wonderland.

9. Learn History at the Historium Brugge 🕰️

At Historium Brugge, your family can step back in time and experience the city’s history through interactive exhibits and virtual reality experiences.

10. Enjoy Belgian Waffles and Ice Cream 🍦

No trip to Belgium would be complete without tasting their famous waffles and ice cream. There are plenty of cafes and stalls around Bruges serving these treats, so you can easily find one while exploring the city.

Recommended Waffle and Ice Cream Places:

Remember, when travelling with little ones, comfort is key. Don’t forget to rent your baby gear from Tiny Trek Rentals for an easy and stress-free family vacation!

Other cities