Best Day Trips From Bruges – Top Cities to Visit By Train, Car or Bus!

What I love about Bruges, apart from its beauty and medieval charm, is its central location—as you can see on the map below—which makes it incredibly easy to visit other beautiful cities nearby.

I personally prefer traveling by car, but there are plenty of convenient trains and buses that can take you to these stunning destinations just a short trip away.

From charming medieval towns to vibrant cultural hubs, each nearby city offers unique attractions and experiences that perfectly complement a visit to Bruges.

In this article, you’ll discover the best day trips from Bruges, carefully selected to help you make the most of your time and explore the hidden gems just beyond the city’s walls.

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11 Top Day Trips From Bruges

Click on the icon on the map to know more about the chosen city

You can enlarge the map and see all of Belgium’s Cities

1) Ghent –

Ghent is a beautiful medieval and charming city full of character.
It takes about a 20-minute train ride from Bruges to get to Ghent, making it one of the easiest day trips in Belgium.

Trains run often, so if you miss one, you don’t have to wait long. Once you arrive at Gent-Sint-Pieters Station, you can hop on a tram or walk into the city center.

Ghent’s old town is full of medieval charm. You’ll see stone buildings, canals, and narrow cobblestone streets. The Graslei and Korenlei waterfronts are great spots to stroll, take photos, or sit by the river with a snack.

One of the most popular sights in Ghent is the Gravensteen Castle, where you can learn about the city’s history and enjoy views from the towers. St. Bavo’s Cathedral is another highlight, home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece.

Here, you’ll also find plenty of cafés, small shops, and local restaurants. There are many affordable street food options where you can eat Belgian fries or a local beer before heading back to Bruges.

Travel Time

• Fastest: By Train: 22 min – Reserve Your Ticket
• Slowest: By Bus: 45 min – Reserve Affordable Ticket
• More Flexible: By Car – 38 min

2) Brussels

Brussels is about an hour away from Bruges. This city will impress you with its grand squares, world-class museums, and endless energy.

You can get on a train from Bruges to reach Brussels; it’s an easy and convenient day trip. The trains run often, too, so you can leave early and still have plenty of time to explore.

Most visitors start at the Grand Place, the city’s main square. Its ornate guildhalls and Town Hall show the city’s historic charm. The square is lively with cafés, shops, and street performers.

You can visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts or the Magritte Museum if you enjoy art. Both hold impressive collections that highlight Belgian creativity.

The European Quarter, which is the modern side of Brussels, is also worth visiting. You’ll find the European Parliament and other EU buildings that shape much of Europe’s politics today.

Don’t forget to try the famous mussels and Belgian waffles, or stop for a Belgian beer at a cozy bar before heading back to Bruges.

Travel Time

• Fastest: By Train: 1h 2m – Reserve Your Ticket
• Slowest: By Bus: 1h 45m – Reserve Your Ticket
• More Flexible: By Car – 1h 10m

3) Ypres

If you want to step back in time, visit Ypres. This small town carries the deep echoes of World War I.
Whether you travel by car or train, it takes about 45 minutes from Bruges to reach Ypres, also called Ieper. The town is small and easy to explore on foot once you arrive.

You’ll find several important World War I sites here. The In Flanders Fields Museum gives a clear look at how the war affected soldiers and civilians. It’s located inside the rebuilt Cloth Hall in the town center.

Just a short walk away, the Menin Gate Memorial honors thousands of soldiers with no known graves. Every evening, locals and visitors gather here for the Last Post ceremony, a simple tribute that has continued for decades.

Outside town, you can visit Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world. Smaller cemeteries and preserved trenches nearby show how close the front lines once were.

If you prefer not to drive, trains from Bruges run regularly and take less than an hour. The ride is comfortable and drops you close to the main sights, making Ypres an easy and meaningful day trip.

Travel Time

• Fastest: By Train: 1h 44m – Reserve Your Ticket
• Slowest: By Bus: 2h 15m – Reserve Your Ticket
• More Flexible: By Car – 50m

4) Antwerp

Antwerp dazzles with art, fashion, and architectural beauty. A city where creativity meets history.

In just an hour by train from Bruges, you’ll find yourself in Antwerp, with frequent departures throughout the day. The ride is smooth and takes you right into Antwerp’s beautiful Centraal Station, often called one of the most striking railway stations in Europe.

Antwerp is known for its fashion scene, with local designers and trendy boutiques around the Nationalestraat and the ModeMuseum (Fashion Museum). It’s a great spot to browse or just people-watch.

You should also visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, which stands tall over the old town. Inside, you can see several paintings by Peter Paul Rubens, one of Belgium’s most famous artists.

If you are a jewelry enthusiast, you’ll be well served by the diamond district, and if you have extra time, why not relax at a café near the Grote Markt?

Another activity you can do is visit the famous zoo of Antwerp, which is located next to the train station. Children love it, and there is no doubt, you’ll love it too. If you visit in December, don’t miss the Christmas market, it’s a fantastic place to spend the day and eat Belgian speciality street food.

This beautiful city is a mix of old architecture and modern energy, making Antwerp a fantastic day trip from Bruges.

Travel Time

• Fastest: By Train: 1h 30m – Reserve Your Ticket
• Slowest: By Bus: 1h 35m – Reserve Your Ticket
• More Flexible: By Car – 1h 10m

5) Damme

Damme is only a few kilometers from Bruges. This charming city makes you feel like you’re stepping into a quiet storybook village. You can get to Damme in about 10 minutes by car, or 25 minutes by bicycle.
The route to Damme follows a peaceful canal path lined with trees and open fields, making it an easy and scenic route.

Once you arrive, you’ll find a quiet village with cobbled streets, old brick buildings, and plenty of small cafés. The town sits along the Damme Canal, which gives it a calm, storybook feel without being crowded.

You can rent a bike in Bruges or take a boat called the Lamme Goedzak, which runs between the two towns. Both options let you enjoy the countryside views.

In Damme, you can visit the old church tower, browse secondhand bookshops, or relax near the water. It’s a simple, slow-paced stop that feels close to nature but is still connected to Bruges.

Travel Time

• Slowest: By Bus: 10 m – Reserve Your Ticket
• More Flexible: By Car – 10m

6) Knokke-Heist

This is one of my favorite places in Belgium, and it’s easy to see why — the fresh sea air, soft sand, charming cafés and restaurants, and stunning coastline. What more could you ask for?

Knokke is about a 30-minute drive, depending on the traffic, or a short 20-minute train ride from Bruges, which is relatively fast.

You’ll find five main beach areas here—Heist, Duinbergen, Albertstrand, Knokke, and Het Zoute. Each has its own feel, from family-friendly spots to quieter areas for peaceful walks.

If you enjoy art and culture, check out the local galleries or visit the cultural center near the promenade. The town also has modern architecture and plenty of places to shop or grab seafood.

You can rent a bike or stroll through the nearby Zwin Nature Reserve, a protected coastal area with trails and birdwatching spots. It’s a nice break from the busier parts of town. You can also visit the Hey museum, which focuses on the fishing life and the history of Knokke-Heist. It’s child-friendly, there are puzzles and games.

Knokke-Heist mixes nature, comfort, and a bit of style without feeling crowded. Whether you want to swim, relax on the sand, or enjoy a simple seaside meal, it’s an easy and refreshing escape from Bruges.

Travel Time

• Fastest: By Train: 20 m – Reserve Your Ticket
• Slowest: By Bus: 40 m – Reserve Your Ticket
• More Flexible: By Car – 20m

TIP: The best time to visit the coast is from May to the end of August, as the weather is nicer and all the restaurants and attractions are open.

7) Leuven

Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, Leuven buzzes with youthful energy and café culture.

An easy one-hour train ride from Bruges brings you to Leuven, a city that feels smaller and calmer than Brussels, yet still full of life thanks to its large student population.

Start your visit at the main square, where the Gothic-style Town Hall stands out with its detailed façade. Walk a few minutes to the University Library and Tower, which offers nice city views if you climb to the top.

Leuven is famous for its café culture. You’ll find cozy spots serving coffee, waffles, and local beer around Oude Markt, often called the “longest bar in the world” because of its many cafés lined up together.

If you enjoy beer, you can visit the Stella Artois brewery for a short tour. For a quieter break, head to the botanical garden or one of the small parks scattered around the city.

The compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, and the friendly atmosphere gives you a good taste of everyday Belgian life.

Travel Time

• Fastest: By Train: 1h 35 m – Reserve Your Ticket
• Slowest: By Bus: 3h – Reserve Your Ticket
• More Flexible: By Car – 1h 30m

8) Ostend

If you’re craving sea views and fresh seafood, Ostend is the perfect coastal getaway from Bruges.
A comfortable one-hour train ride from Bruges takes you straight to Ostend, a city that sits right on the North Sea and mixes beach life with a bit of local culture.

Walk along the Albert I Promenade, which runs beside the main beach. You’ll find cafés, seafood restaurants, and plenty of spots to try fresh mussels and fries. The promenade stays lively, especially on sunny weekends.

If you like exploring, visit the Mercator ship or stop by Mu.ZEE to see Belgian art. You can also ride the coastal tram for seaside views and easy access to other nearby beach towns.

It’s cheap, and you can stop at any beach to stroll around. Another fun thing to do is to visit the famous Atlantikwall Raversyde, a museum that dates back to the First World War.

Bring a light jacket, even in summer—the sea breeze can feel cool. Ostend’s mix of sand, food, and relaxed charm makes it a nice break from Bruges’ busy streets.

• Fastest: By Train: 15 m – Reserve Your Ticket
• Slowest: By Bus: 55m – Reserve Your Ticket
• More Flexible: By Car – 20m

TIP: The best time to visit the coast is from May to the end of August, as the weather is nicer and all the restaurants and attractions are open.

9) Diksmuide

PMRMaeyaert, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Diksmuide is a charming little town just about 45 minutes from Bruges in West Flanders. It’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the peaceful Belgian countryside while diving into some powerful World War I history.

One of the highlights here is the Yser Tower, a tall memorial that honors the soldiers who fought and died along the Yser River during the war. Visiting the tower gives you a real sense of the region’s past and offers beautiful views of the surrounding farmland.

Another must-see is the Trench of Death. Walking through these preserved trenches is a moving experience — you can almost imagine what it was like for the Belgian soldiers defending their ground. Seeing artifacts from that time adds a deeply personal touch to the visit.

The Museum Aan de IJzer is also worth stopping by. It offers an in-depth look at World War I in Flanders, with uniforms, weapons, and personal items that bring the history to life.

Getting to Diksmuide from Bruges is easy by car or train, and the town itself is small enough to explore easily on foot. I’d suggest planning a half-day trip so you can take your time and really soak in the history and peaceful surroundings.

• Fastest: By Train: 55 m – Reserve Your Ticket
• Slowest: By Bus: 2h 10m – Reserve Your Ticket
• More Flexible: By Car – 45m

10) Belgian Ardennes

If you’re looking to escape into nature for a day, the Belgian Ardennes make a fantastic day trip from Bruges. Nestled in southern Belgium, it’s about a two to three-hour journey by car or train — totally worth it for the fresh air and stunning scenery.

The Ardennes is a hilly region filled with dense forests, rolling valleys, and sparkling rivers. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just enjoy a peaceful stroll, you’ll find trails that suit your pace — from gentle walks to more challenging hikes.

Many popular routes range between 5 and 15 kilometers, leading you through lush forests, alongside babbling streams, and up to viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the valleys below. Along the way, you might wander through charming little villages or stumble upon historic sites, adding a touch of culture to your outdoor adventure.

The trails here are generally well-marked and easy to follow, making the Ardennes a great choice whether it’s your first hike or one of many. Just be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes and check the weather before you head out.

To start your adventure, you can drive or take the train to towns like Spa, Malmedy, or La Roche-en-Ardenne. These cozy towns make perfect jumping-off points for exploring the beautiful Ardennes countryside.

• Fastest: By Train: 1h 40m – Reserve Your Ticket
• Slowest: By Bus: 2h 30m – Reserve Your Ticket
• More Flexible: By Car – 1h 30m

11) Sluis

Paul van de Velde from Netherlands, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Just a short 30-minute trip from Bruges, right across the Belgian-Dutch border in Zeeland province, lies the charming medieval town of Sluis. It’s the perfect spot for a quick day trip if you want to experience a different country without going far.

Sluis is famous for its lively shopping streets, packed with quirky shops and unique boutiques. Strolling through the beautifully preserved medieval center, you can discover everything from local crafts to stylish clothing. Don’t miss the iconic Belfort tower standing tall above the town — it’s a fascinating reminder of Sluis’s past as a bustling trading hub.

The canals weaving through the town add a classic Dutch charm, and the historic buildings give you a real feel for traditional Dutch heritage. Compared to busy Bruges, Sluis feels calm and relaxed, making it a wonderful place to take your time browsing and exploring.

Getting there is easy by car, and since it’s right on the border, you get to enjoy two countries in one trip! You can easily combine a half-day visit to Sluis with nearby Damme, or spend a full day soaking up the atmosphere, shopping, and enjoying lunch at one of the cozy local restaurants.

• Slowest: By Bus: 30m
• More Flexible: By Car – 25m

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Tips

• To make the most of your day trip, try to leave Bruges early, by 8 or 9 AM. This helps you beat the morning rush and arrive before the lunch crowds fill up restaurants and popular spots.
• Plan to spend about 6 to 8 hours at your destination, including travel time there and back. Keep in mind that many attractions close around 5 or 6 PM, so booking tickets online ahead of time can save you waiting in lines.
• Instead of trying to see everything, focus on 2 or 3 main highlights. Walking between sites often takes longer than you think, so it’s better to enjoy a few places fully. And don’t forget to carve out time for a relaxing sit-down meal — it’s the best way to savor local flavors and recharge.
• If you’re taking public transport back, remember that trains and buses get crowded after 5 PM. Aim to book your return ticket for around 6 or 7 PM to secure a seat and avoid the evening rush.

What to Pack for a Day Trip

Bring a small backpack or crossbody bag so your hands stay free while you explore. You’ll want space for water, snacks, and any souvenirs you pick up along the way.

Here are some essentials to pack:

• A fully charged phone with offline maps downloaded — so you won’t get lost even without internet
• A water bottle and some light snacks to keep your energy up
• Comfortable walking shoes — expect to cover 5 to 7 miles on foot
• A weather-appropriate waterproof jacket or a small umbrella — Belgium’s weather can be unpredictable
• A portable phone charger to keep your devices powered throughout the day
• Both cash and cards, since some places may not accept cards

Before you leave, download your train or bus tickets to your phone, and take photos of important tickets and addresses just in case you lose internet connection. A compact umbrella fits easily in most bags and can be a lifesaver if the weather turns.

Final Words!

There are so many beautiful day trips you can take from Bruges, and the best part is that most of them are super easy to reach, which makes planning a breeze. Believe it or not, you can even do a day trip from Bruges to Paris!

Just be prepared to catch the very first train in the morning if you want to make the most of your time there. Paris has so much to offer that one day is definitely not enough, but if you’re looking for a quick glimpse of the city’s magic, it’s absolutely worth it.

No matter which destination you choose, you’re sure to be charmed by the beauty and unique atmosphere each place has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here you’ll find practical answers to help you plan your trips smoothly— from the best ways to get around to tips on timing your visits.

Q: How do you get from Bruges to Damme by boat?

You can take a boat from Bruges to Damme along the historic canal during the warmer months. The boat departs from Noorweegse Kaai in Bruges, near the city center. The journey takes about 30 minutes one way.

Boats typically run from April through September. You’ll travel through peaceful countryside on a traditional paddle steamer. The return trip can be by boat, or you can bike or walk back to Bruges along the canal path.

Q: Can you take a day trip from Bruges to Amsterdam, and what is the best mode of transport?

You can visit Amsterdam as a day trip from Bruges, though it requires early planning. The train journey takes about three hours each way with one connection, usually in Antwerp or Brussels. You should leave early in the morning to maximize your time in Amsterdam.

The train is the most practical option for this trip. Driving takes a similar time but adds parking challenges in Amsterdam. Budget around six hours total for travel, leaving you with several hours to explore the city.

Q: How long would you recommend staying in Bruges before taking day trips to other cities?

You should spend at least two full days in Bruges before taking day trips. This gives you time to see the main canals, historic buildings, and central squares. Three days in Bruges works well if you want a more relaxed pace.

After exploring Bruges properly, you’ll better understand the region and what day trips interest you most. Many visitors stay four to five days total, using Bruges as a base for two or three-day trips. This approach lets you experience both the city and the surrounding areas without feeling rushed.

TravelOnQuest

Welcome to TravelOnQuest.Com! I’m Simone, and I am here to help you plan your dream European adventure without breaking the bank. Join me as we uncover hidden gems, must-see attractions, and insider tips for creating unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you’re exploring solo, with family, or with friends, let’s connect and make your budget-friendly European escapade a reality.