Although it’s a city best known for romantic breaks and cultural trips, there are lots of things to do in Bruges with kids that make this a great destination for family holidays.
From exploring the city in exciting new ways, to finding food that your little ones won’t be able to get enough of, here are some of our favourite things to do with children in Bruges which you can use to inspire your own trip to this magical destination.
1. Take a horse and carriage ride
Bruges’ horse and carriage rides are always a hit with kids, and offer a truly unique way to see the city’s top sights. The rides last around half an hour, and the coachman will provide commentary as you trot through cobbled streets and past places of interest. The carriages are suitable for up to four people, so larger families may need to split into two groups.
The horse-drawn carriages set off from the Markt Square every day, other than Wednesdays when they can be found at Burg Square. Halfway through the ride, you’ll stop off at the 13th century Begijnhof, where you can admire the small, white houses and enjoy the tranquillity of the convent garden while your horse has a rest and a drink.
Despite the excitement of trying this new mode of transport, you might find that younger children are relaxed by this particular activity, as there’s something quite therapeutic about the sound of hooves on cobbled streets.
2. Explore Bruges with kids by bike
One of the best ways to get around Bruges is by bike, and this family-friendly mode of transport allows you to explore a little further afield too. Not only can you ride around the city’s beautiful cobbled streets, wheel through its collection of parks, and cycle along its famous canal, but you can head out into the surrounding countryside too.
The lovely port town of Damme, located just 6km from Bruges, is the perfect place to discover by bike due to its close proximity to the city, and its beautiful setting. Damme offers the opportunity to escape the crowds of Bruges, but has been described as being a miniature version of the city due to its medieval architecture and historic monuments.
You’re welcome to bring your own bikes with you when you travel by ferry, and this is possibly the easiest option if you have child seats or kids’ bikes that have been specifically set up for their use. However, you’ll also find plenty of bike hire options in Bruges, and most rental places offer all you need for a great family bike ride.
3. Enjoy an informative boat trip
Taking a boat ride on Bruges’ canals offers the chance to see the city from a different perspective, and what child doesn’t love water? There are five landing stages throughout the city, and you can join the boat at whichever one you choose before setting off on a half hour tour. The tours run every 20 minutes, so you might need to prepare yourselves for a short wait depending on when you arrive.
Bruges boat tour pick-up points:
- Michielssens, Huidenvettersplein 13
- Coudenys, Rozenhoedkaai
- De Meulemeester, Wollestraat 32
- Gruuthuse, Nieuwstraat 11
- Stael, Katelijnestraat 4
Boat rides in Bruges give you the opportunity to learn about the city without having to step foot in a museum, which is definitely appealing to parents of young children. Although kids might not appreciate the commentary, your guide is guaranteed to keep you entertained while they watch the city float by.
4. Eat chocolate and waffles
You simply can’t visit Bruges without indulging in some chocolate and waffles, and these sweet treats are ideal rewards for good behaviour should you need to use them! You’ll find chocolate shops scattered throughout the city, with many offering the opportunity to try before you buy, so you can pick up your favourites – and some extras to bring home!
When it comes to Belgian waffles, you can either eat in or take away. So, you can choose whether to sit and enjoy your waffles in a café, or to indulge on the go. Our favourite takeaway option is a ‘waffle on a stick’, which is sure to be popular with kids due to essentially being a waffle lollipop! If you’re trying to avoid too much of a sugar rush you can opt for a simple waffle with a dusting of icing sugar, but can you really say no to chocolate and cream?
To learn all about one of Belgium’s most famous products, head to the Choco-Story Museum where you can immerse yourselves into the world of chocolate. Children will love taking part in the fun chocolate search game, and you can sample some of the handmade treats that are created on the premises too.
5. Christmas in Bruges with kids
Bruges is a truly magical city throughout the year, but at Christmas it’s transformed into a glittering wonderland that amazes both adults and children alike. Wander around unique Christmas market stalls, warm yourselves with delicious hot chocolate, and test your skills on the city’s ice skating rink, before settling down in a restaurant to watch the world go by.
The perfect place for Christmas shopping, Bruges is home to lots of independent shops where you’re sure to be able to buy gifts that you wouldn’t be able to find at home. You might also like to pick up some handmade Christmas decorations which are guaranteed to make your Christmas tree stand out – the perfect way to remember your Bruges Christmas break.
With so many great things to do in Bruges with kids to choose from, book your Dover to Calais crossing today and start planning your family-friendly trip to this amazing Belgian city.
