From € 32

The 10 finest museums in Bruges

Bruges is known for its historic buildings, such as the Belfry, and charming canals. The city is full of museums. You can discover art, history and culture. Art lovers will enjoy the Groeninge Museum. Are you more into history and architecture? Then visit Het Belfort, an interesting city museum. Choco-Story, the chocolate museum, is also very popular. Bruges' museums ensure a fascinating and educational day out.

1. Historium Brugge

Historium Brugge is an interactive attraction on the Market Square in Bruges. You will be taken back to the Middle Ages through a mix of virtual and physical reproductions of historical scenes.
There is also an exhibition where you can learn more about daily life, trade and culture in medieval Bruges. Definitely worth a visit for history buffs and families alike.
Address: Markt 1

2. Groeninge Museum

This museum is dedicated to Belgian painting and houses an extensive collection from the Middle Ages to the present day. It displays masterpieces by famous artists such as Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch.
Address: Dijver 12

3. Bruges Beer Experience

Near Market Square in the city centre, you will find the beer museum. It not only displays historical brewing tools and old advertising material, but also emphasises the brewing process itself. You will learn about the different ingredients and steps in this process. At the end of the tour, you can taste several Belgian beers.
Address: Breidelstraat 3

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4. Het Belfort (Belfry)

Het Belfort is an important part of the city's history. Climb the 366 steps of the medieval Belfry Tower for great views of the city. The building also houses a historical collection and clocks. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Address: Markt 7

5. Choco-Story

This tasty chocolate museum shares the story of chocolate, an important part of Belgian culture. You will learn about the history, production and flavours of chocolate. And, of course, you can taste the chocolate made here.  
Address: Wijnzakstraat 2

6. St John's Hospitaal

This museum is one of the oldest preserved hospitals in Europe! The medieval building gives insight into the history of healthcare. You can admire old medical instruments, works of art and religious objects. With masterpieces by the Flemish primitive Hans Memling and surprising contemporary artworks by artists such as Berlinde De Bruyckere and Patricia Piccinini.
Address: Mariastraat 38

Toerisme Brugge | © Jan D'Hondt

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7. Bruges' Fries Museum

The only fries museum in the world! Discover the history and culture of “friet” at the Frietmuseum. It tells the story of potatoes, fries preparation and the evolution of fries stands. Or is it chips?
Address: Vlamingstraat 33

8. Diamant Museum Bruges

The Diamant Museum Bruges is dedicated to the fascinating world of diamonds. Diamonds have been cut in Bruges since the 14th century. The museum recounts the story of diamonds, from their origins to their value and use in jewellery. You can admire an extensive collection of diamonds and learn about the history of the diamond industry and the art of diamond cutting.
Address: Katelijnestraat 43

9. Gruuthuse Museum

The Gruuthuse Museum is housed in the beautiful Gruuthuse Palace and showcases the rich history and culture of Bruges. You will find an extensive collection of arts, crafts and artefacts, including silverware, tapestries, furniture and ceramics. The museum depicts life in Bruges through the ages.
Address: Dijver 17c

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10. Torture Museum Bruges

The Torture Museum in Bruges is a historical museum exhibiting the history of torture instruments and methods of punishment over the centuries. Visitors appreciate its educational value and it is a memorable visit during a city trip. It is less suitable for a family outing, although children up to 10 years old are admitted free of charge.  
Address: Wollestraat 29

To Bruges by train

Going to Bruges for a weekend? Then travel comfortably by train. You can travel with Eurostar or Intercity Brussels.

Travel with Intercity Brussels

Taking Intercity Brussels? Then travel to Antwerp. There you can catch the intercity to Gent St. Pieters. In Ghent, change trains to Bruges. Travel time from Amsterdam Centraal is 3.36 hours, the price for a one-way ticket starts at € 32 with the Early Bird rate.

Travel with Eurostar

When travelling with Eurostar, you only need to change trains at Brussel Zuid/Midi. The price of a one-way ticket starts at € 36.

Also want to visit a museum in another city?

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Groeninge Museum photo Toerisme Brugge | © Jan D'Hondt

Museums in Bruges

From € 32