Brussels is located in Belgium and is only an hour to two hours away from Bruges, also found in Belgium.
How many days should you spend in Brussels?
Brussels might not be one of the biggest European cities, but you will still need at least two to three days to enjoy its main attractions. In addition, Brussels is close to many exciting cities worth a day trip, so if you plan on visiting any of them, add an extra day for each city you want to visit.
What language is spoken in Brussels?
In Brussels, there are three main languages тАУ French, German, and Dutch тАУ that are spoken, and many of the city's signage is in all three languages. Although English is not an official language, it is commonly spoken in Brussels, so you shouldn't have trouble communicating at attractions, bars, and restaurants.
What is the best way to travel from Bruges to Brussels?
Although there are many different ways to travel from Bruges to Brussels, it is usually best to travel by car with a private car service like Daytrip. This is because traveling by car is more comfortable and convenient and usually faster than the train and bus. You can also request stops with a car service and see attractions and landmarks along the way.
Is it expensive to visit Brussels?
Unfortunately, Brussels is not a budget-friendly destination for those who don't want to spend much on a vacation. However, this doesn't mean it's too expensive to visit, as many find Brussels cheaper than places like Paris, Rome, New York, and London.
Do you need a passport to travel from Bruges to Brussels?
If you've entered Belgium with a passport and/or a visa, you won't need one to travel from Bruges to Brussels since you will be traveling within the same country.
If you've found yourself in Bruges, Belgium, you've likely explored the pretty medieval architecture, swan-dotted canals, cobbled streets, and whitewashed facades that are almost painfully picturesque while enjoying one or two decadent artisanal chocolates. With Bruges also known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you've also explored what made it so тАУ its incredibly well-preserved historical center. Yet, when you've seen your fill in Bruges, you're likely eager to start your car trip from Bruges to Brussels to continue your adventure.
Brussels offers travelers romance, historical grace, and tasty food, so it's no wonder you've selected it as the next beautiful European city to explore in Belgium. This city is a must-visit because of its masterful architecture, innumerable museums, quaint shops, inspiring art galleries, eateries, and vibrant nightlife. You're sure to love the blend of both modernity and culture while walking around this enchanting city.
However, it's not just Brussels you should look forward to but also your car trip from Bruges to Brussels. If you travel with a car service like Daytrip, you can stop and visit many of the spectacular cultural and historical attractions and landmarks along the way.
Since there are so many, we recommend first stopping in the border town of Kortrijk and visiting the car-free city center. It is one of the largest on the European continent and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a visit to Kortrijk, you can stop in Oudenaarde and witness the magnificent medieval architecture and its giant worlds of art found in the city's town hall. If you're feeling a tad hungry after exploring, you can stop in Ghent and enjoy a delicious pastry at one of the riverside cafes the city is famed for.
Of course, you also can't forget to visit the Hospital Notre Dame de la Rose Museum, with more than 700 years of medical history, or Waterloo, a historically significant battlefield where Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated in 1815.
Either way, no matter what stops you make while driving from Bruges to Brussels, Daytrip will help you with everything from planning and navigating this journey to embarking on it. So get ready for us to fetch you and handle your luggage before sharing some local insights until we drop you off in Brussels, readier than ever for your new adventure.
About Brussels
As the capital city of Belgium, Brussels is known for numerous things, such as its history, politics, cuisine, and architecture. With an immersive history, cultural flair, and modernity, Brussels captivates visitors with its charm, even though it's one of the smallest cities in Europe.
Sitting in the heart of Belgium along the river Senne, Brussels' central location makes it a popular hub for exploring nearby cities and countries. For example, thousands of visitors travel from Bruges to Brussels every year.
Covering just 63 square miles, Brussels is, surprisingly, well populated, with the city home to 1.2 million of the nation's 11.9 million residents. Yet, Brussels proves that size doesn't matter, with the city being one of the most valuable on the continent thanks to being the seat of the European Union. Yet, Brussels isn't only significant because of this. The city's importance dates back hundreds of years when it began flourishing during the Middle Ages.
Brussels was a vital trading stop for all those needing to cross to other European powerhouses at the time. Interestingly, many would take a break at the town square in Brussels and trade goods at the main square, which still exists today. Yet besides the Middle Ages, there were two development periods in Brussel's cultural history.
Firstly, there was the late medieval development under the Burgundians. Most of Brussels's beautiful Gothic churches were built under their rule during this period. Secondly, the late 19th to early 20th century saw incredible expansion, with Brussels becoming the center of literature, innovation, architecture, theater, and painting. If you visit today, you'll be swept away by works by surrealist painters Ren├й Magritte Paul Delvaux and buildings featuring organic motifs, flowering lines, and intricate designs by Art Nouveau architects Victor Horta and Henry van de Velde.
According to historians, the landlocked nature of Brussels played an important role in shaping the area's culture, which is unsurprising considering Belgium shares its borders with four countries. Germany is in the east, the Netherlands in the north, Luxemburg in the south, and France in the west. Each of these country's traditions rubbed off on Brussels.
Today, Brussels has become a federal state, and in Belgium, there are three communities demonstrating other countries' influence on Brussels's development. There is Flanders in the north, Wallonia in the south, and the Brussels-Capital Region more or less in the middle. Then, in Belgium, the three existing communities are French, Flemish, and German. This is important to know because if you're traveling from Bruges to Brussels, you might come across these different communities with varying customs and traditions.
From Bruges to Brussels: Travel tips
No matter how you travel from Bruges to Brussels, you'll likely experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with wondrous sights, good food, and exciting activities. However, to ensure you enjoy a seamless travel experience, you'll need to remember a few simple travel tips. Armed with the tips below, you'll undoubtedly enjoy your travels from Bruges to Brussels.
Travel to the right Brussels
Many travel enthusiasts find it immensely frustrating when they learn they have traveled from Bruges to the wrong Brussels.
In Belgium, two Brussels exist, one being a city and the other being a region. The Brussels region comprises 18 towns, including Anderlecht, Ixelles, Saint-Gilles, Schaerbeek, and Molenbeek, forming the Brussels Capital Region, a component of the Belgium federal state.
Every town in the Brussels region has its own regulations and mayor. Unfortunately, locals in Belgium refer to Brussels, the region, and Brussels, the city, interchangeably, so it can be difficult to travel to the right one from Bruges.
That's why it's usually best to book your transportation needs with a car service like Daytrip that hires knowledgeable English-speaking drivers who won't make the mistake of dropping you off in the wrong Brussels.
### Don't travel anywhere without an umbrella or raincoat
Although Brussels sees its fair share of sunny weather, a storm cloud is always hiding on the horizon. If you ask any Brussels local, they will tell you never to go anywhere without an umbrella or raincoat, and this practice is worth adopting during your travel from Bruges to Brussels.
After all, the last thing you want to experience is rainy weather without the means to combat it, so you can continue hopping out and sightseeing at the many towns, attractions, and landmarks along your way to Brussels.
If you travel with Daytrip, our driver won't mind you carrying an umbrella or a raincoat because they know how fickle the weather can be. In fact, they'll be able to (with some accuracy) determine if it's a mere trickle or a heavy downpour on the horizon as they know the region's weather.
### Learn all you can from your Daytrip driver
The journey from Bruges to Brussels will take 1.5-2 hours if you travel by car since the distance between these cities is 63 miles (101 km). Although not too long, it's enough time for you to learn more about the city you will be visiting to enhance your overall travel experience.
When you ride with Daytrip's door-to-door service, you'll be able to chat with your friendly driver and get key insights about the city. Not to mention, they'll know much about many of the other cities and towns you might want to stop at along the way to sightsee attractions and landmarks or simply grab a bite to eat.
So don't be afraid to ask for a history lesson about the region or for recommendations to some of the best cafes, bars, and attractions to visit тАУ or avoid!
How to get from Bruges to Brussels
We know that for most people, flying from one place to another is the easiest and most convenient, even if it is the most expensive, but sadly, no flights are offered from Bruges to Brussels.
But you needn't despair as there are many alternative travel options, including driving by car with a private car service, taking the bus, or hopping on a high-speed train.
If you're in a rush but want convenience and comfort, traveling by car is the best choice. Let's discuss all three below so that you can decide how to get from Bruges to Brussels.
Bruges to Brussels by train
To travel to Brussels from Bruges by train, you first have to get to the Bruges station, but be careful not to confuse it with the Bruges-Saint-Pierre station. Once at the station, you can buy a ticket to the Brussels-Midi train station. If you don't want to buy a ticket at the station, you can purchase one online ahead of time to ensure you get a seat.
Typically, the earliest train leaves at 4:08 AM, and the last train leaves for Brussels at 11:23 PM. Depending on the day, three to five trains leave the station every hour, with the Bruges to Brussels trains operated by SNBC.
Ticket prices for a Bruges to Brussels train trip vary, but on average, you should expect one ticket to cost 20 euros for the one-hour trip. These trains usually have bathrooms on board and offer a dining car, and you'll get to see some of the beautiful passing scenery. However, since the train is direct, you won't get to stop along the way and be amongst many others in the carts.
### Bruges to Brussels by bus
Often, the least expensive but most uncomfortable and slowest way to travel from Bruges to Brussels is by bus. To travel by bus, you'll need to go to the Bruges main transit station from your hotel. Depending on where your accommodation is located, you might be able to walk to the station, or you'll need to catch a taxi.
Once at the bus station, you must buy a ticket to Bruxelles, Gare du Nord station. Although buying a ticket on the day of is easy, buying one online in advance might be best to ensure you secure a seat for yourself and anyone traveling with you.
Unlike the trains, the buses don't leave as early. The earliest train leaves at 8:05 AM, with the last bus leaving at 4:30 PM. These buses are operated by Flixbus and only three travel to Brussels from Bruges daily.
Typically, these buses take up to two hours to get to Brussels, but there could be delays if the bus stops in other towns or cities along the route to pick up travelers. You should expect a Flixbus ticket to cost about 11 euros.
### Bruges to Brussels by private car
If you're looking for speed, convenience, and a way to stop and sightsee along the route from Bruges to Brussels, hire a private car. A private car service like Daytrip can easily pick you up from your hotel in Bruges and drop you off at your accommodation in Brussels.
When fetching you, your driver will take care of your luggage while you get into the car and prepare to be wowed by the Belgian scenery. You can add numerous sightseeing stops along the way beforehand to further enrich your time in Belgium.
In addition, your Daytrip driver will share travel tips and ensure you see the best there is to offer between Bruges and Brussels regarding attractions, landmarks, and shops. You'll also be able to set the pickup time that's most convenient for you, and prices start at only 30 euros per seat.
Things to do when you get to Brussels
The second you get to one of Europe's smallest but mightiest cities after driving from Bruges to Brussels, no one can blame you if you want to dive head-first into delectable Belgian waffles, frites, and beers. But before you get lost in a world of sampling scrumptious treats, you might want to check out a few of the other best things to do when you get to Brussels!
Admire Grand Place
If there's one attraction you must visit in Brussels, it's the Grand Place. You'll never see anything like this gem of an attraction, no matter where your travels take you in the future.
Unsurprisingly, its beauty, which dates back to the 17th century, was recognized, and the Grand Place earned its name as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.
The Grand Place is more than worthy of its name with its stunning private buildings, jaw-dropping Gothic architecture, and lively atmosphere that draws you in and makes you never want to leave. If the Grand Place is on your list, you won't be disappointed as it is arguably the most beautiful square in the world.
What's more, you won't have to pay a thing to visit this opulent square, so get your camera ready and get walking!
### Find yourself lost at the Atomium
We never recommend getting lost usually, but if there is one place you wouldn't mind being lost, it's at the Atomium. The Atomium is home to near-endless exhibitions covering everything from the artworks of the infamous Rene Magritte to the history of air travel; there's something for everyone to see.
There's even an iron crystal that's been magnified 165 billion times! You'll not see that anywhere else on Earth. In addition, if you're feeling brave enough, climb to the top of the Atomium to look over Brussels from 355 feet in the sky.
### Travel Europe in an afternoon
If you don't have the budget to spare for a comprehensive trip around Europe, you can enjoy the next best thing at Mini-Europe, a theme park that lets you see Europe on foot in just one afternoon!
You'll find small-scale recreations of everything from Buckingham Palace and the Eiffel Tower to the Colosseum, one of the world's seven wonders. Each mini-attraction is modeled after the real thing, so it will almost feel like you're there!
### Relax in Cinquantenaire Park
You might be surprised, but sightseeing in Brussels can be incredibly tiring. If you ever feel like your energy is flagging and want to stop and refuel with something tasty, you must consider Cinquantenaire Park.
Cinquantenaire Park is the best spot to take a sightseeing break and relax while enjoying a bite to eat. This park is bigger than the eye can see, measuring in at a whopping 74 acres. It's also near the European Quarter, making it conveniently located.
When visiting, you'll pass under the majestic Triumphal Arch before you can go further into the field to find the perfect spot to sit back and relax.
If you're visiting in the summer, expect to see many locals, as many love to use the park for picnics, coffee dates, and naps during their breaks. Even during the winter, you can visit this park. Just remember to dress warmly, as it's not uncommon to see the park turned into a winter wonderland concealed under a blanket of fluffy snow.
Best time to visit Brussels
No matter what time of year you travel from Bruges to Amsterdam to visit Brussels, you can expect an unforgettable trip. Each season has its perks, especially considering the city sees thousands of events hosted throughout the year that are suitable for the young and old.
However, if you want to enjoy everything Brussels has to offer a wandering soul, you should plan to visit during the spring. The spring season lasts from the beginning of April until the end of June in Belgium, and the temperatures are mild and not overwhelming, making spring ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. There are also fewer crowds in spring than in summer, so you'll get to traverse the cobblestone pathways and narrow streets without feeling crowded.
The fall, from September and October, also offers mild temperatures and fewer tourists. So it's a good time to visit, especially if you're looking for cheaper accommodation rates and less competition when sightseeing.
This border town's car-free city center is one of the largest in Europe, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.┬аCar-Free Beauty┬а
Oudenaarde
This medieval city's historic architecture, particularly its UNESCO-listed town hall, are giant works of art.┬аCity of Art┬а
Ghent
The best way to enjoy this charming Flemish city is to do as the locals do, and pull up a seat at a riverside cafe.┬аRiverfront Charm┬а
Hospital Notre Dame de la Rose Museum
In use for over 700 years, the stately halls of one of BelgiumтАЩs oldest hospitals is now a museum dedicated to its rich history.┬аThe History of Healing┬а
Waterloo
In 1815, Napoleon Bonaparte was finally defeated on this fateful battlefield.┬аThat Fateful Fight┬а
Leuven
This provincial capital is home to 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the oldest still-operating Catholic university, and the Stella Artois Brewery.┬аBeauty, Brains, and Beer┬а
тАЬSeems odd to post my trip under this location but could not add it in Belgium. We used DayTrip to travel from Brussels to Bruge because we were on a 32 day trip with luggage and just got tired of lugging it though the train stations. Then we used it again to go from Bruges to Amsterdam airport to fly home a few days later. It worked really well both times. I was particularly impressed with the promptness of both drivers who showed up precisely on time if not a few minutes early. Our first driver was a bit weak on English but we got by just fine. Both drivers were excellent behind the wheel, courteous, friendly and professional. It was a bit of a splurge at the end of our trip but well worth it, Compared to first class tickets on a train (so that we had room for our luggage) - it was about 2X as much for two people.тАЭ
