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Tour & Taxis

Top ways to experience Tour & Taxis and nearby attractions

• IJzer • 9 min walk

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Tour & Taxis - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Tour & Taxis

Top ways to experience Tour & Taxis and nearby attractions

• IJzer • 9 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

TOUR & TAXIS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Tour & Taxis

Top ways to experience Tour & Taxis and nearby attractions

• IJzer • 9 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

TOUR & TAXIS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

©Analia Glogowski/Lonely Planet

Tour & Taxis

A postal sorting shed doesn’t sound like an immediate tourist draw, but the Tour & Taxis complex is an architectural masterpiece, its 21st-century revamp creating a fine exhibition and commercial space in these Victorian warehouses and customs depots. It’s all part of the ongoing gentrification of Brussels’ run-down canal district, from where you can now take a variety of summer barge cruises .

Rue Picard 3

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Tour and Taxis, the former Royal Entrepot

Note: This article is also available in French | Flemish

Imagine stage-coach horses at pasture in the swampy meadows along the canal. That’s what Tour and Taxis looked like a few centuries ago. The parcels belonged to the Italian family Von Thurn und Taxis, who became the pioneers of the European postal system. Franz Von Taxis, named postmaster by Philip the Fair of Burgundy around the turn of the 16th century, organized the first international, horse-based postal service out of Brussels. The imperial postal service linked the wealthy Low Countries to the Spanish court, and served the Holy Roman Empire and the rest of Europe.

At the end of the 19th century, industry in Belgium was booming which increased the need for larger warehouses. As new owners of a part of the site, the Belgian Railways started an ambitious project supported by king Leopold II. This project was finished in 1910 and consisted out of loading docks on the Willebroek Canal which connects Brussels with the sea, in addition to a railway line with various dead-end tracks, a Belgian Railways freight station and… the Royal Entrepot with various annexes.

Designed by Ernest Van Humbeeck and meant for long-term storage, the Royal Entrepot became the real showpiece of the complex. Its façade displays the coat of arms of Belgian cities and provinces. Above those, there is the watching eye of Mercurius, the Roman god of commerce.

In the year 2000, when all the logistic activities in the Royal Entrepot had ended, the building was restored and repurposed. Today, many art events, commercial trade fairs, music festivals and exclusive parties are hosted here. One of the permanent restaurants in the building is La Fabbrica, a highly-recommended brunch spot .

Fun Fact: Tour & Taxis has its own app, where you can get an audiotour of the Tour & Taxis landmark, explore a map with the different businesses housed in the complex and consult the schedule of the (free) shuttle buses between Gare du Nord and Tour & Taxis.

The view from the rooftop is pretty nice too…

Practical information Check out the Tour and Taxis website to find out about upcoming events. The address: Avenue du port 86C, 1000 Brussels

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Tour & Taxis

Top ways to experience Tour & Taxis and nearby attractions

• IJzer • 9 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Tour & Taxis - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Tour & Taxis

The historical logistics platform of Tour & Taxis presents a number of buildings of exceptional size and architectural value: the Royal Depot, the Sheds, the Hôtel des Douanes, the Hôtel de la Poste and the Gare Maritime. A modern interpretation is given to the historic buildings on the Tour & Taxis site, with great respect for their authenticity and heritage value. The site is ideally located on the tourist routes, between the Brussels old city centre and other tourist attactions such as the Atomium. The green areas and the evolutionary park are central features and an inherent part of the philosophy behind the Tour & Taxis development. Tour & Taxis is becoming a reinvented neighbourhood with residences, culture, offices and public services all in one, creating a positive alternative for people looking for new experiences. The Sheds welcome different major events including antique and art fairs. With eateries, bars and activities on the site, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste. Tour & Taxis offers you the chance to discover the industrial heritage of this unique site using our App, which comprises of an audio guide working together with historic photos. You can download our App for free at: www.tt-app.be

Location: Avenue du Port, 86c, 1000 Brussels

• The History Of Tour Taxis...

The History of Belgium’s Tour and Taxis Site in One Minute

The historical Tour & Taxis site on the Brussels Canal is the beating heart of the city’s art scene. Standing tall since the 19th century, the huge former industrial site showcases world-renowned cultural events.

A former international postal service, train station and shipping yard, the Tour & Taxis site has lived many lives. Developed by the German von Thurn und Tassis family (in French really only pronounceable as Tour et Taxis) – European postmaster royalty in those days – the original swampy piece of land rapidly evolved into the spine of Brussels’ economy. And while the grounds haven’t served any transit purposes since the ’60s, the grand industrial decor makes for a great backdrop to the capital’s biggest cultural events. Ongoing renovation works since 2001 have made sure not to disturb the old industrial charm pervading the place. The former railway station still has old tracks running through it, and the mammoth halls known as the Sheds have kept their original metallic framework and saw-tooth ceiling. And even though the four-storey-high, glass-roofed Royal Depot has become a thing of beauty as a multipurpose hub for shopping, dining and general relaxation, Tour & Taxis remains mostly known as a venue for reputable fairs and festivals. The world-class Couleur Café Festival, one of the most diverse culinary and musical experiences in the country, has become a permanent summer fixture. The grand scales of the Old Maritime Station and the Sheds have proven perfect for big springtime events such as Art Brussels, Brussels Design Market and the BIFFF film festival. During the winter, the Brussels Book Fair, the Affordable Art Fair and the prestigious BRAFA (Brussels Antiques and Arts Fair) warm up the cold weekends. Over the centuries, what started as a postal service has become an urban cultural nucleus, attracting the best and biggest happenings all year-round.

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Tour & Taxis’ sustainable reimagining in Brussels

Tour & Taxis, a former mail facility in Brussels, is reimagined as an eco-led, mixed-use quarter by Belgian developer Extensa and an array of leading architects

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In the early 16th century, the aristocratic family of Thurn und Taxis bought a 45-hectare parcel of marshy land on the then-outskirts of Brussels. They had been appointed postmasters by Philip the Fair, the Duke of Burgundy, and held a similar position for the Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I. Their acquisition would become the centre of Europe’s first international postal service, a Thurn und Taxis enterprise connecting the Spanish Netherlands, Burgundy and Spain with the rest of Europe. The road that crossed the site’s collection of industrial buildings and horse-feeding pastures took the family name, translated into French as Tour et Taxis, giving birth to the district of Tour & Taxis.

By the beginning of the 20th century, it had evolved into a busy logistical ecosystem; goods arrived via train and canal and from there, they were dispatched. Everything passed customs and registration at the Gare Maritime, the complex’s central station. Unfortunately, with the arrival of the EU Customs Union, and later the Schengen Area, customs gradually became irrelevant and the operation obsolete. Tour & Taxis remained disused for 20 years until it was bought by local private developer Extensa in 2001.

Since then, Tour & Taxis has been undergoing something of a reimagining, swapping logistical revolution for sustainability as it seeks to reinvent itself as an eco-friendly district. The area, situated by the Brussels canal and just to the north-west of the Belgian capital’s centre, currently mostly consists of large converted warehouses and offices of brick, iron and glass next to the magnificent, historic, castiron-frame freight station. Extensa’s vision is anchored in the refurbishment of the existing historic buildings to ‘return Brussels’ heritage’ to its inhabitants, as well as a few new-builds. The first renovations and completions started opening in 2005. The aim is to create an eco-led, mixed-use district by restoring as many existing buildings as possible and introducing renewable-energy and energy-saving technologies.

The district’s industrial heritage means that most of the existing buildings are characterised by large volumes, so are well suited to become event spaces and offices. One of the first buildings to open in 2005, the Sheds – a sawtooth storage warehouse designed in 1903 by Ernest Van Humbeeck and reimagined for Extensa by local studio Archi 2000 – has four event spaces, accommodating 10,000 guests each, while Maison de la Poste – a 1904 Frédéric Bruneel building renovated by architects Altiplan in 2019 – is now a conference centre consisting of 15 event spaces that showcase its carefully restored industrial architecture. There are galleries in the refreshed Hôtel des Douanes (a 1907 building also by Van Humbeeck) and more are to come, repurposing the remaining historic buildings in the area. Meanwhile, the few new-builds on site include offices by Neutelings Riedijk (a project that is currently the largest Passivhaus scheme in Belgium), Cepezed, and Samyn and Partners.

The district’s flagship building is the Gare Maritime, whose architectural works were completed in autumn 2020. The retail and food hall within are scheduled to launch in September 2021, marking an important landmark in the area’s redevelopment. At around 45,000 sq m, it was Europe’s largest freight train station at the beginning of the 20th century. The building has now been refreshed, and 12 new cross-laminated timber (CLT) pavilions have been added within.

Gare Maritime is the area’s commercial heart, housing hospitality, shops and offices. It has been carefully restored and redesigned by a team consisting of architects Neutelings Riedijk, Bureau Bouwtechniek and JDMA, and engineers Ney & Partners and Boydens. One of the key design drivers was adherence to the circular economy, salvaging existing materials but also making sure that all interventions are both light-touch and demountable. It boasts the largest CLT structure in Europe and the building is energy neutral. Gardens, designed by landscape architects Omgeving, help regulate the internal temperature and are watered using the rainwater harvesting system.

Additionally, the site uses geothermal heat and 17,200 sq m of photovoltaics on the roof, marking the biggest move to solar energy in the capital. The developers are even bringing a tram line to the area by creating a new bridge over the canal (the water created a barrier that had so far been an obstacle in bringing public transport to this part of town). This, and the fact that many of the streets in Tour & Taxis are pedestrianised, means car use will be discouraged, although there will be underground parking space.

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A number of apartment buildings are currently in construction. They are the start to what Kris Verhellen, Extensa’s CEO, hopes is a whole new residential neighbourhood, called Park Lane. Verhellen is acutely aware of the inevitable gentrification of the neighbouring area of Molenbeek, which has a sizable Maghrebi immigrant population. He talks about the scheme’s tax contribution and the state’s responsibility to create an economic system where immigrants aren’t priced out. While the scheme’s sustainability credentials are undeniable, one wonders whether more could be done to ensure links are created to existing communities.

It is true that some of the residential offerings will be rent-capped so that they remain affordable, while future plans include a school and a retirement home. A nine-hectare publicly accessible park, currently in construction, will include a community farm and a garden in an expanse of green that connects the site to the canal, making it one of the biggest parks in Brussels.

Do these interventions go deep enough into the fabric of the existing local community to engage them with the scheme in a meaningful way? Could more be done? One thing is for certain; if Tour & Taxis does deliver, it will provide a precedent of reuse and eco-friendly redevelopment that can be used in other historic settings. Which is exactly why it is important to ensure that social balance takes the same priority as environmental, as it has become increasingly clear that they are inseparable in the quest for sustainability.

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Spotlight on: Spaces Tour & Taxis, Brussels

The story of Tour & Taxis is one of riches to rags – and back to riches once again. Built between 1902 and 1907, it’s located in what was one of Belgium’s most thriving shipping and customs hubs, enjoying a prime position on the Brussel’s Canal, and close to the grand former freight station, Gare Maritime.

Sadly, the buildings, with their jaw-dropping brick, glass and wrought-iron architecture, slowly fell into disrepair following the site’s waning economic importance in the late 20th century and it lay abandoned for years.

Now, however, it’s finally having new life breathed into it, thanks to a colossal redevelopment project, which boasts 4,000sq m of corporate buildings, residential spaces, food and retail outlets, parks and a day nursery. Powered by solar and geothermal energy, the complex is also carbon neutral and, importantly, developers hope the project will regenerate the deprived area surrounding the site.

It has been described as one of the most original real estate projects to take place in Belgium in the last 50 years and Spaces Tour & Taxis is a proud part of this exciting new chapter in the site’s history.

A magnet for businesses

Featuring seven meeting rooms, 83 private offices, 21 dedicated desks, breakout areas, events space and superfast Wi-Fi, Spaces Tour & Taxis is already building a bustling community of businesses from across sectors, from IT to recruitment, and of all sizes, from entrepreneurs and startups to larger corporations.

Indeed, Salesforce and Zurich Insurance are already big-name clients using IWG centres in the country, and it’s expected that Tours & Taxis centre will be a magnet for some of these corporate giants.

William Willems, IWG Regional General Manager for Belgium & Luxembourg, describes Tour & Taxis as a “city within a city” and believes the diverse community working and living within the complex will become the Spaces centre’s unique selling point.

“It’s a big regeneration project in a difficult district, which will now be fantastic,” he says. “It’s close to the Brussels-North railway station and they are building a bridge over the canal to facilitate access from the station to the site.”

Promising growth

Unsurprisingly, the Covid-19 pandemic and new national lockdown measures have impacted on the project, preventing retail outlets from opening their doors as planned and forcing many Spaces customers to once again work from home.

Nevertheless, Willems is optimistic about the future of the centre and the country’s flexspace market in general. IWG is the largest provider of office space in Belgium, with a total of around 100,000sq m in centres across 45 locations.

He adds that, since the first lockdown in spring, the Tour & Taxis location has seen slow but promising growth. It's currently at 25% occupancy and, despite Covid-19, expects to quickly reach 80%. Its excellent location means that lots of large corporations have indicated they will use the centre again as soon as they are allowed ‘back to the office’.

A bright future

In further positive news, Spaces is excited to also be opening another 3,000sq m location at the Brussels-North station and a 3,200sq m space – featuring an extensive roof terrace for events – next to the Law Courts of Justice to cater for its large client base of lawyers.

Willems claims the appetite for more flexible workspace solutions will continue to grow once the pandemic is over, with companies increasingly choosing to downsize or even abandon central headquarters in favour of offices closer to employees’ homes or important public transport hubs.

“It’s been a difficult time for everybody and there’s been a slowdown in demand, especially during the first wave of the pandemic,” he explains. 

He adds: “I’m convinced that as soon as Covid-19 is over, people will jump on our solution. Why? Because we are flexible, which is really important. There is no cash investment, it’s an opportunity to network, and they can work anywhere they want to – whether that’s closer to home, near a train station for ease of commuting, or in another country. Plus, we’re offering all the services they need to focus on their business.”

IWG has an expanding portfolio of flexible office solutions and helps thousands of agents across the world find the right office space for their clients. Get in touch with us today to find out more

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MVRDV Transorms the Tour & Taxis District in Brussels with Qualitative Masterplan

• Written by Nour Fakharany
• Published on October 25, 2023

Seven architecture studios, including MVRDV , have designed separate buildings in the long-anticipated master plan for the Lake Side development in Brussels . To introduce diversity, the master plan has been designed by MVRDV and aims to bring about a denser and more vibrant life on the Tour & Taxis side, offering various amenities for its residents. The newly designed site also includes different workspaces and a nine-hectare park that promotes a more car-free communal environment . The project’s entirety is supervised by MVRDV , who also designs one of the 17 buildings within the new master plan.

Tour & Taxis is situated near Brussels North Station and plans on becoming a dynamic living and working district. The master plan for the Lake Side includes various housing options, like co-living apartments and workplaces, leisure facilities, and green public spaces. Divided into three sections, the master plan follows a certain logic. The eastern side of the plot boasts a mixed office and housing campus. The middle section comprises a courtyard with 14 buildings surrounding a public garden. The entirety of these buildings have energy-producing roofs. Other schemes in this zone feature private terraces or inaccessible green roofs to promote biodiversity.

Finally, the third section of the masterplan seamlessly blends the neighborhood into the Tour & Taxis Park, and it includes the “Park Building.” For the entire scheme, MVRDV established a framework of qualitative rules to ensure “non-uniform, humane, and essential ‘Brussels’ quality in patina and form, with a strong connection to the historic urban fabric.” In collaboration with the coordinating architect Bureau Bouwtechniek , MVRDV Is working with six other teams to realize the complete master plan. The teams include three Belgian offices ( Binst Architect, Polo, and Hub ) and three Danish offices ( 3XN , Cobe , and Effekt Arkitekter ).

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The widespread material used in the majority of the buildings is brick, creating seamless continuity with the Belgian traditional architectural style. Additionally, landscape architect Bureau Bas Smets has designed three landscape typologies to complement each section of the master plan. In fact, a shady forest was designed for the Eastern Zone, small hills were included in the courtyard plan, and the valley park filled the remaining space of the plan.

MVRDV has activated many buildings and master plans all over the world. In fact, the studio’s Shenzhen Women & Children Center renovation has been completed and is open to the public. Situated in Shenzhen’s Futian district, the design comprises a mixed-use tower featuring an array of public functions. In June, construction began at MVRDV’s complex of three mixed-use office towers and a conference center in Chengdu. Finally, MVRDV was recently selected to lead the Hangzhou Oil Refinery Factory Park design, an extensive project aiming to transform the former industrial district into a cultural center set in a green environment.

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What to do in Brussels this weekend: 17 - 19 May

With another bank holiday lined up for Monday, this long weekend is the perfect excuse to make the most out of Saturday and Sunday by exploring the best and lesser-known parts of the city.

From an all-day party in the city centre in honour of the LGBTQ community and the cosiest festival in Jette to tasting some delicious street food in Auderghem or Tour & Taxis, here's what's on in Brussels this weekend.

Out and about

Brussels Pride, various locations in Brussels, Saturday 18 May

To mark Pride week , the Belgian capital has been dressed in the colours of the rainbow flag in honour of the LGBTQ community and various activities have been taking place across the region's neighbourhoods over the past few days.

People take to the streets for Brussels Pride in 2023. Credit: Belga / Nicolas Maeterlinck

The event will culminate in the traditional Pride March on Saturday. The organisers expect 250,000 people to take to the streets of the capital to defend their rights and celebrate diversity. The march will depart at 14:00 from Mont des Arts. It will be followed by concerts, performances, activist speeches and parties to end the day with a bang.

Find more information here .

Jam'in Jette Outdoor, Jette, Friday 17 and Saturday 18 May

Get ready for the 12th edition of Jam'in Jette Outdoor, which has rapidly grown to become one of Brussels' most beloved local festivals. This year, organisers have once again lined up a jam-packed and diverse programme showcasing the best of world music.

Jam'in Jette 2018. Credit: asbl KWA

The free event offers something for everyone, from shows and concerts featuring frenzied rhythms and lively artists to workshops for young and old, (children's) activities, dance performances and more. For the party animals, there will be two memorable after-parties at the Excelsior Stam Cool Café Jette  where the festival will continue until the early hours.

For the foodies

StrEat Fest, Tour & Taxis, until Sunday 19 May

StrEat Fest is returning to the capital for a third edition due to popular demand and an ever-increasing number of attendees. The festival, dedicated to reimagining street food, will serve up food from chefs, restaurant owners and artisans from all across Belgium and further afield over four days. 70 of the 100 chefs will be participating for the first time .

The 2023 edition of StrEat Fest at Tour & Taxis. Credit: Belga / Timon Ramboer

Festival-goers not only get to explore the different food stands, but also have access to 150 culinary masterclasses and urban art workshops, as well as 40 concerts featuring artists such as Doowy, Bart Kobain, Olivier Gosseries, Nephtys, and OK Panda.

Brussels Food Festival, Auderghem, until Monday 20 May

Alongside StrEat Fest, the Brussels Food Festival will transform Auderghem's Boulevard du Souverain into a culinary heaven. More than 30 food stands and bars will create Brussels' biggest terrace – over 200 metres long – in the middle of the street.

Credit: Brussels Food Festival

Chefs of the stands will take people on a culinary journey from Chile and Argentina to India and Japan, via Africa and Europe. Make sure to wear loose trousers!

Arts, music and culture

JEM International Puppet Festival, Théâtre Royal du Peruchet, until 9 June

Brussels long has historical ties with the art of puppet theatre . Adding to this tradition, the capital hosts Belgium's most international puppet festival, which showcases new and more familiar forms of puppet theatre. For the event's seventh edition, organisers are delivering another rich cross-disciplinary programme including paper theatre, shadow theatre, object theatre, string theatre, rod theatre, bunraku, and much more.

Credit: Théâtre Royal du Peruchet

This edition will feature 19 different shows with a total of 41 performances by artists from Germany, France, Ireland, Slovakia, the US, the Netherlands, Czechia, Greece, Italy, and the DRC over four weekends. The JEM Festival stands out by aiming to include as many viewers as possible: many of the shows are non-verbal which means there are no language barriers.

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Our Magical Must-Do Bruges Day Trip from Brussels by Train

H ave you ever been somewhere that felt so magical that you had to pinch yourself? That’s what visiting Bruges was like for me! Today, I want to share the unforgettable Bruges day trip from Brussels that Abby and I took while in Belgium. These  two days in Belgium  were part of a multi-country two-and-a-half-week trip to Europe that also included stops in  Paris , Amsterdam, London, and Bath.

So, make sure to check out all of my other  Europe  posts, too!  

Bruges, Belgium 

Bruges, a charming city in  Belgium , captured our hearts with its enchanting canals, cobblestone streets, awe-inspiring architecture, and, of course, mouthwatering Belgian waffles. Matt and Jake needed a mid-trip day to catch up on sleep, so Abby and I did this one on our own! 

Join us as we spend a sunny summer day in  Bruges . We’ll delve into the history of Bruges, wander the streets, and experience the delights of this enchanting European destination.  

If you are not familiar with Bruges, its historic city center has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. The preservation of its medieval architecture and urban layout has contributed to its recognition as a place of exceptional cultural value.

Bruges Day Trip from Brussels: Departing from Brussels Nord 

Our adventure began at the Brussels Nord train station, where we hopped on the convenient and efficient Belgium intercity train. We chose this train station because it was just minutes from the  Hotel Indigo Brussels City , where we were staying. But we could have also caught the train from Brussels to Bruges at Brussels Central and other stations.

The nice about these intercity trains is that you can roll up literally right before it takes off. Abby and I had tickets in hand (valid for any time) and thought there was no way we would make the 9:05 a.m. train as we were running out of the hotel at 8:56 a.m. We made it with a minute to spare! 

I want to stop here for a minute and include how to buy tickets to go from Brussels to Bruges. 

Belgium Intercity Train Tickets Between Brussels and Bruges

The train system that connects the communities within the county is the  Belgium Intercity Train . Their website is surprisingly easy to navigate compared to other European train companies. Trains run all day long between the various cities in Belgium. Your ticket is single-use (or multi-use if you opt for those), and you don’t have to commit to a particular time. 

Belgium Train Ticket Prices

I started writing ticket prices here, but there are SO MANY different prices. There are often 2-for-1 specials, half-priced weekends, discounts based on events, and more.  Visit their website  and check prices on the particular day you plan to visit. 

The most you will pay as an adult is  32 Euros  roundtrip, but it’s often much less. Youth (ages 12-26) and Seniors (age 65+) roundtrip tickets are at most  15 Euros . And kids under 12 ride for  FREE  when accompanied by a paying adult. These maximum prices are single-trip prices. Further discounts apply when buying passes or multi-trip tickets. 

Ticket prices are fixed, as opposed to some of the larger European train companies, which use dynamic pricing similar to airlines. This means that other than taking advantage of special promos, the prices stay the same whether you book in advance or same day, and also whether in person at the station or online. So, do what works for you! We bought our tickets online 15 minutes before the train was leaving our hotel room at the  Hotel Indigo Brussels City .

As I mentioned above, the  Belgium Train website  has a lot of fantastic information and answers to your FAQs. So, visit their  website  to learn more, purchase tickets, and manage your journey.

While we are actually traveling, my go-to is Apple Maps. I use the map on my iPhone and switch directions to Transit. It gives very accurate directions and real-time arrivals, departures, and delays. I highly recommend you do the same. There is no reason to download other mapping apps onto your phone these days!

Our Bruges Day Trip from Brussels

It takes just over an hour to go from  Brussels to Bruges on a train  with limited stops. The journey to Bruges allowed us to enjoy the scenic Belgian countryside, and we eagerly anticipated what awaited us upon arrival. Abby always shares in my excitement during moments like this. She knows how much I love to see something new, and she does too! 

Upon reaching Bruges, you will need to take a short 10-minute walk into the center of the city. Or, you can hop on a bus or hail a taxi or rideshare. We opted to walk, and as we emerged from the tunnel on the other side of the train station, this was before us. Pure magic! We knew we were in for a treat! 

Wandering the Cobblestone Streets: Stepping Back in Time in Bruges

After a short walk, we found ourselves in the heart of  Bruges , ready to explore its cobblestone streets and unravel its history. The city’s well-preserved medieval architecture took us back in time. As we strolled along the winding roads, we admired the ornate facades, gabled houses, and towering belfries. Each corner revealed a new architectural gem, telling stories of Bruges’ prosperous past as a bustling trading center.

Abby was particularly interested in visiting Bruges as it’s where Jan van Eyck once lived. She had been learning about his work,  The Arnolfini Portrait  in particular. We even saw this famous painting in person at the National Gallery in London just a week later. It’s moments like this that make me emotional. Giving her the opportunity to immerse herself in what she learns in school is incredible. I don’t take it for granted; I know she doesn’t either. 

A Must-Do Canal Tour on Your Bruges Day Trip

Our first stop was a canal tour, which was a fantastic way to immerse ourselves in the city’s charm. Bruges boasts an intricate network of canals, earning it the nickname “Venice of the North.” Gliding through the waterways, we marveled at medieval buildings, picturesque bridges, and idyllic scenery. And while we were in a boat full of other people, it was still a peaceful and enchanting experience that allowed us to view the city from a whole new perspective.

A  canal tour  is a must on any visit to Bruges! The good news is that you do not need to book them in advance. Various providers are located around the city, where you basically buy tickets and stand in line. The wait times vary quite a bit based on location and time of day. We saw people almost walking on with no line at one place and an hour-long wait at another. You can also book a canal tour in advance through a site like  GetYourGuide .

I recommend knocking this out first because it shows you a good part of the city. The way Bruges is laid out, with interwoven canals, makes it a little tricky to explore on foot. Seeing everything from the water will help you determine which areas to prioritize afterward. You can’t go wrong with any vendor; however, if you can swing a private  canal tour in Bruges , do it! 

Throughout the captivating canal tour, I took a lot of photos. It was hard to help myself. I will scatter them throughout this post, but here are a handful of my favorites! And make sure to keep reading because there is a lot of great information ahead of us in this post.

What Makes Bruges Special?

Stepping off the boat, we found ourselves again in the heart of the city, ready to explore its cobblestone streets and unravel its history. Bruges’ well-preserved medieval architecture took us on a journey back in time. We admired the ornate facades, gabled houses, and towering belfries as we strolled along the winding streets. Each corner revealed a new architectural gem, telling stories of Bruges’ prosperous past as a bustling trading center.

In addition to the exquisite architecture, Bruges is renowned for its lace-making heritage. The delicate craftsmanship of Bruges lace has been passed down through generations, and you can still find lace shops and workshops in the city. Admire the intricate designs and consider picking up a unique lace souvenir.

We were craving something sweet, so we stopped at a local chocolate shop! We each picked out a few pieces. They were incredible! Bruges has a long-standing tradition of chocolate making. The city has numerous chocolate shops, where artisans create delectable treats using traditional methods. We couldn’t miss indulging in authentic Belgian chocolates during our visit. If you have time, there are local  Bruges chocolate-making workshops  that look very fun!

What Did We Have For Lunch During Our Bruges Day Trip? Belgium Waffles, of Course! 

No visit to Bruges is complete without savoring the heavenly delight of Belgian waffles. We couldn’t resist the temptation and indulged ourselves in these delicious treats. Whether topped with powdered sugar, decadent chocolate sauce, or a medley of fresh fruits and cream, every bite was pure bliss.

It’s no wonder that Belgian waffles have gained worldwide fame, and Bruges offers a plethora of delightful cafes and bakeries to satisfy our sweet tooth. Consider booking a  Belgium Waffle-making class  if you have a full day to spend in Bruges!

Learning About the History of Bruges

It’s impossible to be somewhere with such a rich history and not try to soak up as much as possible!  

Bruges is steeped in history, and its significance can be traced back to the Middle Ages. During this period, the city flourished as an economic powerhouse thanks to its strategic location and access to trade routes.  

Its prosperity can still be seen in the awe-inspiring Gothic buildings, such as the Belfry of Bruges and the Church of Our Lady.

The Belfry of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an iconic symbol of the city. Climbing its 366 steps rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of Bruges and its surrounding landscape. However, this does take a lot of time and effort, so take that into consideration.

The Church of Our Lady, on the other hand, is home to the remarkable sculpture “Madonna and Child” by Michelangelo. It is the only Michelangelo sculpture to leave Italy during his lifetime, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts. I was almost speechless when we walked into this stunning building still used for services today. It is free to walk inside. However, there is a charge to see Michelangelo.

Furthermore, Bruges was a major center for art during the 15th and 16th centuries, often referred to as the Flemish Primitives period. As I mentioned above, many influential painters like Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and Gerard David lived and worked in Bruges, leaving behind a rich artistic legacy.

If you would like to immerse yourself more in the remarkable history of this European city, consider a Bruges self-guided history tour!

Shopping on Your Bruges Day Trip

While Bruges offers a beautiful blend of history, art, gastronomy, and natural beauty, attracting visitors worldwide, it also lures those looking for retail therapy.  

I was surprised when we turned a corner, and the shops quickly changed from small chocolatiers and lace makers to H&M and Tommy Hilfiger. This bustling shopping area caught me a bit off guard. There are so many more authentic and unique things to do in Bruges! 

We were already pretty wiped out and could shop anywhere, so we pivoted and routed ourselves back to the train station. We only had to wait about 15 minutes and hopped on the next train back to Brussels. 

Returning To Brussels From Our Bruges Day Trip 

The  train ticket  we bought included a return trip. And, just like on the way there, we didn’t need to pre-select our train ticket time. However, you should pay attention to the time the next few trains leave to minimize wait time. Again, this is where Apple Maps shine! You can enter your destination, in my case, the  Hotel Indigo Brussels City and the transit directions will take you right there.  

TRAVEL TIP: Always screenshot your tickets when traveling by train. Doing this allows you to quickly and easily scan them where needed without relying on internet service. 

By 4:30 pm, we were back in the big city to meet up with Matt and Jake for dinner. After that, Matt and I had a date night at the  secret rooftop bar in Brussels , and over a cold Belgium beer, I told him about our trip. I felt bad, though, because a place like Bruges is right up his alley, and he would have loved it. But, when traveling for long periods at a quick pace, it’s always important to listen to your body and rest when you need to! That is one of my top travel tips! 

Our day trip to Bruges from Brussels was an incredible adventure filled with history, rich architecture, and countless magical moments. The city’s canals, cobblestone streets, and architectural splendors provided a backdrop fit for a movie. It’s somewhere I hope to visit again one day, especially for the Bruges Christmas Market!  

A Bruges Day Trip to Remember

From the enchanting canal cruise to the captivating history woven into the fabric of the town, Bruges offered a truly magical experience. It’s a place with something for everyone, suitable for couples and families alike.

And let’s not forget the heavenly Belgian waffles and local chocolate that left us craving more! 

Booking Bruges Tours And Activities

There are so many different tours, workshops, and activities that you can book for your day trip to Bruges. GetYourGuide alone has 99 current options that include everything from a  guided Rickshaw Tour  to  private historical walking tours .

We use  GetYourGuide  on almost every trip we take, both internationally and domestically! This popular site is easy to navigate and a great way to keep outings organized or book them on the fly. Click here to view all Get Your Guide Outings in Bruges!

Is Bruges Good For a Day Trip?

I certainly say so! In fact, we didn’t love Brussels as much as the other  European cities  that we visited. Our day trip to Bruges was the highlight of my time in Belgium!  

There was a minute when we wondered if we should have just spent our  two nights in Bruges , but I am glad we didn’t. That would have required us to switch to/from our Thalys trains to the Belgium Intercity train on our two main travel days, both from  Paris  and Amsterdam. This would have made our travel days longer and left more room for error. So, I am glad that we chose to stay in  Brussels  and take a day trip to Bruges!

If you’re looking for a day trip from Brussels, Bruges should definitely be on your travel bucket list. And if you have more time, consider making an extra stop in  Ghent  along the way! 

Back to the Agenda

Live Euro 2024 Matches at Gare Maritime

27 june @ 18:00 - 20:00.

Dive into the action at the Gare Maritime of Tour & Taxis! Join us to support the Belgian national team during the UEFA European Football Championship matches. Experience the excitement of live football on a big screen in a unique and historic setting.

Gather with friends, family, and fellow football enthusiasts in our specially prepared space for the occasion. The giant screen will broadcast every thrilling moment of Belgium’s matches, allowing you to follow every play with unparalleled intensity.

Settle in comfortably, enjoy snacks and refreshments, and immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of the competition. Whether you’re a dedicated supporter or just looking for a lively night out, this event is the perfect place to experience the passion of live football.

Join us at the Gare Maritime of Tour & Taxis and make every match a memorable moment in a venue steeped in history and camaraderie.

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