Europe: Top activities for families in Bruges

The Frietmuseum is a quirky museum dedicated to Belgium’s famous fries. The museum offers an engaging look at the history of potatoes and the process of making fries. Kids will enjoy the fun and informative displays, and at the end of the visit, families can sample some delicious fries in the museum’s café. It’s a light-hearted and enjoyable experience that combines history with one of Belgium’s favorite foods.

Burg Square is another of Bruges’ historic squares, known for its beautiful architecture. The square is home to several important buildings, including the City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Families can explore the square, take in the sights, and learn about the history of Bruges. The square often hosts events and markets, providing an opportunity for children to experience the local culture and traditions.

Bruges is known for its picturesque canals, and a boat tour is a great way for families to see the city from a different perspective. The tours are short, typically around 30 minutes, making them ideal for young children. Along the way, you’ll pass under stone bridges, see historic buildings, and learn about the city’s history from a knowledgeable guide. It’s a relaxing and scenic way to explore Bruges.

The Bruges Ice Sculpture Festival is an annual event that takes place in the winter and is a magical experience for families. The festival features incredible ice sculptures, many of which are themed around popular children’s stories or movies. The colorful lights and intricate designs make it a captivating experience for young children. Be sure to bundle up, as the festival is held in a chilled environment to keep the sculptures intact.

The Bruges Puppet Theater offers family-friendly performances that are sure to delight young children. The shows are typically based on fairy tales or traditional stories and are performed in Dutch, but the visual nature of the puppetry makes them accessible to non-Dutch speakers as well. The theater’s intimate setting and charming performances make it a memorable experience for kids, offering a taste of local culture.

Zand Square is the largest square in Bruges and is known for its fountains and large open space. Families can relax by the fountains, let the kids run around, and enjoy a snack from one of the nearby cafes. The square often hosts markets and events, adding to the lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to take a break and soak in the local ambiance while the children play.

The Market Square (Markt) is the heart of Bruges and a great place for families to explore. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the famous Belfry Tower, and is often filled with lively markets and street performers. Kids will enjoy the horse-drawn carriage rides that depart from the square, offering a fun and relaxing way to see the city. The square’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot.

Koningin Astridpark is a lovely park in Bruges that’s perfect for families. The park features a playground, a pond with ducks, and plenty of open space for children to run and play. It’s a peaceful oasis in the city, where families can relax and enjoy some outdoor time. The park is also home to a small café, making it a convenient spot for a snack or a drink while the kids play.

The Belfry of Bruges is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Families can climb the 366 steps to the top for a panoramic view of Bruges. While the climb may be challenging for very young children, older kids will love the adventure and the reward of the stunning view at the top. The Belfry also houses a carillon with 47 bells, and if you’re lucky, you might hear a live performance during your visit.

Historium Bruges is an interactive museum that takes visitors on a journey through medieval Bruges. The experience includes a series of rooms with immersive scenes, special effects, and a storyline that brings the city’s history to life. Children will enjoy the engaging presentation and the opportunity to learn about the past in a fun and interactive way. The museum also has a VR experience that offers a virtual flight over Bruges.

De Halve Maan Brewery offers tours that are family-friendly and give an insight into the brewing process. While the brewery is more aimed at adults, older children can enjoy learning about how beer is made, and the tour includes a climb to the rooftop for a fantastic view of Bruges. The brewery also has a restaurant with a menu that includes kid-friendly options, making it a good stop for lunch or dinner.

The Sint-Janshuismolen Windmill is one of the few remaining windmills in Bruges and is open to the public. Families can climb to the top of the windmill for a unique view of the city and learn about the history of milling in Bruges. The windmill is located in a park, providing a nice spot for a picnic or a walk. It’s a simple but enjoyable activity that combines history with a bit of exercise.

The Gruuthuse Museum is a historical museum located in a former palace. The museum’s exhibits include tapestries, furniture, and other artifacts that tell the story of Bruges’ past. The building itself is impressive, and children will enjoy exploring the different rooms and imagining what life was like in medieval times. The museum also offers activities for kids, making it a more engaging experience for young visitors.

St. John’s Hospital is one of the oldest hospitals in Europe and now serves as a museum. The museum offers a glimpse into medieval medical practices, with displays of old instruments, manuscripts, and artwork. While the subject matter might be a bit heavy, the historic building and the unusual exhibits can be fascinating for older children. The museum also offers art workshops for kids, providing a creative outlet during your visit.

Located just outside Bruges, Loppem Castle is a charming historic site with beautiful gardens and a labyrinth that’s perfect for children. The castle itself is well-preserved, and families can explore its rooms and learn about its history. The highlight for kids, however, is the large maze in the garden, where they can run around and try to find their way out. The peaceful surroundings make it a lovely place for a family outing.

The Choco-Story Museum is a sweet treat for families visiting Bruges. The museum tells the story of chocolate, from its origins to modern-day production. Children will love the interactive exhibits, chocolate-making demonstrations, and, of course, the tastings. The museum is both educational and fun, making it a perfect stop for families with a sweet tooth. It’s a great way to learn about one of Belgium’s most famous exports.

Minnewater Park, also known as the Lake of Love Park, is a beautiful, serene spot in Bruges. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake, feed the swans, and relax on the grassy areas. The park is perfect for a picnic, and there’s plenty of space for children to run and play. The picturesque setting and tranquil atmosphere make it a great place to unwind and enjoy some quality family time.

The Bruges Art Route is a great way to introduce children to art in an interactive and engaging way. The route takes you through the city’s streets, where you’ll find various public artworks and sculptures. Kids will enjoy spotting the different pieces, and the walk also takes you through some of Bruges’ most scenic areas. It’s a fun and educational way to explore the city while encouraging creativity.

The Beguinage is a peaceful retreat in the heart of Bruges. This historic site was once home to a community of beguines, and today it’s a tranquil spot for families to explore. The whitewashed houses and serene gardens provide a quiet contrast to the bustling city. While the Beguinage is more of a contemplative space, children will enjoy the open areas where they can walk and explore. It’s a nice place to relax and soak in the history.

Boudewijn Seapark is a family-friendly theme park located just outside Bruges. The park offers a variety of attractions, including dolphin and seal shows, a large playground, and gentle rides suitable for young children. The park also has an indoor play area and an ice skating rink, making it a great destination no matter the weather. The combination of marine life shows and fun rides ensures that kids will be entertained for hours.