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I was actually quite surprised how fun the bar scene in Bruges was. For a quiet city, touted for its romantic vibes (which are there) there were also a ton of fun breweries, trendy cocktail bars and great spots for drinks with views. Since I’m forever on a quest to find the best bars when I travel I tried a LOT of them in Bruges and have put together this list of my 10 favorites!
Disclaimer: This article contains some links where I earn commission through booking. There is no extra cost to you, and I only recommend things I’ve used and love or places I’ve stayed and enjoyed!
Bar Des Amis
Best Overall
This was my favorite bar in Bruges. It has a great patio for during the day and at night its always busy, but didn’t feel overwhelming. This place has a laid back vibe and is the perfect place to grab a local beer (or three)
Brewery Bourgogne des Flandres
Best Brewery
This place was recommended to me by so many different people. It was a cool spot, there was a bunch of different areas you could sit, inclding the canal-side patio, which was defnitely thr highlight. The beer was also 👌coming from someone who usually prefers wine! This spot is a can’t miss for anyone on a first visit to Bruges.
Duvelorium Belgian Beer Bar
Best for Views
More of a toursity spot, but worth it if you’re visiting Bruges for the first time & want the best views of Grote Markt. The Duvelorium Belgian Beer Bar is located on the second floor of the Bruges Historium Museum. You can visit the bar without a ticket to the museum. The bar has an awesome patio overlooking of all Grote Markt, and is the best way to get less obstructed views of the whole square!
Beerwall
Best Variety
This was a cool spot, and would be particularly cool if you were a true beer lover. They had SO many options, but in addition to that the overall vibe was super chill and the patio overlooking the canals was a great place to take a break between all your sightseeing.
Le Trappiste
Best Local Spot
This underground beer experience feels a bit more authentic than some of the other more tourist-focused spots on this list. This place is buzzy, has a great beer selection all served in a Medieval style basement that adds to the overall charm.
Groot Vlaenderen
Best Cocktail Bar
For the best and most inventive cocktails in Bruge try Groot Vlaenderen, a more upscale cocktail bar in Old Town Bruges. The Groot cocktail is their signature, but they had tons of great cocktail options; the Lemon Meringue drink is another fan favorite.
Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan
Best Deep Dive into Belgian Beer
For an in depth brewery tour with lots of information on Belgian beer culture and brewing, head to Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan. You’ll take a tour of their unique, authentic brewery (complete with a rooftop with panoramic views of Bruges) and complete the tour with a complementary beer on their lovely terrace.
this tour has lots of stairs and narrow staircases, so keep that in mind if you plan to visit!
Bieratelier Brugge
Best Dive Bar
For a super fun dive bar, complete with hot dogs, loaded fries and bras hanging from the ceiling, try Bieratelier. This place was so fun – laid back, lively, & local
ODA Rooftop Bar
Best Rooftop
In fairness, there are not a ton of rooftops in Bruges, so this is one of the only (and best) but I can’t resist a good rooftop anywhere. Head here at sunset for some of the best views!
Het Rand Lounge Bar
Best Lounge
For a fun lounge vibe, head to the downstairs of Het Rand. Chill overall vibe, good cocktails and friendly bartenders!
