BRUSSELS TO BRUGES: BUSES, TRAINS + TRAVEL ADVICE FOR 2025
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Wondering how to get from Brussels to Bruges?
One of the best things about traveling in Europe is how easy it is to visit multiple destinations—everything is so close! During my recent trip to Belgium, I spent five days exploring, including a day trip from Brussels to Bruges by train.
With just over an hour between the two cities, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience Bruges’ enchanting canals and medieval charm, even if you’re short on time. Whether you’re planning a quick visit or a longer stay, I’ll guide you through the best ways to travel from Brussels to Bruges, making your journey simple and enjoyable. Let’s dive in!
Don’t miss 15 Reasons Why Brussels Is Worth Visiting & Why It’s Not
HOW TO GET FROM BRUSSELS TO BRUGES

When traveling in Belgium, keep in mind that Brussels and Bruges have different spellings depending on the language. Brussels is also spelled Bruxelles, and Bruges is Brugge. You’ll see these versions on Google Maps, travel apps, and at train stations. Now that you’re in the know, let’s dive into how to get from Bruxelles to Brugge!
Here are the three best ways to get from Brussels to Bruges:
BY TRAIN
Taking the train from Brussels to Bruges is such an easy and stress-free way to travel between these two Belgian cities. You can hop on at any of the main Brussels stations, and in just over an hour, you’ll arrive within walking distance of the heart of Bruges. I loved sitting back, relaxing, and watching the countryside roll by!

- Departing Station: Bruxelles-Central or Bruxelles-Midi – pay attention to where you book your ticket; they are on opposite sides of town.
- Arrival Station: Brugge-Sent-Pieters
- Route: Indirect, one-stop required
- Duration: Approx. 1 hr. 20 min.
Don’t worry about navigating a train station in a foreign country—it’s not as intimidating as it seems! The schedules are straightforward, there are attendants around to help, and most people speak English. Every time I got on a train, I double-checked with a fellow passenger to make sure I was headed in the right direction, and they were always friendly, understood me, and responded in English.
➡️ Book Your Train Tickets Here! ⬅️
BY BUS
For budget travelers, buses are a cheaper transportation method. They are a safe and reliable option. You lose the flexibility to explore stops along the way, but you still get to relax and take in the scenery.
- Departing Locations: Brussels Airport and train stations( Brussels-Midi, Brussels-Central, & Brussels-North)
- Arrival Location: Brugge-Sent-Pieters
- Cost: $13-$40, prices increase on weekends and peak times
- Duration: 1-2 hours
While it’s a budget-friendly choice, keep in mind that buses may not run as frequently. And while the buses can take a bit longer, it’s a viable alternative if you’re looking to save some euros and enjoy a scenic, leisurely ride.
➡️ Book Your Bus Tickets Here! ⬅️
BY CAR
If you prefer to travel at your own pace, driving is another great option. Renting a car gives you the ability to go at your own pace and the flexibility to explore stops along the way.
- Pickup Location: Brussels Airport or major city centers
- Cost: Renting a car in Brussels costs around $37–$43 per day for a compact car, with weekly rates averaging about $302.
- Duration: Approx. 1.5 hours via the E40 highway.
Renting a car is straightforward, and booking in advance online often secures better deals. However, remember that parking in Bruges can be limited and may come with a fee.
➡️ Check Rental Car Prices Here! ⬅️
WHERE TO STAY

When planning your trip, accommodations are a key consideration. Brussels offers a wide range of options at various price points, with costs generally decreasing the further you move from Grand Place. While Bruges is smaller, it still has a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and tastes, offering everything from cozy guesthouses to more upscale hotels. Whether you’re looking for something charming or luxurious, you’ll find great options in both cities.
BRUSSELS ACCOMMODATIONS
➡️ OPO Hotel – You don’t have to sacrifice quality for location with this budget-friendly option. Centrally located, it offers glowing reviews, charming ambiance, and a stunning neo-renaissance heritage building.
➡️ Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo – A five-star luxury hotel that has it all—just steps from Grand Place, with gorgeous rooms, tons of character, top-notch service, and amazing dining options!
BRUGES ACCOMMODATIONS
➡️ Hotel Portinari – Hotel Portinari is a budget-friendly option offering modern comfort and historic charm, just a short walk from Bruges’ city center. Enjoy local flavors at the restaurant CULT or relax on the picturesque terrace while experiencing the city’s beauty.
➡️ Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce – This upscale boutique hotel offers top-notch service and is just steps from the historic areas of Bruges. With glowing customer reviews and a romantic atmosphere, it’s the perfect luxury retreat.
FAQS
When traveling to a new destination, figuring out accommodations is just one piece of the puzzle. There’s a lot more to research to ensure you make the most of your trip. Below, I’m answering some additional questions about Brussels and Bruges to help you plan!
IS BRUGES WORTH A DAY TRIP FROM BRUSSELS?

Absolutely! One of the best things about Europe is how close amazing destinations are to each other. If you have the chance, I highly recommend taking a day trip to Bruges. It’s one of the most fairytale-like places I’ve visited, with its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and stunning medieval architecture. It’s the perfect spot to step into a storybook setting for the day!
HOW MUCH IS A TRAIN TICKET FROM BRUSSELS TO BRUGES?
There are two fares on the train from Brussels to Bruges.
✅ Standard: $22.51
✅ 1st Class: $34.65
IS IT CHEAPER TO PRE BOOK TRAIN TICKETS IN BELGIUM?
Yes, purchasing train tickets in advance is often the most cost-effective option. These tickets usually go on sale about 12 weeks before your travel date. While they come with the limitation of being for a specific train, meaning you can’t change your travel times, the trade-off is a much cheaper price compared to flexible tickets.
IS BRUGES NICER THAN BRUSSELS?
It really comes down to personal preference, as both cities offer their own unique charm. Bruges is often considered more picturesque and romantic, with its medieval architecture, canals, and cobblestone streets creating a fairytale-like vibe.
Brussels, being a larger, more bustling city, has a mix of cultural experiences but does have some areas with higher levels of petty crime, especially on the outskirts. Bruges tends to feel quieter and safer, while Brussels offers a vibrant city life with more museums, restaurants, and attractions.
THE WRAP-UP: BRUSSELS TO BRUGES
So there you have it! These are the three best ways to get from Brussels to Bruges.
The train is the most convenient, the bus is the budget-friendly choice, and driving gives you the most flexibility. Plus, I’ve thrown in a few lodging recommendations to make your trip even easier. Now, all that’s left is for you to enjoy your adventure—safe travels!