Private Bruges Day Trip from Amsterdam with Flexible Sightseeing

Summary

Self-Guided Bruges Tour with Private Driver from Amsterdam

If you want to explore Bruges your way—with time for chocolate tasting, canal cruises, or just getting lost in medieval streets—this private transfer is perfect. You set your own pace and see what interests you most, all without worrying about trains or timetables.

What’s the experience like?

We left Amsterdam just as the sun was coming up—our driver was right on time, waiting outside our hotel with a bottle of water and a friendly smile. The drive down to Bruges took about three hours, but it went by quickly thanks to the comfy seats and free WiFi in the van. I even managed to snap a few photos of the Dutch countryside rolling past while sipping my coffee.

Once we reached Bruges, it felt like stepping into another world. Cobbled streets, old brick houses, and that faint smell of waffles drifting from a street cart near Markt Square. Our driver pointed out the Belfry right away—it’s hard to miss, towering above everything else. We decided to climb it (366 steps!) and caught our breath at the top while church bells rang out below. The view over the rooftops was worth every step.

Afterwards, we wandered through narrow lanes toward the Basilica of the Holy Blood. It’s tucked away on Burg Square—easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. Inside, there’s this quiet hush and flickering candles everywhere. I’d read about its history before, but seeing it up close made it real.

Lunch was at a tiny café called De Stove (the guide recommended it), where we tried local stew and fries—simple but honestly good. Later, we strolled past lace shops and popped into a chocolatier for some pralines (the owner let us taste a few). If you’re into beer, don’t skip the Bruges Beer Museum; it’s right off Breidelstraat and you can sample a few brews in their tasting room.

The Beguinage was peaceful—whitewashed buildings around a quiet courtyard with ducks waddling by. We finished with a canal cruise; the water was calm that afternoon and you get this totally different angle on the city from down low. Before heading back to Amsterdam, I grabbed some waffles for the road—still warm in their paper bag.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bruges Highlights and Free Time

• Climb Belfry of Bruges
• Buy Belgian chocolate
• Free time to explore Bruges
• Visit Basilica of the Holy Blood
• See Beguinage
• Explore Historic Centre
• Canal cruise
• Visit Bruges Beer Museum
• See Michael Angelo church

Top questions

How long do we have in Bruges?

The total trip lasts up to 11 hours including travel time; you'll have several hours in Bruges itself depending on traffic.

Is this tour guided?

This is a self-guided experience—you choose what to see in Bruges. Your driver can give tips but won't join you inside attractions.

Can we bring kids or strollers?

Yes! Infants can ride in a stroller or sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

What if we want to visit specific places?

You decide which sights or activities you'd like—just let your driver know your preferences when you arrive in Bruges.

What’s included

Your private roundtrip transfer includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Amsterdam, bottled water on board, free WiFi during the drive, plus plenty of flexibility once you reach Bruges. Your driver will offer local advice but you'll explore at your own pace—perfect for families or small groups who want freedom without hassle.