Market Square (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Market Square?
What makes it 92% Couple-Friendly: Couples find the medieval façades, evening lights and private €55 horse-carriage ride romantic, plus many cafés for a lingering meal, making the square a top shared experience.
Positives:
- Central Location: Market Square is walkable to all main Bruges attractions for an easy day plan.
- Photogenic Spot: Medieval façades and canal views create memorable couple portraits.
Challenges:
- High Season Crowds: The square fills by midday in summer; arrive early to avoid congestion.
- Weather Exposure: Few covered areas; bring a raincoat for sudden showers.
What is Market Square?
- A medieval marketplace square at the heart of Bruges, serving as the city’s principal commercial and civic hub
- A broad cobbled plaza framed by the 13th-century Belfry Tower, the Gothic Provincial Court and a sequence of ornate brick guild houses
- A site anchored by a bronze monument commemorating the 1302 Battle of the Golden Spurs and surrounded by civic and commercial edifices of medieval origin
What is so special about Market Square for couple trip?
- Take a private carriage ride through historic alleys.
- Enjoy a canal cruise with live medieval commentary.
- Climb the Belfry for panoramic city views.
- Capture photos among Gothic guild houses and street performers.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: A quick visit lets you explore the square, climb the Belfry, and enjoy a canal cruise without feeling rushed.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Market Square
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride:
Board a private 30-minute carriage at the edge of the square and loop past windmills and the Beguinage.
Tip: Pay €55 cash to the driver. Schedule your ride around sunset for golden light on the facades.
Canal Boat Tour:
Join a 30–60-minute open-air cruise with live commentary on medieval bridges and houses.
Tip: Buy tickets (€8–€10 pp) at the kiosk by the Belfry. Morning departures are less crowded.
Climb the Belfry Tower:
Ascend 366 steps for a 360° panorama over Market Square and Bruges’ red roofs.
Tip: Reserve tickets (€15 pp) online to skip the line. Wear comfortable shoes for the narrow stairs.
Stroll and Photo Watch:
Wander among Gothic guild houses and watch street performers near the Belfry.
Tip: Visit at sunrise for soft light and empty streets. Take close-ups of ornate carvings on the façades.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Market Square
- Ticket Bundles: Use the Musea Brugge Card for free Belfry entry and canal tour discounts.
- Early Bird Start: Visit before 10 a.m. to enjoy a quieter square and fresh waffles.
Reviews of Market Square
Deborah Edwards
Brugge is a beautiful and historic city that should be experienced. Very friendly people, amazing architecture and so many stories that come from the region.
Sónia Martins
Beautiful square plaza surrounded by iconic buildings with stunning architecture. There are some benches were you can chill for a moment observing the vista. There are several cafes and restaurants around. Highly recommended.
Robert McKay Jones
What a spectacular place, especially on market day. It impacts all the senses. Church bells, smells of flowers and great food, the sight of old and new. Bustling. Charming. ❤️
Jeremy Marissen
The atmosphere is amazing and the architecture is gorgeous, I definitely recommend the horse and buggy ride to see more of the hidden locations of the city center. The guides are very knowledgeable. So many places to eat and drink
Aank Sandoval
I visited Market Square in Belgium and found it to be a truly beautiful place. The architecture is stunning, and the overall atmosphere is very welcoming. There was an event happening when I went, which made the visit even more enjoyable. I joined briefly, and there were a few fun things to see and do. It’s a great mix of history, culture, and local life. Highly recommended if you're in town.
When is the best time to visit Market Square (Bruges, Belgium)?
On Wednesdays 8–11 a.m., browse the local food and flower market. In December, enjoy the nearby Christmas market's mulled wine stalls.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Horse-drawn carriage ride | EUR 55 |
| Canal boat tour for two | EUR 18 |
| Belfry Tower climb for two | EUR 30 |
| Belgian waffles snack | EUR 8 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 111 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Market Square
Address: Markt, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
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About Market Square
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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