A charming white canal-side hotel and restaurant in Bruges reflects softly in the calm water.

Best Hotels in Bruges for First-Time Visitors

Looking for the best hotels in Bruges for your first visit?

If you’re anything like me, you want to stay somewhere that’s super charming, central, and maybe even has a canal view? But… don’t want to spend hours scrolling through reading all the reviews!

Don’t worry, I got you!

When I visited Bruges last December, I had only one day — but I made it count. I soaked in the Christmas markets, saw all the sights, ate my weight in Belgian waffles… and did a deep dive on the best places to stay.

And while I didn’t stay overnight on that trip, I did a ton of research on the best hotels in town, and I’m sharing my top picks with you here.

I have pretty high standards, so if it made my list, it’s because I’d personally stay there — or recommend it to a close friend.

I’m here to save you time, help you avoid decision fatigue, and make sure your stay in Bruges is just as magical as the city itself.

A charming white canal-side hotel and restaurant in Bruges reflects softly in the calm water. You said: She Knows Alt Text said: Kate smiles by a Bruges canal with the Belfry tower and historic brick buildings in the background.

Short on Time? I’d Choose One Of These Hotels First!

Luxury: Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce
Mid Range: Hotel de Castillion
Budget: Martin’s Brugge

Where to Stay in Bruges For First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first time in Bruges, the old city center near the Market Square (Markt) is the best place to stay.

This area puts you right in the heart of the action, surrounded by winding canals, Christmas markets, shops, restaurants, and all the postcard-perfect cobblestone streets.

It’s super walkable and makes it easy to see everything without needing a car or public transport.

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    Best Hotels in Bruges For First Timers That Match Your Budget

    I’ve done the research for you and found the best places to stay in Bruges, no matter your budget. Here are my top three favorites that I think you’ll love.

    Best Luxury Hotels in Bruges

    If you’re dreaming of a luxury stay in Bruges, these three hotels are absolutely stunning.

    The first one is my personal favorite — but honestly, I’d love to stay in any of them. Each offers charm, elegance, and an unbeatable location for exploring the city.

    The illuminated canals and medieval buildings of Bruges shimmer at night with the Belfry tower glowing in the distance.
    Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce
    A cozy, elegant hotel room in Bruges features soft blue floral decor, a large bed, and vintage wooden furniture.
    Rooms with canal views!

    🏨 Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce

    This hotel is pure magic and my number one pick.

    It’s right in the historic old town, just steps from all the sights and the Christmas markets, with a warm, romantic vibe that feels straight out of a storybook.

    The location is unbeatable and the interiors are gorgeous — highly recommend!

    Check Availability Here!
    A tranquil night view of Bruges with canal reflections, glowing lights, and the Church of Our Lady illuminated in the distance.
    Hotel de Orangerie has amazing views!
    A warm, elegant hotel room in Bruges features a cozy fireplace, soft lighting, and classic décor with floral wallpaper.
    Luxurious rooms with canal views

    🏨 Hotel de Orangerie by CW Hotel Collection

    Old-world elegance meets modern comfort at this beautiful canal-side hotel.

    The rooms are dreamy, the views are postcard-perfect, and you’re right in the heart of the city. It’s peaceful, romantic, and just a short stroll to the Christmas markets.

    Check Availability Here!
    The elegant white façade of Hotel Heritage in Bruges stands under a clear blue sky with flower boxes on each window.
    Hotel Heritage
    A luxurious hotel room at Hotel Heritage features a plush bed, ornate chandelier, and breakfast served on a silver tray.
    Super comfortable beds!

    🏨 Relais & Chateaux Hotel Heritage

    This 5-star gem is absolutely stunning inside and out.

    You’ll be spoiled with beautiful architecture, plush rooms, and thoughtful touches like evening turndown with chocolates.

    The location is perfect for first-timers, just a short walk from everything you’ll want to see and do.

    Check Availability Here!

    Best Mid-Range Hotels in Bruges

    If you want something beautiful and centrally located without the hefty price tag, these mid-range picks are all amazing options.

    Hotel de Castillion is my personal favorite in this group. It’s the one I’m dreaming of staying in next, ever since I visited it last December!

    Kate smiles under an umbrella in front of a hotel covered in festive Christmas decorations in Bruges.
    Hotel de Castillion decorates the front like a Christmas tree!
    A luxurious and romantic hotel room features rustic wooden beams, a canopy bed, a chandelier, and a cozy sitting area beside an exposed brick fireplace.
    Love the romantic vibes!

    🏨 Hotel de Castillion

    This boutique hotel is so cozy and romantic!

    I visited during my trip to Bruges and immediately said, “I have to stay here next time!” It’s quiet, full of charm, and decorated beautifully for Christmas, with the sweetest little courtyard.

    It’s a bit tucked away, but still within easy walking distance to the main sights.

    Check Availability Here!
    A canal-side view of a tall historic brick building in Bruges reflected in the calm water, framed by green trees and old stone walls.
    Hotel Bourgoensch Hof has the best location!
    A modern hotel room with red curtains, a comfortable double bed, and a view of Bruges’ rooftops through large windows.
    Rooms with gorgeous views of Bruges!

    🏨 Hotel Bourgoensch Hof 

    For location and value, this one is hard to beat.

    It’s right by the canals, super close to the markets, and has that classic Bruges charm. The rooms are simple but cozy.

    A great place if you want a central stay without spending a fortune.

    Check Availability Here!
    A peaceful canal in Bruges lined with historic gabled houses and a tall church tower in the background under a clear blue sky.
    Hotel de Tuilerieen is the white hotel in the picture.
    A bright and elegant hotel room featuring soft cream tones, a large bed, and windows overlooking the city of Bruges
    Plush rooms overlooking the canal

    🏨 Hotel de Tuilerieen

    This hotel offers a luxurious feel at a reasonable price.

    The rooms are elegant, some with canal views, and it’s just a short walk from all the top spots.

    If you want something a little fancier but still affordable, this is a solid pick.

    Check Availability Here!

    Best Budget Hotels in Bruges

    If you’re traveling on a budget, don’t worry — you can still stay somewhere clean, comfy, and right in the heart of Bruges.

    If I were picking one in this group, Martin’s Brugge would be my top choice!

    A close-up of a hanging sign for Hotel Martin’s Brugge, set against a backdrop of traditional brick buildings.
    Hotel Martin’s Brugge is perfectly located in the Old Town.
    A sleek modern hotel room with light wood floors, soft neutral tones, and a view into a compact bathroom with clean design.
    Very clean and comfortable rooms!

    🏨 Martin’s Brugge

    This is hands-down the best budget-friendly hotel right in the historic center.

    The location is perfect, just steps from the Belfry and Christmas markets, and the rooms are clean, comfy, and modern.

    You really can’t go wrong with this choice.

    Check Availability Here!
    A bright hotel room in Bruges with two large beds, warm brown tones, and chocolate-themed wall decor.
    The Chocolate Suites are perfect for the holidays!
    A playful donut-themed hotel room featuring bold orange curtains, golden bedding, and colorful dessert-inspired artwork.
    Playful chocolate-themed rooms!

    🏨 The Chocolate Suites

    If you want something a little quirky and fun, this chocolate-themed hotel is adorable.

    It has amazing city views and is perfectly located for the Christmas market season.

    Just note: There’s no air conditioning, so it’s best for fall and winter stays.

    Check Availability Here!
    A stunning view from a window overlooking Bruges’ bustling Market Square, featuring the Belfry tower and historic guild buildings.
    Hotel Central has amazing views of the main square in Bruges!
    A modern hotel room with a large bed, brown accents, and windows offering a view of the Market Square in Bruges.
    Simple but very clean!

    🏨 Hotel Central

    This one is literally on the main square!

    You’ll walk out your door and be right in the middle of Bruges’ prettiest square, under the famous bell tower and historic buildings.

    The rooms are simple but clean, and the location really can’t be beat, especially if you’re visiting during the holidays.

    Check Availability Here!

    Map of The Best Hotels in Bruges

    A historic brick building with red-trimmed windows stands along a canal in Bruges under a cloudy sky. You said: She Knows Alt Text said: People stroll past whitewashed shops decorated with wreaths and garlands in Bruges’ charming old town. You said: She Knows Alt Text said: Crowds gather in Brussels’ Grand Place, surrounded by ornate historic guildhalls under a bright blue sky. You said: She Knows Alt Text said: Tour boats filled with people glide along the canals of Bruges past historic brick buildings. You said: She Knows Alt Text said: Kate smiles with a warm drink in hand in Bruges’ Markt Square, surrounded by colorful gabled houses.

    Tips For Booking Your Accommodations in Bruges

    When booking a hotel in Bruges, there are a few things to keep in mind — especially if you’re visiting during the holiday season.

    Here are my top tips to help you get the best stay possible.

    Book Early

    Bruges is one of the most popular villages to visit in Belgium — and it’s tiny.

    The best hotels in the city center book up really quickly, especially around Christmas, so the earlier you reserve your stay, the better.

    Avoid Booking on the Weekends

    Weekends in Bruges are always busy, especially in December.

    If you can swing it, visiting on a weekday will give you better hotel availability, slightly lower prices, and fewer crowds.

    Book Hotels With Free Cancellations

    You never know what could happen when traveling, especially in the winter. Trust me, it sucks being stuck with a non-refundable room when plans change for the worse.

    I always look for hotels with free cancellation, especially when planning trips during the winter or Christmas market season. It’s a little peace of mind that goes a long way.

    You Don’t Need a Car

    Bruges is super walkable, and everything in the old town is close together.

    There’s also a free shuttle bus from the Bruges train station to the city center, plus Ubers and taxis if needed — so skip the car and avoid the headache of trying to park in this small town.

    Crowds wander through Bruges’ Christmas market with flags and gabled houses in the background.

    FAQ’s About Staying in Bruges

    Still have a few questions? Here are some quick answers based on my own experience that’ll help you feel better about planning your stay.

    Should I stay overnight in Bruges?

    Yes — this is the best way to really get a feel for this medieval village, especially when it quiets down in the evening. I stayed as long as I could on my day trip, but I really wish I’d had at least one night there!

    How many days do you need in Bruges?

    At least two days is ideal, but it’s also a popular (and doable) day trip from Brussels, which is how I visited it.

    Is Bruges a walkable city?

    Yes! I walked everywhere easily in one day — so I’d say it’s super walkable, especially for first-time visitors.

    Is Bruges safe to walk at night?

    Yes, I didn’t feel unsafe at all walking around at night during my solo trip — it felt peaceful and relaxed.

    How far is Bruges from the airport?

    It’s about 1.5 hours from Brussels Airport by train or car.

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      That’s a Wrap

      I really hope this guide helped you pick the best hotels in Bruges for your first visit.

      Where you stay can really make your experience, and I just want it to be as magical and memorable as possible.

      If visiting Bruges is just part of your Christmas market trip in Europe, be sure to grab my free Christmas Market Guide and Packing Checklist. It’s packed with helpful tips so you’re ready for anything the season throws your way.

      Thanks for reading!
      Catch ya on the next adventure.