Where to Stay in Bruges: My Favourite Areas & Hotels for a First Trip

Looking for where to stay in Bruges? Here’s my honest guide to the best areas and hotels for a first trip, including where I stayed, the hotels I had on my own shortlist, and how I’d choose your base depending on your trip.

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Where you choose to stay in Bruges can genuinely shape the whole experience of your trip, trust me—I’ve been twice!

The city is compact and very walkable, but your hotel location still matters—especially if this is your first visit, you’re only staying for one or two nights, or you want to make the most of early Bruges mornings and evenings in the city centre.

On my second visit to Bruges, I stayed at Hotel Acacia, which also works incredibly well as a first-timer’s base in the historic centre.

Hotel Acacia!

In a hop and a skip, I could reach nearly every bit of Bruges on my one-day Bruges itinerary and my weekend in Bruges itinerary too.

But Hotel Acacia’s not the only option for your Bruges trip.

You might want a canal-side boutique hotel, a more classic hotel with extra facilities, a better-value stay close to the Belfry, or somewhere that makes more sense if you’re arriving by car.

In this guide, I’ll be sharing where I stayed in Bruges, the other hotels that were on my list that I’d genuinely consider, and how I’d choose the best area depending on whether you’re visiting for a romantic weekend, a first Belgium trip, a Christmas market break, or a quick city escape.

Shall we?

About the Author

Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.

On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.

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🗞️📺 As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.

At a Glance: My Favourite Hotels in Bruges, Belgium

Hotel	Best for	Location vibe / Area
Hotel Acacia	Best overall for a first Bruges trip	Central old town, close to Markt
Martin’s Relais	Best boutique canal stay	Historic canal-side Bruges
Hotel Navarra Brugge	Best central stay with pool/wellness	Old town, classic hotel
Martin’s Brugge	Best value near the Belfry	Right by Markt/Belfry
Velotel Brugge	Best with a car or bikes	Outside the historic centre

Top 3 Picks: Where to Stay in Bruges

#1 TOP PICK

Hotel Acacia
✔️ Best overall for a first trip
✔️ 3-min walk to Markt
✔️ Where I stayed & easy to reach all itinerary stops for one day or two days in Bruges

↳ Book it

#2 PICK

Martin’s Relais

✔️ Boutique canal-side stay
✔️ Better for romantic weekends / canal views

↳ Book it

#3 PICK

Martin’s Brugge
✔️ Best value near the Belfry
✔️ Very central and best value if just location matters for you

↳ Book it

Where I Stayed in Bruges: Hotel Acacia

On my second visit to Bruges, I stayed at Hotel Acacia. And the location was second to none.

It’s set in the historic centre, just a short walk from Markt and the Belfry, which meant I could get to the main sights, chocolate shops, restaurants, shopping streets and evening drinks without worrying about using public transport—not once!

Early morning walk to Markt straight from my hotel!

It’s just a 3-minute walk from Market Square and the Belfry, which made it perfect for popping in and out between sightseeing without being directly in one of Bruges’ busiest squares.

I’d especially recommend Hotel Acacia if it’s your first time in Bruges, you’re staying one or two nights, you’re arriving by train, or just want a hotel that makes the city feel easy from the second you check in.

It’s not the hotel I’d choose if you specifically want a canal view or a full luxury splurge, but for a stylish, central, practical and very easy Bruges base, it worked beautifully for my trip. Just around a 20-minute walk from the station!

P.S. – You can read my full Hotel Acacia Bruges review for more on the room, location and who I think the hotel is best for.

Best Areas to Stay in Bruges for a First Trip

Given Bruges isn’t a big city, I’d focus less on “neighbourhoods,” so to speak, when it comes to where to stay in Bruges and instead go by how close you want to be to the historic centre, canals, the train station or parking if you’ve come by car to Bruges.

Bruges is very (and I do mean very) walkable, so you don’t need to endlessly obsess over location. But if you only have one or two nights in Bruges, here are the parts of the city I suggest as a base.

Historic Centre / Markt and Belfry Area

If it’s your first time in Bruges, this is where I’d start.

Staying near Markt, the Belfry of Bruges, Burg Square and the surrounding old town puts you within easy walking distance of nearly all the main sights, chocolate shops, restaurants, cafés and Bruges’ best independent shopping streets.

This is the area I’d recommend for most first-time visitors because it’ll keep your whole trip simple. You can head out early for photos, walk back before dinner, and avoid spending your short Bruges stay thinking about transport.

📍 Best for: first-time visitors, short trips, Christmas markets, sightseeing and anyone who wants to be close to the classic Bruges views.

🏨 Hotels to consider: Hotel Acacia, Martin’s Brugge and Hotel Navarra Brugge.

Canal-Side Historic Bruges

If you want your Bruges stay to feel a little more romantic, I’d look at staying near the canal-side streets around the historic centre.

Atmosphere-wise, it’s hard to beat—old houses, water views, quieter corners and that very specific canal view you probably came for.

It’s still central, but feels a little more tucked away than staying right by Markt (Bruges’ main square).

📍 Best for: couples, romantic weekends, boutique hotel lovers and anyone looking for canal views.

🏨 Hotel to consider: Martin’s Relais

Outside the Historic Centre / With a Car

If you’re visiting Bruges with a car, the historic centre is beautiful, but it’s not always the easiest place for parking, dropping off your luggage or driving in and out.

In that case, staying slightly outside the centre can be more practical, especially if your hotel has parking, bike facilities or an easy way back into town (which this one does).

📍 Best for: road trips, parking, bikes and travellers who don’t mind being outside the most postcard-central part of Bruges.

🏨 Hotel to consider: Velotel Brugge

Should You Stay Near Bruges Train Station?

If you’re arriving by train, you don’t necessarily need to stay right by Bruges Station. Plus, it’s not that pretty!

The station is around a 15–20 minute walk from the historic centre (depending on where you’re heading first), so for a first Bruges trip I’d still prioritise staying closer to Markt, the Belfry, Burg Square or the canals.

If you have a lot of luggage, there’s also Uber in Brugge, so I wouldn’t worry about that either.

For more on trains, buses and walking around the city, read my guide to visiting Bruges without a car.

Best Hotels in Bruges for a First Trip

Now that we’ve covered the main areas, here’s how I’d choose between the five hotels I’d most seriously consider for a first trip to Bruges.

Hotel Acacia

Best for: If you’re a first-time visitor who wants an easy central base

If you want Bruges to feel simple from the moment you arrive, Hotel Acacia would be my first pick.

This is where I stayed on my second Bruges trip, and the location made such a difference.

You’re right in the historic centre and just a few minutes from Markt and the Belfry—with restaurants, chocolate shops, cafés, shopping streets and the main sights all within easy walking distance.

For me, Hotel Acacia worked because it gave me all the central Bruges convenience without feeling like I was staying directly on one of the busiest squares.

I’d book this one if you want a stylish, practical, first-timer-friendly hotel that makes it easy to do Bruges without constantly checking maps or planning transport.

I’d skip it if you specifically want a canal view, a full luxury hotel experience or a stay that feels more tucked away and romantic.

Martin’s Relais

Best for: If you want a boutique Bruges hotel with more of a canal-side, romantic feel

If you want your Bruges hotel to feel a little more tucked-away and atmospheric, Martin’s Relais would be one of the first places I’d look.

It’s set in the historic centre along the Spiegelrei canal, so it’s the kind of stay I’d choose if you want that classic Bruges picture of old houses, water views right outside your accommodation, again, without staying right by Markt.

Compared to Hotel Acacia, Martin’s Relais feels like the better fit if your trip is more of a romantic weekend, anniversary stay or slower two-night Bruges escape.

I’d book this one if you want a boutique hotel, canal-side setting and historic Bruges at your doorstep, while still being close enough to walk to the main sights.

I’d skip it if your main priority is being as close as possible to Markt and the Belfry, or if you’d rather have more classic hotel facilities like a pool or gym.

Hotel Navarra Brugge

Best for: If you want a central Bruges hotel with more hotel facilities and the property to be a big part of the experience

If you like the idea of staying in the historic centre, but still want a few more hotel extras, Hotel Navarra Brugge is the one I’d look at.

It’s set in the old town, close enough for an easy walk to Markt and the Belfry, but the appeal here is that you’re getting more than just a well-located room.

Hotel Navarra has an indoor pool, sauna, gym, garden and bar, which makes it a good choice if you want your Bruges stay to feel a little more comfortable between sightseeing.

I’d especially consider this one if you’re visiting in winter, travelling as a couple, or you’re the kind of person who likes having a proper hotel base to come back to after a day of walking, chocolate shops and canal views (hard life, I know).

I’d book this one if you want a central Bruges hotel with extra facilities, without moving outside the old town.

I’d skip it if you’re mainly looking for a smaller boutique canal-side stay, or if your biggest priority is finding the best-value hotel right by the Belfry.

P.S. – For an even splashier stay you can also consider Dukes’ Palace Brugge…

Martin’s Brugge

Best for: If you want the best value stay in an easy central location

If your main priority is location, Martin’s Brugge is one of the most practical hotels I’d consider.

It’s right by Markt and the Belfry, so this is the kind of place I’d look at if you want to be as close as possible to Bruges’ main square, Christmas market area, restaurants, chocolate shops and a ‘classic Bruges’ sightseeing route.

Compared to Hotel Acacia, I’d say Martin’s Brugge feels less like the “stylish first-trip base” pick and more like the “I want the easiest possible location for good value” pick. No shame in that.

I’d especially consider this one if you’re only staying one night, visiting Bruges for the Christmas markets, or you want to spend as little time as possible walking back to your hotel after dinner.

I’d book this one if you want a very central Bruges hotel and your main priority is being close to Markt and the Belfry.

I’d skip it if you want a quieter canal-side stay, more hotel facilities, or something that feels a little more boutique.

Velotel Brugge

Best for: If you’re visiting Bruges with a car or bike

If you’re driving to Bruges, Velotel Brugge would make the most practical sense for your trip.

It’s outside the historic centre, so I wouldn’t choose it if your dream is to step straight out into cobbled streets and canal views.

But if you’re coming by car, want parking, or like the idea of using bikes to get around, it could be a much easier base than trying to stay right in the middle of the old town.

I’d book this one if you’re visiting Bruges with a car, want bike-friendly facilities, or don’t mind being outside the most central part of the city.

I’d skip it if it’s your first time in Bruges and you want to walk out the door and be in the historic city centre.

How Many Nights Should You Stay in Bruges?

For most first-time visitors, I’d recommend staying one or two nights in Bruges.

One night works well if you’re already travelling around Belgium and want enough time to see the main sights, take a canal boat tour, have dinner in the historic centre and enjoy Bruges once the day-trippers have left.

Two nights is even better if you want a slower trip, especially if you’re planning to climb the Belfry, visit a museum, do some proper chocolate shopping, take your time around the canals and not feel like you’re rushing through every single stop.

Personally, after visiting Bruges as both a day trip and an overnight stay, I do think staying overnight makes a difference.

Early mornings and evenings are when Bruges feels most worth visiting, so if your budget allows, I’d choose at least one night rather than only coming in for the day.

For a first trip, I’d book somewhere central like Hotel Acacia, Martin’s Brugge or Hotel Navarra Brugge if you want the easiest base. If you’re making it a romantic weekend, I’d look more towards Martin’s Relais.

Use my One Day in Bruges itinerary if you’re short on time, or my Bruges weekend itinerary if you’re staying overnight.

Final Thoughts & Recommendation: Where I’d Stay in Bruges

If I were booking Bruges again for a first trip, I’d start with Hotel Acacia.

That’s partly because I stayed there myself and know the location worked well, but also because it gives you the thing I think matters most in Bruges—a deliriously easy, central base that lets you walk almost everywhere without overthinking your plans for the day. Especially if you’re only spending one day in Bruges or two days in Bruges.

That said, your choice will also depend on your trip.

If I wanted a more romantic canal-side stay, I’d look at Martin’s Relais. If I wanted extra facilities like a pool and sauna, I’d look at Hotel Navarra Brugge. If I wanted the best-value central location, I’d definitely go for Martin’s Brugge. And if I were visiting Bruges by car or travelling with bikes, I’d look at Velotel Brugge instead.

But for most first-time visitors, I’d keep it simple: stay central, stay walkable, and choose the hotel that makes your Bruges itinerary easiest!

Have an incredible (and very charming) trip.

Happy travels,

Candace x

FAQ: Where to Stay in Bruges

💭 What is the best area to stay in Bruges for first-time visitors?

For a first trip to Bruges, I’d stay in the historic centre, close to Markt, the Belfry of Bruges or the surrounding old town.

This keeps you within easy walking distance of the main sights, canals, restaurants, chocolate shops, cafés and shopping streets, especially helpful if you’re only staying for one or two nights.

💭 Is it better to stay in Bruges city centre?

For most visitors, yes, I think staying in Bruges city centre is worth it.

Bruges is small and walkable, so being central means you can make the most of the city without relying on transport. It’s especially helpful in the mornings and evenings, when the historic centre feels a lot calmer and less touristed, and you can enjoy Bruges outside the busiest day-trip hours.

💭 Should I stay near Bruges train station?

Personally, I wouldn’t stay near Bruges train station unless you have a very specific reason, like a massively early train, lots of luggage or a very short overnight stay.

But even then, the station is very walkable from the historic centre, so for a first trip I’d still prioritise staying closer to Markt, the Belfry, Burg Square or the canals.

💭 Where should I stay in Bruges without a car?

If you’re visiting Bruges without a car, I’d stay in the historic centre or canal-side old town.

This puts you close to the main sights and makes it easy to explore on foot. For this kind of trip, I’d look at Hotel Acacia, Martin’s Brugge, Hotel Navarra Brugge or Martin’s Relais.

💭 Where should I stay in Bruges with a car?

If you’re visiting Bruges with a car, I’d be more careful about staying right in the historic centre.

Central Bruges is beautiful, but parking and driving in the old town can make things a bit more complicated. If parking is a priority, Velotel Brugge is the hotel I’d consider personally.

💭 Where should I stay in Bruges for Christmas markets?

For the Bruges Christmas markets, I’d stay as close to Markt and the Belfry as your budget allows.

That way, you can walk to the main festive areas, enjoy the lights in the evening, and get back to your hotel easily afterwards. I’d also look at Martin’s Brugge, Hotel Acacia or Hotel Navarra Brugge for a central Christmas market stay.

💭 Is Bruges better as a day trip or overnight stay?

Bruges works well as a day trip, especially from Brussels, but I personally think staying overnight is better if your budget and itinerary allow.

I’ve visited Bruges both ways, and staying over gave me a much better feel for the city. The mornings and evenings are quieter, and you get more time for dinner, drinks, canal walks and exploring without rushing back to the train.

💭 How many nights do you need in Bruges?

I’d recommend one or two nights in Bruges for most first-time visitors.

One night is enough for the main sights and a proper evening in the city. Two nights is better if you want a slower weekend, more time for museums, chocolate shopping, canal walks and a less rushed Bruges itinerary.

Read More: One Day in Bruges Itinerary or 2 Days in Bruges Itinerary

💭 Is Bruges walkable?

Yes, extremely. It’s probably one of the most walkable places you’ll ever visit!

Most of the main sights are close together, especially if you stay in or near the historic centre. That’s why I’d focus on choosing a central hotel rather than worrying too much about public transport once you’re there.

💭 What hotel did you stay at in Bruges?

On my second visit to Bruges, I stayed at Hotel Acacia.

I liked it for the central location, easy walk to Markt and the Belfry, and how simple it made my Bruges itinerary.

It’s the hotel I’d personally start with if you’re visiting Bruges for the first time and want a practical base in the historic centre.

Read More: Hotel Acacia Bruges Review: My Honest Stay in Bruges

Plan the rest of your Bruges trip

Still planning? Here’s more of my Bruges guides to help you decide where to stay, what to book and how to make the most of your trip.

Before you book

• Is Bruges Worth Visiting? My Honest Review After Visiting Twice
• Bruges or Ghent? My Honest Comparison After Visiting Both
• The Best Time to Visit Bruges: When I’d Go Again

Bruges itineraries

• One Day in Bruges: My Perfect Bruges Day Trip Itinerary
• My Bruges Weekend Itinerary: How I’d Spend 2 Days in the City
• How to Take a Day Trip from Brussels to Bruges
• Bruges and Ghent Itinerary: How to Visit Both in One Belgium Trip

Where to stay and what to book

• Hotel Acacia Bruges Review: My Honest Stay in Bruges
• Best Tours in Bruges: Canal Cruises, Walking Tours & Food Experiences
• Bruges Canal Boat Tour: My Honest Review & What to Know Before You Go
• How to Visit Bruges Without a Car: Train Tips, Walking Routes & Getting Around

What to do and where to eat

• The Best Things to Do in Bruges: My Favourite Sights, Food Stops & Local Gems
• Unique Things to Do in Bruges: Less Obvious Stops I Loved After Visiting Twice
• Where to Eat in Bruges: Belgian Dishes, Chocolate, Waffles & Beer to Try
• Best Cafes in Bruges: My Favourites from My Trip