Markt: The Heart of Bruges
Experience the vibrant heart of Bruges: Markt Square, where history, architecture, and local culture converge.
The Markt, or Market Square, is the central square of Bruges, a vibrant hub surrounded by historical buildings like the Belfry and Provincial Court. It has been a marketplace since the 10th century and hosts various events, including the Christmas Market.
A brief summary to Markt
- Markt, Bruges, Brugge, 8000, BE
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photos.
- Check the event calendar for festivals, markets, and concerts happening in the square.
- Climb the Belfry for panoramic views of Bruges, but be prepared for a challenging climb up 366 steps.
- Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride from the Markt to experience the city in a traditional way.
- Sample local Belgian treats from the various shops and restaurants surrounding the square.
Getting There
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Walking
The Markt is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from most points within Bruges' city center. From the train station, walk straight ahead following the main road (Stationsstraat). Continue until you reach 't Zand square, then follow the signs towards the Markt. The walk is approximately 20 minutes. Note that much of the city center is cobblestone, which may present a challenge for those with mobility issues.
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Public Transport
Several bus lines connect the Bruges train station to the Markt. Bus lines 4, 13, and 14 stop directly at the Markt. A single ticket costs €3.00 if purchased in advance at a kiosk or €3.50 if purchased from the bus driver. Alternatively, a day pass is available for €5.00 at kiosks or €7.00 on the bus. From the bus stop, the Markt is a short walk away.
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Taxi
Taxis are available at the Bruges train station and can take you directly to the Markt. A taxi ride from the train station to the Markt typically costs around €14.90, depending on traffic and the specific route. Taxi stands are also located at Stationsplein, near the train station, and in Philipstockstraat, corner of Markt-Vlamingstraat.
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Driving
Driving directly to the Markt is not recommended due to traffic restrictions and limited parking. It is best to park in one of the peripheral car parks or Park & Ride locations outside the city center and walk or take public transport. Parking Centrum-Station costs €1.20 per hour or €6.10 for a full day and includes a free bus ticket for up to 4 people to the city center. Parking 't Zand offers the first hour free, then charges €3.80 for 2 hours, and €15.80 for a full day. Street parking is available for a maximum of 4 hours between 9:00 and 20:00, costing €2.50 for 1 hour.
Discover more about Markt
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pieter de Coninck en Jan Breydel
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Legends of Bruges Free & Private Tours
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Market Square
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City Tour Bruges
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Flandria Nostra
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Papageno statue
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The Lovers sculpture
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Burg 14
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Basilica of the Holy Blood
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Burg
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De Burg
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Torture Museum Oude Steen Brugge
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Frietmuseum
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Oude Burg
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Gotische Zaal
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bruges by horse-drawn carriage
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Eiermarkt
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Historium Bruges
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Provincial Court
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Duvelorium Belgian Beer Bar
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Segway Brugge
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Bruges
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XPO Salvador Dalí
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Belfry of Bruges
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Bruges Beer Experience
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Museum dentelle
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De Kuppe
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Beethoven
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Bistro Brugis
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Sale & Pepe Brugge
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Mozart, More Than Just Ribs
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Vlaminck '14
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Resto NOUS
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Pietje Pek
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The Olive Tree Brugge
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Le Mystique
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Curiosa
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Kwizien Divien
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Restaurant Chagall
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Bistro Zwart Huis
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Au Petit Grand BV
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Het Rand Restaurant and Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Memories
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Belgian Concept Stores
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Veritas
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Delvaux Bruges
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Blaise Boutique Brugge
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Decosfeer Debbaut
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The Wandering Wizard Emporium Bruges
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Käthe Wohlfahrt
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Pickeryshop
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Lace Jewel
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The Bottle Shop
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Souvenirshop Brugge
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Talia
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BAR 'N
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Bar Des Amis
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Living
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Bar Ran
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Ramuzi Lounge Bar
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@ The Pub
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De Garre
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Cafe Rose Red
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Delaney's Irish Pub
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Le Trappiste
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Cuvee Wine bar / Wine Shop
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On the rocks
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The Monk
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't Brugs Beertje
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