St James' Church: A Gothic Gem in Bruges
Explore Gothic architecture & art treasures in this historic Bruges church, a stop on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route.
St James' Church (Sint-Jakobskerk) is a historic Catholic church in Bruges, Belgium, dating back to 1240. Expanded in the 15th century and remodeled with a Baroque interior in the 17th-18th centuries, it houses a rich collection of art treasures.
A brief summary to St James' Church
- Sint-Jakobsplein 1, Bruges, Brugge, 8000, BE
- +3250472365
- Visit website
- Monday 1 pm-5 pm
- Tuesday 1 pm-5 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm-5 pm
- Thursday 1 pm-5 pm
- Friday 1 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 1 pm-5 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours, as they are subject to change and the church may be closed for unforeseen circumstances or religious services.
- Look for the bronze scallop shell near the door, marking the church as a stop on the Via Brugensis pilgrimage route.
- Take time to admire the intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and funerary art within the church.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming streets of Bruges and explore nearby attractions.
Getting There
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Walking
St James' Church is located on Sint-Jakobsplein in the heart of Bruges, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Markt (main square), walk northwest along Wollestraat, then turn left onto Sint-Jakobsstraat. Continue onto Sint-Jakobsplein, where the church is located. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
The nearest bus stop to St James' Church is 'Brugge Hoefijzer'. From the Bruges train station, take bus line 1, 3, 4, 11, 13, 14, or 16 to the city center. Get off at the 'Hoefijzer' stop and walk a short distance to Sint-Jakobsplein. A single bus ticket costs €3 if purchased in advance at a kiosk or €3.50 if purchased from the bus driver.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Bruges. A taxi ride from the train station to St James' Church typically costs between €10-€15, depending on traffic and the specific company. The ride takes approximately 5-10 minutes.
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Parking
If arriving by car, the nearest parking is available at the 'Ezelstraat' car park. Above-ground parking in the city center costs €3.00 for 1 hour, €7.00 for 2 hours, €12.00 for 3 hours, and €18.00 for 4 hours. Underground parking garages like 'Centrum-'t Zand' and 'Centrum-Station' offer longer-term parking options. 'Centrum-Station' includes a free bus ticket for up to 4 people. Parking at 'Centrum-Station' costs approximately €1.20/hour or €6.10/day. Be aware that certain streets in the historic city center are car-free or have restricted access at certain times.
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