Bruges Market Square Tours

Bruges Market Square which includes a city and heritage architecture
Bruges Market Square showing night scenes, a city and a square or plaza
Bruges Market Square showing a city, street scenes and markets
Bruges Market Square showing street scenes, heritage architecture and a square or plaza
Bruges Market Square featuring markets, a square or plaza and a city


The historical heart of Bruges is framed by guild buildings and the Provincial Court. Presiding over the square is the imposing Belfort.

Since 958, the Grote Markt has been at the center of Bruges life. Once packed with merchants and buyers, today the Markt is a hub for tourism. Put aside some time to experience the restaurants, cafés, gift shops, guided tours and enchanting architecture of this lively part of the city. 

Though it covers only 2.5 acres (1 hectare), there is much to see in Bruges' Grote Markt. First, climb to the top of the majestic Belfort and take in the spectacular views. With your feet back on the ground, take pictures of the Markt's quaint fairy tale-style architecture the 1887 neo-Gothic Provincial Court building is especially impressive. The row of gabled guild houses adds charm and color.

Stop to view the statue in the center of the square. It pays tribute to Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck, who led the Bruges Matins, a violent uprising against the French in the early 14th century.

If possible, come to the Grote Markt on a Wednesday morning. This is when the weekly market sets up to sell local fruit, vegetables and other edibles. Take a break at one of the many eateries and cafés around the square it's a good idea to check the prices before you take a seat. After mid-November the Wednesday market moves to Burg square to make way for a public skating rink and Christmas stalls.

The Grote Markt is essential to any Bruges itinerary, but it can get very busy with tourists. After having a look around, avoid the crowds by branching off down one of the many adjoining cobblestone streets. Also be sure to make a visit to the neighboring Burg square and its Basilica of the Holy Blood. When your sightseeing is finished in the square, climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage tour for an enjoyable and lazy way to enjoy the rest of Bruges.

Browse tours and tickets to explore Bruges Market Square

Tours & day trips

See all 182 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 91 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 32 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 16 activities

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Bruges Market Square

Martin's Relais

Martin's Relais

4 out of 5
Genthof 4, Bruges
Martin's Relais
Martin's Brugge

Martin's Brugge

3.5 out of 5
Oude Burg 5, Bruges
Martin's Brugge
Grand Hotel Casselbergh Bruges

Grand Hotel Casselbergh Bruges

4 out of 5
Hoogstraat 6, Bruges
Grand Hotel Casselbergh Bruges
Hotel Navarra Brugge

Hotel Navarra Brugge

4 out of 5
41 St Jakobsstraat, Bruges
Hotel Navarra Brugge
Dukes’ Arches – by Dukes’ Hotel Collection

Dukes’ Arches – by Dukes’ Hotel Collection

4 out of 5
Hoogstraat 20, Bruges
Dukes’ Arches – by Dukes’ Hotel Collection
Hotel de Orangerie by CW Hotel Collection - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Hotel de Orangerie by CW Hotel Collection - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

4 out of 5
Kartuizerinnenstraat 10, Bruges
Hotel de Orangerie by CW Hotel Collection - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Hotel Ter Brughe by CW Hotel Collection

Hotel Ter Brughe by CW Hotel Collection

4 out of 5
Oost-Gistelhof 2, Bruges
Hotel Ter Brughe by CW Hotel Collection
ibis budget Brugge Centrum Station

ibis budget Brugge Centrum Station

1 out of 5
Marie Popelinplantsoen 4, Bruges
ibis budget Brugge Centrum Station
Canalview Hotel Ter Reien

Canalview Hotel Ter Reien

Langestraat 1, Bruges
Canalview Hotel Ter Reien
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.