The picturesque medieval city of Bruges (Dutch name: Bruges), Belgium, is a popular choice for hikers from the Netherlands, and is only a few hours’ drive from Amsterdam. There are several ways to travel between the two cities.
Amsterdam to Bruges by train
Travelers can take the Thalys train to Bruges with a transfer in Bruxelles-Midi. When traveling on this train you are allowed to place one item of hand luggage and a maximum of two pieces of luggage in the luggage compartment. There is the opportunity to buy food on board at the Thalys Welcome Bar. If you are traveling Premium, meals are included in your ticket and served at your seat. The journey between Amsterdam Central Station and Bruges takes three hours. Please note that prices increase as the departure date approaches.
Tickets can be booked on the NS Hispeed website.
Amsterdam to Bruges by bus
The international coach is the cheapest option to travel between Amsterdam and Bruges. At five hours, the bus can take two hours longer than the train, but is considerably cheaper; Eurolines offers one-way fares. (Please note that bus fares may also increase as the departure date approaches.) The Eurolines Amsterdam stop is outside Amsterdam Amstel station, about 10 minutes by train from Amsterdam Central Station; The Bruges stop is conveniently located in front of the city station, at Busstation De Lijn on Stationsplein. Eurolines allows one carry-on bag and two suitcases that can be stored under the bus with each ticket.
FlixBus is another company that serves this route. You can book your trip directly with your app on your phone, on the website, at travel agencies or with the driver. With your ticket you can bring one item of carry-on luggage. You can also bring a piece of luggage to store under the bus. There is wifi on the bus.
Amsterdam to Bruges by car
Families, travelers with reduced mobility, and others may wish to drive between Amsterdam and Bruges. The 155-mile (250-kilometer) trip takes about three hours. Choose from a variety of routes, found turn-by-turn directions and calculate travel costs on ViaMichelin.com.
Bruges tourist information
Find out more about the city of Bruges with this Bruges travel guide, featuring practical information and must-see attractions, and then find out where to stay. A self-paced tour is outlined in this medieval Bruges walking tour.
The beautiful medieval center of Bruges is remarkably well preserved and is a UNESCO world heritage site. Bruges is also a city of art. The famous Bruges painter Jan van Eyck (1370-1441) spent most of his life in Bruges. The Groeninge Museum is an ideal place to visit to get a taste of the art history of Bruges. The museum houses well-known Flemish art.
Belgium is known for beer and Bruges has an interactive beer museum called The Beer Experience located in the historic center of the city. You will learn about Belgium’s famous brewing heritage and the monks who were the first innovators in brewing. There is also a special non-beer exhibition for children only and a tasting room with more than a dozen Belgian draft beers for adults.
