Last Updated: 15 February 2026

Are you looking for the best bars in Brugge? You have come to the right place.

In December 2022, we returned from a stunning 7-day cruise around Northern Europe, you can read more about our Christmas Cruise, over on She Might Be Loved’s blog here. After stops in Hamburg and Rotterdam, we finished with a quick but memorable stop in Brugge (Bruges), Belgium.

While the ship itself was gorgeous, I had spent the weeks beforehand meticulously planning my own personal “to visit” list for when we docked. Belgium is world-renowned for its incredible beer culture. With over 600 breweries across the country, narrowing down where to drink can be a challenge.

Since we only had a few hours to explore, we had to be selective. Whether you are looking for the oldest pub in Bruges or a canal-side view with a strong Trappist ale, here is my rundown of the top 5 bars in Brugge you need to visit.

1. 2be Bar (The Beer Wall)

If you want a mix of tourism and taste, this is essential. 2be is famous for its “Beer Wall” entrance, a glass display housing virtually every Belgian beer ever made. While it is certainly a tourist hotspot, that does not mean you should skip it.

Located right on the canal, 2be offers one of the most scenic spots to enjoy bars in Brugge. The outdoor terrace provides a stunning view of the water and historic architecture, making it a fantastic place to drink and relax. They have an extensive beer menu and a large shop attached where you can buy some of the finest bottles to take home.

2. Café Vlissinghe

If you are searching for history, look no further. Café Vlissinghe is the oldest pub in Bruges.

Opened in 1515, this venue has been serving locals and travellers for over 500 years. To put that in perspective, their last major refurbishment was completed in the mid-19th Century! The bar is steeped in history, featuring an old wooden interior, oil paintings, and a heavy heating stove that adds to the atmosphere. It is the perfect spot to sip a house draft and soak up five centuries of stories.

3. Le Trappiste Brugge

When you think of Belgium, you likely think of Trappist beer and monks. Le Trappiste ticks all those boxes.

This is widely considered one of the best beer bars in Bruges for atmosphere. It is situated in a genuine medieval cellar inside an 800-year-old building. The setting is incredibly atmospheric with catacomb-style ceilings and brick archways.

It really adds to the experience as you work your way through their 20 taps or extensive bottle menu. If you cannot decide what to have, Le Trappiste offers a five-beer flight for around 12 Euros. It is a great way to sample some superb Belgian styles or mix it up with an international guest beer.

4. Le Bier Circus

Le Bier Circus is often cited as a must-visit for serious beer aficionados. Located slightly away from the main market square, it offers a calmer experience than the tourist traps.

If you love craft beer or rare Trappist ales, you should visit the Circus. They boast a cellar of over 200 different beers, including some vintage bottles you will struggle to find anywhere else. They also serve excellent Belgian food cooked with beer, making it a great place to relax and meet other craft beer lovers.

5. De Bierboom

Although this is technically a bottle shop rather than a standard pub, De Bierboom deserves a spot on any list of the best bars in Brugge.

It is packed full of character and offers a diverse range of over 150 beers. It functions as a daytime tasting room where you can sit and enjoy a drink, or simply stock up on rare finds to take home. The owner is incredibly knowledgeable and happy to guide you through the selection. It is definitely worth a visit if you want to take a taste of Brugge back to the ship or hotel with you.

Brugge is a magical city, and exploring its pub culture is the best way to see it. Whether you are there for a week or just a day stop on a cruise like we were, these spots will ensure you drink well.

Do you have any personal favourites? If you know of any other best pubs in Bruges, please drop them in the comments below!