Food Tours in Bruges

Known for its outstanding chocolate pralines, as well as its soft waffles and blonde beers, Bruges is a food lovers' paradise. One of the best ways to explore any destination is via your taste buds, and this is certainly true for the Belgian city.

Food tours in Bruges enable you to try dishes outside of your comfort zone and discover how the city’s culinary scene has been shaped over the centuries. Best of all, you’ll be in the presence of a foodie guide whose enthusiasm for Belgian cuisine is sure to shine through.

Here's all you need to know about food tours, one of the most mouth-watering gastronomic experiences in Bruges.

What are the best food tours in Bruges?

Food tour in Bruges

On this free walking tour in Bruges, you’ll discover the city’s most celebrated culinary delights.

Starting in the heart of the city at Grosmarkt, you’ll wander through the cobbled streets, checking out Bruges’ hidden gems with a local foodie. You’ll sample a myriad of iconic dishes, including Flemish fries, which are cooked twice and served alongside Andalouse sauce. Potato lovers can discover more about the background of these fries at the Frietmuseum before continuing on their Bruges food tour.

Next up is a chocolate tasting to sink your teeth into the city’s decadent pralines, for which it is famed across the world. Feast on a light and fluffy waffle, and wash all of your treats down with a glass of the local tipple — beer — before ending your excursion with a full stomach.

Culinary and history tour in Bruges

Dive deep into the history of Bruges and its gastronomic scene on this fascinating walk of its center.

You’ll begin this food tour in Bruges with a beer tasting before discovering the history of Burg Square, which is surrounded by intriguing landmarks, such as the City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Moving on, you’ll head to Grosmarkt where you’ll sample Belgian favorites, including waffles and bitterballen — a local meatball dish.

See the Gothic Church of Our Lady, which was constructed in the 13th century, before passing by one of Europe’s oldest hospitals and trying the city’s mouth-watering chocolates. Hop between food and drink outlets to try piping-hot fries and velvety beers before ending up back at Grosmarkt.

Private culinary tour in Bruges

If you’re looking for greater personalization than a group excursion provides, opt for a private food tour in Bruges.

With your own personal guide who is dedicated to your enjoyment of the experience, you’ll roam the streets of Bruges, allowing your tastebuds to lead the way.

Alongside waffles and Flemish fries, you’ll also try fresh seafood, as well as creamy chocolates and salty local cheeses. You’ll traverse the city with your guide, checking out local markets to see the fresh produce on offer and discussing the historic landmarks you pass along the way

Which places are visited?

Bruges’ food scene is not restricted to one corner of the city. Instead, its exquisite dishes can be found all over, from the central Grosmarkt to the outer suburbs. Among its many acclaimed dishes are Flemish fries — also known as Frites — which are thick-cut and deep-fried twice in beef tallow.

Most outlets offer these with a range of sauces to suit every foodie. Waffles are another firm favorite and are typically cooked in a press until they’re perfectly fluffy, then covered in sweet toppings, such as chocolate sauce and whipped cream.

Lesser known but equally tasty are the city’s grey shrimp, which are more flavorful than their pink counterparts and are fished straight from the North Sea. These are often served with a salad or fried with butter, breadcrumbs and a range of herbs to form croquettes.

How much do food tours in Bruges cost?

Food tours in Bruges vary in price, depending on the destinations you visit and the number of dishes you try.

You can participate in a walking food tour of Bruges, which is free to book for all participants. However, you are expected to tip your guide at the end of your excursion, based on how insightful you found their tour. While there is no minimum or maximum amount to give, most people choose to tip between €5 and €10 each.

If you select a private culinary tour in Bruges, you’ll pay €130 per person if you travel as a couple. However, you’ll save money with each person you add to your party and if you book as a group of 15 (the maximum number of participants), you’ll each pay €50.

Culinary and historical tours in Bruges cost €250 per person if you choose to travel alone. However, with the maximum of eight people in your party, the price reduces to between €70 and €80 each.

What is included?

Food tours in Bruges typically include between five and eight tastings of a variety of local dishes and snacks. In some cases, additional alcoholic beverages may be provided. You’ll also benefit from the services of a professional guide who will lead you around the city and open your eyes to food vendors off the tourist radar.

Where does it start?

Food tours in Bruges always begin at an easy-to-reach destination in the center of the city. In many cases, this location is the Grosmarkt, which you’ll travel to independently. Bruges has an extensive public transportation network, which is both reliable and budget-friendly, whick you can use to navigate its streets easily.

You can find the meeting point of each excursion on the booking page, so that you can plan your route and arrange any necessary transportation ahead of time.

How long does it last?

Bruges culinary excursions usually last around 3 hours, which gives you plenty of time to amble leisurely along the city’s streets, learn a little about its history and try out a range of treats from several different restaurants, cafes and bars. If your itinerary is limited, you can opt for a food tour that lasts just 1.5 hours instead. These typically cost less and include fewer food samples than other experiences.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Some food tours in Bruges are wheelchair-friendly, however, the majority are not accessible to persons with limited mobility. You can consult the booking page of your desired tour to see whether it is suitable for every member of your party.

When is the best time for a food tour in Bruges?

Spring and summer in Bruges offer a vibrant and lively atmosphere, perfect for a food tour. Spring's mild weather from April to June, paired with the blooming city parks, marks the opening of outdoor terraces at restaurants and cafes, enhancing the food tour experience.

Summer, although busy with tourists in July and August, provides the opportunity to partake in various food festivals and markets, while enjoying the warm climate. However, due to the large influx of tourists during summer, it's recommended to book tours and restaurant visits ahead of time.

The latter half of the year, autumn and winter, bring a unique charm to food tours in Bruges. Autumn's gradually cooling weather in September and October complements the indoor dining experience, with an array of seasonal foods to explore.

Despite the colder climate, winter in Bruges holds a magical appeal from November to March, especially with the presence of Christmas markets featuring a variety of food stalls. Both seasons present the opportunity to indulge in hearty Belgian dishes, a culinary experience enhanced by the cozy indoor ambiance.

Travel tips

• Go Hungry. To enjoy and try a variety of dishes, it's better to start your food tour on an empty stomach.
• Allergies or Dietary Restrictions. Inform your guide in advance about any food allergies or dietary restrictions you have.
• Balance Your Diet. Try to balance heavier foods with lighter options to avoid feeling too full too quickly.
• Food and Beer Pairing. In Bruges, some local beers pair wonderfully with certain dishes. Ask your guide for recommendations.