Best Hotels to Stay in Bruges (Canal View + Parking)

Bruges (Brugge) is the largest city in the West Flemish region (the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium). It’s a well-preserved medieval city, famous for its picturesque canals and chocolate.

Bruges is the most visited place in northern Belgium. Although you can easily see it on a day trip from Brussels or Ghent, I’d recommend staying at least one night. It’s a magical place, especially after sunset when everything is beautifully illuminated.

Continue reading to discover where to stay in Bruges and how to choose the best area for your trip.

During my trip to Bruges, I wanted to be close to everything – attractions, restaurants and the Christmas markets. As it was winter, I needed an accommodation that would allow me to explore the city on foot. I also didn’t want to spend much time in the cold.

The historic centre suited my needs perfectly. I’d recommend staying there if you’re short on time or visiting the city for the first time.

In a hurry? Looking for a great hotel with a perfect location and a good rating?

Then check out Hotel Academie – it’s the most popular hotel. This is the best place to stay in Bruges.

It’s perfectly situated in the middle way between Market Square and the Central train station. The hotel features spacious rooms, a cosy bar with a garden terrace and private underground parking.
Why book – ideal location for sightseeing and transport links, bar with garden terrace, underground parking

Where to stay in Bruges, Belgium

• Bruges Old Town – for sightseeing
• On the canals – for awesome views
• Best Bruges hotels with parking

Most of the good restaurants are here, too. Everything you’ll need will be right at the doorstep of your hotel.

The Historic Old Town is the perfect area to stay if this is your first-time to Bruges. Crossed by canals, it’s the most picturesque and romantic part of the city.

Even if you plan to use the city as a base to explore Belgium, stay in the Old Town. The Central train station is only a 15min walk from the historic city centre. You can easily take a train to Brussels or Ghent early in the morning.

Why stay in Bruges Old Town

• You will be able to explore the city on foot and be close to all the restaurants and bars.
• Take a canal boat tour to see the city from a different angle. The starting points are Huidenvettersplein 13, Rozenhoedkaai, Wollestraat 32, Nieuwstraat 11 and Katelijnestraat 4.
• The rickshaw tour is another unique way to see explore the city.
• Quay of the Rosary – it’s the most photographed place. Take a stroll during the day, but don’t miss the sunset time, too.
• Most of the attractions are around Market and Burg Squares. These squares are the heart of medieval Bruges.
• Climb the Belfry tower, one of the most famous belfries in Belgium.
• The best places to eat – That’s Toast, House of Waffles and Oliviers Chocolate Shop & Bar.

Hotel Academie is situated in a charming cobblestone street with lots of shops and restaurants. It’s just a short walk from the Market Square and the train station. Spacious elegant rooms with new furnishings. Helpful staff, full of useful and local knowledge.
Why book – ideal location for sightseeing and transport links, bar with garden terrace, underground parking

The location of the hotel couldn’t be more romantic. It’s in the heart of medieval Bruges, right next to Saint Saviour’s Cathedral. Plus, the hotel occupies a historic old building. Wooden floors, antique furnishings, stained glass windows, that all add to the romantic atmosphere.
Why book – next to St Saviour’s Cathedral, indoor garden, outstanding breakfast

Hotel Sablon has a very central, but quiet location. It’s close to all attractions, shops and restaurants. Rooms are huge with comfy beds and pillows. If you look for a boutique hotel for your family vacation, don’t look further.
Why book – 250m away from Market Square, huge rooms, rich breakfast

Hotel Aragon is a great choice if you’re travelling with family. It’s just around the corner from Market Square, but on a quiet location. Friendly staff, spacious rooms and modern bathrooms.
Why book – 220m away from Market Square, private parking, spacious rooms

If you look for a luxury stay in Bruges, this is the place. Dukes’ Palace is a 5-star unique hotel, housed in a former residence of the Burgundian aristocracy. The spacious rooms combine modern comfort with an authentic elegance from the 15th century. The location is ideal, close to all main sites of interest.
Why book – 250m from Market Square, extensive garden, private parking, excellent cocktail bar

For a luxury stay at an affordable price, Hotel The Peellaert is the place. This elegant hotel occupies the 19th-century aristocratic house of Baron de Peellaert. In addition, the huge rooms feature high ceilings and chandeliers.
Why book – 150m from Burg Square, private parking, wellness centre

Bonobo Apartments are in the historic heart of Bruges, close to restaurants and main sites. The apartments have all the equipment needed for a comfortable stay. Plus, there is an additional room where you can store your baggage after check out.
Why book – 80m from St Saviour’s Cathedral, private parking

Great stylish apartments at a walking distance to everything (two supermarkets nearby). Well appointed kitchen with all that you need for your stay. Plus, there is a morning bakery delivery and a pool!
Why book – 160m from Burg Square, courtyard garden, plunge pool, excellent honesty bar

Bruges owes its charm to its numerous scenic canals. Thus, if you look for a unique experience, choose accommodation on the canals. In this way, you’ll enjoy these picturesque views directly from your own room.

If you’re on a romantic trip, staying in a hotel with a canal view is a must. Check out these lovely hotels below, that are located directly on the canals in the Historic Old Town.

This is the most romantic hotel with a canal view in Bruges. And the best part is that it’s in the middle of everything. It’s just a few steps away from the most picturesque area in the city, Quay of the Rosary. The spacious rooms are luxurious with a homely feel.
Why book – location on Dijver canal, swimming pool, garden terrace, private parking

Duc De Bourgogne has the most fabulous location of all. It’s right on the Quay of the Rosary, a 2min walk from Burg and Market Squares. And the canal views are just splendid. You can watch the small boats and swans directly from your room!
Why book – location on the Quay of the Rosary, restaurant with canal views

It’s a charming hotel, housed in five modernized canal residences from the 17th century. The location is great, just a 5 min walk to the main square. Yet, the area is peaceful, so you’ll get a good night sleep.
Why book – location on Spiegelrei canal, rose garden, beer bar, huge rooms with canal views

Hotel Monsieur Ernest is a lovely hotel on Speelmansrei canal. It occupies a restored 14th-century residence and former brewery. The breakfast is served in a beautiful eating room with a view of the canal. The location is ideal – 10min to the main square and 15min to the train station.
Why book – location on Speelmansrei canal, private parking

If you’re arriving by car, it’s best to book accommodation with available parking. Moreover, many shopping streets are car-free during the weekends.

Another option is to use the convenient parking at the Central train station (Chantrellstraat 42-62).

A lot of the hotels in the Historic Old Town have public or private parking. However, if you look for secured parking, check out these top hotels.

Crowne Plaza Hotel is the perfect hotel with parking for couples. It’s very central, right on Burg Square and next to Basilica of the Holy Blood. The hotel features an indoor swimming pool and a private car park.
Why book – location on Burg Square, indoor swimming pool, private car park

If you look for a great family hotel with secured parking, look no further. Acacia is the place for you. It’s a lovely quiet hotel right in the heart of the Historic Old Town. Private underground parking is available on site for an extra cost. In addition, there is public parking nearby.
Why book – 150m from Market, secured underground parking, ideal breakfast selection