Want to discover the city of Bruges? What are the places not to be missed in Bruges? Where to go in Bruges with your dog? Here are all the essential things to do in Bruges when you have a dog!

I was browsing Instagram when I stumbled upon some gorgeous travel photos from Wouafer's in Bruges, Belgium. I immediately knew I absolutely had to tell you about this destination; even Musher thought the city was adorable! Nicknamed the Venice of the North , Bruges, located in Belgium, is a city with medieval and romantic charm. Its cobblestone streets and historic buildings make it a must-see destination in Belgium if you love this style of architecture! Looking at the photos, I felt like I'd stepped back into the Middle Ages! It looks incredible: between art museums , artisanal chocolate shops , and iconic monuments like the Belfry of Bruges , this city transports you back in time. Plus, Bruges is very dog-friendly! Very few activities and places have restrictions regarding dogs. Bruges offers a unique and memorable experience for everyone, furry or not!

So here are the must-do things to do in Bruges with your dog!

Summary

Things to do with a dog in Bruges

To begin your visit to Bruges, there's nothing better than strolling through the narrow streets of the historic center! You'll come across the Markt Square and its famous Belfry , one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city. In any case, it's the first thing we saw on Instagram with Musher!

You are probably wondering what a belfry is? It is a tower (usually associated with a town hall or a market hall) often found in the north of France, in cities in Belgium or the Netherlands. At the top of the tower, there is a bell used to tell the time or to announce events. And often a breathtaking view of the surroundings!

Fancy stretching your legs? Rent a bike from Bruges Bike Rental and cycle along the Rosaire Quays with your dog! They offer several accessories, such as baskets, which are handy for small dogs! But for larger breeds, you'll have to refrain…

Along the way, you can enjoy the medieval view, pass by typical houses while breathing the fresh Belgian air!

You can also embark on a boat trip on the city's canals with Brugge per boot , which offers canal tours and welcomes dogs. Navigating under bridges and through waterways, you'll discover Bruges from a different perspective!

Remember to bring a small towel or dog mat with you to put in the boat so your dog doesn't slip; boat hulls are made of plastic, which is hard to grip! And if you want more advice on going boating with your dog, check out our article " Boating with your dog: tips and tricks from sailors".

And if you love the sea, take your dog for a walk on the beaches of Zeebrugge, about a 20-minute drive from the city center. But be aware, you'll need to keep your dog on a leash from March 15th to October 15th. Alternatively, you can always go for a stroll on Hondenstrand Beach near Bruges, which was recommended by one of our Wouafer's! There are plenty of other beaches where you can walk your dog in Belgium; you can find them in the article " Discovering Belgium with your dog ." By the way, if you're going to the beach for the day, remember to rinse your dog off before returning to your hotel or vacation rental. This tip can save you from having to clean up after your vacation and, more importantly, prevent skin problems or ear infections for your furry friend.

Bruges is also known for its parks ! Koningin Astridpark and Minnewater Park are ideal for a walk with your dog, always on a leash of course. And for great places to eat, stop by Café Rose Red , a very nice bar with a terrace where dogs are welcome, or enjoy a delicious meal at the De Wijngaert restaurant.

Here, it's rare for dogs not to be accepted, especially small ones that can be carried in bags. By the way, if you're thinking of buying a bag, you can check out our comparison of the 5 best dog backpacks ! You'll find plenty of information on this type of gear and the ranking of Wouafer's favorite dog backpacks. Musher doesn't fit in a backpack, so this time I wasn't able to test them for you and give you my opinion.

Good to know: dogs are accepted on public transport in Bruges on a leash, with a muzzle if necessary, and must be kept on your lap or on the ground next to you.

Art lovers will adore the Absolute Art Gallery , where dogs on leashes can admire local and international works. I'm sure Musher would love it, even if she doesn't know much about art…

And speaking of Belgium, that means beer ! For beer lovers, head to the Bruges Beer Experience : a museum where your dog is also welcome! But remember, tasting should be done in moderation.

Finally, it's impossible to leave without a visit to a Belgian cheese shop! I heard that Kaas & Wijnhuis Juliette and Kaashuys Den Hof were some of the best! With lots of Belgian specialties and free tastings that are this time to be enjoyed without moderation!

If Belgium is a place that interests you for a holiday, consider Belgium for a holiday with your dog!

:maple_leaf: Musher's seasonal advice
After a scorching summer, it's time for autumn walks 🍂 But it's also the return of hunting and nighttime outings… To keep an eye on your dog, A GPS tracker for dogs is the tool you need! Explore our comparison of GPS devices for dogs :left_magnifying_eye:

Must-see activities in Bruges but inaccessible with a dog

Unfortunately, in Bruges, some essential activities are inaccessible if you travel with your dog. And even if on EmmeneTonChien.com we prefer to highlight dog-friendly places and activities, it is better to know what is prohibited to best prepare your stay.

Here's a list of places you won't be able to take your dog to during your stay in Bruges. You'll need to find a plan B for dog care. You can check out our Guide to Dog-Friendly Care Solutions!

Basilica of the Holy Blood : This religious site, which houses the precious relic of the Holy Blood, does not accept our four-legged friends.

The Bruges Historium : This immersive experience transports you to the heart of the Middle Ages! This museum combines virtual reality, special effects, and recreated sets to plunge you into 15th-century Bruges. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed.

“t Apostelientje” shop : There are several lace shops in Bruges, but this one is the most famous! Unfortunately, Musher won't be able to set foot in it.

Frietmuseum : Although the temptation to taste the best fries in Bruges is strong, our dogs will have to wait outside and be content with sniffing the smell. A real ordeal for me, as I'm a die-hard fries fan!

Notre-Dame Church : Dogs are not allowed in the museum, with the exception of assistance dogs.

Choco-Story : The chocolate museum doesn't allow dogs either, even though the smell might tempt them! When leaving, don't give your dog any chocolate, even if it gives you those puppy-dog eyes.

Don't panic, overall: Belgium is a very dog-friendly country. There are plenty of other activities to do with your dog. In fact, if you're looking for dog-friendly accommodation in Bruges, you could check out the Hotel Boterhuis.

And here is where my little presentation on Bruges ends! I hope I have made you want to go, because Musher and I really want to go there! The style of this city looks incredible, and taste-wise, I know someone who should enjoy it!

In fact, Brussels, Belgium, is also a very accessible destination for our best friends. If you're interested, I invite you to discover Kyo and Silvia's stay in Brussels with a dog – a truly Woof-tastic capital!