Bruges on Wheels: hidden gems and accessibility tips from the locals

Bruges is an easy day trip from the capital, Brussels, or if you are arriving on a cruise at Zeebrugge. For most people, it is a one day experience, although I would recommend spending at least one night in this stunning little town that is enchanting with any kind of weather.

In June 2024, I spent a day in the city with my friend Erik during an accessible visit organised by Inter (opens in a new tab), the Flemish Expertise Centre for Accessibility. We were joined by Tim from Inter, Emmanuel, who shared his experience of moving around Bruges as a wheelchair user, and Janae, an architect specialising in mobility.

This guide grew out of that day, our conversations and additional research. Many thanks to Tim, Erik, Emmanuel and Janae for sharing their knowledge and perspective!

Plan your accessible visit to Bruges

Bruges is a historic city, so cobbled streets, uneven surfaces and bridges are part of the experience. A little planning makes a big difference, and actually, you should absilutely not go without some preparation, with the right information and tools!

Start with the official Bruges, accessible for everyone (opens in a new tab) guide (opens in a new tab). It includes an accessible walking route, practical information on attractions, cafés, restaurants and accommodation, plus details about the locations and opening hours. of accessible toilets. The guide is available as a PDF at the link I added, and in a more screen-reader-friendly digital format - also in various languages.

The gide also highlights the "comfort paths", parts of the cobbled streets that have been remodeled for wheelchairs to roll on more easily. You have to look out for them: the colour is slightly brighter than the regular cobbles and you will see that they are flatter. This will make a big change in the experience!

Before travelling, it is always worth checking the latest information directly with Visit Bruges:

• Tel. +32 (0)50 44 46 46

• visitbruges@brugge.be

• Visit Bruges practical information (opens in a new tab)

Getting to Bruges

If you are arriving by train, free assistance can be booked via the Belgian Rail assistance service (opens in a new tab) in advance, to help you get on the train, and off.
Information on how to book the assistance (opens in a new tab).

If you want more information on public accessible transport or parking, download our free guide at the bottom of this page!

A few places worth adding to your itinerary (Erik's personal favourites)

Concertgebouw Brugge: culture with a view

The Concertgebouw Brugge (opens in a new tab) is a good option for a concert, exhibition or simply a drink with a panoramic view over the city. The building has lifts, adapted toilets and designated wheelchair spaces. If you are attending a performance, request a wheelchair place when booking, as availability is limited.

It is close to ’t Zand and around ten minutes from the station on foot.

Information on the accessibility of Concergebouw Brugge (opens in a new tab)

The Chocolate Line

A Bruges trip without chocolate would be administratively suspicious. The Chocolate Line (opens in a new tab) is at Simon Stevinplein 19, near the centre. They have a special doorbell with a wheelchair logo on it, this is your cue to ring for the ramp - and access a world of delicious and cheeky chocolate.

• The Chocolate Line website (opens in a new tab)

Adornes Estate and Jerusalem Chapel

The Adornes Estate (opens in a new tab) is a beautiful, lesser-known medieval site centred on the Jerusalem Chapel. Most of the estate can be visited by wheelchair users, but cobbles, narrow doors and the protected historic structure mean that some areas remain difficult to access. The estate recommends visiting with a companion, as there are some steps that will require help, and contacting reception in advance so alternative access can be prepared.

• Info for your visit at the Adornes Estate (opens in a new tab)