Sweet Escapes in Bruges: A Heritage City and Chocolate Paradise

Bruges is steeped in cultural heritage, adorned with serene lakes, picturesque canals, and beautifully preserved medieval architecture. And there are chocolate shops at almost every corner of the city!

Bruges, or Brugge in Dutch, is a historic city in the northwestern region of Belgium. This enchanting city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, has earned the moniker “Venice of the North” due to its intricate network of canals reminiscent of the famed Italian city.

Belgian Chocolate Delights are the Best!

No visit to Bruges is complete without indulging in its renowned Belgian chocolate. Dubbed the “Chocolate Capital”, Bruges boasts an array of chocolate shops that tantalize the senses. Chocolate lovers must not miss these 3 places:

Choco-Story Bruges

Step into the Choco-Story Bruges- the Chocolate Museum to uncover 5,500 years of chocolate history. Housed in a historic building, this museum showcases over 1,000 chocolate-related artifacts, presenting the rich history and evolution of chocolate at this unique museum. Discover the origins of chocolate and witness both traditional and modern methods of chocolate making, and delve into the secrets of filled chocolates and participate in workshops where you can indulge in homemade chocolate tastings.

Do you know?
The Choco-Story Museum was founded by the chocolate-loving Van Belle family and is sponsored by Belcolade, the only producer of authentic Belgian chocolate in Belgium.

Location: Wijnzakstraat 2 intersects with Sint-Jansstraat
Opening Hours: Daily 10.00-18.00
Entrance Fee: Adults 14 Euros / Children 3-11 years old 8.50 Euros
Website: https://choco-story-brugge.be/en/

The Old Chocolate House

Discover the Belgian Chocolate Shop, a charming establishment founded by Françoise Thomaes in 1997. With a cozy, welcoming ambiance reminiscent of enjoying hot chocolate among friends at home, this family-run shop is a true delight. On the ground floor, indulge in a variety of chocolates in every imaginable form and flavor. Upstairs, a quaint tea room café awaits, offering over 30 types of hot chocolate to savor.

The shop’s specialty is Belgian-style hot chocolate, prepared by melting concentrated chocolate into hot milk for a rich, sweet, and aromatic experience. For those who enjoy decadence, we recommend trying “Death by Chocolate”, a dark chocolate-infused hot chocolate topped with Oreo cookies, chocolate whipped cream, M&M’s, crumbled cookies, and marshmallows. Pair this indulgence with Grandmother’s original waffle recipe for an unforgettable treat.

Location: Mariastraat 1C, near Markt Square
Opening hours: Daily 10.00-18.00 (2nd floor cafe zone closed on Wednesdays)
Website: https://www.oldchocolatehouse.be/

The Chocolate Line

Experience a departure from traditional chocolate at The Chocolate Line, established by the Persoone family. Father Dominique cultivates cocoa on his own plantation in Mexico, while mother Fabienne and son Julius showcase their culinary expertise as chefs. This acclaimed shop has been honored as the best chocolate shop of 2023 by the Gault & Millau Gourmet Guide, thanks to its innovative menu. Indulge in recommended creations such as “Havana Cigar”, chocolate infused with rum, cognac, and Cuban tobacco; “Sake”, featuring chocolate mixed with bitter ganache, seaweed and Japanese rice wine. “Red Lips” offers an alcoholic chocolate with margarita and lime zest taking center stage, while “Deadly Delicious”, a skull-shaped chocolate, combines blueberry, raspberry, hazelnut praline, and violet nougatine for a truly unique taste experience.

Location: Simon Stevinplein Street 19
Opening hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9.30-18.30 and Sunday-Monday 10.30-18.30
Website: https://www.thechocolateline.be/en/

One Day with Top Highlights in Bruges

Start your journey at Markt, the bustling heart of Bruges, surrounded by quaint cafes and restaurants. Dominating the square is the 800-year-old Belfry of Bruges, offering panoramic views of the city after ascending its 366 spiraling stairs. From the top of the 83-metre-high belfry, you can see spectacular 360-degree views.

Stroll along Rozenhoedkaai, a canal street enveloping Bruges’ inner city. This postcard-perfect spot enchants visitors day and night, offering boat tours that glide past charming medieval houses. There are 5 boat companies offering 30-minute service to tourists. It costs 12 Euros per person.

Tips: Boat rides, available from March to mid-November, provide a unique perspective of the city’s beauty. During winter operating hours are on Saturday and Sunday only or depending on weather conditions.

Plan to explore Bruges? Fly to Brussels, Belgium with Thai Airways!