Sleep in a 16th-century gabled house overlooking the Bonifacius Bridge or gaze at the Bruges Belfry from your bedroom window. These are but a handful of the locally run boutique hotels in Bruges on offer.
The labyrinthine cobblestone streets, abundance of Gothic architecture and romantic canals dotted with snow-white swans have catapulted Bruges to international fame. It is by far the most visited city in Belgium; thus, finding accommodation can be expensive.
This article runs you through where to stay in Bruges as well as offers recommendations for Bruges boutique hotels and B&Bs from a sustainability angle: Locally run, working with seasonal products, on-site bike hire, etc.
I have split my 15 recommendations into luxury, romantic and budget to ensure you have a truly wonderful stay no matter your budget.
Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.
Boutique Hotels in Bruges at a Glance
USEFUL GUIDES
- TO DO: One day in Bruges
- FOOD: Vegetarian Restaurants Bruges
- DAY TRIP: Brussels to Bruges in a day
- SEASONAL: Christmas Markets Bruges
TOP HOTEL PICKS
- LUXURY: Hotel Van Cleef
- HISTORICAL: Guest House Nuit Blanche
- BEST VIEWS: De Tuilerieën
- BUDGET: Guesthouse Mirabel
- Tourism Office: Visit Bruges Website or Tourist Office 1 (Markt 1 – Historium); Tourist Office 2 (Stationsplein 5); Tourist Office 3 (‘t Zand 34 – Concert Hall). Opening Hours 10.00 am – 05.00 pm.
- Best time to visit: Off-season months are January to April and October to November. In other months of the year, prices are much higher to accommodate the heavy footfall. The cheapest days to stay in Bruges are usually Tuesday and Wednesday.
- More Belgium Hotel Recommendations: 15 Sustainable Boutique Hotels in Brussels
Where to Stay In Bruges
The historical center of Bruges is made up of nine different quarters, as shown above. Walking from the southernmost point of the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwe Kwartier to the northernmost point of the Sint-Gillis Kwartier takes around 45 minutes; traversing West to East is a 30-minute stroll. It’s tiny!
Yet somehow the vast majority of visitors will only take the time to explore three of the main areas: Onze-Lieve-Vrouwe-kwartier (Bonifacius Bridge, Minnewaterpark, Begijnage); Steenstraat Kwartier (Main Square, Belfry, Historium) and the Burgkwartier (Rozenhoedkaai, Burg Square).
PERSONAL RECO: My favorite part of Bruges to stay is the Sint-Anna Kwartier. It is more residential, budget-friendly and very close to the main attractions. But don’t take my word for it, let’s break down the various areas.
BEST PLACE TO STAY IN BRUGES BREAKDOWN
STEENSTRAAT KWARTIER: Has the highest density of historical accommodations in Bruges but is also the most expensive part of the city to stay. Great for a romantic weekend! (Reco: B&B Canal Deluxe)
ONZE-LIEVE-VROUWE KWARTIER: Very centrally located, yet it has more pockets of quiet areas than the Steenstraat Kwartier. If I wanted to splurge, this is where I would stay! (Reco: The Bonifacius Hotel or De Tuilerieën )
BURGKWARTIER: The part surrounding Rozenhoedkaai and Burg Square is super busy, yet as you move more East all of a sudden it becomes very tranquil. I would recommend it for first-time visitors to Bruges. (Reco: Dukes Arches Hotel )
MAGDALENA, WEST BRUGGE & LANGESTRAAT KWARTIER: There are fewer Bruges B&Bs and accommodations in this part of the city. These however are great to find an Airbnb at a decent price.
SINT ANNA KWARTIER: This is the best place to stay in Bruges if you are looking for a more local feel of the city. It is much quieter and the prices are significantly lower. If you are traveling with small a family or are on a budget, this might just be the area for you. (Reco: B&B Anna9 or Hotel Van Cleef )
EZELSTRAAT KWARTIER: Located outside the main tourist hotspots. The part of town is very local and a bit too quiet, even for me. (Reco: The Notary or Snuffle Hostel)
15 Sustainable Bruges Boutique Hotels
To help you navigate the various boutique hotels in Bruges, I took the liberty of splitting them up into three distinct categories for you. Each of the hotels and B&B’s that I picked has sustainable practices, which I have highlighted to help you pick your ideal accommodation.
- Five Luxury boutique hotels in Bruges city center
- Five romantic B&B’s in Bruges
- Five budget-friendly accommodations in Bruges
5 LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN BRUGES
1. B&B Exclusive Guesthouse Bonifacius
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets Allowed; Locally Run; Use Local Suppliers; Bicycle Rental
WHY BOOK: Unique Historical Building; Superb Location; Views
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.7
If you are looking for the most authentic place to stay in Bruges then The Bonifacius Hotel is well and truly the hotel for you. Set along the canal, right next to the famous Bonifacius bridge in a 16th-century palace. Standing on the bridge, facing the Church of Our Lady, turn left. The beautiful wooden façades lining the canal are the breakfast rooms of the Bonificius guesthouse.
The boutique hotel has 4 elegant rooms, meticulously designed for both comfort and sophistication, reflecting a seamless fusion of timeless aesthetics and modern amenities. Decorated with antiques, luxurious fabrics, and an en-suite bathroom in granite.
2. Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Use of Regional Ingrediënts; Charger for Electric Car; Bicycle Tours & Rental
WHY BOOK: Historical Mansion; Spa & Wellness Center; Gym; Central Location
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.9
Originally constructed as a private mansion in 1869 and later under the ownership of bankers, the Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage is now one of the finest Bruges boutique hotels after it recently underwent a meticulous renovation.
Located a mere 50 meters from the market square, the Heritage Hotel offers elegant and individually decorated rooms, featuring stylish furnishings, an iPad for added convenience, fresh seasonal fruit, and Sothys beauty amenities.
The hotel’s historic ambiance includes a 14th-century cellar and a beautiful 1869 room where the breakfast buffet is served. Guests can indulge in regional dishes at the on-site restaurant or relax while having one of the signature face and body treatments offered at the on-site spa.
3. Boutique Hotel De Castillion
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Family Run; Pets Allowed; Bike Tours & Rental; Walking Tours; Charger for EVs
WHY BOOK: Excellent Location, High-Tea; Accessibility (lift); Private Parking
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.5
Once the home of Bruges’ 15th bishop now a beautifully renovated boutique hotel. This small family-run 4* Hotel De Castillion is super centrally located and truly strives to make you feel right at home with their personal touch.
Despite being housed in a historic building, the hotel ensures it is serviced with modern amenities including an elevator (rare for historical mansions in Bruges) and rooms with air conditioning.
A large sun-drenched terrace and garden offer the perfect retreat from the oftentimes bustling city center. The hotel has a babysitting service as well as a host of board games to keep the kids occupied!
4. The Notary
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets Allowed; Bicycle Rental & Tours; EV Charging Station;
WHY BOOK: Private Parking; Accessibility (Elevator); Decor; Large Garden; Spa Facilities; Outdoor Pool
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.4
Arguably the most beautiful hotel in Bruges! This fully renovated 13th-century manor house is located off one of the busiest canals in Bruges, yet somehow oozes tranquility. The hotel’s luscious garden has a pond-like pool, a small fountain, fresh fig and pear trees and a large terrace with an outside fireplace.
With a mere 8 suites, The Notary is wonderfully intimate. Suites are beautifully decorated while preserving the historical character of the building. Indulge in a 6-course breakfast, take high-tea in the garden, grab an aperitive with some finger food at the on-site bar or book a table for an exclusive dining experience.
GOOD TO KNOW | Prices for this hotel tend to fluctuate a lot. If you are flexible with your booking dates, it is worth checking various months in advance to see if you can spot a discount price.
5. Boutique Hotel Van Cleef
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Bicycle Rental; EV Charing Station; Use of Regional Products
WHY BOOK: Canal Views; Cozy & Inviting; Quiet; Sound-Proof Rooms; Location; Private Parking
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.6
The award-winning Hotel Van Cleef is set in a 700-year-old mansion. I stumbled upon this hotel on a recent trip to Bruges and simply had to walk in. The finest rooms in the hotel have a beautiful canal view, a fireplace and a very plush king-size bed decked out in designer fabrics. All the rooms are soundproof and have air conditioning.
Aside from the wonderful rooms, this boutique hotel has a beautiful sunroom (pictured above), an ornately decorated bar, a spacious breakfast room, and an inviting library filled with designer books. Every corner oozes luxury. In the summer guests can chill out on the sun-drenched terrace overlooking the canals of Bruges. This is by far the best boutique hotel in Bruges in my opinion.
5 MOST ROMANTIC B&Bs BRUGES
6. Guest House Nuit Blanche
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Locally Run; Bicycle Rental; Walking Tours
WHY BOOK: Historical Character; Authentic Medieval Decor; Location
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.6
One of the most authentic Bruges hotels, and for sure the most photographed. Guest House Nuit Blanche is set right off the famous Bonifacius Bridge. There is no other hotel in the country that compares to this little guest house. Both Winston Churchill and the former Belgian King stayed here.
The Gothic guesthouse and medieval enclosed garden overlook the Church of Our Lady as well as the Gruuthuse Palace and look like something out of a Jan Van Eyck painting. Run by a passionate local painter and his family.
With but two rooms, the Gothic Pasionaria room or the medieval Lune de Miel, it is about as intimate as you can find in the tourist-laden city of Bruges. Breakfast is a sumptuous three-course meal with stellar views. It is a bit of a splurge, but well worth it.
7. B&B Canal Deluxe
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets Allowed; Bicycle Rental
WHY BOOK: Intimate Setting; Limited Rooms; Fireplace; Canal Views; Inner Courtyard
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.5
This wonderfully romantic B&B in Bruges is set in a 16th-century historic building along the canals. Located a mere 3-minute walk from the Main Square yet blissfully tranquil.
The Deluxe Suites come with a cozy living room, fireplace, air conditioning, and bathroom with bathtub or walk-in rain shower. Each room has those hard-to-come-by canal views, one of the many reasons the B&B Canal Deluxe tends to book out very fast.
A plush king-size bed adorned with premium quality linen will ensure you have a peaceful night’s sleep. Breakfast is served as a buffet in the common room, or can be delivered to your room. Chill out in the cozy garden with a little aperitif after a day of exploring.
8. Dukes’ Arches Brugge (Adults only)
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Inclusive Hotel; Locally Run (Bruges hotel group)
WHY BOOK: Adults Only; Gym; Wellness Center; Soundproof Rooms; Private Parking
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.6
As far as I know, this is the only adults-only hotel in Bruges. Tucked away in a 19th-century mansion, this hotel was completely refurbished in 2022 and now offers all the modern-day amenities wrapped up in sublimely stylish decor.
The 4-star Dukes Arches Hotel has an on-site wellness center, equipped with a steam bath, sauna and gym located in the original 16th-century cellar. The plush rooms are fully soundproof and come with a well-stocked bathroom. Breakfast is served in the Orangerie while cocktails can be enjoyed in the inner courtyard after a day of visiting Bruges.
9. Hotel Jan Brito
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Pets Allowed; Bicycle Rental
WHY BOOK: Beautiful Garden; Historic Building; Wellness Facilities; Private Parking
BOOKING.COM RATINGS:
The award-winning 4-star Jan Brito hotel is one of the most charming hotels in Bruges. For many generations, this 16th-century stately mansion was the home to the city’s nobility including the Baroness de Giey.
Nowadays it forms a romantic pied-a-terre for couples looking for unique accommodations right in the heart of the historical center. Guestrooms have original features including woodbeam ceilings and glittering chandeliers. Grab a sumptuous breakfast inside the Baroness’ former library or chill out in the tranquil garden before stepping out into the bustling city.
10. De Tuilerieën
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Locally (Family) Run; EV Charging Facilities
WHY BOOK: Canal Views; Period Decor; Private Parking; Babysitting Services; Soundproof Rooms
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.0
If you are wondering where to stay in Bruges, it does not get more central than the 4-star De Tuilerieën boutique hotel. If the impressive history of this 15th-century noble residence does not convince you, the views over the Bruges Belfry and picture-perfect Dijver Canal might just do the trick.
Let’s circle back to that history for a minute. You might have heard about the Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges. The relic that made this Basilica famous was kept safeguarded right here in the current day Tuilerieën between 1578 and 1584! If only the walls of the house could talk, oh the stories they could tell!
RECOMMENDATION | If you stay here, splurge and get yourself the Belfry Tower Suite for the best views.
5 BUDGET BRUGES BOUTIQUE HOTELS
11. B&B Anna9 (Adults Only)
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Locally Run, Works with Local Suppliers; Seasonal Products
WHY BOOK: Value for Money; Wellness Facilities; Adults Only
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.7
Located in the residential Saint Anna Quarter, within walking distance from all the historical landmarks of Bruges. I find this the best place to stay in Bruges as the prices are significantly lower and it’s not heaving with tourists. The chances of a good night’s sleep increase exponentially!
B&B Anna9 has five spacious rooms with original features such as oak parquet floors, mantelpieces, and wooden beams. Rooms have comfortable king-size beds fitted with quality bedding, a fireplace, and a sitting area. Breakfast is served using seasonal products and can be eaten on the patio, garden terrace, or in your room. Various spa treatments are available on-site upon request.
TIP | If you want the best views, book Anna’s Attic, located on the third floor. This room offers views over the Bruges Belfry
12. B&B Saint-Sauveur Bruges
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Locally Run; Bicycle Rental; Decorated with Conscious Materials
WHY BOOK: Value for Money; Hot Tub; Private Parking; Accessibility (Elevator)
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.0
The locally run B&B Saint Sauveur was once the house of the bishop of Bruges. The family purchased it in 2011 and turned it into a quaint B&B with 4 large guest rooms, each with a private bathroom and seating area. Located roughly 400 meters from the Main Square in a tranquil part of town.
Renovations were done by combining natural materials like lime and chalk to be as ecological as possible. Rooms are equipped with an IPAD Mini and SONOS music system, a plush king-size bed, hardwood floors, and a bathtub or a walk-in shower. All of the rooms are accessible via elevator.
13. Guesthouse Mirabel
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Locally Run; Solar Panels; Heat Pump; Limited Single Use Plastic
WHY BOOK: Welcoming host; Accessibility (elevator); Value for Money; Small & Inviting
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.8
One of the top-rated guesthouses in Bruges! One look at the pictures will have you scrambling to book, owner Agna is a floral designer and has beautifully decorated her little B&B. Housed in a 19th-century mansion, Guesthouse Mirabel was fully renovated in 2021.
With just 5 rooms, this B&B is the perfect place to stay in Bruges for visitors looking for a personal touch. The spacious rooms come with a private en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning, and a plush king-size bed. Breakfast includes fresh bread & pastries, fresh fruit, eggs, and delicious fresh juices.
GOOD TO KNOW | This guesthouse welcomes children older than 12.
14. B&B 1669 (Adults Only)
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Locally Run; Bicycle Rental; Decorated with Conscious Materials
WHY BOOK: Value for Money; Hot Tub; Sauna; Private Parking; Adults Only
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.8
Charming B&B 1669 is run by the same family that owns the above-mentioned B&B Saint-Sauveur Bruges. In fact, they are located right next to each other. The same love and (ecologically minded) care was poured into renovating this 17th-century mansion and the decor is very similar.
The B&B has four rooms each containing a plush king-size bed, hardwood floors, air conditioning, and en-suite bathroom. There are two main differences versus its sister property: B&B 1669 is an adult-only B&B and it does not have an elevator reaching the top floors.
15. Martin’s Relais
SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS: Bike Tours; FEE’s Green Key Certified
WHY BOOK: Location; Private Parking; Rose Garden; Canal Views; Accessibility (elevator)
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.5
Boutique Hotel Martin’s Relais is formed from a complex of 5 patrician houses dating back to the 13th century. They overlook the much lesser-known, yet equally picturesque Spiegelrei Canal. The location of the hotel is one of the main selling points for me.
The 46 rooms and suites range in size from 25 to 50m². Each of them has been carefully renovated to keep the key historical elements, while equally providing modern-day comforts such as king-size beds, air conditioning, and private en-suite bathrooms. Some of the rooms have a canal view.
This beautiful heritage-style lounge, overlooking the canal offers the perfect setting to try one of the many local Belgian beers served. Breakfast is a sumptuous affair served buffet style, with a glass of cava, in the grand breakfast room.
Minimize Your Impact When Visiting Bruges
TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORT: If you are considering traveling to Bruges, opt to take the train instead of the car. The train station is an easy 15-minute walk from the Main Square.
AVOID SINGLE USE PLASTIC: If you are coming by train, the hallway opposite the lockers has a station where you can refill your water bottle for free.
PURCHASE LOCAL: Pop over to the tourism office to pick up a guide on where to find products that have the ‘Made in Bruges‘ certification. This way you know that your souvenirs are locally made.
STAY A LITTLE LONGER: Consider making your visit to Bruges a weekend trip instead of a day trip.
THE HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGES CONUNDRUM: The horses in Bruges fare much better than let’s say Palermo (the horror!). They are subject to a set of rigorous rules including mandatory rest days, 8-hour working days, and a complete ban on riding in temperatures above 30°C. I am not a fan of any tourist attractions involving animals, rather opting to walk around instead.
Map of Sustainable Boutique B&Bs in Bruges
The various boutique hotels are spread out across Bruges. In the map below you will find all the hotels that are covered in this guide plotted on the map of the city. If you click this interactive Google Map you can take a closer peek.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING BRUGES
Travel Guide: Complete One Day in Bruges Guide
Food Guide: 12 Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Bruges
Planning Guide: Is Bruges Worth Visiting?
Planning Guide: Bruges or Brussels: Which Belgian City to Visit?
Seasonal Guide: Christmas in Bruges Guide
Day Trip: Brussels to Bruges Day Trip
Day Trip: Amsterdam to Bruges Day Trip
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