Is Brugge dog-friendly? Where should you take your dog in Brugge, Belgium? Sniff out the traveling Yorkie’s guide to dog-friendly places in Brugge NOW!
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ARF, let’s bark Brugge! From well-preserved medieval architecture to wide, silent canals that create PAWfect mirror images, the famous town of Brugge is often referred to as Venice of the North. Although not nearly as congested or narrow as Venice, Brugge sure feels (or looks) like it came straight out from a child’s storybook – like Venice.
And, just like Venice, Brugge is historically a wealthy and prominent town with economic significance, many thanks to their port Zeebrugge. As a matter of bark, it was once one of the world’s leading financial cities (way before New York City was even born). Bark about TOP DOG status! The mesmerizing little squares, step-gabled or “toothed” facades, high bell towers, and cobblestone streets will take you back in time and fully immerse you into the Middle Ages.
Due to a rich history with influences from the Dutch, French, and German, the capital and largest city of the province of West Flanders has several slightly different variations in spelling and pronunciations; “Brugge” is the native Dutch-language in the region (which is Flemish spoken in Flanders) of the town while Bruges is its French name. The Germans call it Brügge.
As a furry nomad used to spending two thirds of the year in Europe, I’ll be the first to bark that Brugge is VERY dog-friendly and totally worthy of some wet nose sniffing. Whether you’re planning a trip to Brugge with your dog or looking for dog-friendly places in Brugge while you’re there, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get our sniff on!
Dog Culture in Brugge
My humans and I long debated if we should spend more time in fairytale town Brugge or big city Brussels. As the 7 lb. pack leader, I quickly ended the discussion by putting a furry paw up for Brugge. Despite being a city boy, I wanted to slow down the pace arf-ter spending too many nights roaming around the Red Light District in Amsterdam (OK, I’m joking. But I’m ashamed to admit that I did spend too many nights PAWtying in Amsterdam).
With wide, clean streets, less pedestrian traffic, and banned motor traffic (at least in the city center), Brugge is, PAWS DOWN, a better dog-friendly destination than Brussels. If your dog has been on the road for a while (like myself), going to a smaller town can help him relax and destress from hectic travel days and the hustle and bustle of big cities.
Plus, I heard about the famous Yellow Labrador Retriever Fidèle who lived at the Côté Canal bed and breakfast. Over the years, thousands of American tourists would take photos of him at his favorite sleeping spot on a windowsill facing the Groenerei canal. Even though I set my furry paws in Brugge after his passing (which was in 2016), I dropped my jaws into an open-mouth smiley face as I heard about such a famous spoiled doggie.
Are dogs allowed inside restaurants in Brugge?
Besides the relaxed and safe environment for dogs, the best part about the dog culture in Brugge is, PAWS DOWN, its restaurants which are mostly (if not, all) dog-friendly. BUT it’s imPAWtant to note that this perk isn’t found only in Brugge. Like in the case of France and the Netherlands, most restaurants in Belgium allow dogs to dine indoors with their humans.
And yet, Brugge is certainly no exception! I set my furry paws in Brugge over the summer when the weather was actually quite pleasant in the mid 60s Fahrenheit (gotta love northern Europe), which I’m used to coming from San Francisco. And, I ARF-solutely loved that I have the option of dining indoors – shall I choose.
Some locals told us that the law states that no “pets” are allowed in places where food is processed, handled, or stored. However, there are two exceptions – 1) They can be brought into places where food is consumed, such as restaurants, cafes, and bars, and 2) They can be brought in if they’re service dogs (as defined by the E.U., which has a different set of criteria than the U.S.).
From Belgian beer to Belgian waffles to Belgian chocolates, Brugge boasts ample dog-friendly spots that serve delicious Belgian goodies to fill up my little Yorkie belly. Unlike typical tourist towns, the sophisticated restaurant and bar scene in Brugge caters to both locals and visitors. From traditional, old school eateries to more tourist-centric restaurants by the canals to local watering holes, I’ve never been denied entry indoors.
I’ve been welcome indoors with open paws at cafes serving the most delicious Belgian waffles to contemporary Thai food joints. As a matter of bark, I even sat my furry butt on quite a few human chairs. Hence, due to the acceptance of dogs at most (if not, all) restaurants, eating out with your dog in Brugge can be a fun experience.
Just remember to pack some dog-safe food and water to-go for your dog while you chomp on some Belgian waffles, mussels, chocolate, and fries – all of which are suPAW tasty but not safe for dogs, especially Yorkies with sensitive tummies. Being pack animals, dogs don’t like to feel left out. I know I don’t! My humans always pack to-go bowls and a bag of goodies for me whenever I’m out and about.
In case indoor dining doesn’t work out, most restaurants offer beautiful terraces and outdoor seating. Due to Brugge’s enchanting fairytale atmosphere with scenic canals, most visitors prefer to dine outside anyway. Nonetheless, it’s nice to know that dog travelers can have the option of indoor dining.
Be sure to check out a few of my favorite dog-friendly restaurants in Brugge:
Le Pain Quotidien (Simon Stevinplein 15, 8000) – PAWsome place for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even late lunch! Despite being a chain, the one in Brugge is truly exceptional. The ingredients are always fresh, and the healthy menu offers vegetarian and vegan options for those who don’t eat meat. While the courtyard boasts an inviting setting, I prefer to sit on the porch for some prime human and dog-watching.
In The Mood – Dinner in the Park (Minnewater 15, 8000) – This cozy cafe is located inside the sophisticated hotel Boutiquehotel ‘t Fraeyhuis, just next to the concert hall. Come here for a classy romantic dinner in Minnewater Park – with your dog as your date. I love dining on the terrace and surrounding myself with greenery as I dig into my dinner plate (I mean, bowl). Although it feels a bit upscale here, this place is frequented by locals.
My humans and I have particularly tail-waggin’ memories at this restaurant because we met two locals here and ended up chatting with them the whole evening! Fun times.
De Stoepa (Oostmeers 124, 8000) – Despite being a bar, De Stoepa is a small local bar in the city center offering an delightful array of food options, from burgers to street food to curries to wok dishes. Even though I hung out inside no PAWblem, there’s a lovely large garden terrace (and winter terrace with heating). It’s usually our last stop for drinks before calling it a night.
Do the people in Brugge like dogs?
While I wouldn’t bark that I was met with mostly awws and smiles, I can bark with an upright tail that the people in Brugge appear to be either dog-lovin’ or (at least) dog-tolerant. Luckily, I didn’t have a negative experience like I did in other parts of the world, especially wining and dining indoors.
How do you get to Brugge with a dog?
I traveled by train from Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Bruges, which took about 3 hours. I slept inside my half-zipped carrier most of the time, but came out occasionally for a break and to gaze at some lovely scenery! It was a breeze. Again, since most trains in Europe are dog-friendly, they are the best mode of transportation to travel with a dog in Europe. You can move at your own pace and take the time to see Europe with your dog.
However, if you’re flying, there are two main airports that serve the Brugge area – 1) Brussels Airport (BRU), the closest major airport – this means you’ll have to take a train into Brugge upon landing, and 2) Ostend (OST) Airport, which is about 15 miles away. Ostend generally only has direct flights to cities within Europe. And, if you’re already in Europe, I highly recommend traveling by train.
If you’re flying from the U.S., your bets are on United Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Lufthansa, which have the most direct flights to Belgium. Luckily, all three airlines allow small dogs to fly in cabin.
Are dogs allowed on public transportation in Brugge?
YES! Keep on sniffing below:
Can you take dogs on trains in Belgium?
WOOF, trains are dog-friendly places in Brugge (and throughout Belgium). Dogs can ride on trains in Belgium either FREE OF CHARGE or for a small fee of € 3 per trip. A ride to the capital city Brussels is only an hour away, making it a suPAW easy day or weekend trip. Whether you want to travel with your dog to Ghent or Brussels from Bruges, Belgian trains got your dog’s back!
As a small dog traveling in a carrier, I didn’t have to pay extra for any of my train rides. Here’s some information from the Belgian Train’s official website:
- € 3 per single trip for an animal on a lead
- a small pet in a basket, cage or box, which is no larger than the dimensions on the picture (30x55x30cm) doesn’t have to pay a ticket
- a dog for the blind or an assistance dog doesn’t have to pay a Pet Supplement
- A muzzle is not mandatory but is recommended for dogs, the conductor may insist that you put a muzzle on your dog.
- your pet may not sit on the seats or tables
*Be sure to check their website for any pet policy changes or updates before booking.
AWOOO, that’s the official “Pet Supplement” policy on Belgian Trains. Based on my riding experience, the carrier enforcement is pretty laxed as I like getting out for a breather midway through the ride (and often remain halfway out of the carrier until my final stop). The conductor saw me several times, but didn’t even take a second look.
Can you take your dog to Brussels, Ghent, or Antwerp?
As if you didn’t hear y bark earlier, you CAN ARF-solutely take your dog to Brussels by train from Brugge. And yet, that means Ghent (30-minute train ride) and Antwerp (1.5-hour train ride) are also easy peasy. With most trains in Europe being dog-friendly, riding trains is, PAWS DOWN, the easiest way to see Europe with your dog.
Sniff out my guide to taking your dog on to Brussels here.
Can dogs go on buses and trams in Brugge?
ARF, YES! On De Lijn, the public bus and trams network in Flanders, dogs can travel for free as long as he’s on a lead or on your lap. This includes the Coastal Tram. ARF course, the same goes for service dogs assisting disabled passengers. As for larger dogs, I have not sniffed out any muzzle requirement. WOOF-HOO!
Are dogs allowed inside markets and grocery stores?
Due to laws and health regulations, dogs are not allowed inside markets and grocery stores in Brugge or elsewhere in Belgium. If you must run to the market, leave your dog at the hotel or apartment. I saw some humans tethering their dogs outside while they shop for groceries, which should be OK since Brugge is a safe town. However, I don’t recommend leaving your dog unattended for safety reasons no matter where in the world you are, even if dog-napping doesn’t occur.
If you’re going to a small or independent local grocery store, the owner may allow you to bring your dog in for a quick transaction.
Dog-Friendly Places in Brugge
Old Bruges
Old Bruges IS a fairytale land! And, ARF- dogs can be part of happily ever after. Every day, I’d set my tiny alpha paws on the cobbled streets of Old Bruges and roamed around this medieval town as a brave Yorkie knight until my furry paws needed a rest. From the Belfry of Brugge (the medieval bell tower) to The Town Hall (Stadhuis), Brugge has bragging rights to some of the most head-tiltin’, mesmerizing medieval architecture. Much of its buildings were built during the Golden age, from 12th to 15th centuries when the city rose to prominence and wealth.
Canals
Since Bruges is called “Venice of the North” (well, along with other cities in Northern Europe), it’s no surprise that the canals are perhaps the most sniffworthy part about the city. After a long walk, I love relaxing with my humans (and watching the swans do swan things) on one of Bruges’ many canals. I frequently led my human pack to Rozenhoedkaai Canal, which has arguably the most captivating views in the city.
Although I didn’t hop on a canal boat tour, the operators advised my humans that they do allow dogs on board for FREE. I’m not sure my small size has anything to do with it, as I couldn’t sniff anything online. However, it doesn’t hurt to ask if you have a big dog. Besides the boat tours, you can also rent a private boat to explore the canals with your dog.
The Markt
Grote Markt is my favorite spot (or sPAWt) in the city for prime people and dog-watching. The intriguing colorful architecture, the magnificent energy, and ARF course, the famous medieval Belfry tower are enough to keep my humans entertained for hours while I chase and sniff any dog who comes my way. My robust wet nose even led me to synergizing evening festivals at this PAWsome public square.
Churches
A visit to Brugge is not complete without visiting a few churches or places of worship. Although dogs are not allowed inside, I took my time (respectfully) sniffing out these historical exterior grounds. ARF-ter all, it takes more than a few sniffs to get centuries worth of history. From the Church of our Lady to Basilica of the Holy Blood, the architectural beauty is indisputably remarkable. If you are keen on entering a church, be sure to bring someone along who can take turns watching your dog. Here’s me sniffing out Saint Magdalena Church!
Dog-Friendly Parks in Brugge
WOOF, this is my spot to MARK it up. Located on the former grounds of the old ‘t Zand Station, Koning Albert I Park is just a 10-15 minute walk from the city center. Constructed after World War II, this gorgeous dog-friendly park is a PAWpular hangout spot for both tourists and locals.
Since I resided within walking distance, I became a regular hind leg kicker here. Historical monuments, spectacular gardens, and free-roaming swans make this urban park one suPAW magical place to visit with your dog. They also host weekly flea markets, which welcome dogs to walk through with their humans.
Formerly a monastery garden, Queen Astrid Park boasts ample green spaces with a small lake, a grand gazebo, and a quiet pond with a fountain. Surrounded by beautiful tulips, colorful flowers, and shrubbery. My favorite part about this park is the immense shade all the trees provide on a sunny day.
As the gatehouse of a demolished castle, Minnewaterpark offers an alpha dog like me plenty of nice areas to sniff out and mark up. The wondrous green space surrounds the Minnewater a.k.a. Lake of Love, creating a peaceful atmosphere for a morning walk or evening stroll with your dog. With extra magic added by the Lovers Bridge, I made sure my humans live in the moment instead of snapping pictures for my PAWbulous Instagram. For dogs who love a good swim, there are some areas for dogs to take a dip in the water.
Although I did sniff out this small, wooden-fence dog park in Brugge, I didn’t go in since there were no furry butts to chase! GRRR.
Dog-Friendly Accommodations in Brugge
WOOF, my stylish undocked tail is wagging as I bark that dog-friendly accommodations in Brugge (especially in the famous city center) are relatively easy to find. However, expect to pay a small fee for your dog’s stay, which is still cheaper than most dog fees at U.S. hotels. Thanks to Brugge’s fame and former glory, it’s no surprise that hotels in Brugge are not so cheap. Sniff out my guide on how to save money and find the best dog-friendly hotels.
Sniff out my recommendations for dog-friendly hotels in Brugge:
Ibis Brugge Centrum – A hip hotel with a bar/lounge located in the city center
3-star hotel
Katelijnestraat 65/A, 8000
1 dog allowed for EUR10 per dog, per night. Service animals are exempt from fees.
Ibis Budget Centrum Station – A budget, no-frills version of the Ibis hotel chain located in the city center
1-star hotel
Marie Popelinplantsoen 4
Dogs are allowed for an extra charge of EUR 5 per dog, per night. Service animals are exempt from fees.
*While the rooms are small, they’re sufficient for a short stay if you don’t plan on spending much time inside.
Book your stay at Ibis Budget here!
Hotel de Orangerie by CW Hotel Collection – a luxury hotel with a restaurant located near Brugge Market Square
4-star hotel
Dogs are allowed for an extra charge of EUR 20 per dog, per night. Service animals are exempt from fees.
Book your stay at Hotel de Orangerie here!
So, is Brugge Dog-Friendly?
You betcha! From dog-friendly attractions like Old Town to dog-friendly restaurants, cafe, and bars to affordable dog fees at hotels, Brugge is, PAWS DOWN, one of the best places in Europe to visit with a dog. In addition, its safe, clean, and motor vehicle-free historical city center makes it a delightful, dreamy area to explore with your dog by foot (I mean, PAW). If you want to take your dog outside the city, hop on a train, bus, or tram – all of which welcome dogs for free or a small fee of EUR 3.
Is Belgium good for dogs?
YES! Like its neighbors France and the Netherlands, Belgium is a good country for dogs. Although there are always exceptions (like anywhere), dogs are generally treated well as family members and have access to quality veterinary care. The best part about taking your dog to Belgium is being able to wine and dine with your dog inside most (if not, all) restaurants, which makes traveling with your dog more rewarding.
SAY (I mean, BARK) NO TO HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGES
Perhaps I have something against horses or humans exploiting horses for carriage rides. I couldn’t help but chase, bark, and growl at the horses. My humans think that I may be speaking up for the horses and protesting against horse-drawn carriages, which are considered cruel by animal rights advocates. While visiting Bruges with your dog, I sincerely hope you will stay away from those horse-drawn carriages. Find out other ways to help animals while traveling.
WOOF, I hope you and your dog enjoy visiting my favorite dog-friendly places in Brugge! Be sure to share your experience with me – BARK AT ME! Sniff out where else I’ve conquered with my alpha paws.
ARF yeah, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube Channel: Wet Nose Escapades by Roger Wellington.
Markin’, it up,
Roger Wellington a.k.a. The Doob
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