As a family with little ones, we know that city breaks can be a balancing act. But for our first city adventure with the kids, we decided to combine it with camping—and it turned out to be a fantastic idea! Just an hour and 20 minutes from Calais, Bruges, Belgium was our destination, and we set up our cosy base at Camping Memling. Here’s a recap of our Bruges city break and some tips for other families looking for a mix of fun, culture, and outdoor relaxation.
Setting Up at Camping Memling
Camping Memling was the perfect spot for our family. Located just outside Bruges' historic center, this well-equipped campsite gave us the best of both worlds—close proximity to the city's excitement while offering a peaceful retreat. With good facilities and a family-friendly vibe, it kept everyone happy and allowed us to unwind after each day of exploring. Camping added a sense of adventure, and our kids loved the experience.
Bruges: A Family-Friendly City Packed with Fun
Our days were full of exploration! Bruges is a city that feels straight out of a fairy tale, with medieval architecture, canals, and cobblestone streets. The kids were wide-eyed at the beautiful buildings and winding alleyways, and every corner seemed to hold a new surprise. We wanted to see the sights, but also keep things kid-friendly, so we struck a balance with museums, treats, and some classic tourist fun.
Sweet Stops and Savoury Adventures
Our first stop? The chocolate shops! Bruges is famous for its chocolate, and we couldn’t resist sampling from as many as we could. Each store seemed to offer something unique, and the kids had a great time choosing their favourite treats. Then, we made our way to the Friet museum, a quirky museum dedicated to Belgian fries. It was a fun, hands-on experience with an interesting history lesson for the adults and plenty of fry samples for the kids.
A trip to Belgium wouldn’t be complete without trying the local beers, and Bruges has some incredible options for parents to enjoy. At the Bruges Beer Museum, we had the chance to sample some brews, while the kids explored interactive displays about the brewing process. We even picked up some tasty local beers to enjoy back at the campsite.
Exploring Bruges by Horse and Cart
One of the highlights of our trip was a horse and cart tour through the city. This was a huge hit with the kids, and it was a magical way to see Bruges' main attractions. The clip-clop of hooves on cobblestone streets, the beauty of Market Square, and the views of the Belfry were unforgettable moments. Plus, the pace was just right for little ones who needed a break from walking.
Why We’ll Be Back for the Christmas Markets
Bruges won us over completely, and we’re already planning our next visit—this time, we’ll come back for the Christmas markets. From what we've heard, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, with sparkling lights, festive stalls, and seasonal treats. The thought of exploring Bruges with the holiday spirit in the air has us counting down the days.
Tips for Families Traveling to Bruges
If you’re considering a family trip to Bruges, here are some tips based on our experience:
Mix city and nature: Camping near the city was perfect for our family. Camping Memling gave us the freedom to explore during the day and relax in the evening, and the kids had a chance to be outside.
Plan kid-friendly stops: Bruges has plenty of unique museums and attractions, like the chocolate shops and Friet museum, which keep kids entertained and add a fun twist to sightseeing.
Consider a horse and cart tour: The horse and cart tour was ideal for seeing the sights without tiring out little legs. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to enjoy Bruges’ beautiful landmarks.
Try local food and drinks: From Belgian fries to waffles, there’s no shortage of delicious food in Bruges. And for adults, don’t miss out on the Belgian beer scene!
Visit around Christmas: If you can, plan your visit in late November or December to catch the Christmas markets. It’s said to be one of the most magical times to see Bruges.
Final Thoughts
Bruges is a charming, family-friendly city with so much to offer, and our first city break with the kids was a huge success. With its rich history, cozy atmosphere, and endless chocolate shops, it’s the kind of place that invites you to wander and enjoy. We left feeling like we’d only scratched the surface, and we’re looking forward to our next adventure in Bruges this holiday season. If you’re planning a city break with kids, add Bruges to your list—you won’t be disappointed!
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