The Belfort of Bruges: A Historical Icon

Overview

The Belfort, or bell tower, is one of Bruges’s most celebrated landmarks, situated in a bustling square that has witnessed centuries of history. Originally built during the city's golden era, this architectural marvel has played a vital role in the community, serving as both a treasury and lookout post. Standing proudly at 83 meters, the Belfort features a challenging staircase with 366 steps leading to an exhilarating view of the cityscape. Its unique structure includes the market hall on three sides, affectionately nicknamed the Kalletoren, or Tower of the Halls. The tower is not only a testament to Bruges’s rich architectural heritage but also a place where time is honored through its historic bells, some dating back to the 18th century. Visitors can immerse themselves in this iconic landmark, following in the footsteps of many famous figures throughout history.

Photo of Belfort
Photo of Belfort
Opening hours
  • Sunday 10:00 - 18:00
  • Monday 10:00 - 18:00
  • Tuesday 10:00 - 18:00
  • Wednesday 10:00 - 18:00
  • Thursday 10:00 - 18:00
  • Friday 10:00 - 18:00
  • Saturday 09:00 - 20:00

Open 24/7

Contact Info
  • AddressMarkt 7, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
  • Phone+32 50 44 87 43

Reviews

Sofia Dupont
France
5
We visited the Belfort and climbed the narrow staircases to the top. It was remarkably well preserved, and we were fascinated by the clock bell mechanism. The views from the top were stunning and well worth the climb. There are larger floors showcasing the history of the tower. We were informed that on a clear day, you can see beyond the coast and the sea. Definitely a must-see in Bruges.
Elena Christodoulou
Greece
5
An incredible attraction with a great history! You must visit if you go there! You can climb up to enjoy the view, but it’s 366 steps! It's worth the effort. Also, if you go up at 15:00 (3 p.m.), you can hear the bells ringing, playing delightful music. It’s a marvelous experience that I recommend without hesitation!
Ana Verhoeven
Belgium
5
This magical tower is almost 500 years old and has had very few changes over the years, which reflects the skill of the builders. The views from the top are fantastic, but it's very windy and quite cold. You also have to deal with the bells tolling. The climb has multiple breaks, making it achievable unless you’re in very bad health. I’ve climbed this twice and would do it again simply for the breathtaking view. The staff at the entrance were friendly and multilingual. If you plan to see several museums and sites in Bruges, get the gallery pass; otherwise, this is 15 euros, which is just about valid.
Jasper De Vries
Netherlands
5
It was really fun to climb up! It can get very crowded, so it's advisable to purchase tickets in advance for your preferred time slot. The stairs are quite steep, but it’s absolutely worth it as you'll have a stunning view of Bruges.
Emma Leclerc
France
5
A fantastic spot to visit, and the food market is truly amazing. There are many street food options, and the waffles here are softer and different compared to other regions. It’s an easy place to get to in Belgium, with many small attractions nearby. The area boasts a range of architectural styles, showcasing the best medieval architecture, especially during the holidays. This was a good experience, and I hope you enjoy your visit!