The Princely Beguinage 'Ten Wijngaerde' is the only surviving beguinage in Bruges, founded around 1245 by Countess Margaret of Constantinople of Flanders. Its whitewashed 16th-to-18th-century houses ring a poplar-lined courtyard garden, making it an 'oasis of silence' in the city center; it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998 as one of thirteen Flemish Béguinages. It remains a living community where Benedictine nuns and single women actually reside, and in 2026 the anniversary exhibition 'Beschermd en geborgen' (Protected and Sheltered) marking its 800 years runs from 4 April to 8 November. Entry is free, and it is best approached as a quiet, contemplative walk rather than a busy sightseeing stop.
The serene ensemble of white beguine houses around the grassy courtyard framed by tall poplar trees
In spring (late March-April) the courtyard is carpeted with daffodils - Bruges' signature spring photo spot
The Gothic Beguinage Church (Church of St. Elisabeth) at the center - free to enter and quietly contemplative
The small Beguine's House museum (Begijnhuisje), a recreated beguine dwelling
The adjoining Minnewater (Lake of Love) with its swans, an easy walking extension of the visit
Good to know
MannersThis is an active religious community where nuns and residents live. Keep your voice low, respect the silence, and do not photograph residents, nuns, or the interiors of private homes.
RulesThe beguinage grounds are free to enter, but the main gates close at dusk. The small Beguine's House museum keeps separate, limited hours (roughly Mon-Sat with a midday break) and charges a small fee (about EUR 2); confirm the latest hours and prices before you go.
SeasonThe spring daffodil bloom (late March-April) is the most beautiful but also the busiest. In summer and on weekends, Bruges as a whole is very crowded, so arriving early in the morning gives you a quieter visit.
SafetyThe paths are uneven cobblestones and one entrance has a slope (about 8%), so high heels are impractical. Wear comfortable flat shoes and watch your footing in rain or winter, when surfaces can be slippery.
CautionThe beguinage itself is free, so ignore anyone demanding an 'entrance fee.' Watch for pickpockets in crowded central Bruges (around the Markt and Belfry) and be wary of overpriced horse-carriage or tour touts.
RulesThere are no public toilets on-site; the nearest are near the Minnewater, so go beforehand. Note that tipping is not obligatory in Belgium, as service is included in restaurant prices.
Practical info
The beguinage is about a 10-minute walk from Bruges railway station (Station Brugge) and roughly 15 minutes south of the Markt, right beside the Minnewater (Lake of Love). The main entrance is via Wijngaardplein and the Begijnhof bridge, with a second entrance near the Sashuis bridge. The grounds open daily, but hours vary by season (extended in summer), the gates close at dusk, and the museum keeps separate hours - so verify the latest opening times, fees, and the 2026 anniversary-exhibition schedule on the official website before visiting.
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