The Belfry of Bruges (Belfort) is a roughly 83-metre medieval bell tower rising over the Markt, the central market square of Bruges' UNESCO-listed old town, and it is the city's defining landmark. Built from around 1240 during the heyday of the Flemish cloth trade and rebuilt after a fire, it holds a carillon of 47 bells cast by Georgius (Joris) Dumery that still rings out over the city. It has been part of the 'Belfries of Belgium and France' UNESCO World Heritage inscription since 1999 and is famous as the setting of the 2008 film In Bruges. In 2026 the climb up its 366 narrow steps is capped by timed-entry, limited-capacity slots, so booking ahead is strongly recommended.
The panorama over Bruges' red rooftops, canals and countryside from the viewing platform atop 366 spiral steps
The medieval treasury room, once sealed by wrought-iron doors dating to 1290, where city charters, seals and funds were kept
The carillon of 47 bells weighing some 27 tonnes, with the great rotating drum that plays melodies automatically on the hour
The octagonal upper stage seen from the Markt, and the tower's famous slight lean acquired over the centuries
The tight passages and floor-by-floor displays on the way up that make the workings and history of the tower tangible
Good to know
RulesCapacity is limited and visitors ascend in small timed groups (roughly 15–25 people every 20 minutes). Slots sell out in peak season, so reserve a timed ticket in advance through the official operator, Musea Brugge.
SafetyThere is no lift; you climb all 366 steps of a steep, narrow spiral staircase with long one-way stretches. Consider carefully if you have knee or heart problems, or claustrophobia or a fear of heights.
SeasonJuly–August and weekend afternoons are the busiest; book an early-morning slot. Belgian weather is changeable and often wet, so bring a rain jacket, and note the tower may close temporarily in high winds for safety.
MannersThe bells ring loudly right above you around the top of each hour. If you are sound-sensitive, avoid the exact hour, and on the narrow stairs give way to people coming down.
CautionBuy tickets only from the official Musea Brugge counters, machines or website, and avoid overpriced resellers touting near the square. The crowded Markt attracts pickpockets, so keep bags in front and watch your wallet and phone.
SafetyMany shops and ticket points in the old town are card-only or prefer electronic payment; carry a card that works abroad rather than relying on cash.
Practical info
Bruges is about a one-hour train ride from Brussels; from Bruges station the Markt is a 20–25 minute walk or a short local bus ride, and the old town is largely pedestrianised. The Belfry is usually open daily from 9:30am to 6pm with last entry one hour before closing and adult admission around €15, but always confirm current opening hours, prices, closures and the booking policy on the official website.
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