Bus

The main city bus stations are at Stationsplein (adjacent to the railway station), and at the large square called ‘t Zand (southwest of the centre). Bruges has an excellent network of local bus services, shuttling around the centre and the suburbs. Schedules are prominently displayed, and in the centre many buses stop at or near the Markt. A one-day pass for unlimited travel on all city buses can be bought at the kiosks outside the bus stations, or on the buses themselves.

Taxis

The main taxi stands are at the Markt, and at Stationsplein outside the railway station.

Driving in the city

If you choose to drive your way around the city, be prepared for congestion and parking problems. The best bet is to use the large and reasonably cheap public car parks in both the south and west corners of the city at 't Zand and Katelijnepoort, and go into the centre by foot, bus or bicycle. There is also a car park under the Novotel in the city centre, but it is expensive and fills up quickly.

Cycles

There are half a dozen bicycle rental places in the city. The tourist office issues a free and useful leaflet detailing five cycle routes in the countryside around Bruges.

Canal boats & horse drawn carriages

Canal cruises are one of the best ways of viewing the city: central Bruges has 6 miles (10km) of canals with 2 ½ miles (4km) accessible by boat tour (there are plenty of departure points along the Minnewater near the Burg). The cruises generally operate from March to November. As well as boat trips, the canal-side roads and paths make for excellent walking and cycling, so there is no need for a car.

Horse-drawn carriages go from the Markt, but queues are likely, especially in high season.