Walking Tour with Hot Chocolate and Chocolate Tasting

If you’re dreaming of a taste-filled stroll through the medieval streets of Bruges, this walking tour promises a blend of history and indulgence. While it’s not perfect for everyone, it offers a charming way to experience the city’s iconic sights and sample some of Belgium’s finest chocolates.

We like how this tour balances cultural highlights with sweet treats, giving you both a sense of Bruges’ storied past and its renowned dessert scene. Plus, the stops at three artisanal chocolate shops mean you’ll go home with some delicious souvenirs. On the flip side, some travelers have found the tour’s pace and organization could be improved, and the experience might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is best suited for chocolate lovers, history buffs, or those looking for a fun, relaxed activity that combines sightseeing with sampling. If you’re after an in-depth museum visit or a more leisurely pace, you might want to consider other options. However, for a quick, tasty overview of Bruges, it hits some sweet spots.

Contents hide

1 What You Can Expect from the Tour

2 The Experience’s Pros and Cons

3 Who Will Love This Tour?

4 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Balanced Experience: Combines iconic sights with chocolate tasting and hot chocolate.
Short & Sweet: Two-hour duration makes it easy to slot into a busy itinerary.
Price & Value: Around $58, includes multiple chocolate samples, but some consider it somewhat rushed.
Expert Guide: Guides are generally well-liked for their storytelling and enthusiasm.
Flexible Options: Optional visits to churches and the Belfry are available but not included.
Group Size: Small groups of up to 24 travelers foster a more intimate experience.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bruges.

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour kicks off at FnacMarkt 18/19 in Bruges, right in the heart of the city. It’s designed as a two-hour walk, making it a manageable activity even during a packed day of sightseeing. The group size maxes out at 24, which helps keep things lively but also ensures you get the attention of the guide.

Exploring Bruges’ Historic Center

Your journey begins at The Markt, Bruges’ bustling main square. Here, you’ll see the Belfry with its impressive medieval architecture and the quaint guild houses that line the square—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the lively atmosphere. The 15-minute stop includes an admission ticket to ascend the Belfry if you choose, offering panoramic views of the city, although this is an optional extra at €16.

Next, you’ll move to Burg Square—a quieter, historic space home to the city’s ornate Town Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. You’ll spend about 10 minutes here, learning about Bruges’ political and religious history. The 15-minute visit to the basilica allows for a glimpse of the relic believed to contain Christ’s blood, adding a spiritual dimension to the walk.

Architectural Highlights and Cultural Stops

You’ll pass by the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk, renowned for its Gothic architecture and Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child sculpture. Although admission isn’t included, this site is worth a quick peek if you have time, and many travelers find it a highlight. It also showcases Bruges’ artistic heritage, adding to the tour’s cultural depth.

Chocolate and Waffle Tastings

The core of the experience is the chocolate stops at Chocolate Bruges and The Chocolate Line. These three artisanal chocolate shops are selected for their quality and craftsmanship. Expect around 10-minute visits at each, where you’ll sample pralines, truffles, and other Belgian confections. Travelers describe the chocolates as delicious, with one reviewer mentioning they were “amazing,” and appreciate the chance to try chocolates from some of Bruges’ top chocolatiers.

You’ll also visit a waffle boutique to enjoy waffle cookies topped with rich Belgian chocolate—a true treat for dessert lovers. The combination of chocolate and waffles perfectly captures Bruges’ sweet reputation, and many find these tastings to be the standout moments.

Here's some more things to do in Bruges

Art, Panoramas, and Local Brews

The Groeningemuseum offers a quick glimpse into Flemish paintings, though entrance isn’t included. If you’re an art fan, it’s worth considering an extra visit on your own.

A visit to the Belfort, the medieval bell tower, provides a chance to climb 366 steps for spectacular views—an optional activity at €16. Many travelers enjoy seeing Bruges from above, although it’s a more physical part of the tour.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to De Halve Maan Brewery, where you can sample the well-known Brugse Zot beer if you wish (free to browse). It’s a lively spot to wrap up your afternoon of sightseeing.

The Experience’s Pros and Cons

What Works Well

Knowledgeable guides are often praised for their storytelling and enthusiasm, making the tour both educational and lively. Reviewers mention that their guides shared interesting stories about Bruges’ history, which kept the group engaged.

The quality of the chocolate tastings is another highlight. Using three different chocolatiers offers a variety of flavors and textures that satisfy both casual and dedicated chocolate fans. The inclusion of hot chocolate adds a warm, comforting touch, especially if the weather is cool.

The short duration makes this a flexible option for those with limited time, and the small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

Areas for Improvement

Some reviewers have found the itinerary somewhat rushed, especially when multiple stops are clumped together or when additional attractions like churches or the Belfry require separate admissions and time. One reviewer noted that the chocolate tastings were “in very close proximity,” which might make the experience feel a bit hurried.

Plus, the organization could be smoother—some have expressed frustration over the lack of clarity regarding optional visits or additional costs. For example, entrance tickets to the Church of Our Lady and Belfry are not included, which can catch travelers unprepared.

Worth the Price?

At around $58 per person, the tour offers good value if you’re a fan of chocolates and want a guided overview of Bruges. The price includes multiple tastings and hot chocolate, but not the optional attractions like the Belfry climb or church entrance. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience with fewer extra costs, you might want to budget accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Chocolate enthusiasts will enjoy the tastings and the chance to learn about Bruges’ confectionery traditions. History lovers will appreciate the sightseeing of key landmarks with entertaining stories from guides. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a light, engaging activity that combines food and culture in a manageable time frame.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore the museums and churches in depth, this might not be your best fit. Also, those who dislike walking tours or are sensitive to crowds should note that while small, the group can still feel a little hurried during busy times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy chocolates and walking will likely have fun, especially since the tastings are geared towards a broad audience.

Can I buy extra chocolates during the tour?
The tour includes tastings at three chocolatiers, but you can purchase more chocolates if you wish, though prices and availability are not specified.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour involves walking through narrow, cobbled streets, so accessibility may be limited. It’s best to contact the provider directly for specific needs.

Are the visits to churches and other attractions included?
No, visits to the Church of Our Lady and the Belfry are optional and require separate tickets, typically paid on-site.

How much does the optional Belfry climb cost?
It’s €16, payable at the Belfry entrance if you choose to climb.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 24 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Is the hot chocolate included in the price?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a hot chocolate experience as part of the tour.

How long does the chocolate tasting last?
Each stop at a chocolatier is about 10 minutes, enough to sample several chocolates and ask questions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This walking tour in Bruges offers a flavorful way to explore the city’s iconic sights and indulge in Belgian chocolates. It’s especially suited for those who want a dynamic, guided experience that’s not overly long or costly. The combination of knowledgeable guides, delicious tastings, and stunning views makes it a memorable, if somewhat brisk, introduction to Bruges.

While it might not satisfy travelers craving a more relaxed or in-depth visit to museums and churches, it excels as a fun, sweet appetizer to your Bruges adventure. Perfect for chocolate lovers, families, or first-time visitors eager to get a taste of Bruges’ most famous treats, this tour can indeed satisfy your curiosity and sweet tooth in one delightful package.

If you’re prepared for a quick-paced tour and like the idea of sampling some of Belgium’s best chocolates, this is a solid choice. For those seeking more leisurely exploration or more inclusive options, you might want to explore other tours or plan a separate visit to the local sites.