When I decided to explore the charming city of Bruges and its surrounding areas by road, I knew renting a car was the way to go. While Bruges itself is a pedestrian-friendly city known for its medieval architecture and serene canals, the real adventure begins when you leave the city and explore the Belgian countryside, quaint villages, and scenic coastline. Having the flexibility to travel at your own pace and stop wherever you like was exactly what I needed for the perfect road trip.
Choosing a Car Rental Company in Bruges
Bruges isn’t as large as some of Belgium’s other major cities, but finding a reliable car rental service is still easy. After comparing options, I went with Hertz. They have a convenient location near Bruges Central Train Station, which is just a 10-minute walk from the city center. This made it easy for me to pick up the car after a morning of exploring the city on foot.
Other well-known rental companies, such as Avis, Europcar, and Sixt, also operate in the area. However, I chose Hertz because of their competitive prices and the simplicity of the booking process through Rentalcars.com, which allowed me to compare multiple options.
Booking and Pricing
I booked the car online a couple of weeks before my trip, which I highly recommend, especially if you’re traveling during peak tourist seasons like summer or the holidays. I opted for an economy car—perfect for navigating narrow streets in smaller Belgian towns and ensuring easier parking in the busy areas.
The total cost for a 3-day rental was around €150, which included basic insurance. However, I always prefer additional coverage, so I added the collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection, which brought my total to about €200. Full coverage gave me peace of mind, especially as I planned to drive on some rural roads and coastal areas where I wasn’t entirely familiar with the terrain.
Picking Up the Car
Arriving at the Hertz rental office near Bruges Central Train Station was hassle-free. After a quick 10-minute walk from the city center, I found the office. The staff was helpful and efficient. All I needed was my driver’s license (a U.S. license worked just fine), my passport, and a credit card for the deposit. For non-EU travelers, it’s important to check if you need an international driver’s permit—although many rental companies accept U.S. licenses without it.
The car I booked, a compact Ford Fiesta, was clean and well-maintained, perfect for the two of us and our luggage. The rental process took about 20 minutes, and soon, I was on my way to start the road trip.
Driving Around Bruges and Belgium
Navigating Bruges itself can be tricky with its narrow cobblestone streets, so I parked just outside the city and explored on foot. Belgium, in general, has well-maintained roads, and the driving experience was pleasant. The signage is clear, and many road signs are in both Dutch and French, making it easier to navigate.
One thing to note is the speed limits. Belgian motorways generally have a speed limit of 120 km/h, but it drops to 50 km/h in urban areas. Speed cameras are common, so it’s essential to stick to the limits.
I planned my trip to visit several scenic spots outside of Bruges, like the windmills of Damme, Zeebrugge Beach, and the Zwin Nature Park near the Dutch border. Driving through the countryside was an incredible experience. The fields of green, the windmills, and the charming small towns made for a picturesque journey.
Parking in Bruges and Surrounding Areas
Parking in Bruges itself is limited, especially in the historic city center. I chose to park at ‘t Zand Parking Garage, located just outside the heart of the city. It cost around €8 for a full day and was an easy walk back into town. Most Belgian cities have similar parking systems, so always check for the nearest parking garages or street parking zones when visiting smaller towns.
In places like Zeebrugge and Damme, parking was much easier to find. These locations are far less crowded, and many spots, especially near tourist sites, offered free parking.
Car Rental Tips and Recommendations
- Book in advance: Especially during peak tourist seasons, booking your rental car ahead of time ensures availability and often better rates.
- Stick to small cars: Bruges and nearby towns have narrow streets, so a compact car is ideal.
- Get full insurance: It may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it’s worth the extra security when you’re driving in a foreign country.
- Fuel up at the right time: Some of the smaller towns have fewer fuel stations, so make sure to fill up before heading into rural areas.
Exploring Bruges’ Surroundings by Car
One of the main reasons I rented a car in Bruges was to visit the surrounding areas that are difficult to reach via public transport. Here are a few highlights from my trip:
- Damme: Just a 15-minute drive from Bruges, this small village is famous for its windmills and peaceful canals. It’s a great spot for a quiet afternoon walk or bike ride, and the drive there is scenic, following a tree-lined canal.
- Zeebrugge: A 30-minute drive takes you to the Belgian coast and the town of Zeebrugge, known for its beaches and seafood. Parking was easy to find near the beachfront, and it’s a perfect escape if you want some time by the sea.
- Zwin Nature Park: For nature lovers, Zwin Nature Park is an excellent destination. Located on the border with the Netherlands, it’s about a 45-minute drive from Bruges. The park offers walking trails and birdwatching opportunities, and it’s a great place to relax and reconnect with nature.
Car Rental Options in Bruges
While I went with Hertz for my trip, there are several other reputable car rental companies in Bruges worth considering:
- Avis: Conveniently located near the train station, Avis offers a range of cars from economy to premium models. They often have deals on weekly rentals, making them a great choice for longer trips.
- Europcar: Known for its excellent customer service, Europcar has a wide variety of vehicles available, including hybrid options for more eco-conscious travelers. They offer competitive rates, especially if you book in advance.
- Sixt: If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, Sixt provides higher-end models, including BMWs and Audis. Their office is a little further from the city center, but they offer delivery options for added convenience.
Renting a car in Bruges was one of the best decisions I made for this trip. It allowed me to explore beyond the city’s medieval charm and experience the broader beauty of Belgium. Whether you’re planning to drive to the coast, visit nearby villages, or embark on a multi-day road trip across Belgium, having a car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace. Just be sure to plan ahead, pick the right car for your needs, and enjoy the open roads!
