In this post, you’ll find all the best events and things to see and do in June in Bruges, Belgium. We have a Top 10 list of festivals, attractions, and entertainment that is updated for 2024.
TOP 10 EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO IN JUNE IN BRUGES
Below are our favorite 10 events and activities to do this June.
Don’t forget to take a look at our Bruges walking tours post.
1) See a Concert
You’ll be able to find all genres of music in Bruges this June. There are just a few major concerts, but the city has regularly-scheduled free concerts in the courtyard of the Belfry.
Rammstein, a German hard rock and goth metal band will be performing in Ostend, just 20 minutes from the center of town.
For a more classical concert, you can catch Budapest Festival Orchestra at Concertgebouw Brugge.
- Rammstein | June 27th, 28th
- Budapest Festival Orchestra | June 5th
You can also listen to free concerts from the carillon in the last hour of the morning. The carillon They last from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Many like to listen from the inner courtyard of the Belfry.
June marks the beginning of the summer evening concert series as well. They take place on Mondays and Wednesdays from 21:00 (9:00 pm) - 22:00 (10:00 pm).
2) Bruges Arabian Horse Event
This two-day horse show will host national and international competitors for a B-rated breed show. Whether or not you know about the technicalities of the competition, you can enjoy watching the well-groomed Arabian horses prance across the arena.
In addition to the show in the ring, there will be vendors, sponsor booths, food, beverages, and a few fun kids’ activities like face painting.
- Dates: June 10th - 11th, 2024
- Find information and tickets here.
3) Take a Waffles & Beer Workshop
Belgian waffles are famous all over the world. While you’re in Bruges, there’s no time like the present than to learn how to make them in a waffle workshop.
This 90-minute workshop will cover preparing and cooking your own waffles! Of course, you'll have the time to eat your creations as well.
If you're looking for something a bit extra, you can also learn to make Belgian waffles with beer included!
4) Ostend at Anchor
For visitors who are fascinated by ships, maritime history, or the ocean, Ostend at Anchor is the perfect festival to see this May-June. The full festival runs from May 23 - May 26, 2024.
Ostend is a neighboring port on the coast and hosts an annual free festival to celebrate sailing, boats, and ships.
Live bands will be performing on docked ships! There will also be plenty of seafood to eat and performers to enjoy. Don't forget exploring the sailboats.
Find more festival information here.
5) Climb the Belfry Tower
This medieval bell tower in the centre of Bruges is one of its most prominent architectural points of interest. Over the years, it has been a lookout spot, meeting hall, the city treasury office, and municipal archival location. It has also been burned down and rebuilt, in total or in part, several times.
Now, it offers a beautiful view of Bruges and the surrounding countryside after a hike of 366 steps to get to the top.
The top of the tower also holds the carillon with 47 bells.
Access to the inner courtyard is free. If you want to take the climb, admission is €12 at the ticket office on the ground floor.
NOTE: Keep in mind only a select amount of visitors are allowed to climb at one time, so if you want to limit your waiting time we suggest arriving early on weekday mornings.
6) Have a Beach Day at Albertstrand in Knokke-Heist
June is the beginning of summer, which makes it the perfect time to have a relaxing beach day! Albertstrand’s sandy beach is close to Bruges and popular for the nearby casino as well as a large number of restaurants.
July and August will definitely bring with it the largest beach crowds, so June might be your best bet for enjoying the weather and a bit of space.
7) Explore Brugge Markt
Come to the main market square to see a weekly market that has been running since 985.
Now, the market takes place on Wednesdays from 8:00 am to 13:00 (1:00 pm). You'll find fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as other edible treats such as cheeses, meats, and pastries. Vendors also sell handmade goods.
Surrounding the square are multiple cafes and restaurants that overlook the hustle and bustle and would make an excellent place to relax after exploring or simply people-watching.
8) History, Chocolate, and Beer Tour
Bruges has a rich history as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The country is also known for its chocolate and is home to several well-loved breweries.
This tour will give a great overview of the historical city before going to a Belgian chocolatier to learn how the pros make the best sweets. (With samples!)
Then, you'll end with a tour of the Bourgogne de Flandres brewery and a beer tasting.
9) Brussels International Film Festival
Brussels is slightly under 2 hours by train from Bruges and hosting their third annual Brussels International Film Festival, or BRIFF.
One pass will grant admission to all screenings, including the chance to reserve a spot at the opening and closing ceremonies.
- Dates: June 25 - July 3, 2024
- Cost: €33 - €49
- Find more information and tickets here.
10) Take a Free Walking Tour
Bruges is a beautifully compact city, which makes it easy to see all the important landmarks during a walking tour.
For the budget-conscious visitor, there are multiple pay-what-you-like tours available to book! These tours don’t cost anything up front, and you can decide what the experience was worth at the end.
You’ll see the Market Square, St. John’s Hospital, the Belfry Tower, beautiful canals, and more.
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