Whether you’re combining sightseeing with a match or diving deep into Belgian football culture, this Bruges Soccer Travel Guide will help you plan the ultimate football trip to Bruges.
At Soccer Trippers, we’ve explored the world’s greatest stadiums, matchday cultures, and fan traditions. This guide combines expert insights and local knowledge to help you plan the perfect football trip to Bruges.
Why Bruges is a Top Destination for Football Fans
Football in Bruges is defined by local pride and a two-team rivalry unlike any other in Belgium. Club Brugge is a domestic powerhouse with a long list of titles and Champions League appearances, while Cercle Brugge holds historic roots and a fiercely loyal following.
The rivalry is real — even though they share a stadium, fans keep their traditions and identities alive with flags, chants, and street murals. Matchdays in Bruges are colorful, noisy, and intense.
Insider Tip: Locals often refer to Club as “Blauw-Zwart” (Blue-Black) and Cercle as “De Vereniging” — knowing this helps spark friendly football talk in bars.
Must-Visit Football Stadiums in Bruges
Jan Breydel Stadium
A 29,000-seat ground located in Sint-Andries. It’s the shared home of Club Brugge and Cercle Brugge, and one of Belgium’s most atmospheric venues on derby days.
Read the full Jan Breydel Stadium Guide
Pro Tip: Try to catch a Bruges derby — it’s one of the few true city derbies in Belgium and tickets sell fast.
Where to Stay in Bruges as a Football Fan
Hotels near the Stadium
Luxury / Budget / Historic Center Options
Best neighborhoods for fans
- Sint-Andries: Close to the stadium and local cafés
- Centrum: Medieval charm, nightlife, and transport links
- Sint-Michiels: Quiet, residential, and close to both matchday and sightseeing
Explore the Best Neighborhoods for Football Fans
Pro Tip: Bruges is walkable and well-connected by buses — you can stay central and still reach the stadium in 15 minutes.
Best Sports Bars & Where to Watch the Match
The Monk
Lively bar in the city centre with Belgian beers and live football
Café ‘t Stadion
A local favorite near Jan Breydel — walls decked out in Club Brugge memorabilia
De Republiek
Trendy café with big screens, good food, and a diverse crowd
See All Bruges Sports Bars
Local Flavor: Bruges bars fill up fast on matchdays — especially when Club plays in Europe. Arrive early, wear your colors, and enjoy the banter.
Getting Around in Bruges
- Buses: De Lijn buses connect the city center with the stadium
- Walking: Most of the city is easily explored on foot
- Bike rental: A scenic and efficient way to move through Bruges
Read the Public Transport Guide
Pro Tip: De Lijn matchday shuttles often run from the station to the stadium — check schedules online in advance.
Other Must-Visit Landmarks for Football Lovers
Club Brugge & Cercle Brugge Fan Shops
Located at the stadium — ideal for scarves, kits, and collectibles
Club murals and graffiti
Around Sint-Andries and West Bruges you’ll find colorful tributes to both clubs
Bruges Beer Museum
Not football-specific, but a fun pre-match stop with tasting flights and pub-style atmosphere
Explore Football Landmarks in Bruges
Where to Eat in Bruges
Foodie Tip: Fuel up with stoofvlees met frieten (beef stew with fries) or a crispy waffle before heading to Jan Breydel.
Conclusion – Is Bruges Worth the Football Trip?
Absolutely. Bruges offers a rare mix of beauty and rivalry — from fairy-tale streets to fierce local derbies. It’s football with a Flemish twist, and every fan should experience it.
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