Living in Bruges: the ultimate expat guide

Bruges offers diverse employment opportunities across multiple sectors, though the job market is smaller than in Brussels or Antwerp. The city benefits from Flanders' strong economy, which boasts an employment rate of 77.8% and an unemployment rate of just 3.8% as of Q2 2025.

Key Employment Sectors

The tourism and hospitality industry is a major employer, driven by millions of annual visitors. Manufacturing remains strong, with companies like BMT Aerospace, Sioen Industries, and Barco operating in the region. The technology sector is growing, with firms specializing in software development, IT services, and digital innovation. The Port of Zeebrugge, just 15 kilometers away, also provides logistics and maritime employment.

Work Permits and Visas

Citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland can work freely in Belgium. Non-EU nationals require a Single Permit, which combines work and residence authorization. Your prospective employer must apply on your behalf through the regional employment office. Processing typically takes 8–12 weeks.

Sources: Statbel, EURES

Bruges hosts several respected higher education institutions, making it an attractive destination for international students. The city is home to approximately 9,000 students, creating a youthful energy alongside its historic charm.

Major Institutions

The prestigious College of Europe, founded in 1949, offers highly selective postgraduate programs in European affairs, attracting around 350 students annually from over 50 countries. Howest University of Applied Sciences provides English-taught bachelor's programs in fields like Digital Arts and Entertainment, Creative Writing, and Energy Management across its Bruges and Kortrijk campuses. VIVES University of Applied Sciences offers practical, hands-on programs in education, healthcare, and business. For research-focused degrees, KU Leuven operates a campus in nearby Bruges.

Tuition and Admission

Tuition fees at Flemish institutions are relatively affordable. EU students pay approximately €960 per year, while non-EU students typically pay €3,100–€7,000 depending on the program. The College of Europe operates on a different fee structure with extensive scholarship opportunities. Applications generally open in January for September enrollment.

Sources: College of Europe, Howest, VIVES

Education in Belgium is compulsory from ages 5 to 18. Bruges is located in the Flemish (Dutch-speaking) region, so local public schools teach primarily in Dutch. However, several options exist for international families.

Local Schools

Belgian public schools are free and high-quality, following the Flemish curriculum. Children often adapt quickly to Dutch instruction, especially at younger ages. Many schools offer additional language support for newcomers. The Certificaat d'Études de Base (CEB) marks the end of primary education, and secondary school runs for six years.

International School Options

Bruges itself has limited international school options. Most expat families with older children commute to Brussels (90 minutes by train) for access to international schools like the British School of Brussels or the International School of Brussels, which offer IB and British curricula. Closer alternatives include international programs in Ghent (30 minutes) or Antwerp (70 minutes). Tuition at international schools typically ranges from €15,000 to €30,000 per year.

Sources: Belgium.be, British School of Brussels

Bruges offers a diverse housing market ranging from medieval townhouses along picturesque canals to modern apartments in residential suburbs. The historic center is compact and walkable, while outer neighborhoods provide more space and lower rents.

Popular Neighborhoods for Expats

Sint-Anna is a peaceful residential quarter with cobblestone lanes, 17th-century cottages, and a local atmosphere—ideal for families seeking quiet living near the center. Sint-Gillis offers trendy cafés, vintage shops, and canal views in a more bohemian setting. Magdalena Quarter is family-friendly with parks like Minnewater and the Begijnhof nearby. For those prioritizing convenience, Sint-Michiels and Sint-Andries combine modern amenities with proximity to the railway station.

Rental Prices

Renting in Bruges is generally more affordable than in Brussels or Antwerp. Expect to pay approximately €900–€1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center and €1,500–€2,000 for a three-bedroom apartment. Furnished rentals command a premium. Leases typically run for three years, with a three-month deposit standard. Popular rental platforms include Immoweb and Zimmo.

Sources: Numbeo, Immoweb

Bruges is a cultural treasure trove with world-class museums, vibrant festivals, and a legendary food and beer scene. Whether you prefer art galleries or canal boat rides, the city offers something for every taste.

Museums and Heritage

Musea Brugge operates 13 museum locations throughout the city. The Groeningemuseum houses masterpieces by Flemish Primitives like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling. Climb the 366 steps of the iconic Belfry for panoramic views, or explore medieval healthcare at Sint-Janshospitaal. The Choco-Story chocolate museum, Bruges Beer Museum, and the unique Friet Museum celebrate Belgian culinary heritage. A Musea Brugge Card (€33) grants 72-hour access to all municipal museums.

Events and Nightlife

Annual highlights include the Bruges Beer Festival in February, the Procession of the Holy Blood in May, and the magical Christmas Market from late November. For evening entertainment, explore the bars along Langestraat in Sint-Anna or sample Trappist beers at the historic Café Vlissinghe, operating since 1515. Canal boat tours, horse-drawn carriage rides, and guided walking tours offer charming ways to experience the city.

Sources: Musea Brugge, Visit Bruges

Life in Bruges moves at a relaxed pace. The compact historic center is best explored on foot or by bicycle, and most daily errands can be accomplished without a car. The city's medieval layout and traffic-calming measures make it one of Europe's most walkable cities.

Public Transportation

De Lijn operates the bus network throughout Bruges and West Flanders. A single ticket costs €3 and allows unlimited transfers for 60 minutes. A 10-journey card costs €17. The main railway station connects Bruges to Brussels (1 hour), Ghent (25 minutes), and Ostend (15 minutes) via SNCB/NMBS trains. A free shuttle bus operates between the railway station and the city center daily from 7am to 7pm. Tap-to-pay with contactless cards is accepted on all De Lijn vehicles.

Lifestyle and Culture

Bruges embraces a strong café culture—expect long brunches, afternoon beers in centuries-old pubs, and leisurely canal-side strolls. Cycling is popular and safe, with dedicated paths throughout the city. Supermarkets like Delhaize, Colruyt, and Lidl offer groceries, while weekly markets at Markt Square (Wednesday mornings) and 't Zand (Saturday mornings) sell fresh local produce.

Sources: De Lijn, SNCB

Bruges offers a lower cost of living than Brussels—approximately 13% cheaper overall—while maintaining excellent quality of life. The following estimates provide a realistic monthly budget for newcomers.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo, Expatica