Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Bruges | TOP 5 in the City Center

Need a break while touring the city or a spot for a quality coffee to go? See my list of the best coffee shops and cafes in Bruges (aka Brugge)! These spots offer tasty espresso, a welcoming atmosphere, and convenient locations for visitors and tourists.

Bruges (or Brugge) may be "touristy", and it does get crowded...but that doesn't stop me from loving this city. It's beyond charming and picturesque.

You'll see why it's nicknamed "Venice of the North" the moment you start wandering the canals. Pair those lovely canals with colorful buildings, Flemish architecture, cobblestoned streets, cozy cafes, and friendly locals...well...I'm sure you'll see why Bruges is worth a visit: crowds and all.

Bruges also happens to have a solid cafe and coffee shop scene. It didn't take long to discover my favorites. These 5 Bruges coffee shops are the ones I find myself returning to again and again.

Each spot is located within the historic city center, so no matter where you find yourself, you'll never be far from a quality coffee.

One of the best cafes in Bruges for a spacious layout, homemade cakes, and reasonable prices

Coffeebar Adriaan has been a go-to of mine for several years. The chill atmosphere, friendly service, spacious layout, WiFi, and affordable price point make this a win-win. 

This is not only a popular spot for coffee/tea but also for breakfast or afternoon coffee and cake. The homemade cakes truly are delicious. 

The prices are great considering the location; €3.50 Americano, €4.50 flat white, €4.80 French press, and €4 cakes/pies.

I usually stick with a hot Americano as the coffee flavor is on point.

Coffeebar Adriaan is one of the few places where it's acceptable to whip out your laptop and work for a bit. Just be mindful of busy times, like breakfast, and to not overstay your welcome.

5. Postbar

One of the best cafes in Brugge to escape the tourists

Out of all the coffee shops I've visited in Bruges, this one felt the most local. It's not near any sights and a 12-minute walk from Grote Markt, so tourists aren't stumbling upon Postbar by chance.

With a few sidewalk tables, a main room, and a secondary backroom, you'll likely find a spot to sit. The backroom was my favorite as it felt like an airy living room.

Prices are among the lowest you'll find, although payment is only accepted in cash.

While the coffee quality was great, don't expect expert latte art.

If you're looking for a calm environment and something that's away from the tourists (but still in the city center), head to Postbar!

One of the best cafes in Bruges for friendly service, iced lattes, and breakfast combos

You can tell everything is done with care at The Novel. From the little piece of brownie or cake they add to every drink to the thoughtful preparation of their breakfast plates and homemade cakes. It's obvious the owner takes pride in their little Brugge cafe.

Tucked just outside the busy city center (a 4-minute walk from Grote Markt), The Novel is a nice break from the crowds.

The cafe is small, but the seating inside is beyond homey. There are also several spots outside for sunny days.

My favorite items include the iced latte, homemade banana bread, chocolate cake, and classic Americano.

The breakfast combos are extremely popular and hearty. The Novel Breakfast is the best: fresh orange juice, scrambled eggs with za'atar, butter and jam, brown bread toast, tahini and hummus, Mediterranean salad, cream cheese, olives, sundried tomatoes, and grilled halloumi (€26).

The Veloce is a great option if you're not starving: scrambled eggs, brown bread toast, butter, smoked salmon with lemon, and sundried tomatoes (€19).

One of the most spacious coffee shops in Bruges with a nice back patio

Espressobar - I Love Coffee is a good option when you have a larger party or just want space to spread out. Not only will you find ample seating inside, but there is also a large patio in the back.

WiFi is also available.

Tea lovers will appreciate the long list of loose-leaf teas; as in 25+ options.

I was surprised to see my favorite coffee drink from Greece, espresso freddo, on the menu. It's a seriously frothed espresso (with sweetener if you want it) served over ice. Delicious on a warm day.

Every milk alternative or flavoring you can think of is on the menu for those who appreciate variety.

If you read through reviews, you'll quickly see that the top complaint is the cost. It's one of the more expensive coffee shops in Bruges (€5.50 tea, €6 espresso freddo, €5 flat white).

I usually stick with drinks here as I don't think the food is worth the price.