Things To Do
in Sint-Andries
Sint-Andries is a quiet residential district just outside Bruges’ historic center, known for leafy streets and easy access to the region’s sights. It blends Flemish charm with convenient amenities, making it a comfortable base for exploring the area without the crowds. The area features early 20th‑century architecture, serene canals, and welcoming cafés along scenic lanes.
Visitors can enjoy relaxed walks, bike rides, and quick hops into Bruges’ markets, museums, and riverside viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and strong Belgian coffee. After your meal, stroll through the cobbled streets of Sint-Andries, admiring the charming buildings that reflect the area’s rich history. Visit the nearby Church of Saint Andrew, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
In the afternoon, explore the local artisan shops that line the streets, where you can discover handmade crafts and unique souvenirs. Stop for lunch at a traditional Belgian restaurant, where you can try local specialties such as 'stoverij' or 'moules-frites'. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the picturesque parks, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquil surroundings.
As evening approaches, find a cozy bistro for dinner, where you can indulge in a hearty meal paired with a glass of local beer. After dinner, head to a nearby tavern to experience the lively atmosphere, often filled with live music and friendly locals. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk under the stars, soaking in the charm of Sint-Andries at night.
Begin your culinary adventure with a visit to a local market, where you can sample fresh cheeses and artisanal breads from various vendors. Attend a cooking class hosted by a local chef, where you will learn to prepare traditional Belgian dishes using seasonal ingredients. Enjoy your freshly made creations for lunch, immersing yourself in the flavors of the region.
After your cooking class, take a guided tour of a nearby chocolate factory to see how Belgium's famous chocolates are made. Participate in a chocolate tasting session, where you can indulge in rich pralines and truffles. Spend the rest of the afternoon visiting local breweries, learning about the brewing process, and sampling a variety of Belgian beers.
For dinner, dine at a renowned restaurant that specializes in Belgian cuisine, where each dish is a work of art. Pair your meal with a carefully selected wine that complements the flavors of your food. Afterward, stroll through the vibrant streets, enjoying the lively atmosphere and perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a local pub.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🧀Groceries for a week | $40-100 |
| 🚆Public transit pass (monthly) | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Flemish town with easy access from Bruges center.
- Picturesque canals and medieval architecture provide endless photo opportunities.
- Quiet neighborhoods offer a relaxed base with good transport links.
- Nightlife is quieter in Sint‑Andries compared to Bruges center.
- Parking and certain central areas can be busy; cycle paths help but some routes require careful navigation.
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Goeie middag" - Good afternoon
- "Alstublieft" - Please
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Tot ziens" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Sint-Andries
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic canal-side view of Bruges’ medieval houses with the Belfry in the background; best at dawn or golden hour.
Romantic lake, trees, and swans—ideal for serene sunrise or sunset shots.
Towering silhouette over the canal-front cityscape; dramatic angles from nearby streets or a boat on the canal.
Food in Sint-Andries
Sint-Andries Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels cooked in white wine, shallots, and herbs, served with Belgian fries; a coastal favorite found in many brasseries.
Must-Try!
Flemish beef stew slowly simmered in beer and onions, typically served with fries or bread.
Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables; a Bruges classic often paired with bread.
Golden, crisp waffles with toppings such as whipped cream, chocolate, or fruit.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main square market with seasonal stalls offering fresh produce, cheeses, pastries, and snacks, set against ornate Bruges architecture.
Seasonal vendors offering fries, waffles, chocolates, and other quick bites near popular sights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite Flemish greeting (Dutch). Use 'alstublieft' for please and 'dank u wel' for thank you; a handshake is common when meeting someone new.
Safety
Tipping in Sint-Andries
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are sometimes included; it’s common to round up or add 5–10% for good service in restaurants and bars.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still common in smaller shops and markets; contactless payment is prevalent.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days with long daylight; expect occasional showers. Outdoor cafés buzz with locals and visitors; good for canal-side strolls and cycling.
Golden light and colorful foliage; misty mornings can add atmosphere to photos. Fewer crowds but more rain gear may be needed.
Cold but festive air; chances of light snow and Christmas lights in the old town. Shorter days mean earlier blue hour photography.
Blooming gardens and milder temperatures; rain is possible but often keeps crowds down and the light is soft for photos.
Sint-Andries at Night
Hiking in Sint-Andries
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic canal-side hiking path connecting Damme to Bruges with flat, easy terrain.
Large forested area near Beernem offering well-marked trails and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Sint-Andries by plane.
Major international gateway about 100–120 km from Sint‑Andries; accessible by rail or car.
Closest regional airport about 40–70 km away; convenient for low-cost carriers and short trips.
Smaller airport roughly 60–90 km away with limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language group in the area; culturally Flemish.
A mix of residents with a lively but laid-back community feel.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A very popular activity across Belgium; flat routes and scenic canal paths around Bruges.
Local clubs and leagues are common; matches attract community support.
Active water sports on Bruges’ network of canals and nearby waterways.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sint-Andries.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Plant-based options are common in Bruges-area eateries; look for veggie stews, salads, and cheese or mushroom dishes. When in doubt, ask for the chef’s recommendations and request meat-free preparations.