ibis budget Brugge Centrum Station

The rooms were bright, modern and clean, and the clerk even let us check in before 3:00 since our room was ready after our barge and bike tour. The hotel sits right beside Brugge’s main station, though the entrance is easy to miss. I walked past the stairs without noticing them because the signs are tucked away. Breakfast costs about 12 euros extra. I’d stay here again if I return to Brugge.

The breakfast was a real plus: plenty of bread, rolls and croissants from a local bakery, cold meats and cheeses, spreads, fruit, yoghurt and sweet cake, with everything topped up often. They had soy and almond milk as well as cow’s milk, two coffee machines and lots of tea choices. It was a good start to the day, and being so close to the station suited our needs. For the price, I’d call Ibis a good option. Getting in with suitcases was awkward. The hotel is by Brugge Central Train Station, above road level, and the escalators were out of order both days we were there. We had to carry our heavy cases up the stairs to the first level, then use the Ibis lift. Later we found a lift in the car park next door that goes to the first level, followed by a ramp to the second Ibis lift. We arrived early and left our bags in a locked room. At check-in, which was quick and easy since we’d done it online, another guest was waiting at the unattended desk. A note said there was a shift change and directed guests to an alternate reception, but didn’t say where that was. Our room on the third floor was compact, with a comfortable double bed, clean sheets and soft pillows. We didn’t realize there’d be no kettle for tea or coffee. There are vending machines by reception for snacks and drinks. The shower sits in the middle of the room; that was fine for us, and its door sealed properly with no leaks. The separate toilet was surprisingly roomy. There’s no bath mat, though, so the floor gets wet and can be slippery when you step out. The bath towels were very thin and only a little bigger than hand towels. Housekeeping came daily, though I’d have preferred tea and coffee facilities. The room was cleaned, but the floors felt a bit sticky, perhaps because they aren’t mopped each day.

The hotel is right beside the train station, which is a great location. Reception was efficient, and the breakfast server on the morning of May 27 was especially good. He greeted everyone warmly and reminded us to get scrambled eggs before breakfast ended.

The desk staff were welcoming, the bed was comfortable, and the room was clean despite being tiny. The basic lighting and fixtures did the job, and I didn’t notice much train noise even with the station right next door. Free Wi-Fi was available, but the connection was weak. Breakfast was very simple, though okay. I’d stay here again in the same situation, arriving late at Bruges station and feeling tired. If you just need an inexpensive place to sleep near the station, it works. I’d rate it around two and a half stars.