You’ll head back to the 17th century—the era the museum recreates—on a tour of this medieval hospital. Visitors can wander from pharmacy to herb garden to Diksmuide attic to dormitory and beyond, walking under a timber roof constructed in 1230. Apart from the exquisite architecture and the deep look at medieval medicine, you’ll get to witness six masterpieces by 15th-century artist Hans Memling, a beloved Flemish Primitive painter. Temporary exhibits are on rotation as well.
To get to Sint-Janshospitaal, take the train to the Bruges station or the bus to 502818 Brugge O.L.V. Kerk. From there, you can walk to the hospital—it’s about a 20-minute walk. If you’re driving, note that there is limited parking available around the hospital; try to avoid peak visiting hours and weekends. Of course, you could also take a taxi or rent a bike.
Sint-Janshospitaal in Bruges is typically open year-round, but it’s better to avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays as these times can be busy. Late afternoons are considered to be the best time of day to visit, as it’s less crowded and you can enjoy the museum and the artwork in a more peaceful environment.
Sint-Janshospitaal is in the thick of Bruges’ museum action—beyond the adjacent Memling Museum being part of the hospital complex. If you’re able to explore this ‘hood on foot, you’ll also be able to scout out the Diamond Museum, the Torture Museum, the Gruuthusemuseum, the Archeological Museum, the Groeninge Museum, Arentshuis, and more.
