Paris-Brussels-Bruges-Paris in one day

If you're up to it, why not? But I would try to spend more time in Grand Place (set aside 2 1/2 hours, since, with a hour, you'll have to starting back to catch your Bruges train just as you arrive at the main square!), and more time in Bruges. You can catch the 9:43 pm train from Brussels (and still get a 29 Euro non-exchangeable, non-refundable SMOOVE fare) and be back in Paris at 11:05 pm. You'll get a little more time to explore....and you'll sleep well that night!

Maybe stop in Ghent on the way back from Bruges to Brussels, for an early evening walk around the medieval part, if there is a later train back to Paris. Your evening is shot, anyway. Sounds like a fun day.

You've thought this through, so I'm not sure what advice you're asking for. But I'd suggest allowing yourself a little more time to get back to Paris later in the evening so you don't feel so rushed. Brugges is a visual town, meaning that it's best appreciated just walking around instead of standing in line to get into sites.

Since you've obviously mastered transportation research, take some time to research where to have a beer while you're in Brugges. That's the best reason to escape Paris for a day!

I agree with Doug on returning a little later to Paris. I'd spend a minimal amount of time in Brussels; in fact, if I had it to do over again, I'd skip Brussels entirely.
It will be a long day, but certainly worth your while!

Thank you everybody, these are great suggestions. I am definitely going to do it!

You can drink on the trains, so I would grab a few Belgium beers and chocolate in Bruges and enjoy them on the train ride back to Paris.

Bruges is magical after dark when it is lit up; I would take the latest train back to Paris to enjoy the evening Bruges.

Repeating and agreeing with much of the above...Been to both places and love Brugge..Don't be afraid/ashamed to take the canal boat..you're a tourist! and it's a lovely way to see another view of the city. Keep your eyes open for the Golden Labrador who always seems to sit in the window watching the boats. He/she had a one second apperance in the film "In Bruges"....And do take the latest train possible back to Paris....For a "day trip" it sounds like a lot more fun than going to Versailles (according to someone who has taken visitors to the V too many times..)

Hi Mike! Are you back yet? I am leaving for Paris with my friend who has to work and would like to know how this "trip" worked for you :) My main goal was to go to the Stell brewery! (which is in Leuven so I would have to connect through Brussels anyway) Thanks!