brugge boat tours

Discover the city of Bruges via a boat trip on the Bruges canals

What are the opening times.

Reservations are only possible for groups of minimum 20 people between 9 am and 5 pm, from 1 March to 31 October. In the winter months we are, depending on the weather conditions, only open on Saturdays and Sundays and reservations can only be made between 9 am and 11 am. Without a reservation it is usually impossible to take a boat trip with a group.

Where do we have to board

Departures and arrivals are at the same address: Bootexcursies Gruuthuse, boarding point 3, Nieuwstraat 11, 8000 Bruges. This is near the Our Lady church (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk), on the corner of the Nieuwstraat and Dijver. (It is not possible to get on or off the boat anywhere else.)

Admit it, a visit to the beautiful city of Bruges is not complete without a boat trip on the Bruges canals.

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Frequently asked questions

Do you have any questions about boat trips on the canals, the boats and their facilities or the price of a boat trip in Bruges? Choose the topic for your questions below (e.g. "About boat trips") and find your answer in a heartbeat.

Where do the boats depart from in Bruges?

You can board a boat for a boat trip on the Bruges canals at one of the five embarkation points in the centre of Bruges. The boat companies all take the same route on the canals and maintain the same tariffs.

Katelijnestraat 4 tel. +32 50 3 327 71 [email protected]

Nieuwstraat 11 tel. +32 50 33 32 93 [email protected] www.boottochten-brugge.be

Wollestraat 32 tel. +32 50 33 41 20 [email protected]

Rozenhoedkaai tel. +32 50 33 13 75 [email protected]

Huidenvettersplein 13 tel. +32 50 33 00 41 [email protected]

It is not possible to depart or end at a different place.

Are boat trips available all year round in Bruges and when exactly do the boats sail?

Boat trips are guaranteed from early March through mid-November: every day, from 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. Boat companies may deviate from these sailing times, depending on the weather and on local demand. No evening tours are offered, so as not to disturb the peace of those living along the water.

From mid-November through February, the boat companies can decide for themselves whether to open or not, and at what times.

Are there several routes to choose from?

Tours are permitted on parts of the Bruges canals. All the boat companies take the same route between Jan van Eyck Square and the Beguinage . On the way, you can admire several of Bruges' highlights. View the route .

What sights will I see during a boat trip on the Bruges canals?

Tours are permitted on parts of the Bruges canals . All the boat companies take the same route between Jan van Eyck Square and the Beguinage. On the way, you can admire several of Bruges' highlights, such as:

• Jan van Eyck Square , the mediaeval port district with the elegant Burghers’ Lodge
• the Groenerei , one of the most romantic canals in Bruges
• the Rosary Quay , with a view of the centuries-old Belfry
• the Dijver, with a view of the stately Church of Our Lady with the tallest tower in the city
• the Gruuthuse bridge, the widest bridge in the city
• the Boniface Bridge , one of the most romantic bridges in Bruges
• the mediaeval St John's Hospital , one of Europe's oldest hospitals

the entry gate to the Beguinage , part of UNESCO World Heritage

Are the boats in Bruges hop-on hop-off?

The boats make a 30-minute tour of Bruges' canals without any stops. This means you cannot disembark during the tour. There are five different boat companies, each with its own embarkation point. You can choose which boat company you want to travel with and then depart and finish at that point.

How long does a boat tour in Bruges take?

The tour of Bruges' canals takes half an hour without any stops. Longer boat trips are not possible.

What if it rains?

The boats are not covered. In the event of (sudden) rain, umbrellas will be handed out. If it rains hard for a long time, the boat companies may decide to suspend the boat trips after a while, or they will not open at all. This decision will be taken by the boat companies themselves.

In what languages is an explanation given during the boat trip?

The boat's captain will give an explanation during the voyage through a microphone. The languages in which the explanations are provided will depend on the nationalities on board and so may vary from one tour to another. At the start of the boat trip, the skipper will ask which languages the visitors speak and based on that he/she will decide in what language or languages the explanation will be given during the boat trip.

Most captains are fluent speakers of Dutch, French and English. Some of them also speak some German and/or Spanish.

Will I see any swans while sailing on the canals?

There are a hundred or so swans on Bruges' canals. They can move freely on the water and are used to the boats. They will move aside themselves when a boat is approaching. Both Bruges' skippers and the passengers on board are expected to show respect for Bruges' swans. The animals have been swimming on Bruges' waters for centuries, which is why they are cherished by the residents of Bruges. The swans are cared for by City of Bruges staff.

There are a great many swans roaming around on the water and the banks at the Bakkersrei, next to the Beguinage , as this is the only feeding spot in the city centre. The boat is a good place to get a view of Bruges' swans here.

Useful to know: in the winter, the swans are taken out of the water and moved to a covered winter residence, where they even have their own swimming pool. The swans are also transferred to their winter residence for preventative reasons when an infectious bird flu is circulating.

Are the boat trips child friendly?

There is no offering tailored to children. As to the route and onboard explanation, the boat trip is not tailored to children, but the experience of a boat trip in itself is something children will enjoy: coming aboard, sailing on the canals, sometimes being sprayed by water, the swans on the way, waving to people on the shore, ducking for a low bridge.

What does a boat trip in Bruges cost and are there any discounts?

The pricing for a boat trip for individual visitors can be viewed higher up this web page. In addition, there are a range of discount rates:

• €12.00 for groups from 20 people
• €9.00 for children aged between 4 and 11 (including in a group or school capacity) and people with a disability when showing their 'European Disability Card'
• free guides for people with a disability when showing the 'European Disability Card' and supervisors of groups or school classes.

The pricing is determined by the City of Bruges.

Can I book online in advance for a boat trip in Bruges?

Booking online for individual visits is not possible. You simply buy your ticket on the spot from one of the shipping companies. Please allow for some waiting time during busy periods.

From 20 people, you can book at one of the five embarkation points. You can also book a private boat in advance.

Can I hire a private boat to sail on the Bruges canals and, if so, how do I book a private boat?

It is possible to hire a private boat in Bruges. A private boat means that no passengers other than your company will be on the boat. Small groups can book a private boat, as well as individual visitors. For example, if you desire a boat trip for a special occasion, such as a romantic wedding proposal or for an unforgettable birthday.

You can book a private boat in advance with one of the five boat companies:

• Boat company Venetië van het Noorden, Huidenvettersplein 13, tel. +32 50 33 00 41, [email protected]
• Boat company Coudenys, Rozenhoedkaai, tel. +32 50 33 13 75, [email protected]
• Boat company De Meulemeester, Wollestraat 32, tel. +32 50 33 41 20, [email protected]
• Boat company Gruuthuse, Nieuwstraat 11, tel. +32 50 33 32 93, [email protected] , http://www.boottochten-brugge.be
• Boat company Stael, Katelijnestraat 4, tel. +32 50 3 327 71, [email protected]

The price for a private boat trip on the Bruges canals can be worked out yourself. Irrespective of the number of passengers on the private boat, you will pay the individual price for adults (see further up  this web page) times 30 with all the boat companies.

How do I book a boat trip for a group?

From 20 people, you can book a boat trip with one of the five boat companies:

• Rederij De Meulemeester, Wollestraat 32, tel. +32 50 33 41 20, [email protected]

The price amounts to €12.00 per person for groups from 20 people. Children aged between 4 and 11 will pay €9.00. Supervisors for groups or school classes may sail for free.

How can I pay for the boats?

You pay on the spot with the boat company, with Payconiq or cash. There are several cash machines near the embarkation points. The boat company may ask for a deposit for bookings for groups or a private boat. For groups or a private boat trip, you should ask the boat companies about the way to pay.

Are all the boats the same?

Certain matters, such as width and length, are all fixed and are determined by the municipal authorities. The boat companies need to adhere to these. In practice, therefore, the boat companies all sail with the same boats.

Are the boats wheelchair accessible?

Neither the boats nor the embarkation points are wheelchair accessible. All the locations are at water level. This means that you will need to take some stairs down below. There is no lift.

Those who are still mobile enough to cover short distances and board a boat themselves (possibly aided by their own supervisor) are best to travel with boat company Stael. This embarkation point has the fewest stairs.

Are the boats environmentally friendly?

There are five boat companies in Bruges, each of which has four boats. The Bruges fleet therefore has 20 boats in total. As early as 2010, there was an initial test project with an electric boat. The current e-boats have been sailing on the canals since 2020: at present, there are two of these electric tour boats for each boat company. This means that half of the fleet is electric. The remaining boats will be replaced by more environmentally conscious models in phases. This is how the boat trips in Bruges will be made sustainable. The e-boats produce no emissions, there is no odour pollution, they make less noise and cause fewer waves.

How many passengers can come along on a boat?

The boats have a capacity of 35 to 40 people.

Where does the name ‘reien' (canals) come from?

Bruges' canals have a special name that you will hear nowhere else in the world: 'reien', also affectionately known as 'reitjes'. The designation ‘Bruges' reien’ derives from a little river that flows through Bruges: the Reie. Bruges owes much of its existence and prosperity to this river and the connection it used to have with the sea. Partly through the water, trade and the city flourished centuries ago. The Reie has seen much adaptation by humans down the centuries, but the route can always be recognised in the waterways. The river flows into the city through the Lake of Love and crosses through the city from south to north, through the Groenerei to the Damme Gate. When you take a boat trip in Bruges, much of it will involve sailing across this river.

Do you want to know more about Bruges and the water?

• Download the free Visit Bruges Route App and follow the walk ' The story of Bruges '.
• Visit the City Hall at Burg Square and see in augmented reality the full history of Bruges' connection to the sea.

How many swans are swimming on the canals and where exactly are they?

There are a hundred or so swans on Bruges' canals. The population fluctuates from year to year. They can move freely on the water and eat the water plants. Alongside the Beguinage , on Bakkersrei and at Wijngaardplein , however, you will always find some swans. This is where they get a supplement to their natural diet, and they can eat mixed grain to their heart’s content. Every so often, the carers give them some extras. Lettuce, spinach or endives provide a lot of vitamins! City of Bruges staff provide care for Bruges swans.

How deep are Bruges' canals?

Bruges' canals are not that deep. On average, the canals have a depth of around 2 metres. Less, in some places. For example, you can see the bottom on the Kapucijnenrei next to Concertgebouw Brugge (Concert Hall) in good weather. At the Coupure close to the lock, however, the water is deeper – around 4 metres. Along the Dijver, an adult man can stand in the water, which would then come to chest height.

Can I hire a boat myself to sail on Bruges' canals?

It is not possible to hire a boat in Bruges and sail it on the waters yourself. No boats are rented out that you can sail without a sailing licence. There are only guided tours of the canals from one of the five jetties. Sailing with your own canoe, paddle-boarding or rowing is not permitted either.

Can you swim in the canals?

In the summer months, a swimming platform is constructed along the Predikherenrei, in the Coupure . The water quality is tested in advance and, if there is a good result, the swimming platform will open and you can swim in Bruges' canals in the open air. There is a recreational swimming area for some crazy water fun and a sporting swimming area where you can do laps. For the little ones, a small paddling pool about 10 centimetres deep has been provided. There are some changing rooms, showers, toilets and a First Aid room. There are lifeguards supervising the entire swimming area. Swimming in the canals is free and you do not need to book.

Can I bring my dog along for the boat trip?

This depends upon the size of your dog. It is therefore best to ask the shipping company about this in advance, when you buy your ticket. Small dogs can be brought along on your lap.

Can I bring any luggage aboard the boats?

No space has been provided for luggage on the boats. No lockers or storage facilities have been provided at the boat companies. In the centre, you will find some left luggage facilities at the Historium on the Market Square. You can also leave your luggage in a locker at the railway station . A handbag or small rucksack can be brought on board, however.

Can I leave a pram behind at the embarkation point?

Before embarking, you can ask the boat company to put the pram to one side. Do bear in mind that there are no storage facilities or lockers. Depending on which boat company you choose, the pram may or not be in the open air.

Can I eat or drink anything on the boat?

No catering is provided on the boats and you are not allowed to take anything with you.

Are there any life jackets on board the boats?

It is mandatory to have life jackets on board. There are life jackets on board for all passengers. Every boat also has a First Aid box, fire extinguisher and hand-pump or bailer. During the boat trip, you will be asked to keep your hands within the boat at all times for extra safety. Every skipper must also possess a permit in order to be allowed to sail on the Bruges canals. As part of this permit, the skipper must demonstrate:

• that they have a valid sailing licence
• that they have taken a First Aid course

Didn't find the answer to your question?

No problem! Get in touch with us and we will be glad to answer your question.

Often combined with

Rijksarchief (State Archives)

Outdoor concert

Novotel Brugge Centrum

Bruges Boat Tour: Take a Magical Cruise Through the Bruges Canals

If you are looking for a romantic destination, the Canals of Bruges are the perfect choice. The picturesque waterways wind through the city, and the historic buildings that line the canals create a magical and charming atmosphere. You can take a leisurely boat ride with your loved one, stroll through the quaint streets, and admire the beautiful architecture. The city is also home to many romantic restaurants, cafes, and bars where you can enjoy a romantic meal or drinks.

Table of Contents

Quick Answers

Boat tours in Bruges usually run from early March to mid-November . During other times, the decision to operate lies with the shipping companies.

A boat tour in the Canals of Bruges typically costs 12 €, with discounted rates of 7€ for children aged 4 to 12. Children under 4 can join for free.

Tickets can be bought on spot. Read on for a list and map of the shipping companies and their locations.

History of the Bruges Canals

The enchanting Canals of Bruges have a history that spans back to the 12th century, a time when these waterways were meticulously crafted to facilitate the transport of goods into the heart of the city. Evolving over the centuries, the canals evolved into a crucial component of Bruges’ transportation system, serving diverse purposes from commerce to public transit. Today, while primarily catering to tourism, the canals remain deeply ingrained in the city’s cultural tapestry, preserving the echoes of its storied past.

Bruges Boat Tours: An unforgettable experience

Embarking on a boat tour is one of the best ways to delve into the beauty of the Bruges canals. Several reputable companies offer boat tours, all following the same enchanting route. Lasting approximately 30 minutes, these tours provide a unique perspective of the city, offering insights into the rich history and culture of Bruges.

Shipping Companies & starting points

Five distinct shipping companies operate these boat tours, each with its own starting point. Despite the differences in starting locations, all companies follow the same picturesque route. These non-covered boats, provided with umbrellas in case of rain, offer a capacity of 35-40 people.

The starting points include:

• Coudenys at Rozenhoedkaai
• Venetië van het Noorden at Huidenvettersplein 13
• De Meulemeester at Wollestraat 32
• Gruuthuse at Nieuwstraat 11
• Stael at Katelijnestraat 4

Dates, availability & Prices

Boat tours in Bruges typically run from early March to mid-November . During other times, the decision to operate lies with the shipping companies. The standard price for a boat tour is 12€ , with discounted rates of 7€ for children aged 4 to 12. Children under 4 can join for free. Tickets can be conveniently purchased on the spot with the respective shipping company.

Guided Boat Tours & Walking Tours

For those preferring a combined experience of a boat tour and a guided walk, expert guides lead captivating walking tours. These tours navigate the city’s winding streets and scenic canals, offering historical insights and showcasing iconic landmarks.

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Last Updated on 13 December 2023 by BertBeckers

THE 5 BEST Bruges Boat Tours

Boat tours in bruges.

• Equipment Hire
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Biking Trails
• Hiking Trails
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Balloon Rides
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Boottochten Brugge

2. City Tour Belgium

3. Boats Of Bruges

4. Harbor Tour Zeebruges

5. Boottochten Stael

6. Coudenys N.V.

What travellers are saying

THE 5 BEST Bruges Boat Tours

Boat tours in bruges.

• Equipment Hire
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Biking Trails
• Hiking Trails
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Balloon Rides
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Boottochten Brugge

2. City Tour Belgium

3. Boats Of Bruges

4. Harbor Tour Zeebruges

5. Boottochten Stael

6. Coudenys N.V.

What travellers are saying

• Réservation
• Reservierung

Discovered By Boat

A trip on the canals of Bruges.

A boat trip on the picturesque canals of Bruges allows you to admire the city's most beautiful sights from a total different angle. The boat follows a set route and takes 30 minutes.

The guiding is provided with multi-lingual comments: Dutch, French, German and English.

The boats are not covered, but umbrellas are provided in case of rainy weather.

A selection of some highlights .

Church of St-Anna

Church of Our Lady

Liberty of Bruges

House of the tanners

Burghers Lodge

Almshouse 'The Pelican'

St-John's hospital

Coudenys n.v.

B - 8000 Brugge

BTW: BE 0408.420.577

MAIL: [email protected]

Seizoen 2024

Van 03 februari tot 31 december

Dagelijks van 10h00 - 17h30.

Tijdens de maanden juli & augustus

Dagelijks van 10h00 - 18h30.

https://www.facebook.com/Coudenys

© Coudenys n.v.

Disclaimer & Privacy

Website by Dynasty Coudenys b.v.

Boat trip in Bruges

A boat trip in Bruges is a must-do experience during your visit. You can’t truly claim to have visited Bruges without taking a scenic boat ride along its historic canals and waterways. Purchase your ticket for “Bruges by Boat” and treat yourself to the breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Every day at 10:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m.

From: 11,0 € TVA incluse

Sustainable tourism

Over 10 years of experience

Certificate of Excellence 2013-2019

Recommended by the Brussels Tourist Office

Description:

Boat trip in bruges..

Our boat trip in Bruges starts at the Rozenhoedkaai pier, offering a delightful 30-minute boat ride. During this journey, you will have the opportunity to absorb the full character of this city and capture the most wonderful photos of its charming, typical Flemish architecture from a completely different angle.

Embark on a boat trip in Bruges and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages, where time seems to have stood still, revealing the city’s true beauty.

Additional information

Highlights:.

• Enjoy 30 min in Bruges by Boat.
• The boats will depart every 15 minutes (your ticket is valid all day for a boat trip on the canals of Bruges).
• Discover one of the most beautiful medieval cities in the world which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site in or Bruges by Boat.
• Contemplate the little Venice of the North, with its medieval streets and red brick houses.
• A local English-speaking guide in your boat ride in Bruges.

Our guarantees:

• Responsible tourism : this activity respects the codes of responsible and sustainable tourism.
• We work in partnership with the Brussels Tourism Office.
• More than 10 years of experience.
• Certificate of Excellence since 2013.
• Tailored service for private groups, companies and tour operators.
• Quick and easy booking.

Bruges boat trip program:

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Start Point: Rosary Quay – Rozenhoedkaai 3, 8000 Brugge.

A selection of some highlights:

• Belfry (Highlight).
• Beguinage (Highlight).
• Church of St-Anna (Highlight).
• Church of Our Lady (Highlight).
• Liberty of Bruges.
• House of the Tanners.
• Almshouse ‘The Pelican’.
• St-John’s Hospital.
• Groeninge Museum.
• Ambachtshuis Huidevetters.
• Fish Market.
• Stepped gables.
• Burghers’ Lodge.

End Point: Rosary Quay – Rozenhoedkaai 3, 8000 Brugge.

Remember, during the trip, you will have the opportunity to listen to multi-lingual comments in Dutch, French, German, and English, providing additional insights and information about the sights you encounter.

Practical information:

• Adults: 15€
• Kids (from 0 to 11 years old): 11€
• Groups (+ 20 pers.) : 14€
• Private group: 480€ (you can also book this activity in private for your group).

Starting time:

• Every day at 10:00 a.m to 6:00 p.m. (The boats will depart every 15 minutes).
• Your ticket is valid for the whole day (for a boat tour on the canals of Bruges).
• Possibility to board before or after the time of your reservation.
• Approximately 30min.

Meeting point:

• Rosary Quay – Rozenhoedkaai 3, 8000 Brugge.
•  English – Dutch – French – Spanish.
• Approximately 30min Bruges by Boat.
• Validity: 1 day (one departure every 15 minutes between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.).

Not included:

• Food or drinks.

Terms of service:

Participation:.

• To ensure your participation, we recommend booking your workshop as soon as possible.
• Book the tour up to 2 hours before the start of the boat trip.
• The number of participants is limited (max. 25 persons).
• The reservation is free and without charge.
• You can book up to two hours in advance.
• The  boats  will  depart every 15 minutes .

Cancellation:

Frequently asked questions:, what is the maximal group size for the boat trip in bruges .

To ensure the best possible service, our visits are limited to 25 participants per group.

When is the best time to book a Boat trip in Bruges?

We recommend booking a Bruges by Boat as soon as possible to ensure availability. However, it is possible to book the tour up to 2 hours before the start of the boat trip.

We are a group, i s it possible to do the private  Bruges by Boat ?

Yes, it is possible to take a private Bruges by Boat. The price is 350€ are limited to 25 participants per group.

Are there more questions about the Boat trip in Bruges ?

If there are any further questions or a desire for more information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Customer reviews on independent platforms:

We have the best reviews on the platforms:

Other customer reviews:

35 reviews for boat trip in bruges.

Anonymous (verified owner) – 21/05/2023

Guide was excellent!

Anonymous (verified owner) – 17/05/2023

The ticket was accepted without comment and I was allowed on craft. The craft was clean and well maintained. The driver (captain) was knowledgeable about the city. Altogether a good experience.

Rajan Sharma (verified owner) – 15/05/2023

It went great… Coming time we will do more business with you and received the satisfactory and memorable services from you. Thank you to make our 1st experience with you so memorable!!!

Michael Moss (verified owner) – 02/05/2023

Becky (verified owner) – 16/04/2023

The best part of our trip to Brussels!

Anonymous (verified owner) – 09/04/2023

Lovely boat trip – went at a leisurely pace, informative and entertaining. Great way to see Bruge.

Doron T. (verified owner) – 14/03/2023

Great way to start a day and a tour of Brugges

Anonymous (verified owner) – 05/03/2023

Would definitely recommend! The canal tour is a beautiful way to see and admire the beauty of Bruges. The guide also conducted the tour in English, Dutch and French which I think a lot of people will find impressive and very accommodating. 😊

Honor Virden (verified owner) – 14/02/2023

Really lovely lady tour guide, very funny and charismatic way to discover Bruges with lots of insider tips on where to visit. Delivered with warmth and friendliness that rest of hospitality can hope to compare to

Jill (verified owner) – 12/02/2023

Nice to see Bruges from the water

Ian N. (verified owner) – 03/01/2023

Very pleasant and knowledgeable captain!

Natalia (verified owner) – 02/01/2023

Very funny driver Bit spoiled with rain but all was good.

Gloria R. (verified owner) – 17/12/2022

Do not miss this boat trip. It provides such a different and lovely perspective of Bruges.

Anonymous (verified owner) – 24/11/2022

Very simple, you ask for a booking they deliver

Eleonora Mincheva (verified owner) – 31/10/2022

Easy, quick and correct. Very romantic boat trip

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Let's go, book your experience

Your tickets by e-mail instantly and free cancellation , without conditions, up to 48 hours in advance.

Request reservation

Only possible from 20 persons.

Payment can be made on site or by bank transfer before date of sailing. Payment by bank card is possible.

Prices 2024

Individual:  15,00 euro/person Group (+20 people):  12,00 euro/person Children (4-11 years):  9.00 euro/child Private boat:  375,00 euro/boat (max. 25 people)

• We kindly ask you to be present 5-10 minutes before departure time.
• If the group is delayed, please inform us at least half an hour in advance. That way we can - if necessary and possible - change the hour of departure. If no other hour of departure is possible, we reserve the right to unilaterally cancel the reservation.
• If the group is delayed without prior telephonic notice we have the right to unilaterally cancel the reservation.
• In order to ensure a good organization, we ask you to notify us any reduction in numbers of persons reserved for by email 2 days prior to departure. If not, the total number of persons on the initial reservation will be charged. Any increase in numbers of persons reserved for needs to be informed by email 7 days prior to departure.

Telephone : 0032 (0) 50 33 27 71

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What to Do in Bruges In One Day

W ondering what to do in Bruges in one day? I think you will be surprised at how much you can see in this pretty little city, which just happens to be an UNESCO Heritage Site.

Where is Bruges?

Bruges (pronounced Broozh) is located in the northwest part of Belgium, in the province of West Flanders. It is the sixth-largest city by population in Belgium and a major tourist destination. 

The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the preservation of many historic buildings.

Founded in 1089 as the capital of the County of Flanders, it was officially chartered in 1128. 

Its position along the coast made it a vital location for trade, with a large merchant class. Much of the medieval architecture in Bruges is intact, making it one of the best-preserved medieval cities in all of Europe. 

That coastal location now means it is accessible by car, train station, airplane, or even cruise ship! In fact, an Oceania Cruise is how I came to explore Bruges.

The Visit Bruges website provides a wealth of information, including information about parking if you happen to be renting a car.

Why We Love this City

Medieval architecture is simply stunning, and it’s wonderfully preserved in Bruges. There’s no surprise why the whole city is on the UNESCO Heritage Site list. 

The picturesque canals had me stopping every few minutes to take another photo.

But more than just the beautiful buildings and canals, the people of Bruges are a reason why we love this city. They’re so friendly and welcoming, making this the perfect place to visit. 

We also love that the city takes very good care of their swans. After all, they’ve been a part of the city since the 15th century.

We enjoyed seeing the lovely birds in the canals and resting on the banks.

This Belgian city is also a great place to sit back and enjoy a beer while people watching. Belgium has a long history of beer brewing and makes an exceptional blond ale, the Brugse Zot from De Halve Maan brewery. 

There are so many things to do in Bruges that you can’t see it all in one day, which is why we’re planning to go back.

You can, however, still do a lot. Here are 16 of the best things to do for a Bruges day trip.

Minnewater Bridge

Don’t be surprised to see someone getting proposed to here! The romantic legends surrounding this area, also known as the Lake of Love, are abundant.

But even if you’re not looking for romance, this area has incredible views and is picture perfect in every way. It’s one of the best places to take photos in the entire city.

Poertoren Tower

At the end of the Minnewater Bridge, you’ll come to the Poertoren Tower, also known as “powder tower.”

Built by Jan Van Oudenaerde around 1400, the tower was used as a place to store gunpowder.

It’s impressively tall, 18 meters high above the canal. There’s a somewhat hidden park that can be accessed at the foot of the tower via a metal staircase.

But even if you don’t seek out Gunpowder Tower Park, the tower itself is still quite impressive.

Admire the Medieval City Architecture

During medieval times, Bruges was a major commercial city, and buildings were built to last. Many of the brick Gothic buildings survive to this day.

The original pattern of streets, canals of Bruges (earning the nickname Venice of the north), and open spaces still exist today, and the citizens take great pride in maintaining the city’s historical character.

Just walking around the streets allows you to see a variety of medieval buildings still in use today.

For a special experience, tour around in a horse-drawn carriage or take a canal boat tour through the city.

Belfry of Bruges

The belfry tower, a bell tower in Bruges, was built in 1240. It was destroyed by fire in 1280, but fortunately it was rebuilt.

In the 1480s, a new octagonal upper stage was added and topped with a wooden spire with Saint Michael.

That also was destroyed by fire when it was struck by lightning. Another spire was constructed and, you guessed it, it was destroyed by fire.

Its final form was topped by a stone parapet in 1822. Today, you can climb the 366 narrow steps to the top of the tower where you can have magnificent panoramic views of the city.

Burg Square

Originally, Burg Square was surrounded by walls and was one of the oldest parts of the city.

This is considered the city center. Below is City Hall, built between 1376-1421.

Bruges became an international port and trading city in the Middle Ages. At the end of the 13th century, Italian merchants chose Bruges for their base for sea trade, prompting other countries to follow suit.

Bruges grew rapidly during this time, with many new buildings going up, such as the Belfry and the first stock exchange.

Today, it is an open square with historic buildings all around including the Bruges City Hall, the Palace of the Liberty of Bruges, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

You’ll want to spend some time admiring all of the historical buildings of religious and political significance. 

Basilica of the Holy Blood

I think this deserves a special mention, especially for Christians. It is said that Thierry of Alsace, one of the Counts of Flanders, brought the cloth containing the Holy Blood of Jesus to the church in 1150.

The dark Romanesque lower chapel of St. Basil was originally built from 1134 to 1149. The current building was destroyed in the French occupation, so dates from the 19th century.

The biggest draw to seeing the church is the upper chapel where, each day, the relic of the Holy Blood is presented to visitors .

Once a year, on Ascension Day, there is a procession of the Holy Blood, where bishops and prelates carry the shrine with the relic through the streets of Bruges.

This procession is typically attended by around 35,000 visitors, and has been recognized as Intangible Cultural World Heritage by UNESCO.

Church of Our Lady

The first thing you’ll notice about the Church of Our Lady is its tower. At 115.5 meters tall, it is the third tallest brickwork tower in the world.

But as impressive as the outside is, the inside holds even more treasures with a variety of paintings, including Michelangelo’s “Madonna and Child”.

It is also home to the tombs of Charles the Bold and Mary of Burgundy.

Hanseatic Quarter

At the height of its operation, the Hanseatic League was a trade network connecting merchants in more than 200 cities.

Its primary hubs were in London, Novgorod, Bergen, and Bruges. The Hanseatic Quarter was the main trading area in the city of Bruges, and today many of the old merchant buildings still stand.

The Hanseatic Quarter is home to locations like the Florence Lodge, Jan van Eyck Square – where traders from all over Europe would gather to do business, and the Old Stock Exchange.

Oosterlingen Square and Wednesday Market

One of the merchant locations, Oosterlingen refers to the “Easterners” who did business during the time of the Hanseatic League.

Nearby is the Wednesday Market, another town square. Wednesday Market has a statue of famous Flemish painter Hans Memling.

As you stroll around, think about how lively it must have been with all the merchants actively trading goods in these locations.

Blinde Ezelstraat

This pretty street is Blinde Ezelstraat, meaning Blind Donkey. The street runs along the side of the town hall. It’s a curious name so you know I had to do some research!

According to the story from Bruges Legends and Stories , there was at one time a hostel by the same name nearby.

It’s said there was probably a horse mill powered by donkeys, where the animals had to go around and around. The blindfold prevented the donkeys from getting dizzy or going crazy.

Minnewater Park

A stunning area of Bruges, this city park is next to Minnewater Lake, also called the Lake of Love. It’s a lovely spot to relax, watch the swans, and maybe have a picnic.

See the Beguinage

With its white colored houses and garden dating back to 1245, the Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde was the residences for the beguines, women who were part of the laity, but lived in piety and celibacy like nuns.

In fact, today the Beguinage is home to nuns of the Order of St. Benedict as well as some other women living the life of the beguines. 

Take a Horse Drawn Carriage Ride

Horse-drawn carriages will be waiting to take you for a ride around Grote Markt also known as Market Square. This is the main square in Bruges.

A carriage ride is fun way to explore and get photos to remember!

Sample the Local Food

You can’t visit Belgium without sampling some of their world-famous Belgian chocolate.

There are dozens of chocolate shops in Bruges, and it is worth the time to sample many of them – for research purposes, of course!

We also had a quick meal of Belgian Fries, where locals will tell you they originated!

Bruges Beer Experience

If beer is more of your guilty pleasure, head to the Bruges Beer Experience to learn about the history of Belgian beer, and of course sample some of the fine work.

This was a fun stop where we were schooled on the history of beer in Bruges and able to taste a few of the most popular local beers.

A couple of these beers were stronger than I expected, though I had been warned by someone who had been there before!

It’s best to take it slow as you are tasting, and make sure to eat something before or during your Experience.

And if shopping is your thing, take time to stop by the Olleke Wizarding Shop, home to a variety of Harry Potter merchandise.

It’s a fun shop to wander around, especially if you’re a fan of all things Harry Potter. In fact, if you’re traveling with your family, there are a lot of things to do in Brussels with kids , and you’ll only be 90 minutes away.

You’ll also find other shops where you can find postcards and local items. I always like to bring something home!

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Like many countries in Europe, Belgium as part of the European Union uses the euro for currency. You will not find many, if any, places that will accept US dollars. 

Any time is a wonderful time to visit Bruges, so it depends on what you are looking for. You’ll find the most activities and warm weather in the summer months, between June and August. For low crowds, try January or February. If you’re looking for amazing weather, try late spring or early fall. But you can’t go wrong with any time of year to visit.

The three official languages of Belgium are Flemish Dutch, French, and German, but more than half of the population of Belgium speaks at least some English. It isn’t too hard to find someone who is able to help translate if needed.

Tips for Visiting Bruges Belgium

Have good walking shoes. Bruges is a very walkable city, but it is cobblestone so wear comfy shoes .

You can actually walk from one side to the other in less than an hour.

As a result, you won’t find a lot of transportation options that are good for getting around. It is much easier to just set out on foot.

Tipping isn’t customary. Like the rest of Belgium, tipping isn’t the norm in Bruges.

Your bill at a restaurant generally will include a service charge to help ensure the staff members are paid a fair wage.

If you feel that your service was truly exceptional, you can tip a little extra in cash, but it is not required nor expected.

Bring cash. Speaking of cash, although the times are changing, it isn’t unheard of to find a shop or restaurant that is cash only.

ATMs are available, but to avoid transaction fees, stock up on cash before you arrive.

Want to read more about Bruges before you go? Check out this guide .

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