best boat tour in bruges

Bruges Canal Tour: Complete Travel Guide in 2024

Bruges is a small city in the northwest of Belgium that is chock-full of old-world charm, and if there was only one attraction to pick here, taking a Bruges canal tour would definitely be high on the list.

One of the best ways to see everything the city offers is by taking a Bruges canal cruise – one of the best things to do in Belgium , and personally one of my favorites!

These tours will take you through all the main canals and show you all the beautiful sights in the city. Cruise by the Basilica of the Holy Blood to the romantic bridges and the Quay of the Rosary, to name only a few.

Here’s your complete guide on how to take Bruges canal tours.

Table of Contents ⬇️

Bruges Canal Tour – Overview

I understand that you may not have the time to go through the whole guide, so let me save you some precious minutes. Here is the absolute best Bruges canal tour:

Best-Rated Tour

Bruges Boat Cruise and Walking Tour

• See Bruges from the canals
• Enjoy the ride with a fun captain!
• Discover Bruges with a guided tour
• Boat trip Bruges
• Walking tour with a guide
• Lots to learn and fun to be had!

Boat Departure Points in Bruges

First of all, let’s talk about where to take the boat in Bruges . There are several departure points for boat trips scattered throughout Bruges, each offering the same boat tour.

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

Also, here below, you will find a map of the five landing stages in Bruges. Note that the main canal cruises Bruges offers operate from a different point each time, and tour operators will contact you and let you know the location where you’ll take the boat.

Bruges Canals Tour Duration

You’ll find a boat departing every 15 minutes or so, and the boat trip lasts around half an hour. You’ll float lazily through the canals, taking in the sights and sounds of this UNESCO World Heritage Site city.

It’s worth noting that, despite the frequency, tickets sell out very fast, and I recommend booking your ticket in advance .

Also, many people visit Ghent and Bruges as a day trip , and please make sure to keep some time for this cruise while in town.

Departure Times and Cost of the Bruges Boat Tour

Bruges boats typically run from early March to November and the first boat leaves at 10.00 am. The last boat trips run until 6 pm, which is good to see all the spots during the day and get relatively unobstructed photos.

In terms of price, they are as follows:

• Adults: €12,00
• Children (up to 11 years old): €7,00
• Children (up to 3 years): Free
• Bruges residents: €10,00

While this is a pretty reasonable price, you’ll only get the boat trip.

To make the most of your time in Bruges and get the best for your money, I recommend combining the trip with a walking tour .

Considering both options, I highly recommend booking online to pre-book your trip and to visit Bruges on a walking tour in English or French.

Apart from a nice ride, the tour guide will show you the best spots to take photos – how nice is that? So don’t pass on these walking tours in Bruges!

Want to know more?

Check out this guide about the tourist spots in Bruges .

What to Expect on a Bruges Canal Cruise

If you booked your tour online, you’ll start with a walking tour, which only costs a few extra euros and allows you to see the city with a guide.

Take a stroll around Bruges with a guide who knows the ins and outs of the city like the back of their hand.

After walking around Bruges , you’ll head to Rozenhoedkaai to meet your boat driver and start the cruise.

Your captain will take you along the quay, sail under bridges, and past ivy-covered facades while sharing information about all the beautiful sites. You’ll get to see old trading houses at the former harbor and the Beguinage.

Cruise down serene canals to explore landmarks from a completely different angle—you might even spot some sites you missed on foot! Hear stories about Bruges’ history as you admire medieval architecture, including elegant churches, and golden statues.

After 30 minutes on the water, you can continue roaming around Bruges and discover more of the historic city.

If you’re like me, you’ll want to make the most of your time in Bruges and hit all the popular tourist spots.

But if you’re also like me, you’ll realize that by doing that you’ll spend a lot of time waiting in line. So make sure to explore Bruges by boat and book your trip today .

Bruges Canal Tour – FAQ

Now that you know what this canal tour in Bruges is all about, let’s answer some questions from first-timers planning their trip around Belgium here below.

Is it Worth it Taking a Bruges Canal Cruise?

Bruges is a beautiful city. There’s no denying that. But is it worth taking a sightseeing tour from a different perspective on a boat tour? Definitely!

And here’s why: you get a different view of the city and hear nice stories of Bruges and Belgium along the way.

Rather than being surrounded by buildings, you’re surrounded by water – and the canals in Bruges are very relaxing. All in all, it’s a unique perspective that you can’t get anywhere else, and you’ll love moving on the boat!

Are Tours of Bruges by Boat Worth it?

There is no better way to see the city than by boat, and it’s one of the best things to do in Bruges Belgium!

With its atmospheric canals, charming medieval buildings, and picturesque bridges, it’s no wonder that Bruges is often called the “Venice of the North.”

Where to Stay in Bruges?

I recommend sleeping in Bruges to conclude your 3 days in Belgium and catch the train the day after back to Brussels, and these are the best properties for each budget, from a boutique hotel to more affordable options.

Luxury: The Notary

Mid-Range: La Clé Brugge

Budget: ibis budget Brugge Centrum Station

Conclusion – Bruges Boat Tours

You can’t go to Belgium without taking a canal tour in Bruges! A boat tour is the best way to see the city and learn about Belgium’s history. I highly recommend taking an hour out of your day to do this tour.

The peaceful Bruges boat tour not only offers a moment of reflection on the city’s rich history but also allows you to appreciate its timeless beauty in a quiet, introspective way.

These Bruges canal tours are a memorable end to your trip, and in short, you’ll have an amazing time!

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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
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• Hiking Trails
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• 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. Boottochten Stael

5. Harbor Tour Zeebruges

6. Coudenys N.V.

What travellers are saying

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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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. Boottochten Stael

5. Harbor Tour Zeebruges

6. Coudenys N.V.

What travellers are saying

THE 5 BEST Bruges Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in bruges.

• Kayaking & Canoeing
• 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. Boottochten Stael

5. Harbor Tour Zeebruges

6. Coudenys N.V.

7. Bruges Kayak Club

What travellers are saying.

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

6 Best Tours in Bruges (For A More Memorable Visit)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 2, 2024

Bruges is the most charming city in Belgium that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Its medieval old town with cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings, and narrow canals is a protected UNESCO World Heritage site that will impress even the most seasoned travelers.

We live in Belgium and have already covered the main sights and attractions in Bruges on our blog in detail. However, we notice that more and more of our readers want to experience Bruges deeper and are looking for unique experiences and interesting tours with local guides.

Indeed, a good tour can make your trip so much more fun and create amazing memories for the whole family!

So in this guide, I am excited to showcase some of the very best tours you can do in Bruges . From guided city walks to off-the-beaten-path bike rides and even making your own waffles, there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff or just want to try some yummy Belgian food, Bruges has it all.

Getting to Bruges: If you are visiting Bruges with a cruise ship, you can book a shuttle service from the cruise terminal to the center. If you are coming from any Belgian city, it’s best to take a train. If traveling from Brussels, you can also opt for a guided day tour ; some tours also visit Ghent on the same day. If coming from Amsterdam just for a day, we recommend booking a guided tour (or you will waste too much time on trains).

Here is our hand-picked selection of some of the best-rated tours in Bruges:

1. Guided City Tour with Canal Cruise

A guided city tour that includes a boat ride on the canals is the best tour to take in Bruges if you are visiting the city for the first time. It’s also a great way to see the best places in just a couple of hours.

There are several walking tours that visit the main highlights and take you on a canal cruise. They all cover top places including the main Market Square (Grote Markt) and the Belfort Tower , top sights of the old town, and Beguinage. However, starting locations and itineraries are somewhat different.

Here are the two best options that we recommend:

• A guided tour that starts at the railway station and ends with a boat trip. With two starting times – one in the morning and one in the afternoon, this tour is a good option for those arriving in Bruges by train for just a few hours. The tour starts with a walk next to the Lake of Love (Minnewater) and ends with a canal trip from Rozenhoedkaai, which is right in the center. You can easily explore more of the old town afterward.
• A tour starting at the Market Square. This small-group tour has a great itinerary that not only covers the musts, but also a few hidden gems. It also includes some chocolate tasting and a short guided tour at the Halve Maan Brewery. The boat trip is in the middle of the tour giving you some time to rest from all the slow walking. The tour ends at the Beguinage, which is just next to the Lake of Love which you can visit on your own. The railway station is not far from here, or you can easily return to the old town and explore further.

There are many other guided city tours to choose from, including a free walking tour (with a small reservation fee). So there is truly something for everyone’s interests and budget. Just make sure to read the itineraries and what’s included when comparing the tours so that you know exactly what to expect.

2. Belgian Waffle-Making Workshops

No visit to Belgium would be complete without tasting some of the world-famous Belgian waffles. And you will have plenty of opportunities to do that. But you will quickly realize that real Belgian waffles are totally different from what you find in the USA, for example.

So if you are looking for something a bit more special to do in Bruges, consider booking a waffle-making workshop . It’s educational, it’s fun, and most important – absolutely delicious. You can bake as many waffles as you can eat, so it saves you lunch too ;). Plus, you can take a recipe home with you and make yummy waffles for your family and friends for years to come.

Many Belgians (including my husband) like to make waffle batter with beer. If you would like to try waffles with beer, this popular workshop gives you a choice between ‘regular’ or beer waffles. It also includes Belgian beer tasting.

If you are looking for a more family-friendly option, check out this highly-rated waffle baking workshop . Here, you can also decorate your waffles with all kinds of toppings – kids (of all ages ;)) will love that!

Interesting to know: In Belgium, legal drinking age for beer and wine is 16, but most younger kids will eat waffles made with beer. I suppose, it all depends on what kind of beer and how much of it you use. When we bake waffles at home, we usually use rather light cherry beer and I’m sure most alcohol evaporates during baking.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ: Interesting & Fun Facts About Belgium

3. Bike & Rickshaw Tours

If you like to see a lot of Bruges in a short time without having to walk much, you can also choose from various bike or e-bike tours . Just beware that most streets are cobbled so you need to be confident on a bike.

Alternatively, you can also opt for a guided rickshaw/pedicab tour . It’s the perfect way to see a lot without any effort from your side.

Here are the best tours that we recommend:

• City highlights bike tour is a great way to see not just the main monuments in the city center, but also get a bit off the beaten path in Bruges. This retro bike tour is somewhat similar in terms of what you get to see, but it limits its group size to 10 people maximum.
• Guided rickshaw tour . This private tour is a very relaxing way to explore the main sights of Bruges and learn some interesting facts and stories from a local.

4. Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt

If you like to explore Bruges by yourself, consider booking one of the scavenger-hunt tours . They are very budget-friendly and you can explore the city at your own pace.

There are tons of self-guided tours to choose from – from city highlights to mystery tours, but also special tours for families with young children, etc.

Good to know: You will need a smartphone and internet connection for any self-guided tour ( European SIM cards work in Belgium without extra roaming fees). Also, in most cases, one scavenger tour booking is enough unless everyone in your group absolutely wants to listen to the explanation on their own phone.

TIP: The most popular and best-rated self-guided tour in Bruges is this highlights scavenger hunt . It’s focused around some of the main landmarks in Bruges and is perfect for first-time visitors who want to explore the city a bit deeper but prefer to go on their own.

If you are more interested in riddles and scavenger hunt itself, check out the Sherlock Holmes Mystery Game . With kids, you may enjoy the Peter Pan Mystery Game .

5. Belgian Food and/or Beer Tours

Belgium is world-famous for its beer and food, with a lot more to taste beyond waffles! Food tours are a great way to experience any place and also taste several different local specialities in a short time.

Unfortunately, there are not that many options when it comes to food tours in Bruges. That said, all you need is one good tour anyway, and there are a few good tours to choose from depending on your interests.

Here are the best food and/or beer tours in Bruges:

• Food tour with 10 tastings . This highly-rated private tour is a wonderful way to get acquainted with some local specialities and explore Bruges at the same time. They also cater to vegetarians, just be sure to let them know if you have any dietary restrictions.
• Beer and chocolate tour . This is a great tour for those who want to learn more about Belgian beer and sample a selection of traditional beers and craftwork brews. The tour also includes a visit to a brewery and – according to them – best chocolate store in the city.

6. Best Tours Near Bruges

In addition to all the amazing tours in the city, there are also several nice options for those who want to see some of the beautiful surroundings near Bruges or visit the famous WWI sites.

Here are some of the best tours from Bruges:

• Damme & Bruges Countryside (2 hours). This e-scooter tour is great for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Bruges old town and see some of the beautiful surroundings. Damme is a picturesque village just a few kilometers outside the city center and the trip to get there is also very scenic, especially in the summer season.
• Bruges Countryside (4 hours). This bike tour brings you to Damme, Oostkerke, and along canals in the countryside around Bruges. If you have a few days in Bruges and are fit for a longer bike ride, this would make a great addition to any itinerary.
• Flanders Fields Day Tour (9 hours). This highly-rated tour brings you to Ypres and World War I sites known as ‘Flanders Fields’. It’s a touching visit that I recommend to anyone visiting Belgium.

LEARN MORE: Ypres and WWI Battlefields

So, this is our hand-picked selection of the best tours in Bruges. I hope that it inspired you to explore Bruges deeper and helps you plan a more memorable visit.

Even if you just opt for one of these experiences, it will make your trip so much more special!

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Bruges

For more travel tips for Belgium, make sure to check our other articles as well. You can find an overview on our Belgium travel page and here is a small selection of featured articles:

• Belgium Itinerary for 3-4 Days
• Top Things to Do in Brussels
• Where to Stay in Brussels
• Manneken Pis Story
• Why You Should Not Miss Antwerp in Belgium
• Best Things to Do in Antwerp
• Hidden Gems of Antwerp
• Where to Stay in Antwerp

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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. Boottochten Stael

5. Harbor Tour Zeebruges

6. Coudenys N.V.

What travellers are saying

Brugesboattour

All boat trips in the historical inner city of Bruges take place on the same fixed course , imposed by the city government. They take about 30 minutes. There is no eating or drinking allowed on board.

Our starting point  is located in the Katelijnestraat 4, which is also the end point of the cruise.

Our hours of operation for individual round trips or cruises with the family are from 10 am until 5 pm, with departures roughly every 15 minutes.

Reservation is only possible for groups from 25 persons and up. In this case we work with set departure times.

Our mooring place is located at the Katelijnestraat 4 in Bruges, right next to Saint John's Hospital and the Church of Our Lady. A toilet is available.

Our course takes you along the most scenic spots in Bruges. You get to see the most famous places of interest from a totaly different perspective.

Detailed course

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 (max. 25 people)

Payment by bank card possible.

Opening hours: from 10/02/2024 - 30/12/2024 daily from 10:00 AM untill 5:00 (5:30) PM Opening hours are subject to change due to weather conditions and maintenance works by the City of Bruges.

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Bruges Guided Walking Tour and Boat Trip

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Bruges is known as the quintessential medieval city and the “Venice of the North”. Discover why it has earned these titles by exploring its corners and secrets on foot with an expert guide. End your tour with a boat ride through its canals. Have we enchanted you yet?

Kid 4 to 11 y/o

Under 4 y/o

Bruges is the quintessential medieval city and also known as the “Venice of the North”. Call it what you want, it doesn't matter, because the city will capture you as if by magic —cue mysterious music— okay, we're kidding, its name has little to do with magic. However, it is associated with medieval beauty, so much so that since 2000, the Historic Center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety.

Its corners are full of stories and secrets that our local guide will share with you without holding anything back. A stop at the Lake of Love? How romantic! It is also known as Minnewater , and we assure you that it is a natural environment that forms one of the most beautiful postcards of Bruges.

We will talk about the béguinages , which were structures that associated Christian women with a vocation for serving the sick and destitute. Get ready to discover the history! Next stop: Walplein Square , which literally means “wall square,” referring to the city's first walls, a real journey through time!

From there, we can also enter Stoofstraat, one of the narrowest streets in Bruges, whose literal translation into Spanish is “stove street.” These stoves are associated with thermal baths, where gentlemen during the golden age of the 14th and 15th centuries came to bathe and relax. However, some of these “baths” had a characteristic that was not immediately apparent but was part of the essence of this alley… Do you want to discover what we mean?

Let's go to the hospital! Or rather, now a museum that houses Memling, Picasso, Miró… A real attraction for art lovers! If we add a museum located in the Saint John’s Hospital , the oldest hospital in Europe, curiosity and interest in this visit are guaranteed.

Would you like to see the second-tallest tower in the world? Yes, you read that right, in the world! Our Lady's Church awaits you. How many meters tall do you think it can be? The Gruuthuse Palace won't leave you indifferent. Get your camera ready!

The Tanners Square and the Castle Square, where some of the most incredible buildings in Bruges are located, will help us understand the city's essence and history. Before ending the tour, we will stop at the Basilica of the Holy Blood. A Catholic temple where the relic of the blood of Christ is kept. Legend or reality?

We bid farewell at the Market Square, but don't forget that you have a boat ride included to discover the secret corners of Bruges , which can only be explored from the water.

If it's called the “Venice of the North,” there must be a reason. Sail through the canals and waterways, which are the true arteries through which the people of Bruges move. However, don't expect too much intimacy because there are some locals who tend to join you on your ride: the swans. Are you ready to join us?

• 3 hours  aprox
• Guided visit  2h 30min
• Boat trip  30min
• Local guide in English
• Small groups of maximum 24 people
• Boat ride through the canals of Bruges

The visit is carried out in English

Rules and tips

• You have to present the confirmation voucher that you receive by email printed for the boat
• The departure time is indicative, adapting of course to the established departure times. If the boat is full at the selected time, you can do it in the following time slot.

FREE Cancelation Cancelation

Free! Cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start of the tour. If you cancel with less time, arrive late or do not show up, no refund is offered

• Hendrik Brugmansstraat 6/0002
• Check Google Maps
• Rozenhoedkaai, 2

Todas las opiniones son de clientes reales y verificados por la plataforma Trustpilot y su informe de transparencia. Solo se puede enviar una opinión después de haber reservado y realizado la actividad.

Opiniones Verificadas de nuestros clientes

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• Jeremy Wojda 30 · Mar · 2024 30 · Mar · 2024 Belgium This walking tour was fantastic! J.K. was so kind, friendly, and easy to listen to. He entertained my kids' endless questions while we walked. The boat tour was just okay. It was a nice ride and a pretty view. Bruges Guided Walking Tour and Boat Trip
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Bruges by Boat: Tips for the Famous Canal Tour

The first thing that comes to mind for most people when they think of Bruges, Belgium, are serene winding canals abutted by quaint stone houses. The city’s famous canals give it the nickname The Venice of the North .

The thing that was most surprising to me about our trip to Bruges this July was how relatively inaccessible the canals are. There are few places where you can actually walk along the canal since they’re lined with buildings, so the main views are along the few, crowded bridges that cross the water. In order to really experience the canals and the beautiful buildings along the water, you need to be on a boat , which is why the canal tours are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

One of five boat landings for Bruges Canal Tour

Luckily, a canal tour is a relatively inexpensive way to experience the canals and architecture of this historic city. Here are some useful tips I learned based on our experience:

• There are 5 boat landings along the canals, but the route and price are the same for all ( 8 Euro for a 30-35 minute tour ). It’s only the start and end point that will vary, so my suggestion is to simply pick the one with the shortest line. We approached one with a relatively short line but decided to keep looking and found another one just a block away where we were able to walk straight onto the boat. Click here for a map showing the location of the five boat landings (link will open in a new window).
• The boats typically run every 15-20 minutes . The boats will also wait until the boat is full or nearly full before departing.
• The best seats for getting unobstructed photos are at the very front or very back. The boats have a row of single seats that run down the middle, which would be the worst for photos. It may be worth waiting until the next boat to come along if only middle seats are available.
• The tours run daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm (last boat leaves at 5:30pm) from March to mid-November . Bruges is flooded by cruise ship patrons and day-trippers during the peak hours of the day, so the lines are significantly shorter before 11:00 and become very long in the afternoon. Plan accordingly!
• Our boat driver/guide did a nice job narrating the ride, pointing out sights and answering questions for us along the way. We saw some boats with a recorded audio guide, which seemed less interesting. The guide asked everyone on the boat what language they spoke and carried out the tour in both English and French.
• The tour is cash only . You may also want to bring a few extra euros along to tip your driver.

Any other questions? Leave them in the comment section and I’ll try my best to answer them. Happy boating!

Alison Macbeth

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