canal boat trip brugge

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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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

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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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Bruges Guided Tour + Boat Ride

• 6.60 / 10 18 reviews | 258 travellers I put very well for the guide. But it was mediocre. You could have predicted that there was the procession of the holy blood. The streets were crowded. The guide stopped her tour and advised us to go to the boat. We arrived at the indicated platform. There was a 50m queue. We went straight to the checkout and were insulted by the people waiting. It would be nice to provide access for visiting groups. It was very embarrassing and poor. 8 Francis
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts
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Discover the history behind  The   Venice of the North   on this guided tour of Bruges . At the end of the tour, feel free to hop on a boat and enjoy a ride along the canals of the Belgian city .

Description

At the indicated starting time, we'll meet outside the Bruges train station, opposite Carrefour Express  for a guided walking tour of Bruges , one of the most romantic cities in Europe that's sure to steal your heart!

We'll go on a two-hour-long walking tour of the historic centre of this medieval city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, as we uncover its hidden gems while taking in its iconic monuments.

The Church of Our Lady of Bruges , with the second highest brick tower in the world , St. John's Hospital , The Gruuthusemuseum , The Basilica of the Holy Blood and many other emblematic sites will form part of the tour. 

We'll visit the Lake of Love (Minnewater) to take our own pictures of one of Bruges' most celebrated spots and visit The Beguinage (Begijnhof) , which was founded in the 13th century to house widows and orphans . The calm and peaceful atmosphere in this part of the city is fascinating. Our guided walking tour will finally come to a close in The Market Square (Markt) . As we say our goodbyes, we'll hand over your tickets for a 30-minute boat trip through the city's canals  - the perfect end to the tour!

More Information

2 hours 30 minutes.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

30–minute boat ride

When to book?

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

Buendía Tours Bélgica Show more

Corporate name: Buendia Tours Ibérica S.L

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Will we go inside any of the monuments?

A - No, the tour includes a guided walking tour of the city but does not include entry to any of the monuments. We'll admire the architecture of the buildings from the outside while unravelling their complex histories.

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities .

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point, where does the activity end.

Bruge Train Station

The Market Square (Markt)

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Bruges Canal Tours: Everything You Need To Know

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During our recent family trip to Europe, Abby and I took a day trip from Brussels to Bruges , a beautiful town in Belgium. We both wanted to go on one of the legendary Bruges canal tours. I’m so glad we did! This fairytale European city needs to be on your bucket list! 

Where is Bruges?

Bruges is a serene small Flemish town just northwest of Brussels . Visiting Bruges is a perfect day trip from Brussels and is easily accessible by train.

Bruges is known as an idyllic small European city steeped in historical charm. It’s home to gorgeous canals and many fascinating landmarks. Furthermore, The city also has many great restaurants, pubs, and street-side vendors.

Visiting Bruges, Belgium

If you are visiting Brussels for a few days, taking an extra day to go to Bruges is well worth the time. Its gorgeous canals winding along against ancient stone buildings have led Bruges to be called the “Venice of the North.” 

In this blog post, I want to provide information about taking a Bruges canal tour, highlight the city’s history, and discuss some landmarks you’ll likely see on these Bruges canal tours.

Getting to Bruges from Brussels

From Bruges, you just need to hop on the Belgium intercity train. You can board directly from one of the main Brussels train stations, including Bruxelles-Nord (Brussels North), Bruxelles-Central (Brussels Central), and Bruxelles-Midi (Brussels South).

The Brussels to Bruges train runs all day, and the ride is just over an hour.  

The Belgium train website has a  dedicated page for the Brussels to Bruges train route , which is a great resource. You can buy tickets from that page as well. 

The route trip Brussels to Bruges train tickets are a standard € 32.00   for adults. However, there are a lot of discounted ticket options listed as well, and most are € 17.50 or less. 

The Bruges Canal Tours

Once you arrive in Bruges, you want to have a game plan for your canal tour. It’s helpful to know a little bit about the layout of the city. 

Bruges rests within a mesh of several canals that penetrate and encircle the city. These canals ultimately allow boat access to the North Sea, located about 20 kilometers north of the city. The town’s access to the North Sea made Bruges a vital shipping hub for centuries. 

The canals lining the town are relatively inaccessible as they are flanked everywhere by houses and other structures. Because of this, there are only a few places, other than bridges, where you can see the canals.  

Therefore, the best way to see these picturesque canals is on a boat tour!

Planning Bruges Canal Tours

There are five landing stages along the canals. These are the only places you can embark on a canal tour. The routes and prices are generally the same across the different tour operators. There are several canal tour operators, each with their own open-air boats.   They pretty much all follow the same route, so in my opinion, the best Bruges canal tour is the one with the shortest line.

Bruges Canal Tour Boarding Locations

Boarding takes place at the following locations. Each tour operator will leave from a different location, so be sure to check their website.

•  Michielssens, Huidenvettersplein 13
•  Coudenys, Rozenhoedkaai
•  De Meulemeester, Wollestraat 32
•  Gruuthuse, Nieuwstraat 11
•  Stael, Katelijnestraat 4

Scroll around the above map of Bruges to get a lay of the land!

The Bruges Canal Tour boat trip takes around 30 minutes. The boats typically operate between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm, with 5:30 often being the last tour. Tours generally operate most of the year, except in January and early February.  

However, the availability of tours will vary by operator. It may change based on events like municipal construction projects, canal restoration initiatives, and severe weather.

Bruges Canal Tours Tickets

Unlike the canal tours in Amsterdam and the Seine River cruises in Paris , you cannot book Bruges canal tour tickets in advance. You buy your tickets directly from the tour companies at the landing stages. As of writing this, the Bruges canal tour price for adult tickets is € 12.00, and children’s tickets are € 7.00.

You may need to wait in line at the landing stages to purchase tickets. The canal tours are very popular and will get busy. Bruges has an active cruise ship industry (Norwegian, Holland America, Windstar, Celebrity), and the town will fill up with cruise passengers on day excursions.  

The extra traffic means lines for the canal tours will get longer after about 11 am. Before 11 am is the best time to ensure you have shorter lines. It also gives you the rest of the day to explore Bruges.  

TIP: Get in line for your canal tour as early as possible in Bruges. 

Private canal tours are also available. There are several different companies offering tours with different types of boats. Contact the companies directly to find out more.

There are a couple of great s mall-group Bruges canal tours available through Get Your Guide . They also include a Bruges walking tour. These are a great option if you want to be able to buy Bruges canal tour tickets in advance.

Other Things to Consider

During the canal tour, the boat guide will comment on the significant landmarks and history of the area. During our day trip to Bruges , our canal tour guide did a great job narrating the tour and pointing out interesting areas, landmarks, and historical sights. Most guides can speak multiple languages and will do their best to tailor the language to the passengers’ needs. 

The boats are cash-only. Be sure to bring a few Euros to tip your tour guide.

If you want to take pictures, try to be at the front, back, or side of the boat. Most of the boats have a line of seats down the middle, but people may block your pictures if you sit there.  

The boats are open-air and uncovered, so be sure to wear your sunscreen! Also, the tours can get pretty chilly, depending on the time of year, so bring a jacket. We love the Amazon Essentials packable jackets for our travels.

It’s always helpful to know the history and significance of a city prior to visiting. So, I want to take some time here to talk more in-depth about Bruges and, of course, the canals. Then, I will share some of the incredible landmarks that you will see from your Bruges canal tour. 

The History Of Bruges And Its Canals

Bruges has witnessed a remarkable evolution over the centuries. Its history encapsulates the ebb and flow of urban development, from its Viking origins to a flourishing medieval center, economic decline, and eventual modern-day revival.  

The city’s tremendous ability to adapt to changing circumstances and preserve its cultural heritage is a testament to the strength and perseverance of the Danish people across time.

Origins of Bruges , Belgium

The origin of Bruges can be traced to the 9th century when Vikings established a fortress on the banks of the Reie River. The name “Bruges” is believed to be derived from the Old Dutch word “Burg,” meaning fortress. The city gradually developed into a bustling medieval trade center due to its strategic location and access to the North Sea.

The Golden Era of Bruges

Bruges experienced its golden era during the late medieval period, particularly in the 14th and 15th centuries. The city became a major commercial and cultural hub, attracting merchants, artists, and scholars across Europe.  

Its thriving wool and textile industry and a sophisticated network of canals contributed to its prosperity. Bruges was home to the influential Bourse, one of the earliest stock exchanges in the world.

Bruges Economic Decline

Despite its flourishing period, Bruges faced economic challenges in the 16th century. The silting of the Zwin, a vital waterway for trade, led to a decline in maritime activity, impacting Bruges’ economy.  

Additionally, geopolitical shifts and the rise of other European trading centers contributed to a gradual decline in the city’s prominence.

Modern Times and Revival of Bruges

For several centuries, Bruges endured a period of relative obscurity. However, in the 19th century, efforts were made to preserve its medieval architecture, and the city gained recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000.  

The 20th century saw a revival in Bruges’ fortunes, with tourism becoming a key driver of its economy. The city’s well-preserved medieval structures, including the Belfry of Bruges and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, attract millions of visitors annually.

What Do You See on the Bruges Canal Tours?

During the Bruges canal tours, your tour guide will highlight many fascinating landmarks. Each place gives you a window into the long history of this amazing city.  

Like many European cities, it’s steeped in lore that spans epochs, and seemingly every bridge or building has a colorful and long legacy.  

Here is a list of many sites you will probably see on the Bruges canal tours. 

Founded in 1245, the Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde boasts serene white-colored house fronts and a tranquil convent garden.  

This UNESCO World Heritage site was once the residence of beguines—emancipated laywomen leading pious and celibate lives. Today, the beguinage is home to the Order of St. Benedict nuns.

Saint John’s Hospital

With an eight-hundred-year history, Saint John’s Hospital has cared for pilgrims, travelers, the poor, and the sick. Explore the medieval wards where nuns and monks practiced mercy, the chapel, and a remarkable collection of archives, artworks, medical instruments, and six paintings by Hans Memling.  

Church of Our Lady

The Church of Our Lady showcases Bruges’ artisans’ craftsmanship through its 115.5 meters high brick tower. The church has valuable art, including Michelangelo’s renowned Madonna and Child, numerous paintings, 13th-century painted crypts, and the tombs of Mary of Burgundy and Charles the Bold. Abby and I visited after our canal tour, and it was incredible! 

Groeninge Museum

Offering a diverse overview of Belgian plastic arts history, the Groeninge Museum features Flemish Primitives, 18th and 19th-century neoclassical pieces, Flemish Expressionism masterpieces, and post-war modern art.

Ambachtshuis Huidevetters

Built by hide tanners, this craft house near Rozenhoedkaai has two wings. The north wing, demolished in 1629, was replaced in 1630 under the guidance of Bruges architect Jan De Smet. The building was restored in 1912. It has been used as a fishmonger and stockfish farm since the mid-19th century.

Belfry & Carillon

Bruges’ tallest tower, the Belfry, standing 83 meters tall, houses a melodic carillon with 47 bells. Climbing its 366 steps rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of Bruges and its surroundings.

Fish Market

Originally located at Markt Square, the fish market was moved here in the 18th century due to complaints about the stench. Since the Middle Ages, buyers and sellers have come together at the Bruges fish market. Fresh saltwater fish, once a luxury, is still sold every morning from Wednesday to Saturday.

These small whitewashed almshouses, dating back to the 14th century, are scattered around Bruges. Wealthy townspeople or guilds established almshouses to house poor older adults or widows. Over 46 blocks have been preserved, with 43 still occupied.

Burghers’ Lodge

Situated on Jan Van Eyckplein, the Poortersloge (Burgher’s Lodge) served as a meeting spot for the Society of the White Bear in the late 14th and early 15th centuries. Later, it became the city’s Academy of Arts (1720-1890) and the State Archives (1912-2012).

Visiting Bruges: The “Venice of the North”

Visiting Bruges to take one of the Bruges canal tours is a fantastic way to add something special to your trip to Belgium. Its quaint stone houses, romantic canals, cobbled streets, cookies, waffles, and chocolate make it a bucket-list destination to take friends and family of any age.  

The iconic canals are a dream for photographers. Travel to and around the city is simple and inexpensive. And as you can tell by this post, Bruges canal tours should be on your list. I recommend this trip to everyone!  

Visit the European Travel section of my blog for more adventures in Europe, and you may also enjoy the related posts below.

Our Magical Brussels To Bruges Day Trip

2 Days in Brussels: What We Did

Hotel Indigo Brussels City

European Travel Essentials

How To Plan A Trip To Europe For Your Family 

PIN: Bruges Canal Tours Guide

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The Canals of Bruges — A Guide for Travelers

If you’re going to Belgium, you must spend time strolling along the canals of Bruges. Unlike other European water cities — namely Venice — you won’t find the same large crowds or packs of rowdy tourists. Bruges is a perfect location for travelers who want a quaint, relaxing vacation rather than getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of a packed itinerary.

Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of things to do in Bruges, but you won’t have the same pace or volume of tourists as you do in nearby Paris (under 3 hours by train) or Amsterdam (around 3 hours away by train). The canals of Bruges are a fantastic place to grab a stroopwafel, sip on a bevvy, and enjoy the water.

They’re going to get even more beautiful too, as 14,000 flowers are being planted alongside the canals.

The canals of Bruges at night. Photo by alleksana .

The Canals of Bruges

Augustijnenrei — augustine canal.

The Augustine Canal was excavated in the 12th century and it’s a hidden gem not known to many tourists. It’s home to the Augustine Bridge, one of the oldest in the city — duh, because where there’s a waterway there’s going to have to be something to cross that chasm.

The canal was named for the Augustinian monastery that used to sit along the canal’s banks, no longer in operation. Even though the monastery no longer stands, you’ll find the same peace and tranquility that drew monks to convent life strolling along this canal.

Brugge-Zeebrugge Canal

The Zeebrugge has been an important trade and commerce center in Bruges since the medieval era. Several instances of flooding helped connect the area to the broader area, but after the 15th century, its importance dwindled.

The current version of the Brugge-Zeebrugge Canal was built between 1896 & 1907 and is 12km (7.5 miles) long. It’s one of the busiest canals in Bruges as it’s actively used in trade and shipping today, so if you’re hoping to run into some salt-of-the-earth Belgian people, this is a great place to spend some time.

Coupure Canal

Want a taste of the South of France without actually having to travel there? The Coupure Canal can give you a similar experience. If you’ve seen photos of colorful Bruges, you’ll find some of them along this canal. It’s also home to the state archives and an homage to Jacques Brel.

If you’ve ever looked at a canal and thought, ‘What if I just jumped right in?’ then Bruges is here to make that intrusive thought a reality! Every summer, Brugges closes off a 30-meter section of the Coupure Canal for people to swim in. And in winter, the boats get lit up in festive decor.

Gouden-Handrei

Meaning “golden hand” in Dutch, this quaint little canal in Bruges looks like something out of a still life oil painting. This is another historical canal dating back to the 12th century. The canal formed a part of the city’s walls. Jan Van Eyck worked on the other side of the canal and he liked to work there for its peacefulness.

That peaceful and quaint charm endures today at Gouden-Handrei . It’s a great spot to stop on a bench or do some early morning meditation while you’re on vacation.

While you’ll have an enjoyable jaunt along any of the canals, Groenerei is by far the most charming and picturesque. Lots of greenery surround this particular canal with lots of little bridges. The bridges are a fantastic spot to take a romantic photograph. Indeed, if you’re looking for the best places to take Instagram or engagement photos in Bruges, I can’t recommend this canal enough.

Minnewater — The Lake of Love

If you’re looking for peak romance in Europe, then look no further than Minnewater . This little Bruges canal is known as a spot for lovers. Its name comes from an old legend that nymphs (minnen) used to live in the water. It’s got a lot of plush greenery so you feel like it’s just you, your lover, and nature.

If you want to take photos on this canal, the best place to do is the Lake of Love bridge, or near the Lockhouse.

Rozenhoedkaai — Rosary Quay

If you want to make your friends and family jealous with your travels along the beautiful canals of Bruges, then Rozenhoedkaai, or the Rosary Quay, is where you’ll want to take your photos. The canal gets its name from former rosary vendors who set up shop on this canal for weary city workers and pilgrims.

You can’t beat the dreamy evening walk on the banks of this canal, which sits where the Dijver and Groenerei canals meet .

Historic buildings on the canals of Bruges. Photo: Alisa Savickaja .

History of the Canals of Bruges

As I hinted at above, the canals of Bruges have a long and illustrious history. They’ve been central to the city’s trade and industry for centuries. Bruges is known as the “Venice of the North” as, like the city in southern Italy, it relies on an extensive network of canals to ferry people around.

Canals date back to the 9th century, although the 12th century is when most of the current canals in Bruges were created. Bruges was an important center in Flanders for trade, and its canals transported supplies, artwork, and artists to churches, monasteries, and private homes and castles near and far.

As ships widened, so too were the canals widened to make space for the new, larger ships. This helped fortify Bruges’ place as an international center for trade in the medieval era. In the 15th century, however, the city lost its importance to other parts of Europe, lessening the need for canals until industrialization in the late 19th century.

A group of tourists taking a boat tour on the canals of Bruges. Photo: Photo by Magda Ehlers .

Canals of Bruges Tours

One of the highlights of any Bruges trip is a canals of Bruges boat tour. It’s one of tourists’ favorite things to do in Bruges and for good reason. It was one of the rare times where a non-museum activity took the cake for me. Bruges has some beautiful art, but you can feel the history seeping through the history of the canals in Belgium.

Where Do Bruges Canal Boat Tours Depart From?

The canal boats in Bruges have numerous “landing stages” (docks) that passengers can get on and get off. If you want to take a canal tour, you can do so at nearly any of the canals with ease.

Similar to the way there are several port docking locations across the city in Venice, you can go to any of the stations. Not all of them offer guided tours, but you can dock on and dock off by ferry and when you get to a landing stage, you’ll be able to ask anyone who works there for help and there will be ample signage telling you where to go.

It will be impossible to miss.

Where To Sit To Take Good Photos and Videos on a Bruges Canal Boat

If you want to take photos from the canal boat on your Bruges canal tour, knowing where to sit is critical! You’ll want to sit either in the front or the back of a canal boat so you can take unobstructed pictures. Sit on one of the side seats and avoid the middle seats at all costs.

If you sit in the middle of the boat, you’re often obstructed by other people’s equipment or your photos for half the trip will have other people’s hands and cameras in them. Nobody wants that!

Personally, I took three tours because I wanted to get photos to share with my family. Every time, I sat at the front of the boat and I got some very beautiful shots.

Cost & Duration of Bruges Canals Tour

A tour of the canals in Bruges runs between 30-45 minutes, with 30 minutes being the average. Most tours will cost between 15-25€, which is pretty affordable compared to other boat-based attractions.

For instance, a boat tour at the Venetian in Las Vegas will easily run you 50 bucks and you’re not even in Venice! So it’s a pretty reasonable fare.

One of the most iconic instagrammable spots in Bruges on the canals. Photo by Barb Duggan .

Are the Canals of Bruges Worth Visiting?

In my opinion yes, they’re absolutely worth a visit. The canals of Bruges are some of the most charming in the world and they’re an opportunity to take a water-based sojourn through history. It’s not the most adrenaline-pumping thing you could do on vacation, but as someone who likes to take my time and take it slow when I travel, the canals are a perfect Bruges activity.

Ashley Couto is a travel journalist and blogger and the founder of Jardin Foundry, a creative studio. An incoming PhD student in art history, she loves spending her time in art museums and visiting historic sites. Her art historical work moves between Europe and America and the Renaissance and modern era.

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Bruges old town tour & canal cruise

Explore the long history of Bruges on a historic walking tour of the old town, and then embark on a peaceful cruise down the city’s canals. On the walking tour, your guide will bring you to see Markt, the city’s market square in the heart of the old town. Here, you can opt to climb the 366 steps to the top of the Bruges Belfry in the square for expansive views over the city.

You’ll also see Burg Square, the historic area where Bruges was founded. You’ll encounter the tallest tower in the city when you visit the Church of Our Lady, which is home to Michelangelo’s sculpture, Madonna and Child . The tour also brings you to the Lake of Love, a serene park near the Begijnhof, which Benedictine nuns still call home.

The second part of your tour is a cruise down Bruges' canals, where you can enjoy the city from another point of view.

The first four hours of this tour is a privately guided walk of Bruges’ old town, while the last hour is a cruise on the city’s canals. Private cruises aren’t available, so you’ll be on a shared guided cruise with about 15-20 other people. The walking tour is available year-round, but the canal cruise is weather-dependent, so March through October are the best months for this.

The exact order of the walking tour can vary depending on the timing of the cruise, but you can expect to see many of Bruges’ highlights. You’ll visit Markt, in the heart of Bruges’ old town. The square is wide-open, mostly traffic-free and surrounded by former guildhalls and multi-hued step-gabled houses with mismatched rooflines. The square is dominated by the 13th-century belfry, rising 83 m (272 ft) into the sky. For expansive views of the city you can climb the 366 steps to the top.

You’ll also see Burg Square, a cobblestone square where the city was founded. The square is framed by the manor of Franc of Bruges and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. The basilica has an intricate dark-gray Romanesque façade adorned with gilded figurines. Inside, it consists of two separate chapels, the Saint Basil Chapel and the Holy Blood Chapel, which is home to a relic containing what is believed to be the blood of Jesus Christ.

The Church of Our Lady is the tallest building in the city, with its tower reaching 116 m (379 ft) into the sky. You can admire the cross-vaulted nave, the black-and-white-tiled flooring and the heavily ornamented Baroque-style interior. The church is also home to Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child , a white-marble sculpture of the Virgin Mary with an infant Jesus.

The tour will also take you to the Lake of Love in Minnewater Park, a reservoir joined with the canal system. The peaceful lake is an excellent place to see some wildlife, especially swans which are the symbol of the city. Nearby, you can visit the adjoining Begijnhof, a group of white step-gabled houses now occupied by an order of Benedictine nuns.

The hour-long cruise will provide a different perspective of these sights, as you glide along the postcard-worthy canals ornamented with willow trees, elegant stone bridges and medieval buildings.

Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Belgium specialists

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Photos of Bruges old town tour & canal cruise

Other experiences in Bruges

These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.

Coastal bicycle ride, Zwin Nature Park and Damme

Explore the windswept beaches, flat green meadows and reed-lined streams and canals along Belgium’s coast. Your local guide will lead you along a series of paved bike paths through the countryside, seaside resort towns and small, authentic villages.

Diamond District tour & diamond cutting workshop

Explore Antwerp’s legendary Diamond Quarter, a stopover for 86% of the world’s legal raw diamonds, on this three-hour walking tour. Your guide will take you to a workshop where you can watch the gemstones be cut, shaped and polished.

Private canal cruise with champagne & charcuterie

See a world-renowned altarpiece, a bird’s-eye view of the city, a medieval castle and lively market squares on a walking tour of Ghent. Then explore the city’s waterways on a boat tour of the canals, where you’ll be served local delicacies and Belgian beer.

Shrimp farming by horseback in Oostduinkerke

See one of Belgium’s most singular cultural traditions. At Oostduinkerke, you can watch fishermen farm shrimp atop sturdy Brabant draft horses. You’ll then get to try the shrimp during a beachfront cookout.

World War I tour

See the fields where soldiers fought on the front lines during World War I on this full-day trip around Flanders with a private guide and driver. You’ll see a preserved trench, burial grounds, museums and memorials.

Experience it for yourself

You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tours below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.

Grand tour of Belgium & Luxembourg

10 days from $5,845pp

Cruising the Dutch & Belgian waterways

10 days from $8,295pp

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Things To Do Review

The Bruges Canal Boat Tour is wonderful way to view the magnificent city of Bruges. There are 5 companies doing this in Bruges: Venetië van het Noorden on Huidenvettersplein, Coudenys on Rozenhoedkaai, De Meulemeester in Wollestraat, Gruuthuse in Gruuthusestraat, Stael in Kathelijnestraat. The first boat departs at 10am the last at 17.30pm at the debarkation point you choose. Check out the location for pick up, but when we went there, they had a new one every half an hour. Pricing was very reasonable, around €7.

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