When I traveled to Bruges for the first time, I had some ideas of what to do, where to go, and what to expect. But if there was one activity that I didn’t plan but ended up loving, it’s the Bruges canal tour (or you could also call it the Bruges canal cruise).
At that time, I was on my road trip around Belgium for a few days and it was a nice break with gorgeous architecture and a fun captain – Exactly what I needed! Plus, you guessed it, it’s one of the best ways to see the city.
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.
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
Includes
- Boat trip Bruges
- Guided walking tour
- 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 the city center, and they all pretty much offer the same boat ride. The following locations are the departure points:
- 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.
When the boat trip ends, you’ll take the same route to get back to the departure point.
Bruges Canals Tour Duration
There’s 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.
Also, know that this isn’t always the case, but all the boats fill up quickly, and I recommend booking your ticket in advance.
Apart from that, many people visit Ghent and Bruges as a day trip, and I couldn’t stress it enough – 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. This way, you’ll see key spots in town like the fish market, Market Square, the Groeninge Museum, and more.
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 you can see the city with a local guide
Take a walk around Bruges with a guide who knows the city inside out. After that, you will head to the Rozenhoedkaai to meet our captain and finally start cruising.
The captain is going to take you along the quay, sail through under the bridges (the boat is slow enough to take some pictures) and give some interesting information to everyone about Bruges.
Cruise down the canals to spot the 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 city. Bruges was the highlight of my trip in Belgium, and I’m sure you’ll have a great time.
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?
Absolutely! One of the nicest ways to see one of the most beautiful cities in one of the most elegant ways is by boat, and this is something that is among the best on offer in Bruges.
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 romantic 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 canal 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 open air tour.
The Bruges canal boat tour not only offers a moment of reflection on the city’s rich history but also gives you the change to appreciate its timeless beauty in a quiet way without the crowds of tourist in the city center.
These Bruges canal tours are a memorable end to your trip, and in short, you’ll have an amazing time!
