Bruges is a small city in the northwest of Belgium that is chock-full of old-world charm. Wandering its streets, you can find centuries-old architecture and cobblestone alleyways.
One of the best ways to see everything the city offers is by taking a Bruges canal tour – 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. You’re in for a treat!
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 ride
- 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.
Here are all the boat departure points in Bruges – so you can plan your route and avoid getting lost along the way (you’ll take the same route when going back).
- 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 points in Bruges. Note that the main canal cruises Bruges offers operate from a different point each time, and the tour operator will contact you beforehand to tell you the location where you’ll take the boat.
Bruges Canal 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 magical 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
Indulge in luxury at The Notary, a central Bruges B&B boasting private parking, free WiFi, an infinity pool, and a lush garden. Near key attractions like the Basilica of the Holy Blood, this property offers a sun terrace, hot tub, and on-site bar.
Enjoy spacious rooms with seating areas, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and elegant bathrooms. Wake up to a delicious à la carte or continental breakfast and unwind by the outdoor fireplace.
It’s close to Bruges Train Station and Market Square, which is very convenient as well. All in all, this is the right place if you plan a special trip or event while in Belgium.
Mid-Range: La Clé Brugge
La Clé Brugge offers a cozy, mid-range stay in central Bruges, close to top sites like the Basilica of the Holy Blood. This guest house features a shared lounge, kitchen, and allergy-free rooms with modern amenities.
Enjoy the convenience of free WiFi and optional private parking. Located 1.8 km from Bruges Concert Hall and within walking distance to Market Square, it’s a great base for exploring.
Budget: ibis budget Brugge Centrum Station
For budget-friendly comfort, choose ibis Budget Brugge Centrum Station, located next to Bruges Train Station. This modern hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and showers.
Start your day with an all-you-can-eat continental breakfast. It’s a short walk to inner Bruges, the Beguinage, and a 20-minute stroll to the Belfort. Public parking is available nearby, perfect for travelers on the go.
Conclusion – Bruges Boat Tours
You can’t go to Belgium without taking a Bruges river cruise! 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.
A canal tour is a fitting and memorable end to your Bruges adventure, leaving you with a deeper connection to the city and countless memories!
