Canals of Bruges (Brugse Reien)

The Basics

A Bruges sightseeing excursion isn’t complete without a canal tour. Boat tours typically last about 30 minutes, cruising around the historic center and passing landmarks such as the Groeninge Museum (Groeningemuseum), Old St. John's Hospital, and Basilica of the Holy Blood. Even if you choose not to spend the night in Bruges, the city is small enough to explore on a day or half-day trip from Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, or even other European destinations such as Paris and Amsterdam.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Boat tours leave from the city’s four main quays, or piers—Tanner’s Square (Huidenvettersplein), Nieuwstraat, Wollestraat, and Quay of the Rosary (Rozenhoedkaai).

• Most boats are open-air, so dress for the season’s weather.

• Many boat cruises offer wheelchair access, but it’s best to check in advance with the tour operator.

How to Get There

Bruges (Brugge) is located in Belgium’s West Flanders province, roughly an hour by train from Brussels, where the closest international airport is located. Many day trips offer coach transportation to Bruges from nearby cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels.

When to Get There

Most boat tours run from March through November, but winter cruises are sometimes possible depending on the weather. It’s best to book ahead, especially during the busy summer months, when lines can be long.

Photographing the Bruges Waterways

The most memorable photographs of Bruges focus on the city’s canals, and there are plenty of opportunities for budding photographers to capture the waterways on camera. Head down to the waterfront at sunrise or sunset for the most impressive light, or set up a tripod at night to capture glittering reflections on the water. Notable photo spots include the swan-filled waters by the Begijnhof building, the Church of Our Lady gardens, the tree-lined promenade of the Quay of the Rosary, and the Meestraat Bridge.

Ways to explore

A Bruges sightseeing excursion isn’t complete without a canal tour—the Belgian city is known as “the Venice of the North” for good reason. Boat tours of its waterways typically last about 30 minutes and are an efficient way to see Bruges’ top sights. Most cruise around the historic city center, passing landmarks such as the Groeninge Museum (Groeningemuseum), Sint-Janshospitaal (Saint John’s Hospital), and Basilica of the Holy Blood (Heilig-Bloedbasiliek). For a convenient sightseeing experience, book a combination tour that pairs a canal cruise with a city walking tour.

Accessibility

Unfortunately, the embankments and boats themselves are not wheelchair-accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sun protection, umbrella, small handheld bag, camera

What to wear

Wear weather-appropriate clothing, and bring warm layers if cruising in the evening or on a chilly day.

Not allowed

Eating or drinking on board, luggage, large pets

Amenities

Canal boat operators, proximity to major attractions

Address 

The Canals of Bruges crisscross the city, offering numerous access points and scenic viewing areas. Boat tours depart from several different locations in the city center, all of which are easily accessible on foot.

Driving

As much of central Bruges is restricted to traffic and offers limited parking, driving is not advised. Use taxis, or better yet, consider walking or biking.

Public transportation

Local bus routes are frequent in Bruges, making it easy to get from place to place. However, given the city’s small scale, it may be simplest to get to the canals on foot.

Best times to visit

Options vary, but boat tours generally depart regularly from midmorning until early evening.

Best days to visit

Generally, weekends are busier, especially in summer. Aim for a weekday instead.

Best months to visit

Typically, boat tours run from March through November; many services stop when colder weather arrives.

Special events

The annual Bruges Winter Glow festival celebrates the holiday season, offering a festive way to experience the city's canals and sights.