Exploring Bruges by Boat: Your Ultimate Guide to Canal Tours
Bruges, often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” is a city that offers a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. During our family trip to Belgium, Abby and I took a day trip from Brussels to Bruges, eager to experience one of the city’s famed canal tours. It was an unforgettable experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone planning to visit this fairytale-like destination.
Getting to Bruges from Brussels
Bruges is located just a little over an hour northwest of Brussels, making it an ideal destination for a day trip. Trains from major stations in Brussels, like Brussels-Central, Brussels-North, and Brussels-South, regularly run to Bruges. The journey is comfortable and quick, and tickets are affordable, with a standard fare for adults around €32, although discounts are often available.
Once you arrive in Bruges, you’ll immediately be enchanted by the sight of its winding canals and charming medieval buildings. The best way to explore the canals is on a guided boat tour, where you’ll get a front-row seat to the city’s history and beauty.
Bruges Canal Tours: What to Expect
Bruges’ canals are the heart of the city, winding their way through charming streets and ancient buildings. These canals have played an important role in Bruges’ history, once making the city a vital trade center thanks to its access to the North Sea. Today, the canals offer an unparalleled way to explore the city.
There are several embarkation points for canal tours, with the most popular locations being:
- Michielssens, Huidenvettersplein 13
- Coudenys, Rozenhoedkaai
- De Meulemeester, Wollestraat 32
- Gruuthuse, Nieuwstraat 11
- Stael, Katelijnestraat 4
Canal tours typically last around 30 minutes and are available from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last tour often departing at 5:30 PM. The boats are open-air, giving you unobstructed views of Bruges’ stunning scenery, though be prepared for the weather. In the warmer months, sunscreen is a must, and during cooler seasons, bring a jacket.
Ticket Prices and Tips for the Best Experience
One of the unique aspects of Bruges canal tours is that tickets are sold on-site rather than in advance. Prices are generally €12 for adults and €7 for children. As these tours are popular, especially after 11:00 AM, it’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid long lines. If you’re visiting during the busy summer months or when cruise ships are in town, the earlier you arrive, the better.
If you prefer a more private experience, several companies offer small-group tours, or you can even charter a private boat for a more intimate outing.
What You’ll See on the Tour
A canal tour in Bruges is not just a scenic ride; it’s also a journey through history. Your guide will point out key landmarks, sharing fascinating stories about the city’s past. Some of the highlights you may encounter on the tour include:
- The Beguinage: This peaceful UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to 1245 and was once home to laywomen living pious lives. Today, it remains a tranquil place for the Benedictine nuns.
- Saint John’s Hospital: With an 800-year history, this hospital once served pilgrims and the sick. Today, you can see art and medical artifacts, including works by the famous painter Hans Memling.
- Church of Our Lady: Famous for its stunning architecture and Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child, this church is a must-see for art lovers.
- Groeninge Museum: Home to one of the world’s best collections of Flemish Primitive art, this museum is a treasure trove for history and art enthusiasts.
The tour also gives you views of Bruges’ medieval structures, including the Belfry Tower and the Fish Market, each with its own unique backstory.
A City Steeped in History
Bruges’ canals are not just picturesque—they are an integral part of the city’s rich history. The city dates back to the 9th century, when Vikings established a fortress on the banks of the Reie River. Over the centuries, Bruges grew into a thriving trade center, especially during its Golden Era in the 14th and 15th centuries. It was during this time that the city became famous for its wool and textile industries, its impressive network of canals, and its role in Europe’s economic landscape.
However, as trade routes shifted in the 16th century, Bruges faced a period of decline. The silting of the Zwin River, which had been crucial for the city’s maritime trade, along with political and economic shifts, left Bruges in relative obscurity for centuries.
But the 19th century saw efforts to preserve the city’s historical charm, and by 2000, Bruges earned UNESCO World Heritage status. Today, it thrives as a popular tourist destination, with millions of visitors flocking each year to explore its medieval streets and canals.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Bruges
A canal tour in Bruges offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience this charming city. With its medieval architecture, peaceful canals, and rich history, Bruges is a place that feels like stepping back in time. Whether you’re there for a few hours or a few days, a canal tour will give you a new perspective on the city and its centuries-old legacy.
If you’re planning a trip to Belgium, Bruges should be at the top of your list. From the quaint houses and cobblestone streets to the mouth-watering chocolate and waffles, there’s something magical about this “Venice of the North.” So, be sure to include a canal tour in your itinerary for a truly memorable experience.
