Boat Trip with Dutch Speaking Guide and Chocolate

At the foot of the Belfry lies the Markt, the historic heart of Bruges. Its colourful stepped gables and stately buildings are a reminder of the city’s rich medieval past. The Markt is also home to the Provincial Court, an impressive neo-Gothic building that once served as the centre of the provincial government. Today, the Markt is a lively meeting place where visitors and locals come together, and a perfect starting point for discovering the historic centre of Bruges.

The Burg is one of the oldest and most beautiful squares in Bruges and has been the city’s administrative and religious heart for centuries. The historic square is home to some of Bruges’ most impressive buildings, including the Gothic Town Hall, the Basilica of the Holy Blood and the former Brugse Vrije. The impressive Town Hall dates back to the 14th century and is one of the oldest town halls in the Low Countries. Next to the Town Hall stands the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which, according to tradition, houses a relic of the Holy Blood. Take a moment to admire the beautiful façades surrounding the square as well. Together, they tell the story of Bruges’ rich and fascinating history.

The Fish Market in Bruges is one of the oldest covered fish markets in Belgium. The present market was built in 1821 in neoclassical style and consists of an open colonnade with 126 stone columns. Fresh fish was once sold here every day. In the 18th century, the fish sellers moved from the Markt to this location because the smell of fish was no longer welcome in the city centre. Today, the Fish Market is mainly a charming spot where local traders and artists offer their goods. The elegant columns and distinctive square are a reminder of Bruges’ centuries-old tradition of trade.

The Huidenvettersplein is a small and charming square in the heart of Bruges. In the Middle Ages, leather workers worked here, treating animal hides and turning them into leather. The square was located close to the former Fish Market and, together with the surrounding streets, formed an important centre for crafts and trade. Today, the square is surrounded by cosy restaurants and outdoor terraces. Its characteristic façades and narrow passages give it an authentic medieval atmosphere. From here, it is also easy to walk to the Rozenhoedkaai, one of the most famous and photographed spots in Bruges.

The Rozenhoedkaai is one of the most photographed spots in Bruges. The combination of the tranquil water, historic façades and picturesque bridge creates a quintessential Bruges scene. Centuries ago, this was an important location for trade and the transportation of goods by water. Today, it offers one of the most beautiful views in the city. From here, you can take a boat trip along Bruges’ famous canals. During the approximately 30-minute journey, you will discover Bruges from a completely different perspective. You’ll pass under centuries-old bridges and cruise alongside beautiful medieval façades, hidden corners and historic buildings. Along the way, the captain shares interesting facts and stories about the city. A boat trip is a wonderful way to experience the charm of Bruges from the water.

Dijver is one of the most beautiful and atmospheric streets in Bruges. Here, the water, old trees and historic façades are beautifully reflected in the canals. Along Dijver, we discover several remarkable buildings, including the entrance of the Groeninge Museum and the Bourgogne des Flandres brewery. The combination of water, greenery and centuries-old architecture makes Dijver one of the most characteristic and picturesque places in Bruges.

The Boniface Bridge is one of the most romantic spots in Bruges. This small stone bridge is tucked away among historic buildings, trees and the water of the canal. Although the bridge looks medieval, it actually dates from the beginning of the 20th century. It was built in 1910 and is part of the picturesque Gruuthuse Quarter. From the bridge, you have a beautiful view of the water, the old façades and the Church of Our Lady. It is a favourite spot for taking photographs and simply enjoying the peaceful and romantic atmosphere of Bruges.

The Rooms Convent is part of Bruges’ historic almshouses. These small, simple houses were built from the Middle Ages onwards for poor and needy people. They were usually founded by wealthy citizens or craft guilds and formed small communities around a courtyard. The residents were provided with a modest home and could rely on help and care. Today, the simple white houses with their green doors and windows are a typical feature of the Bruges cityscape. They remind us of the city’s centuries-old tradition of charity and solidarity.

De Halve Maan Brewery is one of the oldest breweries still operating in Bruges. Beer has been brewed here since 1856, and the brewery is best known today for Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik. The Maes family has been involved in the brewery for several generations, helping to preserve Bruges’ long-standing beer tradition. One of the brewery’s most remarkable features is the modern beer pipeline running beneath the historic city centre. Since 2016, beer has been transported through this approximately 3.2-kilometre pipeline from the brewery to the bottling plant outside the city centre. This helps keep heavy trucks out of Bruges’ narrow historic streets. De Halve Maan combines centuries-old Bruges beer tradition with modern technology, making it a great example of how Bruges brings together its historic character and contemporary business.

Stepping through the gate of the Princely Beguinage “Ten Wijngaarde” feels like entering an oasis of peace in the heart of Bruges. The beguinage was founded in the 13th century and was once home to beguines: unmarried women or widows who chose to live together in prayer and work while maintaining a great deal of independence. The whitewashed houses surround a beautiful courtyard garden where peace and serenity prevail. Since 1998, the Beguinage of Bruges has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The last beguines left the beguinage in 1927. Today, it is still home to a small religious community and single women. In this way, the beguinage has preserved its tradition as a female community and its peaceful atmosphere. Take a moment to admire the white façades, the majestic trees, the small St. Elizabeth Church and, above all, the silence. That silence is an essential part of the unique character of this special place.