Bruges is a city made for boat tours. With its network of canals crisscrossing the old medieval center, exploring Bruges from the water offers a perspective unlike any other. Whether you’re drifting past centuries-old buildings, catching glimpses of swans paddling alongside your boat, or learning about the city’s history from a knowledgeable guide, these tours bring Bruges to life in a way land-based sightseeing can’t match. We’re big fans of the small group boat cruise and guided walking tour because of its personal touch and detailed itinerary — it’s perfect for those wanting both history and scenic beauty in one experience. Plus, the guided boat trip and walk offers an intimate way to explore, with a focus on UNESCO sights and cozy corners few stumble upon. For a lively afternoon, the guided tour & boat ride with optional beer tasting pairs Bruges’ historic charm with its famous local brews, making it ideal for lovers of culture and craft beer alike.
Quick overview: Bruges lends itself beautifully to canal cruises, with many tours combining walks through the historic center. Options range from small-group adventures emphasizing personalized stories to longer shore excursions perfect for cruise travelers. Some tours include tastings of Belgian chocolates and waffles, adding a delicious local flavor. Whether you prefer a guided experience, a private tour, or an organized cruise with extra activities, you’ll find a perfect fit in this list. Now, let’s look at the details of each.
1. Bruges: Small Group Boat Cruise and Guided Walking Tour
At number 1, this small group tour combines the best of walking and boat sightseeing. For $50 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours exploring Bruges with a local guide, diving into stories behind famous sights like the Basilica of the Holy Blood and the Four Horsemen, while also gliding along the canals. What makes this tour shine is the intimate setting — small groups mean personalized attention, and the guide’s knowledge brings Bruges’ secrets to life. You’ll visit beautiful spots like hidden gardens, romantic bridges, and the Beguinage, with a chance to taste Belgian chocolates along the way. The boat cruise itself lasts about 40 minutes and offers views of swans and historic facades. Reviewers love the guide’s commentary and how this tour reveals parts of Bruges you wouldn’t find on your own.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for those who want a deep dive into Bruges’ stories and scenic canal views, all in a friendly small-group setting.
2. Bruges: Guided Tour & Boat Ride with Optional Beer Tasting
At number 2, this guided tour with a boat cruise offers about 2.5 hours of sightseeing for $43. It starts with a walking exploration of Bruges’ highlights, including the Lake of Love, Beguinage, and the Market Square. Then, enjoy a 30-minute canal boat ride to see the city from its waterways, with the option to add a Belgian beer tasting for a small extra fee. The tour balances history, architecture, and local flavors — perfect if you want an overview with some tasty extras. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guide and how the boat trip provides a different perspective of Bruges’ charming streets.
Bottom Line: A flexible, budget-friendly option that combines sightseeing with optional local drinks, ideal for those wanting a taste of Bruges’ culture.
3. Guided boat trip and walk
Number 3 on our list is the guided boat trip and walk for $50.98. This 2.5-hour tour emphasizes storytelling — walking through the UNESCO-listed center and then sailing along the canals. The walk covers important sights like the Markt and the Church of Our Lady, with the boat cruise providing a fresh view of the city’s bridges and hidden corners. The guide shares insights into Bruges’ architecture and history, making it suitable for history buffs or anyone who loves storytelling. Guests praise the combination of walking and boating for offering two viewpoints of the city.
Bottom Line: An engaging way to learn about Bruges while enjoying the serenity of its waterways, perfect for small groups seeking personalization.
4. Guided tour of Bruges and Boat Tour (+ beer tasting opt)
Number 4 brings a comprehensive experience with a 3.5-hour itinerary costing around $41.27. It explores Minnewater, the Beguinage, and the Basilica, ending with a canal cruise and an optional Belgian beer tasting. The tour is ideal for history lovers and beer enthusiasts alike, with a focus on Bruges’ medieval charm and local brewing traditions. Reviewers mention the friendly guides and how the combination of walking and boating makes for a relaxed yet thorough visit. The tour’s length ensures you see key sights without feeling rushed, and the optional tasting adds a flavorful local touch.
Bottom Line: Perfect for visitors eager to combine history, scenery, and Belgian beer all in one relaxed outing.
5. Best Bruges Shore Excursion – Small Group + Optional Canal Cruise
Number 5 is a half-day shore excursion designed for cruise travelers, costing about $81.98. It includes port pickup, a scenic walk from Zeebrugge to Bruges, and several stops like Minnewater and the Market Square. The optional canal cruise provides a scenic break during your limited time in port. Reviewers highlight the ease of transportation and the friendly guide, making it a stress-free way to see Bruges in 5 hours. It’s best suited for cruise passengers wanting a well-organized, rundown.
Bottom Line: An efficient, no-stress option for cruise visitors who want to see the highlights and enjoy a boat ride if time allows.
6. Deluxe Bruges Shore Excursion from Zeebrugge Cruise Port
Number 6 offers a luxurious 6-hour experience at $77.48, tailored for cruise guests who want more time in Bruges. It includes a guided walking tour, visits to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and 2 hours of free time for shopping or relaxing. Perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, leisurely day without rushing. Reviewers love the security of guaranteed return times and the chance to indulge in Belgian chocolates and waffles.
Bottom Line: A comfortable, extended tour ideal for cruise passengers seeking a relaxed pace and time to explore independently.
7. Bruges Tour from Your Cruise Ship with Canal Cruse & Leisure Time
Number 7 is a 6-hour private-style tour for $78.66, starting right from Zeebrugge. It includes a canal cruise, visits to the Belfry, and free time to enjoy Bruges at your own pace. Guests rave about the tailored experience and the knowledgeable guide. It’s great for those looking for a personalized, flexible itinerary that balances sightseeing with leisure.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a custom experience with a scenic boat ride built in.
8. Best Bruges Shore Excursion including Deluxe Canal Cruise
Number 8 is a premium 6-hour tour costing $76.40, featuring a deluxe canal cruise and detailed visits to key sights. It’s perfect for those wanting an elevated experience with comfort and in-depth commentary. Reviewers often mention how the breathtaking views and insightful guides make this a standout. It’s suited for cruise visitors who want to maximize their limited time with a touch of luxury.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a premium, well-organized tour with extra comfort and detailed storytelling.
9. Bruges Tour with Canal Cruise from Zeebruges Cruise Port
Number 9 offers a roughly 5 to 6-hour experience at $77.95, combining a guided walk through Bruges’ highlights with a canal cruise. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see both major sights and hidden corners. It’s ideal if you want a balanced, rundown with water vistas included.
Bottom Line: A full, balanced tour suited for first-time visitors who want to see the main sights and enjoy some boat time.
10. From Zeebrugge: Bruges Small Shore Trip with opt. Canal Boat
Number 10 is a small-group tour for about 6 hours at an unknown price. It emphasizes personalized attention with a small group of up to 24, offering both walking and boat options. Visitors like the flexibility and focused experience, especially those booking last-minute or seeking a more intimate feel.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a customizable, less crowded experience with optional boat rides.
11. Experience the best of Bruges on a Private Tour with Boat Ride
Number 11 is a private 3-hour tour for $141.39 per person. It’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting a personalized itinerary. Highlights include customized walks and a scenic boat cruise. Reviewers mention how private guides make the experience more engaging and flexible.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a tailored, intimate exploration of Bruges.
12. 6 Hour Bruges Shore Excursion from Zeebruges Cruise Port
Number 12 is a reliable, approximately 6-hour organized tour at $78.66. It covers major sights like the Belfry and Market Square, with free time for shopping or relaxing. Reviewers appreciate the expert guides and smooth logistics, making it a good choice for first-timers.
Bottom Line: Practical, comprehensive, and well-organized for cruise passengers with limited time.
13. From Brussels: Bruges by Train with Guided Tour & Boat Ride
Number 13 is an all-day, 9.5-hour tour from Brussels for $76. It includes train travel, guided walking, and a boat ride through Bruges’ canals. Reviewers love the seamless logistics and how this trip combines city highlights with transportation. Ideal for those based in Brussels wanting a full-day immersion.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting to combine city exploration from afar with comfort and guided insight.
14. Blankenberge: Offshore Wind Farm Tour by Boat
Number 14 takes you out to see the impressive turbines at Thorntonbank Wind Farm on a 2.5-hour tour for wind energy fans. While not a traditional Bruges tour, it adds a sustainable energy perspective to your Belgian experience. Reviewers mention the spectacular views and informative crew.
Bottom Line: For those interested in renewable energy and offshore technology, this offers a unique perspective from the sea.
15. Bruges Charms and Gems Tour for Cruise Passengers
Number 15 is a 5-6 hour tour for $67.99, focusing on important landmarks, chocolate shops, and local cuisine. Reviewers enjoy the rich storytelling and ample free time. It’s perfect for travelers who want a compact yet flavorful experience of Bruges.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a taste of Bruges’ highlights with some leisure and culinary delights.
16. Small-Group Bruges Shore Trip with opt. Canal Cruise and Extras
Number 16 is a highly-rated, small-group tour at just $80.29, with personalized attention and options for extra free time or a canal cruise. Guests praise its flexibility and intimate atmosphere, making it a top pick for those who want a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who prefer a smaller, more personal tour with options to customize their day.
$80.29 per person
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour & Cruise in Bruges
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you want a rundown with lots of storytelling, the small group cruise and guided walking tour (Tour 1) is hard to beat. For those looking for luxury and comfort, the deluxe canal cruise (Tour 8) offers a more upscale experience. If you’re on a cruise, Tours 5, 6, 7, 9, 12, and 15 provide efficient, well-organized shore excursions with flexible options for free time or boat rides.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours during peak season, to secure your preferred time and ensure a smooth experience. Consider whether you want a guided group tour, private experience, or combination of water and land exploration to match your travel style.
To sum it up, Bruges offers a fantastic variety of boat tours and cruises suited to different tastes and schedules. From small-group adventures to luxury shore excursions, and even offshore wind farm visits, there’s plenty of ways to see this charming city from the water. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply in search of scenic beauty, these tours will help you make the most of your visit. To avoid missing out, book your favorite tour early and get ready for a memorable day in this fairy-tale city.