Bruges is a city that deserves to be explored with a mix of guided tours, cultural experiences, and fun activities. Its labyrinth of cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and picturesque canals make it a perfect backdrop for a variety of tours. We particularly like the small group boat and walking tour because it combines history, scenery, and local anecdotes while giving you a chance to enjoy a chocolate tasting along the way. For those who enjoy a bit of mystery, the Dark Side of Bruges evening walk offers a captivating look at the city’s spooky stories after sunset. And if you’re a history buff, the Great War Flanders Fields tour adds depth with its focus on WWI battlefields and memorials. Whatever your interests, Bruges has a tour for you.
Quick Overview
Bruges offers a broad range of tours, from canal cruises, guided walking stories, and bike rides to chocolate workshops and private historical tours. Whether you’re after a romantic boat ride, a fun cooking class, or an immersive history experience, you’ll find something tailored to your style. To help you choose, below you’ll discover detailed insights into the top 16 tours, each with their own unique appeal.
1. Bruges: Small Group Boat Cruise and Guided Walking Tour
At number 1, this combination of a canal cruise and guided walk offers a balanced taste of Bruges. For about $50, you get 2.5 hours exploring the medieval streets and scenic waterways with a knowledgeable local guide. The tour includes highlights like the Basilica of the Holy Blood, Gruuthusemuseum, and the Four Horsemen. The boat cruise, lasting 40 minutes, lets you see charming secret gardens, romantic bridges, and medieval facades from a different perspective. Reviewers frequently praise the guide’s commentary and the chance to discover parts of the city they wouldn’t otherwise see. The chocolate tasting near the Beguinage adds a sweet touch to this well-rounded experience.
This tour is excellent for travelers who want an intimate experience with fewer crowds, as it limits groups to a small size. It’s perfect if you enjoy history, scenic views, and local delicacies all in one go. Bottom line: a great value for all-in-one sightseeing.
2. Evening Tour: The Dark Side of Bruges
Number 2 on our list is a 1.5-hour evening walk that reveals Bruges after dark. Priced at just $3.46 per person, this tour is a steal. You’ll visit lesser-known corners and hear ghost stories, legends, and mysterious tales that bring the city’s past to life. Starting in the historic centre, you’ll explore highlights like the Markt Square and Jan van Eyck Square, but it’s the atmosphere created by nightfall that makes this tour special. The final stop includes a visit to a local bar for a Belgian beer, making it a cozy way to wind down.
Reviewers rave about the entertaining storytelling and the chance to see a different side of Bruges when the streets are quieter. If you prefer mood and mystery over daytime crowds, this tour offers a memorable evening experience.
3. From Bruges: Great War Flanders Fields Minibus Tour w/ Lunch
Number 3 offers an all-day journey into WWI history, taking you to battlefields, bunkers, and the Ypres Salient, with no museum visits involved. For around $118, you get 9 hours of exploring historical sites and hearing stories about the conflicts that shaped the region. The guides personalize the experience, making it engaging for both history enthusiasts and casual learners. Reviewers highlight the informative and respectful nature of the trip, with plenty of time at each stop. The tour includes a lunch break, adding convenience and value, especially for those interested in military history.
This trip is best suited for those with a full day to spare, a keen interest in WWI, and a desire to go beyond museums into battlefields and memorials. It’s a sobering, respectful, and deeply educational experience.
4. Bruges: Guided Rickshaw Tour
Number 4 is a fun and relaxing alternative to traditional walking tours. This guided rickshaw ride covers the main sights like Market Square, the Belfry, and lesser-known streets. For up to 3 people at $78, you can sit back and learn stories from your knowledgeable guide while avoiding the fatigue of walking. The personalized nature of the tour lets guides tailor the experience, sharing anecdotes about Bruges’ medieval past and hidden corners.
Reviewers call this probably the best tour ever, emphasizing its comfort and informative commentary. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone who prefers a seated exploration. Bottom line: a unique, engaging, and easy way to see Bruges.
5. Storytelling Tour Bruges | First Day Must | History & Tips
Number 5 is a two-to-three-hour storytelling walk led by passionate local storytellers. Priced at $3.46, it concentrates on making history fun and personal. The tour is not route-fixed; guides focus on personal highlights, sharing legendary tales and fun facts about medieval Bruges. Highlights include The Markt, the Burg Square, and the Belfry, but the real focus is on engagement and storytelling.
Reviewers appreciate the informal, lively narration and the insider tips about local restaurants, chocolate shops, and bars. Ideal for first-time visitors wanting an immersive, memorable introduction without breaking the bank.
6. Bruges: Guided Tour & Boat Ride with Optional Beer Tasting
Number 6 combines a guided walk with a canal cruise, offering an immersive experience of Bruges’ historical and scenic charm. For about $43, you get 2.5 to 3 hours of sightseeing, including time to explore chocolate and lace shops. The canal cruise, lasting 30 minutes, offers beautiful views of the city’s waterway and architecture. You can also opt for a beer tasting to enjoy local brews.
Reviewers mention the comprehensive itinerary and the beautiful canal scenery. This tour suits travelers who want a bit of everything—history, scenery, and a taste of Belgian beer.
7. Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting
Number 7 is a delicious hands-on experience for about $60. You’ll learn how to make Belgian waffles from scratch, taste three Belgian beers, and enjoy your freshly baked waffles with toppings of your choice. The instructor guides you through batter prep, cooking, and flavoring, ensuring you leave with recipes and skills.
Guests rave about the entertaining host and the tasty results. Perfect for food lovers or families looking for a fun, interactive activity. It’s a tasty blend of cooking and tasting that makes for a memorable half-day.
8. Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Bruges
Number 8 is a sweet-making workshop costing around $55.61. You’ll create pralines, mendiants, and hot chocolate from scratch, ending up with more than 35 pieces to take home. The instructor provides step-by-step guidance, sharing Belgian chocolate secrets.
Guests say it’s a fantastic, hands-on experience perfect for families or anyone with a sweet tooth. The short duration makes it convenient, and you get to take home your own chocolates. Great value for chocolate lovers who want an interactive, delicious experience.
9. Tell Me About Bruges 1000 Years of Stories by Locals
Number 9 is a free, two-hour walking tour led by local storytellers. It’s highly rated at 4.9, emphasizing storytelling over traditional history lectures. You’ll visit the Markt, Belfry, and Burg Square, but the real magic is hearing legendary tales, legends, and fun facts from passionate guides.
Reviewers highlight the entertaining narration and personalized stories that make Bruges come alive. This tour is perfect for budget travelers or those who prefer stories over dates but still want a rich experience.
10. The Waffles ‘n Beer Workshop in Bruges Centre
Number 10 combines waffle making with beer tasting for roughly $68.36. You’ll sample three Belgian beers, learn waffle batter prep, and bake your own waffles, enjoying them with toppings and more beer. The small class size ensures personalized attention.
Guests describe it as fun and educational, praising the host’s friendliness and the delicious results. It’s ideal for foodies wanting a hands-on, flavorful experience that ends with tasty souvenirs.
11. Private Historical Tour: The Highlights of Bruges
Number 11 offers a personalized 2-hour private tour at $95.58 per person. It’s perfect for those seeking an intimate exploration without the crowds. Your private guide will customize the route, covering the Markt, Belfry, and Sint-Janshospitaal, among others.
Reviews praise guides like Mauricio and Martin for their passion and depth of knowledge. This is best suited for travelers wanting a tailored experience, especially families or couples. Expect a more relaxed, detailed walk through Bruges’ highlights.
12. Bruges: Belgian Praline and Mendiants Chocolate Workshop
Number 12 is a chocolate-making class costing about $67. You’ll craft pralines and mendiants, learning tips from Belgian chocolatiers. Ending with hot chocolate, you create over 30 chocolates to take home.
Guests find it highly engaging and tasty, appreciating the knowledgeable instructor and the hands-on approach. It’s perfect for chocolate fans who want to learn professional techniques in a fun setting.
13. Bruges Guided Retro Biketour: Highlights and Hidden Gems
Number 13 is a 2.5-hour bike tour at $45.93 per person, covering the city’s main landmarks and hidden spots like the Stairway To Heaven. Bikes, helmets, and baskets are included, making it easy to explore comfortably.
Reviewers mention Evangeline’s excellent narration and the ability to see more than a walking tour allows. Ideal for active travelers or those wanting a scenic, fast-paced overview.
14. Historical Walking Tour: The Story of Bruges by Legends
Number 14 offers a 2-hour walk at $2.27, ideal for budget-conscious travelers. The tour visits the Markt, Belfry, Gruuthusemuseum, and the Beguinage, with a focus on stories, legends, and fun facts.
Guests highlight guides like Sam and Louis for their engagement and humor. It’s perfect for story lovers who want a fun, lively introduction to Bruges’ past.
15. Gastronomic Tour: A Taste of Bruges
Number 15 is a donation-based food tour costing around $3.48 per group. You’ll sample fries, waffles, chocolates, and enjoy a beer in a historic brewery. The tour showcases local culinary traditions and hidden food spots.
Reviewers praise the variety of tastings and insider tips. Perfect for foodies eager to experience Belgian flavors without a fixed price. It’s a delicious, informal way to discover Bruges’ culinary scene.
16. Bruges: Guided Retro Bike Tour of Highlights and Hidden Gems
Number 16 is a 2.5-hour bike tour with a focus on both famous sights and secret corners. The tour costs $45 per person and includes a friendly guide, who shares stories and local tips. Highlights include the City Castle, Bishop’s House, and the Windmills.
Guests comment on the personalized narration and the ease of biking over cobblestones. It’s best suited for active travelers wanting a comprehensive, scenic overview of Bruges.
How to Choose Your Perfect Bruges Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and time available. If you want a romantic, scenic experience, the canal cruise combined with a walk is perfect. For history lovers, the WWI Flanders Fields tour or the private highlights tour provide depth and personalization. Foodies should check out the chocolate or waffle workshops, while those seeking fun and casual experiences might prefer the storytelling walk or the riding tours.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular options like the evening dark side walk and private tours. Consider your budget and schedule—many tours are short and inexpensive, but a full-day excursion like the Flanders Fields tour offers a profound experience.
Bruges’ variety of tours ensures every traveler can find a way to connect with this charming city. Whether you’re after history, food, or scenery, these options provide something authentic and memorable. For a more immersive visit, consider booking a few different experiences—just don’t wait too long, as many fill up quickly.