Bruges is a city made for exploring—its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and winding canals invite all kinds of tours. Whether you’re after a scenic boat ride, a tasty food experience, or a deep dive into history, Bruges offers options that make the most of its charm. One of our favorites is the Bruges: Small Group Boat Cruise and Guided Walking Tour, which perfectly combines a leisurely boat ride with an in-depth walk through the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a great way to see the city’s iconic sights like the Basilica of the Holy Blood and the Four Horsemen, all with a local guide who shares stories and insights along the way.
Bruges is especially known for its variety of guided experiences—from walking tours that reveal the city’s lesser-known corners to bike rides that cover more ground in less time. Food lovers can indulge in workshops for waffles, chocolates, and beer, while history enthusiasts will appreciate minibus trips to Flanders Fields or private tours that avoid the crowds. Whatever your interest, the options below showcase the best Bruges has to offer.
Brief Tour Overview
This list includes canal boat cruises, walking tours, bike rides, food workshops, and historical excursions. Some are perfect for history buffs (from WWI battlefields), others excel at combining food and drink tasting experiences (Belgian waffles and beer), and some offer personalized private tours (highlighting Bruges’ main sites). Read on to find the perfect way for you to explore Bruges.
1. Bruges: Small Group Boat Cruise and Guided Walking Tour
For around $50, this tour combines a scenic canal cruise with a guided walk that covers Bruges’ top sights. It’s ideal for travelers who want a rundown without feeling rushed. Start from one of four locations, including the Historium or Markt, then enjoy a 20-minute walk through the historic center. Highlights include the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the Gruuthusemuseum, and the Four Horsemen. The boat cruise adds a relaxed perspective, sailing past charming bridges and spotting swans near the Beguinage. The tour includes a chocolate tasting and a visit to the Church of Our Lady, with plenty of time for photos and questions. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—“Frank was great”—and the chance to see parts of Bruges you might miss on your own makes this highly recommended.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local flavor in just 2.5 hours.
2. Evening Tour: The Dark Side of Bruges
At just $3.46 per person, this 1.5-hour evening walking tour offers a moody, atmospheric look at Bruges. It’s perfect if you want to see the city in a different light—literally. Your guide will take you through lesser-known streets and share ghost stories, legends, and tales that bring Bruges’ past to life after dark. Key highlights include Jan van Eyck Square and the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum, where you can even enjoy some free samples. This tour is well-loved by visitors who appreciate local storytelling and the chance to see Bruges without the daytime crowds. It ends with a drink at a traditional Belgian bar, rounding out a memorable evening.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for history and mystery lovers wanting a cozy, less touristy experience.
3. From Bruges: Great War Flanders Fields Minibus Tour w/ Lunch
For around $118, this full-day tour (lasting about 9 hours) plunges you into World War I history. The tour visits key battlefields and sites around Ypres, including bunkers and the Menin Gate, without museum crowds. What makes this trip stand out is its personal storytelling; guides share detailed facts and stories from the war, emphasizing the human side of history. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide Phillip, who makes the experience personal and engaging. The tour includes a delicious lunch and the opportunity to reflect at war memorials. It’s suited for history buffs or anyone wanting a meaningful, respectful look at Flanders’ role in WWI.
Bottom Line: A thoroughly educational and impactful experience for history enthusiasts.
4. Bruges: Guided Rickshaw Tour
At $78 per group, this fun and unique ride offers a comfortable way to see Bruges’ main sights. Your guide will pedal you through Market Square, along peaceful canals, and into quieter neighborhoods. The rickshaw can hold up to three people, making it perfect for couples or small groups. Guides like David are praised for their engaging stories and local knowledge, making this both informative and entertaining. The tour lasts 1 to 2 hours, ideal if you want to cover more ground than walking allows but still enjoy a relaxed pace. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer a less strenuous way to explore or have limited mobility.
Bottom Line: A charming, customizable way to see Bruges without wearing out your shoes.
5. Storytelling Tour Bruges | First Day Must | History & Tips
For a budget-friendly $3.46, this 2-3 hour storytelling walking tour offers a lively, engaging way to get to know Bruges. Local guides craft customized narratives based on your interests, sharing insider stories and overlooked details. Highlights include the Markt, the Boniface Bridge, and the Oud Sint-Jan site, with a focus on making history come alive through stories and anecdotes. Reviewers love the informal style—“Nick was great,” and the tour’s flexibility means you can ask questions and steer it toward your interests. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want an authentic, personal introduction to the city.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling and want a tailored experience.
6. Bruges: Guided Tour & Boat Ride with Optional Beer Tasting
At around $43, this 2.5-3 hour tour combines a guided walk with a canal cruise and the option for a Belgian beer tasting. The tour covers major sights like Rozenhoedkaai and the Belfry, and guests rave about the easy pace and excellent commentary. The boat ride offers a different perspective on the city, floating past historic buildings and bridges. Many guests find the beer tasting a perfect way to relax and soak in the local culture. It’s a good choice if you want a balanced overview with the option to indulge in Belgium’s famous brews.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a laid-back, comprehensive experience with a tasty twist.
7. Bruges: Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting
For $60, this 1.5-hour hands-on workshop is a treat for food lovers. Stefan guides you through making authentic Belgian waffles and tasting four Belgian beers, one of which you’ll incorporate into your batter. After baking, you’ll enjoy your creations topped with toppings of your choice. Guests rave about Stefan’s friendly instruction and the fun atmosphere—“Incredibly tasty,” and “Incredibly fun.” It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting to learn a new skill while sampling local flavors. The price includes multiple waffles and beers, making it good value for a lively, tasty experience.
Bottom Line: A fun, interactive way to enjoy Bruges’ culinary delights.
8. Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Bruges
Priced at $55.61, this 2.5-hour workshop is a must for sweet tooth travelers. You’ll learn how to craft pralines, mendiants, and hot chocolate from scratch, ending up with over 35 pieces to take home. Harry, the instructor, is praised for his patience and expertise—“Very knowledgeable and funny.” It’s a hands-on experience that offers a real taste of Belgian chocolate craftsmanship. Suitable for families and those who want to get creative in the kitchen, it’s an engaging and delicious way to spend a morning or afternoon.
Bottom Line: Perfect for chocolate lovers looking to bring home a piece of Belgium’s famous confections.
9. The Waffles ‘n Beer Workshop in Bruges Centre
At $68.36, this 1.5-hour workshop combines making waffles with sampling three Belgian beers. It’s a lively, social experience where you learn to cook waffles from a local guide, who also introduces you to Belgian beer culture. The tour receives high praise for its fun atmosphere and expert instruction—“Stefan was fantastic!” and “A must-do in Bruges.” You get to eat your waffles with toppings and take home the recipe. Ideal for those who enjoy hands-on food experiences with a lively crowd.
Bottom Line: A flavorful, interactive experience perfect for foodies and beer fans alike.
10. Private Historical Tour: The Highlights of Bruges
This exclusive 2-hour private tour costs around $95.58 per person and offers a customized, personal experience. Perfect if you prefer avoiding crowds and want an in-depth look at Bruges’ main sites. Your guide tailors the route, which includes the Belfry, Gruuthusemuseum, and the Princely Beguinage, with plenty of time for questions. Reviewers praise guides like Mauricio and Martin for their passion and in-depth knowledge, making it a perfect choice for travelers seeking a flexible, intimate experience. The private format ensures that your party gets undivided attention and a personalized itinerary.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a flexible, private experience with detailed insights.
11. Bruges: Belgian Praline and Mendiants Chocolate Workshop
At $67, this 2.5-hour hands-on workshop is perfect for aspiring chocolatiers. You’ll learn to make pralines and mendiants, crafting over 30 chocolates to take home. Ras, the instructor, receives rave reviews for his friendly, knowledgeable guidance—“Did a wonderful job.” It’s a chance to learn a traditional craft while indulging in Belgium’s finest sweets. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, it’s a delicious activity that satisfies both sweet cravings and educational curiosity.
Bottom Line: A sweet, engaging activity for chocolate enthusiasts.
12. Bruges Guided Retro Biketour of Highlights and Hidden Gems
For $45.93, this 2.5-hour guided bike tour is a lively way to see Bruges. Led by guides like Lazarine, you’ll visit main sites like the Belfry and the Lake of Love, as well as lesser-known spots like the Stairway To Heaven. Many guests mention how much they appreciated the opportunity to cover more ground and see the city from a different perspective. The tour includes a retro bike, helmet, and rain poncho—making it accessible in all weather. It’s great if you’re comfortable on a bike and want a fast-paced overview with local insights.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers who want to see more in less time.
13. Gastronomic Tour: A Taste of Bruges
This donation-based, 1 hour 40-minute tour is ideal for those wanting a culinary introduction. You’ll visit key spots like the Markt and Bourgogne Des Flandres Brewery, tasting fries, waffles, chocolates, and beer along the way. Guides like Mau and Natalie are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach. The tour is flexible, so you pay what you think it’s worth at the end, making it budget-friendly. It’s particularly suited for foodies eager to learn about Bruges’ culinary culture without a set menu.
Bottom Line: A flexible, tasty way to experience Bruges’ food scene.
14. Bruges: Choco-Story Museum with Audio Guide and Tastings
At just $17, this self-guided visit offers a deep dive into Belgian chocolate history. With over 500 objects, a collection of samples, and a demonstration, it’s a compact and affordable highlight for sweet lovers. It’s a good option if you’re short on time or prefer exploring at your own pace, and it complements other sweet experiences in Bruges.
Bottom Line: Budget-friendly, informative, and perfect for chocolate fans.
15. Bruges: Guided Retro Bike Tour of Highlights and Hidden Gems
Similar to tour #12 but with a slightly different route, this 2.5-hour bike excursion offers an immersive experience. You’ll visit key landmarks like the City Castle, Belfry, and scenic Windmills, with local guides highlighting lesser-known spots like the Stairway To Heaven. Many reviewers note how much they appreciated the local storytelling and the chance to see more of Bruges than on a walking tour. The included helmet and rain poncho make it practical year-round.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers seeking to combine sightseeing with exercise.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For a detailed, personal experience, a private tour like The Highlights of Bruges might suit you best. If you love food and drink, the Waffles and Beer Workshop or Chocolate Making will hit the spot. For those craving a spectacular scenic overview, the cruise and bike tours provide a broad yet intimate view of Bruges’ charms.
Book early, especially for popular experiences like the WWI Flanders Fields trip or guided bike tours, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Bruges offers a diverse collection of tours tailored to different interests and activity levels. Whether you prefer walking, biking, or a hands-on food workshop, there’s something for all. Consider your priorities—like budget, time, and physical comfort—and pick a tour that will enrich your visit. Our top recommendations include the boat and walking combo for a classic overview, the private tour for personalized insights, and the food workshops for a delicious taste of local culture. Don’t forget to reserve your spot early—Bruges is a popular destination, and these tours fill up fast. Happy exploring!
