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Boat trip · Bruges, Flandres Ocidental
Reien
Half-hour open-boat rides along the central canals, the Reien, departing from five quays between the Burg and the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk. The season runs from early March to mid-November.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Reien
The canals of Bruges, called the Reien, cut through the center and help explain the city's nickname 'Venice of the North.' They once linked the city to the port and the sea, and today are traversed by open tourist boats that pass under low bridges and alongside houses with waterside backs.
Five companies run trips from five quays in the historic center, such as Rozenhoedkaai and Dijver. The route lasts about half an hour, with the boatman narrating in several languages.
From the boat you can see the Belfort from another angle, the facades of Rozenhoedkaai, the gardens of the former hospital Sint-Jan and the tower of the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk. Boats cancel runs if the weather is bad.
Regular cruises run from March to November. In winter each company decides whether to put boats in the water.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About half an hour of sailing, plus queue time at the quay.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the light hits the façades, or early morning, when queues are smaller. In the high summer season waits are longer.
How to get there
The quays are in the center, a few minutes' walk from the Markt and the Burg. The Rozenhoedkaai quay is next to the Burg, departing via Blinde-Ezelstraat.
Tip
The boats are open: bring a coat in the cold months and a rain poncho if the sky is heavy. Sit at the ends of the boat to photograph without heads in front.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Reien
How long is the boat tour in Bruges?
About half an hour, departing from one of the five central quays.
Do the boats run in winter?
The season runs from early March to mid-November. In winter, each company decides whether to operate; check at the quay.
What is the Rozenhoedkaai?
It is the quay on the canal near the Burg, with a view of the Belfry behind the old houses. It is one of the most popular boarding and photo spots.