Rozenhoedkaai. 📸
"Quay of the Rosary." This is the single most photographed spot in Belgium. The canal bends here, framing the Belfry tower perfectly in the background.
Golden Hour
Come exactly at sunset. The sky turns deep blue, the streetlamps turn amber, and the water becomes a black mirror. It is magic.
The Weeping Willow
The massive tree hanging over the water creates a natural frame. It is almost too perfect, like a movie set.
Lake of Love. 🦢
A peaceful park at the southern edge of the city. But the beautiful white swans harbor a dark history of rebellion and murder.
The Curse
In 1488, the townspeople executed Pieter Lanchals, a hated administrator. His family crest featured a swan ("Lanchals" means "Long Neck").
The Punishment
Maximilian of Austria decreed that Bruges must keep swans on its canals for all eternity as penance. They have been here ever since.
Lover's Bridge
Legend says if you walk over the bridge at Minnewater with your partner, you will experience eternal love. (Results may vary).
Captain's View
Duck Your Head
The Boat Tour. 🎟️
Yes, it is touristy. Yes, you have to do it. Seeing the medieval brickwork from water level changes your entire perspective of the city.
The Details:
Boats depart from 5 different landings (they all do the same route). It takes 30 minutes. The captains are multilingual and usually have a very dry sense of humor.
The Hidden Bridge. 🌉
Behind the Church of Our Lady lies the most romantic bridge in Bruges. It looks ancient, but was actually built in 1910.
The Illusion
It was designed to look weathered and old, blending perfectly with the medieval surroundings. It is low, bumpy, and incredibly charming.
St. John's View
From here, you can see the canal facade of the Old St. John's Hospital. Look for the small door near the waterline where boats used to deliver the sick.