Bruges’ medieval charm comes alive through its excellent historical tours. After exploring the city extensively, I’ve found the “Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Bruges” to be exceptional – it’s a solid 2-hour introduction that hits all the must-see spots while sharing fascinating local stories.
I especially love the nighttime storytelling tour, which reveals a completely different side of Bruges when the day-trippers have gone. For food lovers, the “Bruges Bites & Sights” tour brilliantly combines historical insights with tasty local specialties.
Private tours offer more flexibility: both the “Historical Highlights” walk and the “Historical Ports of Bruges + Zwin” tour let you set your own pace and dig deeper into specific interests. Most tours are wheelchair accessible and reasonably priced.
Let’s explore the best historical tours Bruges has to offer.
Key Points
- The “Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Bruges” is a highly rated 2-hour tour covering key landmarks like the Belfort and Church of Our Lady.
- The “Storytelling Tour” and “Nightly Tales and Untold History” offer immersive experiences focusing on hidden gems and Bruges’ lesser-known history.
- The “Bruges Bites & Sights” and “Private Culinary & History Tour” combine historical exploration with authentic Belgian culinary experiences.
- Most tours are wheelchair accessible and offer budget-friendly options, ensuring inclusivity and value.
- Unique tour experiences like the Private Bike and History Tour and Private Daytour to Zwin Nature Park provide personalized and adventurous ways to discover Bruges’ history.
Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Bruges
One of the most popular historical tours in Bruges is the “Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Bruges”.
This 2-hour walking tour takes visitors through the city’s key landmarks, including the Belfort, Gruuthusemuseum, and Church of Our Lady.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, often retired teachers, the tour blends facts and legends, providing rich historical context.
With a maximum group size of 24, the tour is ideal for first-time or time-pressed visitors.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour earns a 5.0 average rating from over 1,900 reviews, with praise for the guides’ expertise and storytelling abilities.
At a budget-friendly price, the “Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Bruges” offers an engaging introduction to the city’s history and culture.
Read our full review: Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Bruges Review
Book now: Check availability
Most Beautiful Places, and Captivating History of Bruges.
Bruges, the quintessential medieval city in Belgium, captivates visitors with its breathtaking architecture, serene canals, and captivating history.
Explore iconic landmarks like the Burg, Markt, Belfry, and Church of Our Lady on a two-hour walking tour led by an engaging local guide.
Savor culinary delights, including crispy fries, exquisite chocolates, and authentic Belgian waffles, while discovering the city’s vibrant culture.
The tour provides a QR code with recommendations for the best restaurants, cafés, and shops, ensuring a memorable experience.
With a maximum of 15 participants, this exclusive tour offers an informative and enjoyable exploration of Bruges’ most beautiful places and captivating history.
Read our full review: Most Beautiful Places, and Captivating History of Bruges. Review
Book now: Check availability
Storytelling Tour Bruges | First Day Must | History & Tips
Visitors to Bruges can enjoy the city’s captivating history and culture through the Storytelling Tour, a must-do activity on the first day. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars with 98% traveler recommendation, this engaging tour combines professional local storytelling with insights into Bruges’ hidden gems.
The maximum group size of 24 ensures an intimate experience as the guides, known for their knowledge and humor, bring the city’s past to life. Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour departs from the iconic Belfry Tower and provides valuable tips for navigating Bruges and its local culinary delights.
Travelers suggest bringing cash for gratuities, as guides are volunteers not salaried employees.
Read our full review: Storytelling Tour Bruges | First Day Must | History & Tips Review
Book now: Check availability
Historical Walking Tour: The Story of Bruges – by Legends
Immersion in Bruges’ captivating past awaits travelers on the Historical Walking Tour: The Story of Bruges – by Legends.
This 2-hour guided tour explores the medieval city’s highlights and hidden gems. Visitors will discover 360° virtual reality visualizations of Bruges’ history and receive a chocolate treat and booklet with discounts.
The itinerary includes stops at iconic landmarks like the Belfry, Gruuthusemuseum, and Church of Our Lady. Expert guides share engaging stories, legends, and fun facts throughout the tour.
With a starting price of $2.10 per person and free cancellation, this tour offers excellent value. Advance booking is recommended, as spots tend to sell out quickly.
Read our full review: Historical Walking Tour: The Story of Bruges – by Legends Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Historical Tour: The Highlights of Bruges
Travelers seeking a more intimate and personalized exploration of Bruges’ captivating history can opt for the Private Historical Tour: The Highlights of Bruges.
This 5-star rated tour offers a rundown of the city’s top attractions, led by knowledgeable local guides who share intriguing stories and insider insights.
With a 98% traveler recommendation, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all fees, and flexibility to accommodate guests’ needs.
Highlights include the main square, hidden gems, and memorable interactions with locals.
Priced from $88.46 per person, the tour provides excellent value and can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Private Historical Tour: The Highlights of Bruges Review
Book now: Check availability
Bruges: Nightly Tales and Untold History Walking Tour
Bruges’ Nightly Tales and Untold History Walking Tour invites guests on a captivating exploration of the city after dark.
Priced from $45.98 per person, this 2-hour English-language tour takes participants through Bruges’ hidden gems and lesser-known areas, uncovering fascinating stories and legends.
Led by a local storyteller, the tour emphasizes unique narratives not covered in daytime excursions, creating an engaging experience for both adults and children.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on over 72 reviews, this nighttime adventure promises to showcase Bruges’ magical atmosphere through its enchanting tales and untold history.
Read our full review: Bruges: Nightly Tales and Untold History Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Bruges Bites & Sights – Belgian Food, Beer & A Little Bit Of History
Bruges Bites & Sights – Belgian Food, Beer & A Little Bit Of History offers an engaging exploration of the city’s culinary and cultural highlights.
This highly-rated tour, with a 100% recommendation, takes visitors on a journey through Bruges’ iconic food and drink specialties.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the 2.5-hour experience includes tastings of Belgian chocolate, beer, fries, and waffles, as well as insights into the city’s history.
Wheelchair-accessible and suitable for all ages, the tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized encounter.
Travelers consistently praise the guides’ expertise and the overall fun and informative nature of this essential Bruges experience.
Read our full review: Bruges Bites & Sights – Belgian Food, Beer & A Little Bit Of History Review
Book now: Check availability
Unforgettable Bruges: Sightseeings, History and Tasting.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating city of Bruges, where history, culture, and gastronomy converge.
This 2-hour guided tour takes you to over 15 landmarks, including the iconic Belfry, the charming Burg Square, and the awe-inspiring Basilica of the Holy Blood.
Along the way, you’ll discover the city’s rich heritage, from its UNESCO World Heritage status to its renowned beer culture and chocolate shops.
With engaging storytelling, photo opportunities, and optional museum visits, this tour promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you with lasting memories.
Priced from Kč 76 per person, it’s a must-do activity for anyone exploring the “Venice of the North.”
Read our full review: Unforgettable Bruges: Sightseeings, History and Tasting. Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Culinary & History Tour
Enjoy Bruges’ captivating history and savor its renowned culinary delights with the Private Culinary & History Tour.
This 100% recommended experience takes you on a journey through the city’s medieval past, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the stories to life. Indulge in a selection of quality Belgian meats, chocolates, and fries, complemented by local beers.
With free cancellation and flexible rescheduling, you can tailor the tour to your needs. Explore the charming Markt square, and discover hidden gems that only locals know.
Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, this private tour promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Bruges.
Read our full review: Private Culinary & History Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Bruges: Private Historical Highlights Walking Tour
As you explore the charming medieval streets of Bruges, the Bruges: Private Historical Highlights Walking Tour offers an immersive journey through the city’s captivating past.
Led by a local guide, this private 2-hour tour covers the major historical sites, including the Market Square, Church of Our Lady, and Minnewater.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy a mix of history, legends, and amusing stories.
With flexible scheduling and customizable options, the tour can be tailored to your preferences.
Participants rave about the knowledgeable guide and the tour’s excellent value.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Bruges enthusiast, this walking tour provides an enriching experience.
Read our full review: Bruges: Private Historical Highlights Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Food Tasting & Historical Walk
The Food Tasting & Historical Walk in Bruges offers a delightful combination of exploring the city’s captivating past and indulging in its renowned culinary delights.
This highly-rated tour covers key historical sites while allowing visitors to sample iconic Belgian snacks and drinks, including waffles, chocolate, cheese, fries, and beer.
With a maximum group size of 8, the experience provides an intimate and personalized exploration of Bruges.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, though some note the need for improved language proficiency and more in-depth historical information.
Read our full review: Food Tasting & Historical Walk Review
Book now: Check availability
Historical Brujas: Chapel of Jerusalem and University of Commerce
On this captivating historical tour, visitors explore Bruges’ rich past, uncovering the city’s remarkable religious and commercial legacies.
Over 2.5 hours, the guided tour in Spanish explores the Jerusalem Chapel, inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, and the Adornes domain, home to an influential merchant family.
Guests also visit the historic Stock Exchange Building, established in the 13th century. The tour includes entrance to these sites, as well as the Museum of bobbin lace and the oldest bar in Bruges, dating back to 1515.
With a maximum group size of 25, this flexible experience allows for breaks and accommodates partially wheelchair-accessible areas.
Read our full review: Historical Brujas: Chapel of Jerusalem and University of Commerce Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Bike and History Tour
Embarking on a private bike and history tour in Bruges, Belgium, allows visitors to enjoy the city’s rich past while leisurely exploring its picturesque streets.
This 7-rated, 4.5/5 tour offers a personalized experience, with a private guide leading the way on a 2-wheeled journey. Priced from $170.49 per person, the tour includes bicycle, helmets, bottled water, and historical insights.
The meeting point is at the bike station near the railway station, and the tour returns to the same location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, excluding those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Private Bike and History Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Walking Tour to Bruges Churches: History, Art, and Interior
For those seeking a more immersive experience in Bruges’ rich history and cultural heritage, the Private Walking Tour to Bruges Churches: History, Art, and Interior offers a captivating alternative to the previous bicycle tour.
Lasting approximately 4 hours, this comprehensive walking tour takes visitors on a journey through some of Bruges’ most iconic churches, where they’ll explore the history, art, and architecture that define the city’s spiritual heart.
Led by a knowledgeable private guide, the tour includes admission to the Church of Our Lady and provides an accessible experience for most travelers.
With rave reviews praising the guide’s expertise and the tour’s inclusive approach, this walking tour is a must-consider for those eager to explore Bruges’ sacred spaces.
Read our full review: Private Walking Tour to Bruges Churches: History, Art, and Interior Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Daytour: Historical Ports of Bruges + Zwin
This private full-day tour from Bruges takes travelers on a captivating journey through the region’s historic ports and the breathtaking Zwin Nature Park.
Accompanied by a personalized guide, you’ll explore picturesque Belgian countryside, visit charming towns, and cross the border into the Netherlands for lunch.
The experience includes museum entries, coffee or tea, and the use of a bicycle or e-bike to navigate the scenic canals and paths.
While physically fit travelers will enjoy this tour, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.
With free cancellation and a 4.8-star rating, this tour offers a well-rounded and immersive historical experience.
Read our full review: Private Daytour: Historical Ports of Bruges + Zwin Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Bruges is a city steeped in history, and these historical tours offer visitors a chance to explore its captivating past. From walking tours that bring legends to life to private bike and boat excursions, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in the city’s religious heritage, its role in trade, or its architectural gems, these tours provide an immersive and educational experience.