With beauty and history around every corner, there are loads of romantic things to do in Bruges which make this the perfect place to visit with your significant other. Explore the city’s green spaces, discover its most legendary bridges, and see top sights from the water, all of which will give you amazing memories that’ll last a lifetime.
1. Find eternal love at Minnewater Park
Located in the south of Bruges, Minnewater Park is a calm, serene oasis which provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Within the park you’ll find the Minnewater Bridge, where you can take part in one of the most romantic things to do in Bruges. Legend has it that walking over the bridge with your significant other will reward you with eternal love, making it a popular spot for couples to visit. Minnewater Bridge offers wonderful views over the park’s rectangular lake, and there are plenty of benches dotted around the area where you can sit and admire the still water and vibrant flowerbeds.
The lake itself, also known as the Lake of Love, is connected to Bruges’ famous canal network, and is home to a number of swans. The swan is a symbol of Bruges, and you might be able to spot references to this graceful creature as you wander around the city.
2. See the Bridge of Love
Despite the legend behind the Minnewater Bridge, it is actually the Bonifacius Bridge that holds the title of the “Bridge of Love”. This is also due to folklore, with a tale that you will marry the first person that you see after crossing the bridge. Superstition aside, this is a lovely, picturesque place to visit if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Bruges, and the bridge’s built-in bench offers the perfect place to sit and take in the stunning scenery. Despite blending in well with its surroundings, the Bonifacius Bridge is not as old as you may think. Built in 1910, it’s actually quite a bit younger than many of the city’s other bridges, but we’re sure that it’s still been the site of many a romantic moment.
For great views of the Bonifacious Bridge, head to the nearby Arentshof (or Arents Court). This greenery-lined open space offers great panoramas of the Church of Our Lady and the Gruuthuse Palace too, making it the perfect spot for a quick break during your romantic adventure.
3. Take a romantic canal cruise
Bruges’ canals run throughout the city, and the boat cruises that sail along them offer the chance to see its highlights from a different perspective. Step aboard one of the half hour cruises from one of five landing stages that are dotted around the city, and float hand in hand along the romantic waterways. Each boat comes with commentary from the guide, so you can learn about Bruges’ history while you sail too. In addition to some of the city’s top sites, you’ll also see places that you can’t see on foot, and all tours have the same price and duration. If you’d like to avoid the crowds, try to head out early so that you can be on one of the first cruises from 10am, as these tend to be quieter.
Once you’ve hopped off of your boat tour, see if you can find somewhere to enjoy some traditional Belgian waffles. These traditional treats are often dusted with sugar, but you can also choose to have yours topped with everything from chocolate sauce to fresh strawberries – a delicious delight to share with your partner.
4. Have a drink at Café Rose Red
Just off of the tourist trail, close to the Markt Square, you’ll find one of the most romantic bars in Bruges – Café Rose Red. Decorated using dark wood and low lighting, with roses suspended from the ceiling, this bar has plenty of character and offers a whole range of Trappist beers which you’re sure to enjoy trying. Not sure which beers to choose? One of the friendly bar staff will be happy to share their recommendations. Café Rose Red has a terrace too, so you can enjoy your chosen beverage outside when the weather allows, and you can also indulge in some delicious sharing platters, including meats, cheeses, and olives.
Café Rose Red is linked to the Hotel Cordoeanier which offers comfortable rooms and breakfast to those who stay there. If you’re looking for a warm welcome and inviting atmosphere in a central location, you might like to consider staying here during your trip.
Ready to try out these romantic things to do in Bruges for yourself? Book your ferry crossing from Hull to Rotterdam or Dover to Calais (just an hour from Bruges by car) today! Taking romantic short breaks to Bruges by ferry has been made easier and more comfortable, don’t forget to plan what things to do in Bruges.
