Description
A horse and carriage tour in Bruges offers a charming way to explore the medieval streets of this picturesque city. The rides typically begin at Market Square—and on Wednesday mornings, sometimes at Burg Square—with horse-drawn carriages looping past canals, historic bridges, and architectural gems, including a mid-ride pause at the tranquil Beguinage where the horses can drink and rest. The atmosphere is romantic and relaxed, with atmospheric evening rides available when the city lights are on—but tours are suspended when temperatures exceed 30 °C to ensure the horses' well-being. It’s a scenic and gentle introduction to Bruges, allowing visitors to unwind while absorbing the city’s history.
Kids will find the ride enchanting—there’s something almost fairytale-like about travelling via horse-drawn carriage around the cobbled streets of Bruges. The coachman typically offers snippets of local lore and history, turning the ride into both a visual and educational delight. With room for up to five passengers per carriage, families can often ride together, though larger groups may need to split across multiple carriages. The steady rhythm of hoofbeats, the sound of wheels on stone, and the gentle pace make it soothing and memorable for younger visitors.
Tickets are paid directly to the driver in cash and cannot be pre-booked for standard tours, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid queues. Prices vary depending on the provider: one operator charges €55 per half-hour per carriage (up to five people), another sets the price around €50, while the city-run service uses a €70 per half-hour per carriage rate. Some visitors consider it expensive—“60 euros is a bit expensive for 30 mins,” said one reviewer—but many acknowledged it’s a special, quintessential experience.