Bruges Photo Spots

Bruges (or Brugge) is a city where every corner seems to be plucked from a storybook, offering an abundance of Instagrammable spots to create lasting memories. Some of the best places to take photos in Bruges include the romantic Minnewater Park, the historic Bonifacius Bridge, and the colourful Market Square.

Bruges will undoubtedly leave an incredible mark on your heart as well as your camera roll. So be sure to pack your bags and camera and immerse yourself in the charm of the Belgium city of Bruges. Every snapshot here tells a story of timeless beauty and enchantment.

Here at ​​Flytographer, we easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over three million memories worldwide. Today, we asked our local photographers to show us around all the very best places to take photos in Bruges.

TLDR

  1. Minnewater Park: Great for idyllic nature shots.
  2. Meebrug Bridge: The best place to go for an unparalleled view of the city’s medieval buildings and picturesque canals.
  3. Bonifacius Bridge: Best for romantic views of the city and the perfect spot for a surprise engagement.
  4. Begijnhof: A hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Bruges’ spiritual and historical heritage.
  5. Rozenhoedkaai: One of the most photographed spots in Bruges, providing a postcard-perfect landscape.

1. Minnewater Park

Nestled amidst the heart of Bruges lies the idyllic Minnewater Park and the Lake of Love, a place that feels like it was taken straight out of a fairytale. The Lake of Love is a serene body of water enveloped by lush greenery and quaint bridges, making it the perfect backdrop for some truly beautiful photos. Plus, the elegant swans that have made this lake their home also make great subjects for your snaps. Just don’t get too close!

Minnewater Park lies just a short distance from Beguinage and provides the ideal place for locals and visitors alike to relax and watch the world go by. Whether you’re strolling along the water’s edge, sharing a peaceful moment on a bench, or capturing a candid embrace beneath a weeping willow, Minnewater Park and the Lake of Love exude an undeniable sense of romance and tranquillity.

Once you’ve captured every moment of your time here, take a walk from Minnewater Park to Meebrug Bridge. Along the way, you’ll be able to snap photos of Bruges’ incredible architecture.

Photo: Mariska in Bruges for Flytographer. Ryan and partner celebrate a proposal in Bruges with a proposal photoshoot at Minnewater Park and Lovers Lake.

2. Meebrug Bridge

So, you’ve just walked from Minnewater Park and the Lake of Love to Meebrug Bridge, and what a pleasant walk it’s been. Now that you’re here, you can enjoy the romance of this tranquil location. Here, Bruges really comes alive, and you’ll notice how history and modernity intertwine.

This charming stone bridge was built in 1390 by Jan van Oudenaerde and offers unparalleled views of the city’s beautiful buildings and picturesque canals. It’s also a great location for architecture-loving photographers. From here, you’ll understand why Bruges has been dubbed ‘Little Venice’ as you watch others embark on boat tours along the canal waters.

The Meebrug Bridge is also a great vantage point for your flytographer to snap a photo of you on the equally beautiful Peedenburg Bridge. Be sure to take some photos yourself and capture the essence of Bruges as the water ripples beneath the bridge, reflecting the timeless beauty that surrounds you.

TOP TIP: Come to the Meebrug Bridge at night and see the lights of the city reflected on the canal waters below. You’ll be able to enjoy the peace and quiet as this photo spot is often deserted at this time.

Photo: Mariska in Bruges for Flytographer. Ryan and partner celebrate a proposal in Bruges with a proposal photoshoot at Meebrug Bridge.

3. Bonifacius Bridge

Situated in the shadow of the tower of the Church of Our Lady, the Bonifacius Bridge is a must-visit photo spot in Bruges. This bridge is most commonly known as the ‘Fairytale Bridge’ and is located between Gruuthuse and Arentshof.

There is a very interesting legend surrounding Bonifacius Bridge that says that you’ll marry the first person you see after crossing it. With this legend in mind, it’s no wonder this bridge has become a popular location for marriage proposals. So, if you’re thinking of getting down on one knee, this Instagrammable location might just be the place to do so. 

Our top tip here would be to come in the early morning so you can make the most of the golden hour and miss a lot of the crowds. If you plan on taking a boat tour after you’ve popped the question or just as an added extra on your day trip, you’ll pass under this bridge, so feel free to give those above you a wave as you float on by.

Photo: Mariska in Bruges for Flytographer. Owen and partner celebrate a proposal in Bruges with a proposal photoshoot at Bonifacius Bridge.

4. Begijnhof

Begijnhof, more widely known as the ‘Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde’, is a place of liberation and beauty. It allows locals and visitors alike a glimpse into 17th-century living as well as Bruges’ spiritual and historical heritage. The well-preserved, white-washed houses and peaceful convent garden make a truly remarkable backdrop for your photos.

This piece of World Heritage was once the home of the Beguines and is today inhabited by the Sisters of the Order of Saint Benedict. Here, you’ll be able to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center. Begjinhof is also one of Belgium’s most famous and most visited UNESCO-listed beguinages. The walk along cobbled streets and narrow waterfront lanes also provides some wonderful photo opportunities and everlasting memories.

Photo: Mariska in Bruges for Flytographer. Patrick and family capture memories in Bruges with a family photoshoot at Begijnhof.

5. Rozenhoedkaai

Trying to find the best views in Bruges? Look no further than Rozenhoedkaai or the Quay of the Rosary. Often referred to as ‘the Bruges postcard view’, Rozenhoedkaai offers the perfect opportunity for some spectacular Instagram-worthy photos. It’s also the starting point for many boat tours along the canals.

From this viewpoint, you’ll be able to see the Belfry of Bruges on Market Square as well as other historic houses. It’s one of the most popular places to take photos in Bruges and has its own Google Maps pin called ‘Bruges Photo Point’. During peak seasons, the best times of day to visit are early morning or during sunset as the light creates a stunning glow and you’ll miss most of the crowds.

Sit and enjoy the views while watching the world go by. Here, you and your flytographer will be able to capture some candid moments of you and your loved ones. It’s also the best photo spot for landscape photography. Fancy a little adventure? Walk the canal paths in either direction and see more beautiful buildings and bridges. Be sure to check out the arch of Blinde-Ezelstraat, which is located next to Rozenhoedkaai.

Photo: Mariska in Bruges for Flytographer. Stacy and family capture memories in Bruges with a family photoshoot at Rozenhoedkaai.

Capturing Memories in Bruges

Whether you’re visiting Bruges on a day trip from Brussels, Antwerp, or Ghent, you’re bound to find an abundance of photo spots. While in the city, we suggest you visit all the places mentioned above as well as a few others, such as Market Square, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, Burg Square, and the City Hall.

Aside from its architecture, Bruges also offers a wealth of quaint cafes, a selection of some of the finest waffles in Europe (in our opinion, anyway), and several delectable chocolatiers. It’s a fairytale place that will capture your heart as well as the timeless moments you spend with your loved ones.

Don’t forget to read our blog on places to take photos in Brussels for more photography inspiration.