The public canal boat tours run from about 10am to 6pm, cycling passengers through the same 30-minute route all day. They're fine — the views are lovely — but they're also rushed and crowded.

For something special, ask about private evening boat trips. Several operators offer small-group cruises at sunset, usually by arrangement. They're more expensive (€100-200 for a small boat) but the experience is incomparable.

At sunset, the light in Bruges transforms. The west-facing brick facades glow amber and gold. The canal water turns copper. The shadows deepen in the archways under the bridges. And the noise drops — by 7pm most tourists have left, and the only sounds are water against stone and the occasional bell.

The route doesn't matter much — all the canal circuits pass through beautiful stretches. But if you can request it, ask to go through the Groenerei at sunset. The narrow canal becomes a tunnel of gold as the low sun catches the buildings on the western bank.

Another option: rent a small electric boat (available at several spots along the Dijver and near the Vismarkt) and navigate yourself. You don't need experience — the canals are calm and the boats are slow. Just follow the marked routes and be back before the rental closes.

Bring a bottle of Belgian beer or some chocolates. Eating and drinking on the water as the city turns golden around you is one of those Bruges moments that you'll remember.