Fish Market (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Fish Market?
What makes it 78% Couple-Friendly: Couples can enjoy a relaxed stroll, share a shrimp portion, and step to nearby Rosary Quay for romantic canal views, though limited shelter and seating slightly reduce comfort on wet days.
Positives:
- Historic Setting: 19th-century colonnade offers shelter and photo spots.
- Canalside Access: Steps from the market to a romantic canal quay.
Challenges:
- Fish Odor: Strong sea smell near stalls may linger on clothing.
- Limited Schedule: Market stalls open only Wednesday to Saturday mornings.
- Uneven Ground: Cobblestones can be uneven; wear stable shoes.
What is Fish Market?
- A historic open-air market square where fresh North Sea fish have been sold since the Middle Ages, situated on the eastern bank of the Groenerei canal
- A mid-19th-century neoclassical ensemble featuring a continuous stone colonnade and central obelisk pump enclosing the triangular plaza
- A protected heritage site embodying Bruges’ medieval fishing trade and civic urban design traditions
What is so special about Fish Market for couple trip?
- Stroll hand-in-hand under the historic colonnade
- Sample fresh North Sea shrimp or herring on the spot
- Capture sunset photos at the nearby Rozenhoedkaai
- Enjoy a romantic dinner on a waterside terrace
- Combine market visit with a medieval canal walk
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time for a leisurely stroll, a snack, photos and a terrace dinner without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Fish Market
Colonnade Stroll:
Walk under the 1820 stone gallery’s arches.
Tip: Start early to enjoy the quiet and soft morning light.
Taste Local Shrimp:
Order a portion of grey shrimp or herring from a fish stall.
Tip: Visit Wednesday to Saturday for day-fresh catches and carry small change.
Terrace Dinner:
Dine at Den Gouden Karpel on Huidenvettersplein.
Tip: Reserve in advance for an outside table and try the fish of the day.
Sunset Photos:
Cross to Rozenhoedkaai for classic canal views.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes before sunset for the best light.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Fish Market
- Arrive Early: Visit by 8:00 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy fresh fish.
- Carry Coins: Most vendors accept only coins; bring small change.
- Book Ahead: Reserve your table at Den Gouden Karpel early.
Reviews of Fish Market
Teri Boyd
The local artists make this a go to for me. I bought hand- made cards and some earrings. FYI while it began as a fish market is now an open-air covered market.
Sam
There were little stalls where you could buy stuff. There was a lady with an old machine which they used to make clothes (I think). There was this lovely lady who painted portraits of other people, very talented.
Nanita
The Vismarkt (fish market) in Brugge (Bruges) is no longer where they sell fish. The day that we visited there were random vendors selling tourist trinkets. Located near other landmarks in the historic center, it is easy to pass by without spending too much time. And at least the building structure was preserved.
Bintang Qanitah
There’s a few local artists that have their stuffs. The surrounding was what makes it special. A lovely place to visit. Better to have cash in hand because few accept card payments
J P
There was no fish when I went there, only crafts and some jewellery stalls. But the surrounding atmosphere was good and a good photo spots with old buildings and boats. Lots of chairs available to enjoy the moment.
When is the best time to visit Fish Market (Bruges, Belgium)?
Stalls operate Wednesday–Saturday mornings. Grey shrimp peak in spring; winter brings the best herring.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Shrimp or herring snack | EUR 4 |
| Coffee or drink at terrace | EUR 10 |
| Dinner for two at Den Gouden Karpel | EUR 60 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 74 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Fish Market
Address: Vismarkt, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Fish Market (Bruges)?
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, couple trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, couple trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities