🇧🇪 Bruges

St. Bonifacius Bridge (Bonifaciusbrug)

Must-See ★ 4.7 · 5k reviews

Photo: Image by Dennis G. Jarvis, CC BY-SA 2.0

The charismatic area of Bonifaciusbridge and Arentshof has the ability to enchant many a visitor. Its irresistible combination of striking history and warm romance may take your breath away. Arentshof, located along one of the picturesque canals, manages to create an entirely unique atmosphere with its tall trees, hidden benches, mysterious pieces of art and marvelous view on Church of Our Lady and Gruuthuse palace. It’s one of those places to watch the world go by: tourist boats pass and people wander around while the clatter of hoofs from the horse drawn carriages echoes throughout the day. Don’t be fooled further ahead, for the charmed ancient looking Bonifaciusbridge dates from early 20th century and is one of Bruges’ youngest bridges. While you admire the fairytale like canals with inclined houses and passing tourist boats a humble feeling will no doubt wash over you when looking up at the Church of Our Lady. In the evening carefully chosen illumination further enthralls this cherished lovespot

Visitor Info

Rating ★ 4.7 5,168 reviews

Visit Time ~15 min

Best Time Golden hour or early evening

Insider Tips

· This is a photo stop more than a long visit
· Go at golden hour for the most flattering canal light
· It sits best as part of a wider Church of Our Lady walk

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Frequently Asked Questions

How old is the Bonifacius Bridge? ▾

Despite its convincingly medieval appearance, the bridge was constructed in 1910. It was built in a neo-Gothic style to complement the surrounding historic architecture.

Who is Saint Boniface and why is the bridge named after him? ▾

Saint Boniface was an 8th-century English missionary who evangelised the Germanic peoples. A local legend (historically disputed) holds that he was born in a house near this canal, lending his name to the area.

Why is this bridge so popular with photographers? ▾

The combination of the arched stone bridge, ivy-clad walls, still water reflections, and the tower of the Church of Our Lady in the background creates one of the most picturesque canal scenes in all of Bruges.

Is the Arentshof garden worth visiting? ▾

Yes — the garden immediately beside the bridge contains a bronze bust of Juan Luis Vives, the Spanish humanist philosopher who lived in Bruges, and offers a tranquil escape from the crowds just steps from the main tourist circuit.