Bruges Fish Market

Overview

The Vismarkt (Fish Market) is a small covered market with elegant colonnaded stalls where fishmongers have sold fresh North Sea catches since 1821. Located along a canal, it offers an authentic slice of daily Bruges commerce.

Highlights

• Fresh seafood: Sole, shrimp, turbot, and mussels straight from the Flemish coast.
• Colonnaded architecture: Neoclassical stone arcades built specifically for the fish trade.
• Canal setting: Atmospheric waterside location between the Burg and the Dijver.

History

Before 1821, fish was sold on the Markt. The city built the purpose-designed colonnaded Vismarkt to improve hygiene and centralise the fish trade. The structure has remained largely unchanged.

Visitor Tips

• Morning only: Stalls are active Tuesday–Saturday, roughly 07:00–13:00.
• Buy and cook: If you have kitchen access, the quality and prices beat any restaurant.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.