James Mealey
Shore Excursions Media Co-Ordinator
From the Belgian port of Zeebrugge, there’s an overwhelming amount of things to see and do ashore. But if you need a little inspiration for ways to spend your time, here are 5 of the best Belgian experiences you shouldn’t miss...
1. Soak up the atmosphere of Market Square, Bruges
Bruges is a charming maze of cobblestoned streets and canals, and at its very heart lies Market Square. Lined with fairytale facades and lively café’s, this vast open square is a constant hive of activity; groups of tourists snapping photos, locals relaxing on their lunch breaks, cyclists riding through, stag groups enjoying a beer; Market Square is like a people-magnet.
Dominating proceedings is the huge Belfry Tower, famously used to dramatic effect in the closing scenes of ‘In Bruges’ starring Colin Farrell. It’s possible to climb the tower for outstanding views of Bruges… but if you’ve seen the film, you’ll probably think twice before attempting the 366 steps to the top.
Experience it with us: If you want to spend time soaking up the atmosphere of Market Square under your own steam, we recommend the Bruges On Your Own tour. You’ll be dropped in Bruges by coach, giving you a full day to explore independently.
2. Treat yourself to some Chocolate
As we’re all aware, the UK high street is in a bit of a sorry state at the moment. If it’s not a mobile phone shop or coffee chain, then it’s probably boarded up. So it’s a real pleasure to go shopping in Belgium, where chocolate shops rule the high street. Remarkably for such a small country, Belgium manages to pack in over 2000 of them; each trying to tempt you in with sweet wafts of cocoa bean.
And if the smell doesn’t seduce you, then the window displays are bound to. Stacked with all kinds of colourful, creative and crazy chocolates (chocolate asparagus anyone?) if you’ve got a sweet tooth you’ll be dazzled by the huge choice of chocs on offer in Belgium.
Experience it with us: Take the Scenic Villages and Chocolates excursion, and you’ll visit Roose's Chocolate World, one of the largest chocolate shops in Bruges. You’ll have the opportunity to buy some chocolatey souvenirs for family and friends back home… that’s if you don’t gobble them first.
3. Discover the city of Ghent
Undoubtedly one of Europe’s best kept secrets, Ghent is usually overlooked in favour of its better known neighbours Bruges and Brussels. Which is a good thing of course, as it means you won’t need to battle through masses of tourists when exploring this picturesque medieval city.
With its enchanting gabled houses, ancient churches, little canals, and chilled-out café culture, Ghent is similar to Bruges in many aspects.
But whilst Bruges is very much a ‘museum city,’ Ghent has an edgier, local feel to it; you really get a sense of local life here, with people going about their daily business against a stunning backdrop of medieval architecture.
Experience it with us:The Medieval Ghent tour takes you into the heart of the city, where you’ll see all the important sights such as St Bavo’s cathedral, before having a little free time to explore by yourself. Alternatively you could discover both Bruges and Ghent during a fully guided, full day tour.
4. Sip a Belgian Beer
Belgium is the undisputed country of beer, with over 450 varieties on offer. In fact, they treat it as an art form, with each beer distinctive in flavour and strength. Fancy a strawberry flavoured beer? They’ve got it.
Naturally, one of Belgium’s biggest draws is its bar culture. But don’t expect rowdy masses propping up the bar – the Belgian’s like to keep things sophisticated. So their bars are cosy, dimly lit, and wonderfully laidback, providing the perfect atmosphere to savour your beer over a good conversation.
Experience it with us: If you’re new to the art of Belgian beer, the Bruges and Belgian Beer tour is a great place to begin. You’ll visit a traditional bar for a tasting session with a beer expert talking you through the different varieties. Or if you’re already clued up, take the Bruges On Your Own tour, giving you plenty of free time to relax in a bar and enjoy a couple of your favourite beers.
5. Take a canal ride in Bruges
Many European cities claim to be the ‘Venice of the North,’ thanks to their network of city centre canals. But it’s Bruges that perhaps comes closest to matching that mystical and romantic atmosphere of Venice. You won’t find any singing gondoliers in stripy jumpers, but a motor-boat ride is a fun way of seeing this medieval city.
Chugging alongside ducks and swans, you’ll experience picture-postcard views of Bruges’ beautiful landmarks, including the Church of Our Lady which soars majestically over the rest of the city. And hold on to your hats, as the boat squeezes under some impossibly small bridges.
Experience it with us: Take the A Taste of Bruges tour, which shows you all the must see sights in just half a day. Alternatively we offer a more in-depth tour called, Bruges in a Day, giving you a full day of exploration in the city.