How to Plan Your Australian Battlefields Private Tour in Flanders from Bruges
If you’re a history buff and want to immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience, then the Australian Battlefields Private Tour in Flanders from Bruges is a must-do activity. This private tour takes you on a journey through the World War I battlefields in the Flanders region of Belgium, where you’ll learn about Australian military service during the war while seeing mine craters, trenches, and visiting memorials. In this guide, we’ll take you through all the steps you’ll need to follow to plan your tour.
Step 1: Booking Your Tour
To book your Australian Battlefields Private Tour in Flanders from Bruges, head over to the Viator website and choose the date you want to take the tour. You also have the flexibility to customize the itinerary to your interests, making the tour more personal. Once you’ve chosen your date and customized your tour, click on “Book now” and enter your personal details along with payment information. Remember to use the link provided at the end of this post to book your tour.
Step 2: Getting to Bruges
The tour starts at 9:00 in the morning, so you’ll want to arrive in Bruges the night before if you’re coming from a distant location. Bruges is easy to reach by train, with direct connections to Brussels, Paris, and London.
Step 3: Meeting Point
On the day of your tour, the driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel or the train station in Bruges. Make sure to be ready at the pickup point at least 15 minutes before the pick-up time.
Step 4: The Tour Itinerary
The tour starts with a visit to Fromelles, where you’ll learn about the Australian’s first military engagement in the war. Then, the tour heads to Ploegsteert where you’ll see the memorial to the ‘lost soldiers’ of the Christmas Truce of 1914.
The tour then moves to Messines, where the battle was fought to capture the ridges before ending at Polygoon Wood. At Polygoon Wood, you’ll also see the 5th Australian Division Memorial, dedicated to the memory of the dead.
After lunch, the tour continues at Passendale, seeing the Canadian Memorial and the Australian Memorial Park, where you can witness the meaning of Poppies, the symbol of World War I’s ending.
The final stop on the tour is the Ypres Salient, where you’ll visit the Menin Gate to witness the “Last Post” ceremony, a nightly tribute to the soldiers who fought and died during World War I.
Step 5: What’s Included in the Tour
The tour includes a driver/guide, entrance fees, and lunch, so you don’t have to worry about any additional costs. Alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase.
Step 6: Additional Information
Confirmation for the tour will be received at the time of booking, and it’s essential to check your confirmation email for details regarding the pickup time and location. Comfortable shoes and layers of clothing for the weather are recommended as some sites are outside and may require light walking.
In conclusion, the Australian Battlefields Private Tour in Flanders from Bruges is a unique opportunity to learn about Australian military history during World War I. Knowing how to plan your tour is crucial to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. Follow the steps outlined above, book your tour, get ready to be immersed in history, and have a great time!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bruges
If you’re planning a trip to Bruges, you probably have a lot of questions. This historic city is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. To help you plan your visit, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Bruges.
1. Where Is Bruges Located?
Bruges is located in the Flemish region of Belgium, approximately 100 km northwest of Brussels. It’s a small, picturesque city that’s easy to explore on foot.
2. What’s the Best Time to Visit Bruges?
The best time to visit Bruges is from March to May or from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded than in the summer months. However, if you’re interested in the Christmas markets, December is the best time to visit.
3. How Do I Get to Bruges?
Bruges is easily accessible by train from Brussels, Ghent, and other Belgian cities. There are also direct trains from Paris and Amsterdam. If you’re flying into Belgium, you can fly into Brussels and take a train to Bruges.
4. What Are the Must-Visit Attractions in Bruges?
Bruges is known for its historic architecture, canals, and cobblestone streets. Some of the must-visit attractions include:
– The Belfry of Bruges
– The Groeningemuseum
– The Church of Our Lady
– The Basilica of the Holy Blood
– The Markt
– The Beguinage
5. What Are Some of the Best Things to Do in Bruges?
In addition to visiting the city’s top attractions, there are also plenty of other things to do in Bruges. Some of the best options include:
– Taking a boat tour of the canals
– Sampling Belgian chocolates and waffles
– Visiting a brewery and trying some Belgian beer
– Exploring the city’s many art galleries and museums
– Enjoying a picnic in one of the city’s parks
6. What Are Some Good Restaurants in Bruges?
Bruges is known for its culinary scene, which includes plenty of restaurants serving traditional Belgian cuisine. Some of the top restaurants in Bruges include:
– De Karmeliet
– De Stove
– Bistro Bruut
– De Visscherie
– Tom’s Diner
7. Where Can I Stay in Bruges?
There are plenty of accommodation options in Bruges, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the top hotels in Bruges include:
– Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges
– Hotel Prinsenhof
– Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage
– Hotel Navarra
– Hotel Montanus
8. What Are Some Good Day Trips from Bruges?
If you’re staying in Bruges for a few days, there are also plenty of interesting day trips you can take. Some of the top options include:
– Ghent: This historic city is just a short train ride from Bruges and is known for its medieval architecture and art museums.
– Brussels: The Belgian capital is about one hour away by train and is known for its Grand Place and chocolate shops.
– The North Sea Coast: If you’re looking for a day at the beach, the North Sea coast is just a short drive or train ride from Bruges.
Conclusion
Bruges is a beautiful city that’s worth visiting for its history, culture, and cuisine. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope you feel more prepared to plan your trip and explore all that this charming city has to offer.
Table of Contents
