How to Plan Your Private Shore Excursion from Zeebrugge to Bruges With Driver and Guide

If you’re heading to Zeebrugge during your cruise, you need to take advantage of the opportunity to explore Bruges. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a charming city filled with winding canals, ancient squares, and exquisite architecture. With this private shore excursion, you’ll not only have a personal tour guide to show you around but also a private vehicle to make getting around the city a breeze.

Overview of the Tour

This private shore excursion will take you from the port of Zeebrugge to the city center of Bruges, where you’ll be able to explore the best that the city has to offer. With your own personal tour guide, you’ll be able to gain insight into the history and culture of this beautiful city. Plus, you can enjoy your time in Bruges with peace of mind knowing that you have a safe and comfortable ride waiting for you whenever you’re ready to move on.

What’s Included in the Tour

Your private shore excursion includes a range of benefits to make your time in Bruges as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Here’s what you can expect:- Private transfer from cruise port to Bruges: You’ll be picked up directly from the port of Zeebrugge and taken to the city center of Bruges in your own private vehicle.- Private official tour guide for 3 hours in Bruges: Your personal tour guide will be with you for three hours to show you the best that Bruges has to offer. They’ll be able to answer any questions you have about the city and its history, and they’ll be able to customize your tour based on your interests.- Entrance to Church of Our Lady included: One of the must-visit attractions in Bruges is the Church of Our Lady, and you’ll have the opportunity to visit this impressive site during your tour.- Other entrance fees: In addition to the Church of Our Lady, you’ll also have other entrance fees included in your tour, which may vary depending on your interests. You can discuss this with your tour guide to ensure that you are visiting the attractions that are most important to you.- Food and drinks: While meals and drinks are not included in your tour, your tour guide can provide recommendations for some of the best local restaurants and cafes in Bruges.

What to Expect During Your Tour

During your private shore excursion, you’ll have ample time to explore some of the most beautiful and historical parts of Bruges. Your personal tour guide will be able to take you to the best spots in the city, including the Church of Our Lady and the Holy Blood Basilica. They’ll also be able to show you other hidden gems throughout the city that are off the beaten path.The tour is designed to be hassle-free, and it’s limited to just your group to ensure that you have a personalized experience. Your private vehicle will take you around the city in comfort and style, and your tour guide will provide insights into the city’s history and culture that you wouldn’t get on your own.

Booking Your Private Shore Excursion

Booking your private shore excursion is easy. Simply head to the Viator website and book your tour here: book the tour here. You can select the date and time that works best for you, and you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details of your tour.

The Bottom Line

If you’re visiting Zeebrugge during your cruise, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to explore Bruges. With this private shore excursion, you’ll have all the benefits of a guided tour with the flexibility of your own private vehicle. Book your tour today and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium.

Discovering Bruges – Frequently Asked Questions

If you are planning to visit Bruges, you must be thinking of Schokoladeweg or chocolate road, magnificent canals, and beautiful architecture. Bruges is a city that has preserved its history and charm for centuries, and it has become a tourist magnet over the years. It is not surprising that you are interested in this city and have questions about it. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Bruges.

1. What is Bruges?

Bruges is a city in northwestern Belgium and the capital of West Flanders. It is a historic city that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is also known as the “Venice of the North” because of its beautiful canals. It has a population of around 117,000 people, and it attracts millions of tourists every year.

2. How do I get to Bruges?

Bruges is well-connected to the rest of the world through its international airport, Brussels International Airport, which is approximately 80 kilometers away. You can also reach Bruges by train and bus, with regular services from major cities across Belgium and the Netherlands.

3. What is the best time to visit Bruges?

Bruges is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is mild and the city is alive with events and festivals. However, these months are also the busiest and most expensive, so you may want to consider visiting in the offseason from November to March when crowds are fewer, and prices are lower.

4. Where should I stay in Bruges?

Bruges has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. If you want to stay in the heart of the city, the best options are the historic city center, around Markt Square, and Burg Square. These areas are home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Belfry, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Town Hall. However, these areas can be noisy and expensive, so you may want to consider staying in a quieter neighborhood outside the city center.

5. What are the top things to see and do in Bruges?

Bruges offers a wealth of attractions and activities, from exploring the picturesque canals to visiting world-class museums and galleries. Some of the must-see sights include:

a. The Belfry of Bruges

The Belfry of Bruges is an iconic landmark that towers over Markt Square. It offers breathtaking views of the city, and visitors can climb its 366 steps.

b. The Basilica of the Holy Blood

The Basilica of the Holy Blood is a stunning church that houses a vial of Christ’s blood. It has an impressive collection of religious artifacts and artwork.

c. Groeningemuseum

The Groeningemuseum is a world-class museum that exhibits Flemish and Dutch paintings from the Middle Ages to the present day.

d. Canal Boat Ride

Taking a canal boat ride is an excellent way to explore the city and admire its beautiful architecture and scenery.

6. What are the best places to eat in Bruges?

Bruges is famous for its cuisine, and it offers a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Some of the best places to eat in Bruges include:

a. De Vlaamsche Pot

De Vlaamsche Pot is a traditional Flemish restaurant that serves hearty stews and meat dishes.

b. Breydel De Coninck

Breydel De Coninck is a cozy restaurant that specializes in local seafood dishes like mussels and shrimp croquettes.

c. Lieven

Lieven is a contemporary restaurant that serves innovative Belgian cuisine with a modern twist.

7. What are some fun activities to do in Bruges?

Bruges offers a variety of fun and entertaining activities for all ages. Some of the popular activities include:

a. Chocolate Tasting Tour

Taking a chocolate tasting tour is an excellent way to sample some of the best Belgian chocolates and learn about their history and production.

b. Beer Tasting Tour

Belgium is famous for its beer, and Bruges is home to some of the best breweries in the country. Taking a beer tasting tour is a great way to experience the local beer culture and try some of the best brews.

c. Horse and Carriage Ride

Taking a romantic horse and carriage ride through the streets of Bruges is a great way to see the city’s landmarks and architecture.

8. Is Bruges safe?

Bruges is a safe and peaceful city, and it has a low crime rate. However, like any other city, you should be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

9. What is the currency used in Bruges?

The currency used in Bruges and the rest of Belgium is the Euro (EUR). You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange offices, and ATMs, which are widely available throughout the city.

10. What language do they speak in Bruges?

The official languages of Belgium are Dutch, French, and German, but the majority of people in Bruges speak Dutch. English is also widely spoken in the city, especially in tourist areas and attractions.

Conclusion

Bruges is a picturesque and historic city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in exploring its canals and landmarks, trying its delicious cuisine, or experiencing its fun activities and festivals, Bruges is a city that will leave a lasting impression on you. We hope that this blog post has answered some of your questions and helped you plan your visit to this charming city.

How to Spend your Time as a Tourist in Bruges

Bruges, the capital city of West Flanders in Belgium, is known for its picturesque streets, stunning architecture, and rich history. If you’re planning a visit to this charming Belgian city, you’re in for a treat. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Bruges.

1. Take a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore Bruges is by taking a walking tour. It’s a great way to get your bearings and learn about the history and culture of the city. Most walking tours cover the major sights, such as the Belfry, the Markt, and the Burg Square. You can also opt for a food tour or a beer tour if you’re interested in trying out the local cuisine.

2. Visit the Belfry

The Belfry is one of the iconic landmarks of Bruges, and it’s a must-visit for all tourists. The tower stands at 83 meters high, and you can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city. The climb is not for the faint-hearted, as there are 366 steps to climb. But once you reach the top, the stunning views of Bruges make it all worthwhile.

3. Explore the Old Town

The Old Town of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. The winding streets, quaint buildings, and charming squares are a delight to explore. Take a stroll along the canals, admire the architecture of the Gothic buildings, and stop for a coffee or a beer at one of the many cafes and bars.

4. Visit the Markt

The Markt is the main square of Bruges, and it’s a bustling hub of activity. Here, you’ll find the iconic colorful buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and plenty of cafes and restaurants. The Markt is also home to the Historium, a museum that takes you through the history of Bruges.

5. Take a Canal Tour

One of the best ways to see Bruges is from the water. Take a canal tour and glide along the canals, taking in the sights of the charming buildings and picturesque bridges. The tours are available in different languages, and it’s a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery.

6. Visit the Museums

Bruges is home to several museums that offer a glimpse into the city’s history and culture. The Groeningemuseum is a must-visit for art lovers, as it showcases the Flemish Primitives as well as modern art. The Chocolate Museum is a fun and delicious way to learn about the history of chocolate in Belgium.

7. Try the Local Cuisine

Belgium is known for its delicious food, and Bruges is no exception. Try out some of the local specialties, such as moules-frites (mussels and fries), carbonade flamande (beef stew), and of course, Belgian chocolate. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing Belgian beer.

8. Visit the Begijnhof

The Begijnhof is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Bruges. This 13th-century courtyard is surrounded by white houses and gardens, and it’s a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Begijnhof was once home to a convent of Beguines, and it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

9. Climb the St. Salvator’s Cathedral Tower

The St. Salvator’s Cathedral Tower is the tallest tower in Bruges, standing at 99 meters high. The tower offers breathtaking views of the city, and the climb is not as challenging as the Belfry. You’ll also get to see the impressive bells that chime every hour.

10. Visit the Church of Our Lady

The Church of Our Lady is one of the most impressive landmarks in Bruges. It’s home to the famous sculpture of Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child, as well as several other works of art. The architecture of the church is also stunning, with its Gothic style and soaring spires.

Conclusion

Bruges is a city that’s steeped in history and culture, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or food, there’s something for everyone in Bruges. Plan your visit around our recommendations, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in this charming Belgian city.