Hafen
Zeebrügge

OVERVIEW

Enjoy an enlightening walking tour through the medieval quarter of Bruges, which UNESCO declared a World Heritage site for its extraordinary Gothic architecture. Canals run throughout the city, the first one being built in the 12th century to connect Bruges to the North Sea. As you will see while passing by, Dijver is one of the prettiest canals and the street that parallels it is just as lovely. Burg Square is named for the castle that once stood there and today landmarks such as the 14th-century Renaissance-style city hall and the 12th-century Basilica of the Holy Blood surround it. The architecture lends the entire square a wonderful, fairytale-like ambiance. If not the most well-known medieval attraction, The Belfry is certainly one that is impossible to miss. Built in the 13th century, the ornate building features a 275-foot-high carillon with 47 bells that are still played three days a week.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy the fairytale-like atmosphere in medieval Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• See the 12th-century Basilica of the Holy Blood and the 14th-century city hall.
• Spend free time exploring other attractions or perhaps shopping and dining.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Meander through a compact area within the heart of Bruges, while admiring the medieval and Gothic architecture that earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage site designation. As a historical introduction, you will first pause at Sint-Janshuismolento, an iconic windmill built in 1770. Ahead lies atmospheric Market Square, the 13th-century Belfry Tower and the Basilica of the Holy Blood in Burg Square, which supposedly contains a cloth with the blood of Jesus. Canals are synonymous with Bruges and perfect spots to snap photos, especially where two canals converge at Rosary Quay. Other stops will be made at an unusual bar where more than 1,000 different Belgium beers are displayed and at the Rooms Convent, an almshouse founded in 1330. Then, there is Katelijnestraat, the ultimate street for shopping. Initially, the guide will show you around, after which you will be free to browse the stores for items such as handmade Belgium lace.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy the fairytale-like atmosphere in medieval Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Pause on the way to snap photos of the 18th-century windmill Sint-Janshuismolento.
• Explore Market and Burg squares and visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood in the latter.
• See attractions ranging from a 14th-century almshouse to a huge wall of beer bottles.
• Tour Bruges’ most iconic shopping street with a guide and then explore independently.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

This excursion is for guests who are fully dependent on their mobility device. Meander through a compact area within the heart of Bruges, while admiring the medieval and Gothic architecture that earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage site designation. As a historical introduction, you will first pause at Sint-Janshuismolento, an iconic windmill built in 1770. Ahead lies atmospheric Market Square, the 13th-century Belfry Tower and the Basilica of the Holy Blood in Burg Square, which supposedly contains a cloth with the blood of Jesus. Canals are synonymous with Bruges and perfect spots to snap photos, especially where two canals converge at Rosary Quay. Other stops will be made at an unusual bar where more than 1,000 different Belgium beers are displayed and at the Rooms Convent, an almshouse founded in 1330. Then, there is Katelijnestraat, the ultimate street for shopping. Initially, the guide will show you around, after which you will be free to browse the stores for items such as handmade Belgium lace.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy the fairytale-like atmosphere in medieval Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Pause on the way to snap photos of the 18th-century windmill Sint-Janshuismolento.
• Explore Market and Burg squares and visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood in the latter.
• See attractions ranging from a 14th-century almshouse to a huge wall of beer bottles.
• Tour Bruges’ most iconic shopping street with a guide and then explore independently.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Take a guided tour of Bruges, where the charm of this lovely medieval city will capture you immediately. The highlight of this tour will undoubtedly be a beer tasting session at a local cafe. Beer is deeply rooted in culture and tradition in Belgium and is more than just a drink, with the country offering more than 450 varieties. Your beer expert will explain the history of Belgian beer brewing and you'll explore the delicious taste and flavor of four different kinds of beer.

There is no doubt that Belgium is the country of beer. What other country can offer more than 450 varieties of beer? Beer is deeply rooted in culture and tradition and is more than just a drink. These are certainly not the only reasons why Belgium deserves its title 'Beer Paradise'. After a 30-minute drive from the port, you arrive at Bruges where your guided walk will start. Often called 'Die Scone' or 'the beautiful', the charm of this lovely medieval city will capture you immediately. Your guide will walk with you through the narrow, twisting cobbled streets, passing by picturesque scenes of ancient buildings, tree-lined canals and gabled facades. See the bustling marketplace, Belfry Tower, the Town Hall and the Chapel of the Holy Blood. The highlight of this tour will undoubtedly be a beer tasting session at a local cafe. Your beer expert will explain the history of Belgian beer brewing and you’ll explore the delicious taste and flavor of four different kinds of beer. As Bruges is full of lace, chocolate and beer shops, your free time will allow you to search for the perfect souvenir. Your guide will lead you by the romantic 'Lake of Love' on the way to your coach that will bring you back to the ship.

Bruges is an exquisitely preserved medieval town. Linked with the sea by a navigable waterway, the city became a leading member of the Hanseatic League in the 13th century.

Upon arrival in Bruges, a guided walk through the historical center introduces you to this beautiful, romantic city. During the walk, your guide will point out such major sights as the Market Square with its Guild houses, the Belfry Tower, and Burg Square. Burg Square is the focal point of ancient Bruges, flanked by many magnificent buildings. See the Town Hall, the former Recorder's House from the 1530's, and the Chapel of the Holy Blood.

Your walk then takes you to a Belgian chocolatier’s workshop to see, firsthand, how raw chocolate bars are made into the fine Belgian chocolates using only the freshest and best ingredients. At the end, there is some time to purchase some if you wish and pay a brief independent visit to the Chocolate Museum. Bruges is full of lace and chocolate shops, and your free time will allow you to search for the perfect souvenir.

Your guide will lead you past the romantic Lake of Love on the way back to your coach.

OVERVIEW

Spend hours exploring the Old Town of Bruges on your own with no schedule to follow, which will allow you the freedom to visit the attractions that sound most intriguing. During the drive there, the escort will describe possible places to visit, answer questions and provide a detailed map so you can maximize your time. You will be dropped off at the border of the city of Bruges, a wonderfully atmospheric area with plenty to see and do. You will be free to meander wherever you wish, but you might consider visiting The Belfry, an iconic tower built in the 13th century. For the ultimate view of Bruges, climb the 366 stairs to the top, which for centuries was used as a lookout for fires and other threats to the city. You might also walk about the square out front as it has abundant shops and restaurants. The Provincial Palace, a 19th-century neo-Gothic masterpiece is nearby.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend hours exploring Bruges independently and at your own pace.
• Maximize your time by focusing on the attractions most suited to your interests.
• Explore landmarks such as The Belfry and lesser-known attractions, if you wish.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Bruges is an exquisitely preserved Medieval town. The general prosperity, visible in the opulence of the mansions and civic buildings, lasted until the end of the 15th century.

After a 30-minute drive from the port, you arrive in Bruges where your guided walk will start. Often called Die Scone or 'the beautiful', the charm of this lovely Medieval city will capture you immediately. Smaller and more contained than many other old Flemish cities, Bruges gives the impression that you have stepped back in time. Your guide will walk with you through the narrow, twisting cobbled streets, passing by picturesque scenes of ancient buildings, tree-lined canals and gabled facades. See the bustling marketplace, Belfry Tower, the Town Hall and the Chapel of the Holy Blood. The highlight of this walking tour will undoubtedly be a 30-minute canal tour. While sitting back in a small boat, you'll enjoy this short canal boat ride along the serene waterways of this romantic historical city. As Bruges is full of lace and chocolate shops, you will have lots of free time which will allow you to search for the perfect souvenir. Your guide will lead you by the romantic 'Lake of Love' back to your coach, that will bring you back to your ship.

A drive of approximately two hours will take you from Zeebrugge to Brussels. Your panoramic drive will pass the King Boudewijn Stadium (Belgium’ national sport stadium), the Atomium statue (built for the World Fair in Brussels in 1958 which represents an iron molecule), the Royal Castle of Laeken – the residence of King Filip and Queen Mathilde, and the Royal Palace. A tour leader will assist you from the ship to the Grand Place of Brussels, where you’ll receive additional information about what to see and do. During your free time, you can admire the Old Town area with The St. Hubert Arcades and its shops as well as Butchers' Street with its plethora of restaurants and cafes. You can meet 'Manneken Pis', Brussels best-known little boy and search for your perfect Belgian souvenir. You’ll have no problem finding a nice place to eat and enjoy some typical Belgian products. After a short walk back to the coach, you’ll be transferred to your ship.

OVERVIEW

Explore the medieval village of Damme on your own and tour stately Loppem Castle, a former private residence furnished with 19th-century period pieces that beautifully complement its neo-Gothic design. You will travel through some of the most bucolic countryside in West Flanders to reach Damme, which has a surprising number of historical attractions despite its diminuitive size. Although you will be free to wander about wherever you please, the 13th-century Church of Our Lady and the 15th-century town hall are well worth considering. This area is also renowned for its gourmet chocolates, which you will have the opportunity to purchase at a confectionery. The high cocoa content in Belgium chocolates makes them particularly rich. The wealth of Loppem Castle is reflected in its extraordinary art as the owners were passionate collectors. You can expect to see Flemish paintings, Chinese porcelain, hunting artifacts and perhaps most impressive a 15th-century stained-glass window featuring a Pietà.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend free time in the small medieval village of Damme however you please.
• Browse a confectionery that carries every sort of Belgium chocolate imaginable.
• Tour a 19th-century castle handsomely decorated with fine art and period furnishings.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

A scenic ride through the charming Flemish countryside takes you to Ghent, a delightful town that is proud of its medieval heritage.

Your guide will lead you to the pontoon where you’ll board a canal boat for a fun and thorough exploration of the city. As you cruise through the historic city, see highlights such as the impressive castle of the counts, the Fish Market, 13th century monasteries and the ancient port of Ghent along with its mercantile houses. Once your canal cruise ends, you’ll have free time to independently explore this gracious city. You may choose to enjoy a locally brewed beer in one of the stylish bars, or maybe a coffee in one of the waffle houses. Strolling along the narrow streets, many of which are pedestrian, you’ll be enthralled by the unique architecture, while the shops will tempt you with their fine chocolates, Flemish lace and other locally-crafted wares.

This dynamic modern city has a center straight out of the Middle Ages. After a one-hour drive on the highway passing the typical Flemish countryside, you arrive at the medieval city of Ghent. Your guided walking tour passes by St. Michael’s Bridge. On top of St. Michael’s Bridge you’ll have the most impressive view of the historical city center. From that point, you can see the Old Port with gabled-guild houses, the 1,000-year old Castle of the Counts and the famous 'row of the 3 towers' - St. Nicolas Church, The Belfry Tower and St. Bavo's Cathedral. Your guide will lead you through the old town passing the old port, the Butchers’ Hall and City Hall on your way to St Bavo’s cathedral. Inside St. Bavo’s Cathedral you’ll see the beautiful decorated wooden pulpit. You can enjoy some free time for shopping to find the perfect souvenir. After this free time, your coach will bring you back to your ship.

OVERVIEW

Spend hours exploring the medieval powerhouse Ghent on your own with no schedule to follow, which will allow you the freedom to visit the attractions that sound most intriguing. During the drive there, the escort will describe possible places to visit and accompany you to Saint Bavo’s Square, the centrally located drop-off point. Then you will be free to meander wherever you wish, but you might consider visiting St. Michael’s Bridge. The 360º view from there features three medieval towers, including the 14th-century belfry, which is so architecturally rich that UNESCO named it World Heritage site. Regardless of where you wander, you will likely cross several waterways as Ghent lies near the junction of the Lys and Scheldt rivers, which have been canalized. Be sure to leave time for shopping as you will find merchandise ranging from diamond-studded jewelry to exquisite Belgium chocolates filled with marzipan and candied orange peels.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend hours exploring atmospheric Ghent independently and at your own pace.
• Maximize your time by focusing on the attractions most suited to your interests.
• Explore landmarks such as The Belfry and lesser-known attractions, if you wish.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Bicycle the flat, tree-lined path that connects Bruges to the tiny village of Damme, taking in the serenity of the countryside among locals who will probably be biking, too. You will follow a tree-lined canal all the way to Damme, a straight route with a bicycle path on one side of the waterway and a road on the other. Not having to contend with vehicular traffic will make the trip all the more relaxing and carefree. The terrain is completely flat and easy to pedal with minimal effort, allowing you to concentrate on the sights. The bucolic scenery is so wonderfully peaceful, it could well be the inspiration for a Flemish landscape painting. Along the way, you will pass charming cottages, iconic windmills and small boats inching along the waterway. Chances are, you will be riding among locals, as bicycling between Bruges and Damme is a popular way that locals get away from the urban hustle and bustle.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Bicycle through the bucolic countryside on a flat road that prohibits motorized vehicles.
• See iconic windmills, charming cottages and small boats in the canal that the road follows.
• Ride among local bicyclists between Bruges and the village of Damme.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Experience Bruges like a local by exploring areas off the beaten path but still in the shadow of landmarks such as Kruispoort. Although you will stop at this 15th-century gate, the sites that lie ahead will reveal a lesser-known but not less spectacular side of Bruges. You will see windmills along medieval ramparts, follow atmospheric lanes through residential neighborhoods and pause at the bridges and inner canals that gave Bruges its nickname, the Venice of the North. Upon arriving in St. Anne’s, you will behold the Jerusalem Chapel, which was designed to mirror the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem. By the 16th century, Bruges had become a textile center for woven lace, and you will observe a demonstration of this artisan trade that continues to flourish. Another way to become immersed in local life is at the Market, a sprawling square that has been a marketplace for more than 1,000 years.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Explore atmospheric areas of Bruges that are typically unknown to all but the locals.
• Cross landmark canals that gave Bruges its nickname, the Venice of the North.
• Watch a demonstration of lace making, a trade that has flourished in Bruges for centuries.

This tour takes in the dramatic history of World War I and the battles fought in and around Ypres. The city of Ypres, located in Flanders fields, was reduced to rubble by constant bombardments. Through the words of the poem by Canadian doctor Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, it has come to symbolize the meaningless slaughter of the Great War. Now resorted to its former grandeur, Ypres contains numerous poignant sites and monuments linked to the war. There are many battlefields around Ypres where German and allied armies fought without decisive victories. New weapons such as gas, land mines and missiles left 1,200,000 injured and 500,000 dead. You’ll stop to visit one of the British cemeteries and see the Menin Gate, a famous British War Memorial with the names of 54,896 missing soldiers engraved on its walls. Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum. This is not a traditional war museum, as is not about weapons and strategy; rather it is about ordinary people who endured the war, the soldiers, nurses, fugitives and children. The generation that survived the Great War is dying, and with them the stories die too. The purpose of the In Flanders Fields Museum is to keep this compelling history alive for future generations. The innovative high-tech methods used within the museum have earned Flanders Fields the title of ‘Best European Museum.’ Following this visit you’ll have free time for shopping and lunch. Before returning to your ship, visit the Essex Farm Cemetery, one of the area’s most visited sites due to its association with John McCrae who wrote his poem on May 3, 1915, the day after he witnessed the death of his friend, Lieutenant Alexis Helmer. Next to the cemetery is a marker with the date commemorating the writing of this poem.

Explore the highlights of Bruges: the iconic tall, narrow buildings reflected on the water, the charming cobblestone streets, and most importantly, the delicious Belgian chocolate!

Guided City Walk in Charming Bruges

Begin with a 30-minute drive from the pier to the town of Bruges and enjoy a 90-minute guided walk through one of the most well-preserved towns in all of Europe. Photography lovers are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the quintessential charm of the old market squares and colorful, steep-roofed houses lined along the lovely canals throughout the place that stand as an iconic symbol of old Europe.

The Grand Market Square, Belfry Tower

Along the way to Bruges City Centre walk through the Grand Market Square, which has been in use as a major meeting centre since the year 958, with a weekly market established from the year 985. The Grand Market Square (known by locals as the Markt) lives up to its name for the impressive architecture that lines the large expanse of the square, with many pointed rooftops and tall, narrow windows. Most prominent is the Belfry Tower, built in 1240 as a watchtower and now the most iconic landmark of the city.

Burg Square

Walk through Burg Square, admiring the stunning examples of many varieties of architecture, from Gothic to Renaissance to the Neo-Classicist. In Burg Square, stop to take a photo of what is arguably the most beautiful building of Bruges, the Gothic Town Hall (built in 1376).

Chocolate Museum

Your walking tour leads you to Choco-Story, the Chocolate Museum in Bruges, Belgium. Enjoy a private chocolate making demonstration and learn about the history of Belgium's chocolate industry, the process of chocolate-making, from plant to finished product, with access to a vast library of cocoa and chocolate resources.

Choco-Story is housed within the "Huis de Crone" building, built in the 16^th century originally as a wine tavern. on Sint-Jansplein in central Bruges. The mission of the museum is "to make known the story of the transformation of cocoa into chocolate and to promote the health and quality aspects of Belgian chocolate."

Chocolate Line Praline Tasting

Following the chocolate making demonstration, walk to the Chocolate Line, one of Belgium's most groundbreaking and famous chocolate shops, owned by the international renowed Dominque Persoone. Taste a selection of four different pralines.

At the end of your excursion take a 30-minute walk to the coach and return to the ship.

This program offers the flexibility of shopping and sightseeing at your own pace while still having the convenience of easy and reliable transportation to and from the town and the availability of a knowledgeable guide.

Bruges

Depart by coach from the pier for a thirty-minute drive to Bruges along with guests on the Biking to Damme tour. En-route, an experienced guide, who will lead you to Walplein Square, provides you with a brief background on the city, its main points of interest and answers any questions regarding sites, dining and shopping.

As is the case with many of the strategically located towns and cities throughout Europe, both large and small, Bruges was first established as a Roman fortification by the legions of Julius Caesar in the first century BC. Bruges was granted its town charter in 856 AD and developed into an important trading hub during the Middle Ages. With its public squares and canals, many of the buildings from that period, though restored over the centuries, still grace this beautiful and historic city.

At the appointed time, meet your guide who will escort you to the waiting coach for the transfer back to Zeebrugge.

This tour offers a combination of a biking tour in the Flemish countryside with some free time in the beautiful medieval city of Bruges.

Depart by coach from the pier for a thirty-minute drive to Bruges with the Bruges on your own tour. After being outfitted, leave Bruges and escape into the silence and beauty of the flat countryside. Travel along tree-lined canals and through quaint Flemish villages and past farmlands dotted with windmills. Stop at a local pub for a Belgian beer or soft drink, then start your return ride to Bruges.

Once back in Bruges, enjoy some leisure time to visit the town or explore the many quaint shops offering Belgian chocolates or world-famous Belgian lace.

At the appointed time, meet your guide who will escort you to the waiting coach for the transfer back to Bruges.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Ghent, Belgian chocolates are served en route.  Ghent is a dynamic modern city with a centre straight out of the Middle Ages.

Canal Boat Ride

Next, proceed to the pontoon and board a canal boat for a cruise through this historic city.  Along the way, see highlights that include the impressive Castle of the Counts, Fish Market, 13th-century Monasteries, and the ancient port of Ghent with its mercantile houses.  

Free Time

During your canal cruise, approximately 1 hour of free time is made available for browsing the area shops at your leisure; handmade lace and delicious chocolates are popular items here.  Afterwards, re-board your coach for the approximately one-hour return drive to the pier.

Embrace the Old World beauty and charm of Bruges during a scenic sightseeing tour of this romantic city.

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive to Bruges, and Belgian chocolates served en route. Upon arrival in Bruges, often referred to as the 'Venice of the North', commence your guided walking tour through the twisting, narrow streets of the city.

Bruges City Tour

The Medieval aura surrounding Bruges dates from the early-Middle Ages, when the town was world-renowned for its prosperous wool and cloth trade, and as a trading centre and port. The silting of the Zwin Estuary that linked the city to the sea resulted in the decline of Bruges' importance as a trading port. Over the past decade, however, restoration of the old houses, gabled façades and cobblestone streets has made Bruges one of the greatest attractions in Belgium. Large areas have been closed to vehicular traffic.

The Burg

Your first stop is the Burg, a Medieval square in the centre of Bruges and the highlight of this Old World city. See the Town Hall, a jewel of Gothic-style architecture from the 14th century, and among the oldest of its kind in Europe. A bridge arching over the narrow Ezelstraat links the Town Hall with the graceful Old Recorder's House.

Basilica of the Holy Blood and Belfry (ouside visit)

On a corner of the Burg stands the Basilica of the Holy Blood. A vial thought to contain drops of Christ's blood is kept in its chapel. From here, proceed to the renowned Belfry. This 275-foot (83-metre) Medieval tower is the city's centrepiece, and dominates Bruges' ancient market square. The Belfry has a carillon and boasts 47 bells.

Canal Boat Ride

At the conclusion of your walking tour, take a 30-minute canal boat ride along the serene waterways of this historic city, and see the arching stone bridges and lovely settings that give Bruges its special character.

Following your boat ride, some free time is made available for lunch and shopping at the Walplein at your leisure; handmade lace and delicious chocolates are popular items here. Afterward, re-board your coach for the approximate 30-minute return drive to the pier, passing by the Lake of Love en route.

Experience the rural beauty of the Flemish countryside.

Damme Village

You will start your tour through the typical Flemish countryside with a scenic approximately one-hour drive to the quaint little village of Damme. This typical Flemish village kept its historic character. Here you will have some free time to stroll around or to sit down at a café and enjoy one of the many kinds of beer Belgium produces. Damme is also known as a book town, with numerous bookshops and regular book fairs.

Belgian Chocolate Shop

Continue your tour by driving through the outskirts of the historical city of Bruges. You will get a view of the windmills and the impressive Medieval walls surrounding the city of Bruges, before having the opportunity to buy some famous Belgian chocolates at one of the largest chocolate shops around Bruges.

Your scenic tour concludes with an approximately 30 minutes drive back to the pier.

Explore Zeebrugge at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Zeebrugge at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Zeebrugge at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Zeebrugge at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Ypres was one of the great Flemish cloth towns of the Middle Ages. Occupied by the German army for one night at the beginning of the Great War, it fell under control of the Allied Forces in 1914. Some five million British and Commonwealth soldiers passed through Ypres on their way to the salient. Reduced to rubble by constant bombardment, the town has come to symbolize the meaningless slaughter of the Great War. Now restored to its former grandeur, Ypres contains numerous poignant sites and monuments linked to the war.

Take time to remember those who lost their lives at one of the British Cemeteries, followed by a stop at Menin Gate, a famous War memorial of the First World War. 'In Flanders Fields' Museum is not a traditional war museum. It is about ordinary people who endured the war, the soldiers, nurses, fugitives and children. The innovative high-tech methods used within the Museum earned 'Flanders Fields' the title of 'Best European Museum'.

Menin Gate

Depart the pier for the one-hour drive to Ypres. On the way, a stop is made at Tyne Cot cemetery for a visit. Continue the drive and make a brief photo stop at the 'Menin Gate'. This famous British War memorial of the First World War is by far the most important edifice in Ypres for the British visitor. Designed by Sir Reginald Blomfield, the names of 54,896 missing soldiers are engraved in its walls.

In Flanders Fields Museum (inside visit)

Then continue to the In Flanders Fields museum. This newly renovated museum is not a traditional war museum. It is about ordinary people who endured the war. Before returning back to the ship, visit the Essex Farm Cemetery. Probably one of the most visited sites in the salient, and this is principally because of its association with John McCrae, writer of the famous poem In Flanders Fields. Next to the cemetery is a marker with the date May the 3rd 1915, commemorating the writing of this poem.

Following this stop, re-join your coach for the return drive to the ship.

Brügge ganz nach Ihrem Geschmack. Ausgestattet mit einem Stadtplan begeben Sie sich auf eine Erkundungstour, ganz wie Sie sich das vorstellen. Sightseeing? Shopping? Schokolade und Pralinen naschen? Tun und lassen Sie, ganz wonach Ihnen gerade der Sinn steht.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Etwa 30-minütige Hin- und Rückfahrt
• Ausgestattet mit einem Stadtplan ca. 2,5 Stunden Zeit zur freien Verfügung
• Gut 30-minütiger Fußweg zwischen Stadtzentrum und Busparkplatz

Erleben Sie das pulsierende Herz Europas. So viel Charme wie ein Dorf, so viel kulturelles Angebot wie eine Großstadt. Brüssel ist kontrastreich und lebendig. Statten Sie Sehenswürdigkeiten wie dem Atomium oder dem Wahrzeichen, dem Manneken Pis, einen Besuch ab und überzeugen Sie sich selbst.