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5 (50)

Location Icon Bruges

Bruges Shore Excursion: Small Group & Canal Cruise

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Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo Discover the charm of Bruges on the "Best Bruges Shore Excursion." This small-group tour, designed for cruise passengers docking in Zeebrugge, offers a relaxed and immersive experience of one of Europe's most beautiful medieval cities. With a maximum of 24 guests, enjoy personalized attention and a stress-free exploration.

The adventure begins with a direct pickup from the Zeebrugge port in an air-conditioned bus. A local, English-speaking guide will lead the way through Bruges' cobbled streets, showcasing iconic landmarks such as the Market Square (Grote Markt) and the Belfry. Visitors will see the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the serene Beguinage, and the romantic Lake of Love (Minnewater Park). There's also the option to enhance the tour with a 30-minute canal cruise, gliding past historic bridges and picturesque canals. Key stops include the Princely Beguinage, De Halve Maan Brewery, St. John's Hospital, Church of Our Lady, Hof van Haveskerke (House of the Haveskerke Family), and the scenic Rozenhoedkaai.

This tour includes round-trip transportation, a guided walking tour, and guaranteed timely return to the ship. For those selecting the canal cruise option, a 30-minute scenic ride is included. Free time allows for independent exploration, shopping, and enjoying local snacks. It excludes food, drinks, and gratuities and the canal cruise if the option is not selected. With a full refund guarantee if the ship cannot dock, this excursion ensures a worry-free Bruges experience. The city center of Bruges is not accessible to buses; the tour continues on foot. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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Hassle-Free Port Pickup: Get picked up and dropped off directly at the Zeebrugge port.

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See Bruges' Best Sights: Visit Market Square, the Lake of Love, and more with a local guide.

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Optional Canal Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing 30-minute cruise through Bruges' scenic canals.

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Guaranteed Return to Ship: The tour is timed to ensure a timely return to the cruise ship.

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Small Group Experience: Enjoy a personal tour with a maximum of 24 people

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Full Refund Guarantee: Full refund in case your ship cannot dock

Sentiment Analysis

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Customers generally praised the tour's organization, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to see Bruges' main attractions in a short amount of time. The small group size and optional canal cruise were frequently cited as positives. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers loved the guide's knowledge and enthusiasm.

    Positive Highlight Icon They appreciated the small group size for a more personal experience.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many enjoyed the canal cruise and considered it a highlight.

    Positive Highlight Icon Visitors found the free time well-balanced with the guided tour.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some felt the free time could have been longer.

    Negative Highlight Icon A few mentioned that food and drinks were not included.

The Journey

1

Bruges City Tour

Begin your Bruges adventure with a comfortable, air-conditioned ride from the Zeebrugge port. An English-speaking guide will lead you on a stress-free exploration of the city’s enchanting beauty. This organized excursion eliminates the complexities of independent travel, providing a curated introduction to Bruges' most captivating sights.

2

Minnewater Park (Lake of Love)

Journey to the heart of Bruges, beginning at Bargeplein and passing through the idyllic Minnewater Park, also known as the 'Lake of Love'. This romantic haven, famed for its serene waters, graceful swans, and tranquil atmosphere, provides a picturesque escape and a perfect photo opportunity before delving into the city's historical core. Please note that comfortable shoes are recommended for this flat walk, and the tour may not be suitable for guests with mobility impairments.

3

Princely Beguinage

Step back in time as you wander through the serene grounds of the Princely Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This former religious community, once home to independent women for centuries, offers a tranquil escape with its quiet courtyards, whitewashed houses, and peaceful atmosphere. Experience a unique glimpse into the city's past within this atmospheric corner of Bruges.

4

De Halve Maan Brewery

Discover a modern twist within Bruges' medieval heart at De Halve Maan Brewery, the city's only active brewery within the historic center. Renowned for its innovative underground beer pipeline, this brewery offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. It's a place where you can savor authentic Belgian beer while immersing yourself in the historical ambiance of Bruges.

5

St. John's Hospital

Marvel at St. John's Hospital, one of Europe's oldest surviving hospital buildings, where care was provided for over 800 years. Delve into the history of medieval medicine and admire the architecture of this impressive complex. Today, it serves as a museum and art space, showcasing its ongoing legacy as a cultural landmark.

6

Church of Our Lady

Gaze upon the tallest brick tower in Bruges and uncover the story behind Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child, housed within the Church of Our Lady. While entrance is not included in the tour, your guide will provide insights into the history and significance of this iconic sculpture, a testament to Bruges' artistic heritage and cultural importance.

7

Hof van Haveskerke (House of the Haveskerke Family)

Prepare to be captivated by the grandeur of the Hof van Haveskerke, a magnificent residence reflecting the wealth and influence of one of Bruges' most affluent families. Discover the secrets behind their vast fortune and how they amassed the riches required to construct this impressive building, showcasing their significant impact not only in Bruges but throughout Belgium.

8

Rozenhoedkaai

Capture the quintessential Bruges experience at Rozenhoedkaai, the city's most photographed location. Admire the gothic facades, willows draping over the canals, and the belfry reflected in the still water. This picturesque spot offers the perfect opportunity to pause, take a photo, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Bruges.

9

Burg Square

Explore Burg Square, one of Bruges' oldest and most historically rich squares. Admire the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a unique building with layered Gothic and Romanesque architecture. You'll have the opportunity to step inside during free time and discover its religious significance, offering a deeper understanding of Bruges' cultural tapestry.

10

Market Square (Grote Markt)

Conclude your walking tour at the heart of Bruges, the Market Square (Grote Markt). This vibrant hub is surrounded by colorful medieval guild houses, horse-drawn carriages, and the towering Belfry. During your free time, indulge in Belgian fries, savor a local beer, or simply relax on a bench and soak in the lively atmosphere of this central location.

11

Return to Zeebrugge Port

Relax as the coach takes you back to the port at the end of the tour, ensuring you board your ship on time and without stress. This meticulously planned excursion is designed with your ship's timetable in mind, allowing you to fully enjoy the best that Belgium has to offer without any worries about late returns.

Know Before You Go

This tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off at Zeebrugge Port, round-trip air-conditioned bus transport to Bruges, and a guided walking tour with an English-speaking local expert (note that buses cannot access the city center). The optional canal cruise is available if selected. Food, drinks, and gratuities are not included. This small-group tour is limited to 24 participants, ensuring a personal experience and guarantees return to the ship on time. There is a full refund in case your ship cannot dock.

Hot Tip

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. The canal cruise is highly recommended for a unique perspective of Bruges.

From €69 Price

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As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.