Bruges Tour from Cruise Port and Venice of the North Canal Cruise
Description
Welcome, adventurous cruisers docking at Zeebrugge! If you're eager to immerse yourself in the rich history and enchanting beauty of Bruges on your first visit, join us for an extraordinary shore excursion, including a “Venice of the North” canal cruise. Experience the historic allure of the Old Town, cross romantic bridges, marvel at the grand Market Square, and meander through the quaint streets of the city center. Be awed by the Basilica of the Holy Blood's timeless majesty and enjoy picturesque views from the Quay of the Rosary. If your heart desires indulgence in scrumptious Belgian chocolates and waffles, wishes to sample the offerings of legendary breweries, or enjoys dining at cozy local eateries, we've reserved free time just for these pleasures. Our knowledgeable guides are committed to creating an unforgettable experience, ensuring you fully absorb the unique charm of Bruges. Please note that this tour involves about 2 hours of walking in the pedestrian areas of Bruges
Tour Options
Itinerary
Embark on a captivating journey to the heart of Bruges, starting directly from the Zeebrugge cruise ship port. Receive a warm welcome from our friendly representative, eagerly awaiting your arrival right inside the cruise ship terminal. Step aboard our comfy , air-conditioned vehicle and settle in for a scenic 30-minute drive. Marvel at Belgium's breathtaking landscapes as we whisk you away on an unforgettable adventure into the enchanting streets of Bruges, where history and beauty blend seamlessly.
Admire the enchanting Belfry of Bruges, a towering beacon that stands as the most iconic landmark in this charming medieval city. As you wander through the cobblestone streets, let the majestic sight of the Belfry guide you to the heart of Bruges, where history and beauty converge. This magnificent structure not only offers breathtaking views but also whispers tales of the city's rich past, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the allure and mystique that make Bruges a timeless destination.
The exploration of Burg Square in Bruges takes you through a historical journey amidst some of Belgium's most iconic and architecturally significant buildings, including the stunning Gothic-style Bruges City Hall. This charming square, nestled in the heart of Bruges, offers a unique glimpse into the medieval past of the city, with its cobblestone streets and picturesque facades, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Step into a world where history and spirituality converge at The Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges. This captivating Roman Catholic basilica isn't just an architectural marvel; it's a sanctuary that guards one of Christianity's most profound relics. Legend whispers that Joseph of Arimathea once gathered the Holy Blood of Christ, a sacred treasure that Thierry of Alsace, the Count of Flanders, heroically transported from the Holy Land to its current resting place in Bruges. This enchanting basilica offers travelers an unparalleled journey through time, faith, and wonder, inviting you to not only admire its breathtaking beauty but to connect with a piece of the divine.
Discover Rozenhoedkaai, or the Quay of the Rosary, which is Bruges' most enchanting vista, a place where the serene Dijver and Groenerei canals converge in a picturesque embrace. This iconic spot, renowned as one of the most photographed locales in Bruges, offers travelers an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Belgium's medieval charm. With its timeless beauty and tranquil waters reflecting the sky above, Rozenhoedkaai invites you to capture moments that feel like stepping into a living postcard. Here, history whispers through the cobbled streets and ancient buildings, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the enchantment of Bruges.
Immerse yourself in the captivating allure of Bruges through the lens at the enchanting Boniface Bridge. Though it stands as one of the city's more recent additions, this picturesque bridge perfectly encapsulates the essence of Bruges. Prepare to be swept away by its mysterious ambiance, where romance fills the air and stunning vistas vie for your gaze. Let the Boniface Bridge be your gateway to exploring the unmatched beauty and timeless charm of Bruges, creating memories and photographs that will last a lifetime. Discover this hidden gem and let its beauty inspire awe and wonder, making your visit truly unforgettable.
Embark on a captivating journey through time at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Princely Beguinage 'Ten Wijngaarde', another hidden gem that dates back to the 13th century. Discover a unique enclave where, centuries ago, beguines—unmarried women seeking a life of devotion and community—created a sanctuary. Here, they carved out a space that was remarkably ahead of its time, offering a glimpse into a way of life that was both emancipated and deeply spiritual. Wander through historic lanes, marvel at the ancient architecture, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of a community that thrived on independence and collective living
The Lake of Love, or Minnewater, is a captivating spot that epitomizes romance and tranquility. A romantic hotspot par excellence! Once people believed that water nymphs (“minnen” in Dutch) lived here, and thus the lake acquired its name. Add to that a tragic love story, mysterious trees and an abundance of greenery and you get a place overflowing with romance. How about an Instagram or FB post? The finest photos can be taken from the Lake of Love bridge, or by the Lockhouse. A hit even without filters.
This canal cruise offers a unique and picturesque way to explore the medieval charm of Bruges. As you glide through the city's serene waterways, you'll pass by historic buildings, quaint bridges, and lush gardens. This relaxing boat tour provides a fresh perspective on the "Venice of the North," making it a must-do activity for visitors.
Let’s come back into the pulsing heart of the city at the vibrant Market Square. Embark on a self-guided journey of discovery with 2 leisurely hours at your disposal. Dive into an charming mix of shopping where treasures and trinkets await, savor the diverse flavors of local cuisine that tantalize your taste buds, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds that make this place uniquely unforgettable. Whether you're hunting for the perfect souvenir, indulging in culinary delights, or simply soaking in the vibrant ambiance, Market Square offers an unparalleled experience for every traveler. Come, explore, and enjoy!
After reveling in a delightful day steeped in the exquisite pleasures of Bruges, retreat in comfort to your awaiting ship aboard our comfortable vehicle. Reflect on the enchanting memories that will forever resonate in your heart. Trust in our two decades of expertise in orchestrating seamless shore excursions, meticulously aligned with your ship's itinerary. With us, you're invited to explore with abandon, assured of a punctual and stress-free return to your ship, your spirit alight with the magic of your explorations.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Upon your arrival, we will meet you directly OUTSIDE the cruise port terminal; Please note that the tour start time indicated on your ticket is not your precise pickup time. We will provide you with the exact time and closer to the date of your tour.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Please be aware that the order of the tour itinerary may be subject to change due to factors such as traffic, crowds, and unexpected circumstances. Nevertheless, we will do our best to visit all the destinations listed in the tour itinerary
- Please note that this tour requires significant walking, which makes it inaccessible for wheelchair or scooter users as well as those with limited walking mobility.
- Please note that the start time displayed on our website is a general estimate for the activity's commencement and may not correspond to your specific pick-up time. We recommend checking your email at least 12 hours before your scheduled activity to receive comprehensive pick-up information, which will include the exact location, identifying signage, and the precise pick-up time. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us via email, WhatsApp, or phone.
Reviews(10)
This was our first trip to any Belgian city and now we want to go back to see more of the country! Veronique, our guide, was friendly, professional, helpful and very knowledgeable. She shared her info in an interesting way, not like she was reading it from some script. The areas we visited were of high interest. The canal ride was great! This was a fun, relaxing, informative day and I would highly recommend it!
I wasn't sure if the canal cruise would be much different from simply walking around, but it absolutely was. Seeing Bruges from the waterways made me appreciate why people compare it to Venice. The quiet canals, historic bridges, and hidden corners looked beautiful from the boat. A relaxing part of my day.
Our children enjoyed the canal cruise much more than we expected. It was an easy way for the whole family to see another side of Bruges without getting tired from walking. The views along the canals were lovely, and we even spotted details we had missed earlier. A nice addition to our family trip.
We had already explored the streets of Bruges on foot, but taking the canal cruise completely changed how we saw the city. Looking up at the old buildings from the water gave everything a different character. The ride was peaceful, and our guide shared a few interesting stories without making it feel like a lecture. Definitely one of the highlights of our visit.
We had already wandered through most of the city center before boarding the canal boat. Surprisingly, it felt like we were discovering a completely different Bruges. The peaceful canals, reflections on the water, and quiet atmosphere made the experience really enjoyable.
The walking part of the tour was fine. We learned a lot about the town. There wasn't enough time to eat and be able to see the sights with the free time. I wouldn't recommend the boat ride. They just repeated what you already heard. Plus, I didn't appreciate a crude remark about Christianity, I think about Mary's birth.
Thank you for your feedback. If you wanted more than one hour of free time, you could have skipped the canal cruise completely and used that time as additional free time. Please note that commentary on the boat is provided by the boat company, and we are not responsible for it. Safe travels.
The tour says 6 hours but it was actually 5 hours. We waited 20 minutes on the bus for people that were late but did not show up for the tour. The email specifically said to arrive between 1015-1030 with directions. The tour was very disorganized. This was my least favorite of the 6 I booked through TripAdvisor for this cruise.
We regret to hear about your disappointment. Please note that the 30-minute transfer from Zeebrugge Cruise Port to Bruges, as well as the return transfer, are included in the total tour duration. For this reason, the tour lasted 6 hours, exactly as advertised. Please also note that, in accordance with the “Meeting and Pickup” section of the tour description, we reserve a 30-minute window for picking up cruise passengers. If you prefer not to wait for fellow cruise passengers disembarking, we strongly recommend considering a private tour rather than a shared group tour. When booking future activities through TripAdvisor, we strongly recommend basing your expectations on the tour description, itinerary, and inclusions, rather than on personal assumptions. Safe travels.
Our group of eight (8) took this tour recently as our Celebrity cruise stopped in Belgium before heading back to Southampton. Our guide Veronique met us at the cruise terminal and we rode a comfortable bus into this beautiful historic city. The brisk walking tour covered lots of ground -- every cobblestone street and architectural detail was a photo opportunity. Veronique was interesting and knowledgeable and all of our group learned a lot, despite the challenges of a tsunami of tourists on our tour day. The canal ride was beautiful as well. Time well spent!
Experiencing bruges with my mom and dad was best moments of my life. It wasn't too strenuous but still allowed us to see the highlights of the city, and this tour fit the bill perfectly.
Now after I experience the canal cruise, I understand there's a reason Bruges is called the 'Venice of the North'. Gliding through the waterways gave a completely different perspective of the city.
