Discover the Best Day Trips from Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, Belgium's most visited city, is renowned for its picturesque canals and historic architecture. It's an ideal base for exploring the nearby coast and engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and boating.
Here's a guide to the top day trips from Bruges for a mix of sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
1. Zeebrugge
Zeebrugge, a coastal resort known for its WWI history, is a short trip from Bruges. Visitors can explore the port's military past and enjoy the local fishing scene, with boats arriving early in the morning and fish auctions starting at 9:30am. The seafront offers a walk past historical ships and the Fonteintjes Dunes.
2. Ostend Harbor and Beachfront
Ostend is a bustling ferry harbor and a beloved seaside resort. Its beaches, such as Mariakerke and Raversijde, are summer hotspots. The Albert I Promenade and the nearby dunes offer scenic walks, while the city's history is reflected in its restored buildings and frescoes.
Guided tours in Bruges
3. Ostend Town
In Ostend's old town, visitors can explore cultural sites like the Feestpalais, De Plate Museum, and the Museum of Fine Art. The Sint-Petrus-en-Pauluskerk is a notable Gothic church with historical remnants.
4. Blankenberge
Blankenberge offers a long beachfront promenade, family attractions like Sea Life, and the historic Sint-Antoniuskerk.
5. Knokke-Heist Beach
Knokke-Heist is an upscale resort with beautiful beaches and dunes, perfect for outdoor activities. It's also home to numerous art galleries and cultural events.
6. Knokke
Knokke is a vibrant beach town with a thriving art scene, international events, and museums like the For Freedom Museum and Sincfala.
7. Zwin Nature Park
Zwin Nature Park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering trails and observation points.
Official site: Zwin Nature Park
8. Ghent
Ghent is a less touristy city with stunning canals, medieval architecture, and museums. Notable sites include the Cathedral of St Bravo and Gravensteen Castle.
9. Damme
Damme is a quaint town with medieval buildings like the Gothic Town hall and the Church of Our Lady.
10. Ypres
Ypres is significant for its WWI history, with battlefields, cemeteries, and the In Flanders Fields Museum.
11. Schipdonkkanaal
The Schipdonkkanaal offers scenic trails for walking and biking, as well as opportunities for boat rides.
12. Gistel
Gistel is known for the legend of St. Godelieve and the abbey of Ten Putte.
Exploring Belgium: For more travel ideas, check out the Top Attractions in Belgium and the sites of Bruges.
