Private Bruges Shore Excursion From Zeebrugge

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. After disembarking at Zeebrugge cruise port, your driver will meet you and accompany you to your private transportation. From there, enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey to Bruges, approximately 30 minutes away.

   30 minutes here

2. In Bruges, your English-speaking guide will greet you near the historic center before leading you on a leisurely walking tour. The route begins at Bargeplein and continues through Minnewater Park, where you can admire the romantic atmosphere surrounding the famous “Lake of Love.” Continue past the historic Begijnhof Bridge (Begijnhofbrug), leading into the UNESCO-listed Beguinage, where you can stroll through the peaceful courtyard, admire the traditional whitewashed houses, and take photos of this serene medieval setting once home to a community of religious women. The walking route is mostly flat but includes cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Please note that this tour is not suitable for guests with mobility challenges.

   60 minutes here

3. The route continues past the Gruuthusemuseum, a stunning medieval residence known for its refined architecture and peaceful canal views. This historic building was once home to one of Bruges’s most important aristocratic families. Stop for a photo.

   Pass by without stopping

4. This is the classic postcard view of Bruges — charming canals, historic facades, and the Belfry reflected in the water. A perfect moment to pause and take it all in.You’ve arrived at the view that defines Bruges—where centuries-old Gothic facades line peaceful canals, willows sweep down to the water’s edge, and the towering belfry reflects in the still surface below. It’s a moment made for quiet appreciation or that perfect photograph. As your guide gives you time to pause here, you’ll understand why this iconic scene has captured the hearts of travelers for generations.

   Pass by without stopping

5. Apotheek Sint-Janshospitaal (Pharmacy Saint John’s Hospital)

   St. John’s Hospital Soon, you’ll pass one of Europe’s oldest surviving hospital buildings—a remarkable structure that cared for the sick for over eight centuries. Its enduring presence offers more than just impressive architecture; it tells a deeper story about medieval approaches to health, compassion, and community care. Your guide will share thoughtful insights into how this historic site has transformed over time, now serving as a museum and cultural space where Bruges' layered history continues to unfold.

   Pass by without stopping

6. Church of Our Lady As you approach the Church of Our Lady, look up to see the tallest brick tower in Bruges rising above the skyline—a striking feature that has watched over the city for centuries. Here, your guide will share the remarkable story of Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child, one of the few works by the artist to leave Italy during his lifetime. Though you won’t enter the church on this tour, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural and artistic significance, standing just steps away.

   30 minutes here · Admission not included

7. The Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde

   The Princely Beguinage As your walk continues, you’ll step into the tranquil grounds of the Princely Beguinage—a peaceful enclave once home to a community of religious women who lived independent lives within its walls. With its whitewashed houses, cobbled paths, and quiet courtyards, this area offers a powerful sense of stillness and history. It’s a place where the spirit of centuries past still lingers, inviting thoughtful reflection as you move deeper into the heart of Bruges.

   Pass by without stopping

8. Basilica of the Holy Blood Next, you’ll arrive at one of Bruges’ most historically layered squares—a space where centuries of civic and religious life converge. Tucked in one corner is the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a modest yet deeply meaningful church with a blend of Gothic and Romanesque design. It’s said to house a relic believed by many to contain drops of Christ’s blood. While entry isn’t included in the tour, guests are welcome to step inside during their free time and experience the quiet reverence of the space.

   60 minutes here

9. Belfry of Bruges

   As you arrive at Bruges’s historic Market Square, you’ll find yourself surrounded by colorful guild houses, lively cafés, and the city’s impressive medieval atmosphere. Towering above the square stands the famous Belfry Tower, one of Bruges’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of the city’s former wealth and power. Nearby, you will also visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a beautiful historic church best known for housing a revered relic believed to contain the blood of Jesus Christ.

   Pass by without stopping

10. The walking tour ends at Bruges’s famous Market Square, right in the heart of the historic city center. Here, you will enjoy approximately 60–80 minutes of free time to explore at your own pace. You may choose to try traditional Belgian fries, enjoy a local beer, visit one of the many chocolate shops, or simply relax and take in the atmosphere surrounded by medieval architecture and lively cafés. Before saying goodbye, your guide will clearly explain the meeting point and time for your return transfer back to the cruise port. If you wish, you may also choose to replace part of your free time with a relaxing 30-minute canal cruise through Bruges’s historic waterways (plus approximately 15 minutes boarding time). Canal cruise tickets can be added during the booking process.

    60 minutes here

11. Return to Port At the end of your time in Bruges, your coach will be waiting to take you comfortably back to the port—no need to worry about timing or logistics. The entire tour is thoughtfully planned around your ship’s schedule, so you can simply relax and enjoy the return journey. With the day’s discoveries still fresh in your mind, you’ll head back knowing you've experienced some of the most beautiful and meaningful parts of Belgium, all without the stress of navigating on your own.

    30 minutes here

12. Historic Centre of Brugge

    You may choose to include a relaxing 30-minute canal cruise and experience Bruges from a completely different perspective. Glide through the city’s scenic canals as you pass historic bridges, charming medieval buildings, and hidden corners that can only be seen from the water. A canal cruise is considered one of the classic Bruges experiences and is a wonderful way to enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere. Please note that canal tickets are pre-arranged for guests selecting this option during booking. Boats are shared with other visitors, and waiting times of approximately 15–20 minutes may occur depending on daily crowds. Guests joining the canal cruise will have slightly reduced free time in the city. If you prefer to purchase canal tickets independently while in Bruges, we recommend visiting the ticket office at the beginning of your free time, as same-day availability cannot be guaranteed.

    30 minutes here · Admission included

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• Transfer+Walking Tour(NoCanal)

  PrivateGuide+Transfer(NoCanal): This private tour picks up and drops off at the Zeebrugge Port. Private tour guide: You meet your private guide in Bruges Downtown from where the walking tour begins. Route of tour: Route of tour: Route of tour Drive to Bruges, Walking Tour in Historical City Center, Canal Boat Ride (optional), Free Time Transfers by Pre-ArrangedTaxi: This option includes private transfers via taxi from the port to Bruges and back which your guide will organize. Flexible y: Our guide will help you make the most of your time in Bruges, whether you want to shop, dine or sightsee!

• Transfer&WalkingTour(YesCanal)

  Start and end Zeebrugge Port: This private tour picks up and drops off at the Zeebrugge Port. Private tour guide: You meet your private guide in Bruges Downtown from where the walking tour begins. Route of tour: Drive to Bruges, Walking Tour in Historical City Center, Canal Boat Ride (optional), Free Time, Return to port. Transfers by Pre-ArrangedTaxi: This option includes private transfers via taxi from the port to Bruges and back which your guide will organize. Flexible itinerary : Our guide will help you make the most of your time in Bruges, whether you want to shop, dine or sightsee!

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

Shore Excursions Company

Know before you go

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• This tour includes around 90 minutes of walking over cobblestone streets as the city center of Bruges is not accessible to buses
• Please wear comfortable shoes
• The pace is relaxed with regular stops, but this tour is not recommended for guests with mobility impairments or difficulty walking longer distances.

Photos