Zeebrugge
Country: Belgium · Region: Northern Europe · Currency: Euro
Zeebrugge is a major cruise port serving the medieval city of Bruges, Belgium, located 12 km inland via the Boudewijnkanaal. Most cruise ships dock here and offer shuttles to nearby Blankenberge for train connections to Bruges, about 20 minutes away.
Top sights
Grote Markt, Basilica of the Holy Blood, Onze Lieve Vrouwkerk, Groeninge Museum, Brewery De Halve Maan, Jerusalem Church
Things to do
- Grote Markt
- The market square is the heart of the old town, covering 1 hectare with the city belfry (Belfort) on its southern edge offering nice views from the tower.
- Basilica of the Holy Blood
- A beautiful Gothic church on Burg square housing a relic said to be the blood of Jesus, with a contrasting heavy Romanesque chapel underneath.
- Onze Lieve Vrouwkerk
- A fascinating church with Romanesque and Gothic architecture housing fine tombs of Charles the Bold and Mary of Burgundy, plus a Michelangelo sculpture of the Madonna with Child.
- Brewery De Halve Maan
- The only brewery still brewing beer inside the city walls, offering 45-minute tours of the beer-making process and city views from its tower, with one beer included.
Where to eat
- Brewery De Halve Maan
- Serves Belgian beer and offers an outside terrace and indoor bar where beer is served after brewery tours.
- 2-be Beer Wall and Bar
- Located on the courtyard of a former major's house on Wollestraat, featuring all Belgian beers on permanent display with a bar at the back.
Bars and nightlife
- 2-be Beer Wall and Bar
- Displays all Belgian beers on a wall in a former major's house courtyard with a bar serving those beers.
Forecast for Zeebrugge
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Getting around
From the cruise port at Zeebrugge, take the ship's shuttle to Blankenberge and then an hourly train to Bruges (20 minutes), or walk the compact medieval city center on foot wearing comfortable shoes.
What to eat
Bruges has many chocolate shops and cafes throughout the historic center; the Brewery De Halve Maan offers beer and traditional Belgian beer culture.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the cobblestone streets, and explore small side streets away from the crowded Markt and Burg squares for a more authentic experience.
Best for
Medieval history, architecture, chocolate