Zeebrugge, (Brugge / Bruges), Belgium
Additional Information:
- Class: City
- Activities: ACTIVITIES: - serves as the gateway to some of Europe's most historically significant and well-preserved medieval cities, offering massive immersion into art, architecture, and culinary traditions (like chocolate and beer making) - sitting at a Belgian cafe with a waffle or taking a peaceful canal cruise is highly relaxing, but it's a bustling city. If you are docking in Zeebrugge for the first time, here is the most crucial outside information to keep in mind: You Cannot Walk Out of the Port: Zeebrugge is an active, heavy-industry commercial port. For safety reasons, walking within the port is strictly prohibited. If you are not on a cruise-sponsored excursion, you must take the free port shuttle bus provided by the terminal, which drops you off at the main port gate or a nearby local transit station. Bruges is the Main Attraction (and it's close): While Brussels is 2 hours away, the fairy-tale medieval city of Bruges (Brugge) is only about 20 to 30 minutes away. It is arguably the most popular excursion for this port due to its beauty and proximity. Getting to Bruges Independently: If you skip the cruise excursions, you can reach Bruges easily. You can take a local taxi right outside the port gate, or take the Belgian Coast Tram (Kusttram) from near the port gate to the nearby town of Blankenberge, and catch a quick 15-minute train directly into the center of Bruges. Prepare for Cobblestones: The historic centers of Bruges, Ghent, and Brussels are paved almost entirely with uneven medieval cobblestones. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are absolutely mandatory. Indulge in the "Big Three": Regardless of which city you visit, the region is globally famous for three culinary staples: Belgian chocolate, Belgian waffles, and Belgian beer. Prioritize a stop at a local chocolatier or a traditional pub. How Zeebrugge Relates to Brussels Zeebrugge is located on the Belgian coast, while Brussels (the capital of Belgium and the administrative heart of the European Union) is located inland. Distance: Brussels is roughly 70 miles (110 km) away from the cruise port. Travel Time: It typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Brussels each way via cruise motorcoach or by taking the local train. The Experience: Because of the travel time, visiting Brussels is a full-day commitment. Cruisers who make the trek are rewarded with the stunning Grand-Place, the Atomium, and world-class museums. However, because of the distance, many cruisers opt for closer destinations instead.
- Adventure: 1.0
- Enrichment: 5.0
- Relaxation: 2.0
- Natural Beauty: 1.0
- City Rating: 4.0
- Locals: 4.0
- Crowds: 2.0
- Safety: 4.0
- Family Friendly: 3.0
- Romance: 4.0
- Cruise Region: Europe - North
- Total: 30.0