Things to do in Zeebrugge

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Flanders

Minnewater

Minnewater is situated on the southern edge of the old town of Bruges, a long, narrow lake embraced by the green spaces and tree-lined paths of the old city walls. It is not a natural lake, but was formed around the Middle Ages as a result of building a sluice at the lake's mouth to store water and regulate the water flow into the city. Standing on the stone bridge that spans the lake's mouth, you can see the long, narrow lake, calm as a mirror, with flocks of white swans often swimming on the water. An old tower built in the late Middle Ages stands beside the bridge. The lakeside path connects to the green space beneath the old city walls. Its northern end is adjacent to the convent, allowing you to easily continue your walk into the old town.

No. 10 of Best Things to Do in Belgium

Basilica of the Holy Blood

Basilica of the Holy Blood is a church in Bruges, Belgium, renowned for a holy relic. It is located on Burg Square, adjacent to the Gothic-style City Hall. It features a two-story double chapel structure. Its golden facade facing the square is adorned with gilded statues, making it stand out among the row of historic buildings. The ground floor is the Romanesque Chapel of St. Basil, built in the 12th century. With its sturdy stone columns and dim lighting, it is one of the best-preserved Romanesque buildings in the Flanders region. Ascend the intricately carved stone staircase to reach the Chapel of the Holy Blood, which was rebuilt at the end of the 15th century and renovated in the Gothic Revival style in the 19th century. The crystal vial containing the Holy Blood is housed in a silver reliquary, next to a white marble altar created by an 18th-century master sculptor. A large mural behind the main altar depicts the scene of the Holy Blood arriving in Bruges from Jerusalem. The small museum inside also displays a gold and silver reliquary stand crafted in the 17th century, which is encrusted with gemstones.

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Flanders

Belfort

Belfort is located in the Market Square in the historic center of Bruges, Belgium, and is one of the city's iconic landmarks, as well as an important symbol of Bruges' medieval urban landscape. Its main structure is built of brick and stone, with a distinctively layered tower and a spire at the top, reflecting the characteristics of medieval architecture in the Flanders region. Inside, there is a carillon and a timekeeping system consisting of multiple bells, the chimes of which were once an important part of the city's public life. Visitors can climb the narrow internal stairs to the top of the tower, learning about its history and mechanical structure along the way, and enjoy a bird's-eye view of Bruges' red-tiled roofs, historic streets, and the Market Square.

Church of Our Lady

The Church of Our Lady was built in the 13th to 15th centuries and has a history of hundreds of years. The church is composed of red bricks and is the highest brick church on the European continent. Its bell tower is 122 meters high, which is a very tall building in the city. There are many collections in the church. The very precious collection is Michelangelo's sculpture "The Virgin", which is also the origin of the church's name. In the choir behind the grand altar, there are the tombs of the dukes of Valois and their daughters. The altar decoration of the chapel in the southern corridor preserves the church's very famous artistic treasure, the white marble sculpture of the Madonna of Bruges created by Michelangelo around 1504. It was probably made early for the Cathedral of Siena, bought by the Bruges merchants Jan and Alexander brothers, and donated to the Church of Our Lady in 1514.

No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Flanders

Market Square

The market square is located in the ancient city of Bruges. The square stands with the hero statue of the "Battle of the Golden Spurs" who rose up against France in the 14th century. On the south side is Bruges' landmark clock tower, and on the east side is the Gothic building and the post office. , on the north and west sides are various restaurants and gift shops. There are horse-drawn carriages on the square that can be used for a fee to take you through the streets and alleys of Bruges.

No. 5 of Best Things to Do in West-Flanders

Bruges City Hall

The Bruges City Hall was built in 1376 and is one of the very old buildings in Bruges. The location is very convenient, located on the Castle Square, next to the building is the Chapel of the Holy Blood. The city hall itself is in the late Gothic style. The six pointed dome windows on the front of the building are arranged vertically, with novel shapes and unique characteristics. The outer walls are engraved with complex and exquisite reliefs, which are based on biblical stories and historical figures. Entering the Gothic hall on the first floor, you will be greeted by an exquisite wooden dome ceiling and 12 frescoes that reproduce the historical scenes of Bruges. These frescoes are all from the late 19th century, which are very spectacular and shocking. There is also a multimedia exhibition on the ground floor, which mainly introduces the evolution of the Castle Square. The History Room of the Town Hall has many archives and paintings about the history of Bruges. If you want to have a historical trip to Bruges, the Town Hall is not to be missed!

Sea Life Blankenberge

Dive into a fascinating underwater world at Sea Life Blankenberge, Belgium's premier aquarium and marine reserve. Explore more than 50 exhibits showcasing a variety of aquatic life, from vibrant tropical fish to majestic marine animals. Walk through mesmerizing glass tunnels as sharks and rays glide gracefully overhead for exciting views of the deep blue. Marvel at toothy red-bellied piranhas, gentle black pacu fish and graceful dragon fish. Meet playful penguins, see gentle sea turtles and admire the delicate beauty of baby sea horses. Visit the seal sanctuary and witness the heartwarming rescue and rehabilitation work of more than 400 seals back into the wild. Perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts, Sea Life Blankenberge offers an educational and fun-filled day out that highlights the wonder of marine life and the importance of conservation.

Bruges Beer Experience

The Beer Museum is located in the center of Bruges and is a historically famous beer workshop. If you are interested in the production process and history of beer, you can go to this museum and have a special staff to explain. There are also a wide variety of beer exhibits in the museum, there are about 10,000 kinds, and the better ones are cherry and raspberry flavors. There is also a souvenir shop in the museum, and there are beers of various flavors for sale. After watching the whole process of beer brewing, you might as well buy a bottle if you are interested, whether you drink it yourself or make a souvenir.

Minnewater Park

Minnewater Park, located in Bruges, Belgium, is a city park renowned for its romantic atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The park's design combines natural landscapes with historical elements, providing an ideal place for relaxation. Shady trees and winding paths allow visitors to enjoy walks, jogs, or simply unwind. The lake, calm as a mirror, is often home to swans and other waterbirds, adding to the park's vitality and charm. Lakeside benches offer ideal vantage points for viewing the scenery, especially suitable for couples to spend romantic moments together. The park is not only famous for its natural beauty but also boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. Whether enjoying a tranquil environment, participating in a variety of cultural activities, or exploring the history and culture of Bruges, the park offers unforgettable experiences and enjoyment for visitors and locals alike. It is not only a central location in the city but also a vibrant and charming public space.

Blankenberge beach