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Zeebrugge Cruises

Zeebrugge is world-famous for its manmade harbour, constructed between 1895 and 1907. Due to its strategic location, it was targeted by bombs in WWI and WWII, only reopening in 1957. This bustling Belgian port is the busiest in the country, hosting passenger ferries and cargo ships alike! It’s the gateway to Bruge’s charming medieval old town, and offers a distinct maritime history and fishing heritage all its own. Visit the old fish market, Seafront Museum, and other local attractions. Its popular beach is easily accessibly by train, making it a favoured weekend resort with Belgians.

What You Need To Know About Zeebrugge

What are the can’t-miss sights in Zeebrugge?

Although many visitors use Zeebrugge as the gateway to Bruges or Brussels, there’s plenty to see right in this historic fishing town! Start with a visit to the Seafront Exhibition Site, featuring a fisheries museum. You can tour around the Foxtrot, a Russian submarine capable of housing a 75- strong crew in very cramped conditions. Stroll inside the Residence Palace to admire the ornate décor and architecture of this former hotel, and have a wander along the seawall. Here you can stop to dine on freshly caught seafood whilst admiring the views. Finally, don’t leave Zeebrugge without a visit to Europe’s largest fish market and museum.

How can you reach Zeebrugge from the cruise terminal?

Zeebrugge’s port is large and sprawling, but it’s easily accessible from the town centre. You can have a wander along the waterfront to explore the city’s maritime attractions, or take a taxi to the town centre. If you’re more interested in visiting Bruges, it’s just 7 miles away from Zeebrugge. There are regular trains departing from Zeebrugge’s waterfront railway station, or you can opt for a short taxi ride. To get around either Zeebrugge or Bruges, use the local bus network or simply explore these small Belgian cities on foot.

Parking facilities around the cruise terminal

There are multiple public car parks in and around Zeebrugge’s port. The Baron de Maerelaan parking lot is conveniently positioned right next to the Seafront Exhibition Site and theme park. Just 100 metres from here is the Zeedijk parking facility, the main choice for spending time on Zeebrugge’s wide, sandy beach. Rederskaai is also a secure portside parking lot, so if you drive down to the waterfront you’re bound to find a public car park with open spaces before taking your cruise. You can pay for parking by cash or major credit card.

ZEEBRUGGE - DID YOU KNOW?

Long a centre for the fishing industry, Zeebrugge boasts unbeatably fresh seafood restaurants. Whether you’re dining in a small café or sit-down gourmet restaurant, you’ll enjoy some stellar meals. Don’t miss Belgian specialties including mussels, frites with mayo-based sauce, and traditional Flemish fare washed down with a strong Belgian beer. Bruges is a very popular day trip from Zeebrugge, filing up with tourists throughout the year for its charming medieval architecture. The central market square, or Markt, feature a belfry that was built between the 13 th and 15 th centuries. You can climb up its 366 steps to enjoy sweeping views over the city! Another popular day out is an excursion to Ypres, which is home to a World War II museum called In Flanders Fields. If you’ve exhausted Zeebrugge’s maritime museums, head to Bruges to see the Groeninge Museum. This is the region’s main art museum, housing priceless works of Flemish art including masterpieces from the likes of Jan van Eyck. There’s also a hospital museum containing art from Hans Melming in the chapel. Shopping in Flanders is a laid-back, enjoyable affair. Don’t miss the chance to pick up popular local goodies like chocolates, lace, and other souvenirs. Zeebrugge’s main street features appealing delicatessens and small-scale fashion boutiques with a nautical flair.