Day 1 - By train to Bruges
We leave St Pancras International by Eurostar to Brussels. At Brussels we change trains and continue to charming Bruges. We transfer to our hotel and after settling in, you have a little free time before we stroll to the delightful Restaurant Tea Room Verdi, tucked away just off the main square. (D)
Day 2 - A guided tour of the best of Bruges
This morning we enjoy a guided tour on foot and discover the remarkable history and secret nooks and crannies of the city. This is the perfect way to get your bearings in Bruges, and then the rest of the day is free for you to explore at leisure. The city has many museums and art galleries, where you can admire work by Flemish painters. In the Church of our Lady you can view one of Michelangelo's great works of art. If you are feeling energetic you may wish to climb to the top of the Belfry for a bird's eye view of Bruges. (B)
Day 3 - Ghent and Ypres
After a short journey by coach to Ghent, we tour the historic centre, famed for its great cathedral and remarkable altarpiece by Jan Van Eyck, one of the most beautiful works produced by the Flemish Great Masters. After lunch in a classic Ghent-style bierhof, we continue to Ypres and visit some of the monuments that record the events of the Great War, including the imposing Menin Gate. We include a visit to the award winning 'In Flanders Field' Museum, housed in the Cloth Hall, which tells the story of World War I. We return to Bruges in the late afternoon, for a free evening. (B,L)
Day 4 - The canals of Bruges
Today's excursion is a private boat trip along the maze of canals, a relaxing way to see the beautiful heart of Bruges. We also visit an artisan chocolate-maker and tour the brewery museum - a perfect introduction to two of the great flavours of Flanders! The afternoon is free for you to enjoy some shopping, perhaps for craft work including Bruges' famous lace. This evening we enjoy a final dinner together of refined Flemish cuisine in another favourite Bruges restaurant. (B,D)
Day 5 - By train to London
We transfer to Bruges station for our return to Brussels and London. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday
