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Belgium: A Charming Cruise Destination and Departure Point
Belgium, known for its medieval cities, delicious chocolate, and excellent beer, offers cruise travelers both fascinating destinations and important departure ports for international journeys. From the picturesque canals of Bruges to the vibrant streets of Antwerp, a cruise in Belgium promises cultural diversity, impressive architecture, and culinary delights. The best time for cruises in Belgium is between May and September when mild temperatures and longer days prevail. Various international cruise lines offer routes that allow travelers to discover the beauty and history of the country.
Highlights of a Belgium Cruise
A Belgium cruise offers a mix of historic cities, cultural treasures, and modern metropolises. We've compiled the most exciting regions and their attractions for you.
Antwerp - Diamond City and Fashion Hub
- The Grote Markt with its magnificent town hall is the heart of the historic old town.
- The Rubens House, once the residence and studio of the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens, is now a fascinating museum.
- Antwerp Central Station, often referred to as the "Railway Cathedral," is an architectural masterpiece.
Bruges - Medieval Jewel
- The Historic Centre of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enchants with its canals and medieval buildings.
- The Belfry, the 83-meter-high bell tower, offers a breathtaking view over the city.
- The Groeningemuseum houses an impressive collection of Flemish masterpieces.
Ghent - Historical Beauty with Modern Flair
- St. Bavo's Cathedral with the famous Ghent Altarpiece is a must for art lovers.
- The Gravensteen, an imposing medieval castle, tells of Ghent's rich history.
- The Korenlei and Graslei, historic harbor promenades, are perfect for a stroll and a Belgian beer.
This is just a small selection of the wealth of fascinating destinations you can experience on a cruise in and from Belgium.
The Best Time for Belgium Cruises
The ideal time for a cruise in Belgium is between May and September. During these months, the most pleasant temperatures and longest daylight hours prevail.
- May to June: Spring, temperatures between 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), ideal for city sightseeing
- July to August: Summer, temperatures around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), perfect for outdoor activities and festivals
- September: Early autumn, temperatures between 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), pleasant for sightseeing and culinary explorations
It should be noted that the weather in Belgium can be variable.
Packing List for Your Belgium Cruise
- Comfortable walking shoes for city tours
- Rain jacket and small umbrella (weather can be unpredictable)
- Light clothing for warm days, but also a jacket for cooler evenings
- Elegant attire for evening events on board
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
- Camera for the many sights
- Small French or Dutch phrasebook or a translation app
- Adapter for electrical outlets (Belgium uses Type C and E plugs)
More Practical Tips for Your Belgium Cruise
- Take the opportunity to try local specialties such as Belgian chocolate, waffles, or fries
- Tipping is expected in most restaurants and cafes (about 10%)
- Public transportation in Belgian cities is efficient and easy to use
- Note that both French and Dutch (Flemish) are spoken in Belgium, depending on the region
Which Cruise Lines Offer Belgium Cruises?
Belgium is both a popular cruise destination and a departure point for international cruises. Here are some of the main cruise lines that offer Belgium cruises:
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises offers routes that include Belgian ports.
- Fleet: Over 20 ships worldwide
- Route offerings: Northern Europe, with stops in Zeebrugge (for Bruges and Brussels)
- Specialties: International flair, family-friendly offerings
- Popular routes: 7-day Northern Europe cruises with a stop in Belgium
- More information: MSC Cruises
Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises includes Belgian ports in some of their Northern Europe routes.
- Fleet: Over 15 ships
- Route offerings: Northern Europe, with visits to Zeebrugge
- Specialties: Italian ambiance, diverse entertainment
- Popular routes: Short cruises in Northern Europe with a stop in Belgium
- More information: Costa Cruises
P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises offers routes that include Belgium as a destination.
- Fleet: 6 ships
- Route offerings: Short cruises and longer Northern Europe routes with a stop in Zeebrugge
- Specialties: British-oriented service, traditional cruise experiences
- Popular routes: 2-4 night short cruises with a visit to Belgium
- More information: P&O Cruises
Cunard Line
Cunard Line occasionally includes Belgian ports in their Northern Europe routes.
- Fleet: 3 ships
- Route offerings: Transatlantic and Northern Europe cruises with possible stops in Zeebrugge
- Specialties: Luxurious, traditional cruise experiences
- Popular routes: Longer Northern Europe cruises that include Belgium
- More information: Cunard Line
Conclusion: Belgium - Charming Cruise Destination and Departure Point
A cruise in and from Belgium offers a unique mix of medieval charm, cultural diversity, and culinary delights. From the picturesque canals of Bruges to the lively streets of Antwerp - Belgium promises a journey that will delight both history lovers and gourmets.
Prepare for a journey of discovery that will open up new perspectives on a fascinating country. Have a great trip and "Bon voyage" or "Goede reis"!