4 special surprises between Amsterdam and Bruges

Have you ever noticed that, when you travel, it’s the little discoveries and special surprises that stick with you most vividly when you think back on your trip?

Our tour between Amsterdam and Bruges includes so many highlights – Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp and Amsterdam, to name just a few! – that you could almost miss the unexpected, untouristy places along the way. But luckily, our experienced tour leaders know exactly where to find them, making your trip a truly special experience. Want a little taste? Then read on!

1. The monuments of Antwerp

There’s plenty to see in this Belgian port city on the Scheldt River: the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, the Rubens House, and the richly-decorated townhouses of wealthy merchants of earlier centuries, for example.

But if you look a little closer, you might also notice an unusual number of monuments and statues in the streets and squares. Each one of them has its own story that reveals something about the city of Antwerp and its history. So it’s worth asking your tour leader!

For example, you can learn where the name “Antwerp” comes from on the Grote Markt (Market Square). There, an ancient legend is immortalized in the form of a statue. Long ago, it is said, a giant started demanding exorbitant tolls from passing ships. Those who couldn’t pay had their hand chopped off. Fortunately, the brave Roman soldier Brabo challenged the giant and defeated him. He cut off the giant’s greedy hand and threw it into the Scheldt River. And that’s precisely where the name “Antwerp,” which translates as “hand throw,” is said to come from.

And do you know the touching story of Nello and Patrasche? It takes place in the streets of Antwerp and tells of the friendship between an orphan boy and a stray dog. On the Handschoenmarkt (translation: Glove Market), you can admire a special sculpture of these two faithful friends. It looks as if they’ve covered themselves with the cobblestones!

2. Crazy bikes

Our bike tours are always full of surprises! How about a detour to the Gekke Fietsen Museum (Crazy Bicycle Museum)? Located halfway between Ghent and Bruges in the tranquil town of Nevele, it’s owned by a young couple who build the most unusual two-wheelers.

Not only can you take a look at all their strange creations, but you can try them out, though it’s not always easy! How about a spin on a kissing tandem, where the two riders face each other, or on a bike where the steering works the opposite way to what you’re used to, or on a monster bike or a teeny-tiny bike? It’s great fun and, for many visitors, one of the highlights of the tour!

3. The facades of Dordrecht

Dordrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and lies in the water-rich region of the Merwede, Noord, and Oude Maas rivers. This made Dordrecht an important trading city in the Middle Ages. Much of this history, wealth, and culture has been preserved. After all, there are around 1,000 listed buildings in the city’s historic center.

While strolling through the picturesque alleys and along the historic harbor, you’re sure to notice the many different reliefs on the facades. These gable stones date back to a time before house numbers. They served as a guide and often depict, with a touch of humor, what went on behind the facades – almost like medieval comics!

Where a beer mug now adorns the walls, there used to be a tavern; the Zwaan family’s gable is decorated with a stately swan; their name, Zwaan, means “swan”! And on another gable relief, beneath the image of a stooped man, you can read: Niet zonder moeite (Not without effort). The owner probably wanted to emphasize that his wealth was the result of hard work. What other fascinating stories will you encounter on your walk through Dordrecht?

4. Street art in Ghent

The university city of Ghent boasts many well-known historical landmarks, such as the Clock Tower, Gravensteen Castle, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. And in the beautifully-decorated guildhalls on Korenlei and Graslei, you’ll find many cozy restaurants and cafés where you can sample one of the many Belgian beers.

For something a bit different, how about experiencing a hipper side of the city? Keep your eyes open for street art in Ghent! Murals and graffiti by well-known and lesser-known artists can be found not only in the city center but all over the city. The most famous spot for street art in Ghent is Werregarenstraat, also known as Graffiti Alley. Here, graffiti has been officially tolerated for many years. The result is a colorful mix of street art in all the colors of the rainbow. It’s constantly changing, so there’s always something new to see on every visit to Ghent!

Inspired to start your own adventure

To plan your own bike and boat adventure, call us at (203) 814-1249. You can also send an email to [email protected], if you prefer. Either way, we’ll be happy to help. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on our latest tours and special offers. We’d love to welcome you on board!