Extras
Welcome to Belgium. We travel via Eurostar to Lille, where we will transfer by coach to Bruges.
Upon arrival, we come together for a welcome drink and get to know our surroundings for the next few days. In the evening, we gather for dinner at a local restaurant.
After breakfast, we meet our local English speaking guide for a guided city walking tour of Bruges, offering us the chance to immerse ourselves in the quaint canals, cobbled streets and cosy squares. We head over to the market with its ancient, historic buildings and architecture. On this tour, we witness the beauty of the Belfry, the City Hall and the fish market. After the tour, we have free time to explore this beautiful city further.
Today is free for you to spend however you wish. Our hotel is a great base to explore Bruges and it’s easy to get around on foot. You could take a boat trip on the famous canals, or indulge in the local cuisine of waffles and the many toppings, visit a chocolatier (make sure to look out for the ‘handmade’ sign in the window) or even enjoy some frites, followed by some local Belgian beer.
After breakfast, we transfer back to Brussels Midi Station to catch the Eurostar back to the UK.
The Martin’s Brugge is a three-star superior hotel located just behind the famous 13th-century Belfry and 50 metres from the Central Market Square, making it a perfect base for our group city break.
The hotel has a terrace and cocktail bar, and offers Wi-fi.
All rooms come equipped with flat screen TV, air conditioning, and private bathroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
The transfer time from Lille Station to the hotel is about one hour.
Please note: At the beginning of your trip, your Tour Leader will ask if you would be happy to sign a photo permission form. This means that any photographs taken during your holiday can be used by Solos to share what the Solos experience is all about. It also means you have lots of memories to go home with! Details will be given at your welcome meeting.
WhatsApp Group: Just before the start of your trip, you will be sent an invite to the WhatsApp group which will put you in touch with your fellow Solos travellers and Tour Leader prior to your departure day. By choosing to join, you’re consenting to share your contact details with other members of your group. However, if you prefer not to join, that’s completely fine, and you can meet the group on your first day instead. Please note, if you have not received an email within 24 hours of departure, we recommend you check your email junk folder.
The dress code for during the day is casual. In the evenings the dress code is smart casual. Comfortable warm shoes for walking and sightseeing are recommended.
We suggest a Group Collection to cover guides, transfer drivers, and hotel staff of minimum EUR 15.00 per person. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip. The tipping of housekeeping will be left to your individual discretion (a small amount left in your room on departure should cover this and would be much appreciated). As is customary, ‘the hat’ will be passed around for the driver and guide on all optional excursions. For any meals that are not included in your itinerary, or taxi fares, your Tour Leader can advise of an appropriate % to add on.
Passport Requirements:
Belgium follows Schengen area rules. Your passport must:
Visa Requirements:
You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes Belgium, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:
The requirements for working in Belgium are different.
If you’re travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.
Before you travel check that:
Belgium uses the Euro
Bruges has cobbled streets so please be aware the ground will be uneven on the walking tour.
“I’m sure you will enjoy it, I have been on three solos holidays to date and the people I’ve met have been great.”
“I’ve been travelling with Solos for nearly 20 years, on and off. The reason is for exactly what you want – you meet like minded people… and have loads of fun!”
“I’ve been on loads of trips with Solos over the years and can honestly say you will not regret booking your 1st one!”
“The feeling you have once you go away on your own is worth all the nerves before! I was so very anxious the first time but now having done it 4 times, I love it!”
